Family tour of Montmartre

Discover the Heart of Montmartre with the Family Tour of 2.5 Hours

The Family Tour of Montmartre offers a lively, engaging way for families to explore this iconic Paris neighborhood. Led by a live English guide and limited to 10 participants, this tour combines history, culture, and fun activities over 2.5 hours. It is perfect for families wanting a manageable walk that covers the essential sights while keeping children entertained through drums, songs, videos, and riddles.

Starting from Blanche at the bottom of the hill, the tour gradually ascends about 1.7 km to the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur at the top. Along the way, visitors encounter important landmarks such as the Montmartre Cemetery, the Moulin de la Galette, the vines of Clos Montmartre, and the water tower. This tour offers a family-friendly pace, with plenty of opportunities to rest and enjoy each stop.

While the route avoids big stairs and is accessible for most children, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers with large luggage or unfolding wheelchairs should plan accordingly. The experience provides a great balance of cultural insight, sightseeing, and playful engagement, making it an ideal choice for families interested in local history and Montmartre’s unique character.

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Key Points

• Duration: 2.5 hours, perfect for a family outing
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants for an intimate experience
• Guided in English by a knowledgeable host with a high provider rating of 5
• Highlights include the story of Francisque Poulbot, Moulin de la Galette, Sacré-Cœur, and the Montmartre Cemetery
• Interactive elements like videos, riddles, and songs keep children engaged
• Route details: About 1.7 km, with light uphill, no big stairs, and opportunities to rest

Montmartre’s Connection to Francisque Poulbot and His Little Poulbots

This tour centers around the figure of Francisque Poulbot, a renowned illustrator who drew the children of Montmartre, known as the Poulbots. His influence is visible everywhere—from streets and schools to restaurants—and he played a crucial role in shaping the neighborhood’s cultural identity.

The guide narrates Poulbot’s story, explaining how he gave his name to the little Poulbots and why his work remains a vital part of Montmartre’s heritage. This connection offers a rich, personalized context that makes the neighborhood’s sights more meaningful, especially for children learning about local history.

Exploring Montmartre’s Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Corners

The tour’s itinerary includes a series of thoughtfully chosen stops that highlight Montmartre’s vibrant history and atmosphere.

Montmartre Cemetery is the first major stop, where a 30-minute photo break provides a quiet moment to appreciate the local graves and the neighborhood’s artistic history. Following that, the group visits the 18th Arrondissement, which offers a glimpse into the area’s broader history and architecture, with another 30-minute stop.

Moulin de la Galette features as a 30-minute break, giving families the chance to admire the historic windmill and surrounding cafes that once hosted famous artists and dancers. Next, the Vignes du Clos Montmartre offers a charming vineyard setting, reinforcing Montmartre’s unique wine-producing past.

A photo stop at Sacré-Cœur tops the hill, where the 30-minute pause allows for sweeping views of Paris and a chance to appreciate the basilica’s stunning architecture. The tour concludes at the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, a landmark that symbolizes Montmartre and offers a fitting end to the journey.

The Route and Physical Aspects of the Tour

Starting at Blanche, the route climbs from the bottom of the hill to the top, passing through areas of historical and cultural importance. The walk covers about 1.7 km with a gentle, slight uphill slope that is manageable for most families. There are no big stairs, making it accessible for children and those who prefer a less strenuous walk.

Participants are encouraged to bring a pen, preferably a mechanical pencil, for engaging activities. The guide ensures plenty of rests and seating opportunities along the route, which helps keep the pace comfortable and enjoyable.

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The Stops at Moulin de la Galette and Vines of Montmartre

The Moulin de la Galette is a highlight for its historic significance as a former windmill and lively social hub. Families get roughly 30 minutes here to explore the site, take photos, and absorb its artistic ambiance. The nearby Vignes du Clos Montmartre offers a peaceful setting where the neighborhood’s long-standing wine tradition can be appreciated.

Both stops serve as ideal break points, giving children and adults alike time to relax, ask questions, and take in the scenery. The smaller group size enhances the experience, providing personalized attention from the guide.

The Sacred Heart Basilica and Its Significance

The Sacre-Coeur Basilica is a focal point of the tour, with a well-timed 30-minute photo stop. From this vantage point, the panoramic view of Paris is breathtaking. The guide shares stories about the basilica’s history and architecture, making the visit both educational and inspiring.

The tour ends at the basilica, allowing visitors to continue exploring the neighborhood on their own. Place du Tertre, with its artists, and the ‘Je t’aime’ wall at Place des Abesses are nearby attractions to visit afterward.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

Participants gather at the bottom of the stairs by the metro exit at Blanche, identified by the guide’s big red cap. The exact coordinates are 48.883697509765625, 2.3329474925994873. The small group size of up to 10 ensures a personalized, engaging experience, ideal for families seeking a relaxed pace.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with large luggage or non-folding wheelchairs. Strollers and walking frames are not allowed, emphasizing the tour’s focus on a comfortable, manageable walk.

Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Info

Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for changing plans. The live guide speaks English, and some content is shown in its original language, adding authenticity.

The activity is also designed to be family-friendly, with no restrictions on weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, or nudity. Travelers are encouraged to bring a pen or mechanical pencil for interactive elements.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for Families Visiting Montmartre

This 2.5-hour family tour stands out for its balanced mix of history, culture, and fun activities. The guide’s storytelling and engaging methods make Montmartre’s stories accessible to children, while the stops at famous landmarks add to the memorable experience.

The tour’s small group size, carefully selected stops, and manageable route make it suitable for families with young children. The tour offers a solid introduction to Montmartre’s artistic legacy and local traditions, making it a meaningful addition to a family’s Paris itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes, the tour is designed with children in mind, using interactive elements like songs, videos, and riddles to keep them engaged.

Can I join the tour if I have a wheelchair?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with large or non-folding wheelchairs due to the route’s physical nature.

Where does the tour begin?
The meeting point is at the top of the stairs by the metro exit at Blanche, at coordinates 48.883697509765625, 2.3329474925994873.

How long does the tour take?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

What are some of the key sights visited?
The tour highlights include Montmartre Cemetery, Moulin de la Galette, the Vignes du Clos Montmartre, and the Sacre-Coeur Basilica.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour covers a walking route through Montmartre, starting from the meeting point at Blanche.

Can I continue exploring after the tour?
Absolutely! The tour ends at Sacre-Coeur, leaving you free to visit nearby attractions like Place du Tertre and Place des Abesses.

Is the tour accessible for all?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and involves a slight uphill walk, so some physical caution is advised.

How do I cancel or reschedule my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and choose to reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

What language is the guide in?
The guide speaks English and some content is shown in its original language to enhance authenticity.

This Family Tour of Montmartre offers an engaging, manageable way to discover one of Paris’ most artistic neighborhoods, making history and culture accessible and fun for the whole family.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby