Things to do near Sacré-Cœur that aren’t just stairs

You’ve made it to Sacré-Cœur. Maybe your calves are burning a bit, maybe your phone gallery’s full of skyline shots—but don’t rush back down the hill just yet. Montmartre isn’t just a pretty view. It’s a neighbourhood layered with charm, colour, and eccentricity. Around every corner, you’ll find something worth lingering over—whether that’s a tucked-away museum, a cheeky wine bar, or a stairwell painted like a piano. This guide rounds up 20 things to do near Sacré-Cœur that turn a photo op into a full-blown adventure. Let’s explore the best of the butte.

Visit the Musée de Montmartre 

Step back in time at the Musée de Montmartre, just a short stroll from the basilica. This charming museum occupies a 17th-century house that once served as a hub for Montmartre’s avant-garde artists, including Renoir and Suzanne Valadon. Inside, you’ll find a curated collection of paintings, posters, and personal memorabilia that captures the area’s bohemian spirit—think cabaret flyers, candid sketches, and stories from the Moulin Rouge era. One of the highlights is the artist studio re-creation, offering a glimpse into daily life in Paris’s most eccentric neighbourhood. Don’t miss the Renoir Gardens, a serene oasis with views over the Montmartre vineyards, where you can sit quietly and soak in the setting. It’s a deeply atmospheric museum that doesn’t feel overly polished—and that’s what makes it special. Come here to reflect, learn, and take in Montmartre at a slower, more intimate pace. 

 

Sip a glass of wine at Le Consulat 

A Montmartre institution, Le Consulat is more than a café—it’s a living postcard. This historic wine bar and bistro has welcomed everyone from Picasso to Monet and remains a popular haunt for those seeking old-world Parisian charm. Nestled on the corner of rue Norvins, it serves up simple French fare and a drinks list rich in character. The décor stays true to its roots: rustic wooden tables, vintage signage, and tightly packed seating that sparks conversation. Outdoor tables are prime real estate, offering views of the narrow, winding streets that define Montmartre’s character. While it’s a popular photo op, the atmosphere here is authentic—not gimmicky. The house red is solid, the onion soup comforting, and the vibe delightfully nostalgic. Perfect for a leisurely pause between sightseeing stops, Le Consulat wraps you in Parisian history while serving something satisfying to sip on. 

Take a snapshot at Le Mur des Je T’aime 

Hidden in Square Jehan Rictus, just a few minutes from Sacré-Cœur, Le Mur des Je T’aime—or the Wall of Love—is a small but meaningful tribute to connection in all forms. Created by artist Frédéric Baron and calligrapher Claire Kito, the 40-square-metre wall features the phrase “I love you” written in 311 different languages across deep blue enamel tiles. Interwoven into the design are red splashes, symbolising pieces of a broken heart that the wall attempts to mend. It’s a moment of global sentiment in a neighbourhood steeped in individualism and artistry. The surrounding park offers a quiet green space to relax and reflect, making this spot ideal for both couples and solo visitors. Bring a coffee, find your language, and enjoy one of Montmartre’s more poetic corners. It’s a small detour, but one with emotional resonance. 

Discover Dalí Paris 

A few steps from Place du Tertre, Dalí Paris is an offbeat treasure that’s well worth a visit. This museum is entirely devoted to the surrealist master Salvador Dalí, showcasing over 300 works including sculptures, sketches, and rare engravings. While the Louvre may bring the crowds, Dalí Paris invites something a little more curious—otherworldly, even. You’ll see melted clocks, dreamlike creatures, and mind-bending perspectives, all laid out in an intimate gallery space that never feels overwhelming. The lighting is low, the vibe a bit mysterious, and the whole experience gives you something to talk about over your next espresso. If you and your travel partner enjoy art that doesn’t play by the rules, this one delivers. It’s weird, whimsical, and wonderfully Montmartre. Don’t forget to stop by the boutique on your way out—they’ve got quirky prints and art books you won’t find anywhere else. 

 

Catch a show at Au Lapin Agile 

If you’re looking for an evening that’s equal parts cosy and cultural, head to Au Lapin Agile—a tiny cabaret tucked on rue des Saules, just behind Sacré-Cœur. Open since the 1800s, this legendary venue has hosted the likes of Picasso, Modigliani, and Apollinaire. Today, it remains one of the most authentic cabarets in Paris, where performers gather around a piano and sing old French chansons by candlelight. There’s no amplification, no glitz—just pure, raw atmosphere and talent. The inside is intimate, with wooden beams, antique furniture, and a mismatched charm that makes you feel like you’ve time-travelled. Shows are mostly in French, but the emotion in the music translates universally. Whether you understand every lyric or not, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve experienced something truly Parisian. Book ahead—seating is limited and word has definitely gotten out. 

Snap photos at La Maison Rose 

One of the most photographed façades in Paris, La Maison Rose is more than just a pretty backdrop—it’s a working café with a fascinating history. Painted in soft pink and tucked along the cobbled corner of rue de l’Abreuvoir, this building has been a Montmartre staple since the early 1900s. Once frequented by artists like Utrillo and Picasso, it now draws café-goers, romantics, and Instagrammers alike. The menu leans seasonal and organic, with dishes like burrata with roasted veggies or fresh tartines, plus local wines to sip while people-watching. Inside, the vibe is homey and relaxed, with wooden beams, vintage decor, and the kind of quiet buzz that lets you linger. Arrive early if you want a seat outside—it’s a hot spot. Whether you're here for the history, the aesthetics, or just a really good coffee, La Maison Rose is worth the detour (and the photo). 

Walk the Rue de l’Abreuvoir 

Often dubbed the prettiest street in Paris, Rue de l’Abreuvoir offers a peaceful escape from Montmartre’s more crowded corners. Lined with pastel houses, ivy-draped walls, and that picture-perfect curve framing the distant Sacré-Cœur, it’s the kind of street that begs to be strolled slowly. You won’t find many shops or cafés here—just quiet charm and the occasional cat perched in a window. It’s a favourite spot for photographers, but early morning or late afternoon are best if you’re hoping for uninterrupted views. There’s a gentle slope that makes it ideal for wandering without effort, and benches at either end if you want to sit and take it all in. Whether you’re with a partner, a camera, or just your own thoughts, Rue de l’Abreuvoir is Montmartre at its most poetic. It's also where you'll find La Maison Rose, so you can tick off two gems in one slow, scenic loop. 

Tour Montmartre Cemetery 

For a dose of quiet reflection with a touch of the unusual, Montmartre Cemetery offers one of the neighbourhood’s most unexpectedly beautiful walks. Located just downhill from the Sacré-Cœur area, this 19th-century cemetery is the final resting place of many famous names, including Alexandre Dumas fils, Dalida, and François Truffaut. But it’s not just about celebrity graves—the peaceful, tree-lined paths, ornate tombs, and wrought-iron details turn a simple stroll into a serene experience. It’s less visited than Père Lachaise, which means you can take your time without dodging tour groups. There’s a romantic, almost cinematic stillness here that makes it a great place to decompress after the buzz of Montmartre. You’ll find cats sunbathing on headstones, birdsong echoing through the leaves, and plenty of quiet corners to pause and soak up the atmosphere. Unexpected, yes—but unforgettable. 

Enjoy a crêpe at Au P’tit Grec 

You can’t explore Montmartre without treating yourself to a crêpe, and Au P’tit Grec on rue Mouffetard is worth the detour if you’re craving something generous and delicious. While not right next to Sacré-Cœur, it’s a well-loved name among locals, and you’ll understand why after your first bite. Their savoury crêpes are packed with fresh fillings—expect combinations like chicken, feta, olives, and mint, or ham with gooey raclette cheese. They’re wrapped like burritos, making them perfect for walking while munching. Sweet options? Of course. Nutella, banana, whipped cream, and every combo in between. Portions are huge, prices are student-friendly, and the line moves quickly. It's not fancy, but it hits the spot—especially if you're hungry after all those hills. Grab one to go, find a sunny ledge near Square Louise Michel, and enjoy a proper Montmartre moment with a crêpe in hand. 

Admire mosaics at Saint-Pierre de Montmartre 

Often overlooked in favour of the grand basilica next door, Saint-Pierre de Montmartre is one of the oldest surviving churches in Paris—and well worth a visit. Built in the 12th century on the site of a former Roman temple, this understated beauty oozes history. Step inside and you'll find Romanesque columns, subtle stained glass, and a calm, contemplative vibe that contrasts with Sacré-Cœur’s grandeur. The mosaics and stone carvings are detailed and full of character, and there's a peaceful stillness inside that feels almost sacred. Outside, the small courtyard offers views across rooftops and is usually free of crowds, making it a lovely spot for quiet reflection or a breather. If you're the kind of traveller who loves discovering places the guidebooks forget to rave about, this is your moment. It’s low-key, beautiful, and surprisingly moving. 

Ride the Montmartre funicular 

Climbing Montmartre’s famous hill is a rite of passage—but riding the Montmartre funicular is far more fun (and easier on your legs). The short cable-car-style ride whisks you up from the base near Square Louise Michel to just below Sacré-Cœur in under two minutes. It uses the same ticket as the metro, making it a smart alternative to the 222 steps—especially after a long day of exploring. The glass walls offer great views of the gardens as you ascend, and there's something oddly thrilling about gliding upwards as the crowds watch from the staircase. It’s quick, quirky, and definitely one for the photo album. Bonus: riding the funicular down at night, when the basilica is lit up, feels extra magical. Whether you’re looking to save energy or just enjoy a little novelty, this is Montmartre’s most charming shortcut. 

 

Take a street art walk in lower Montmartre 

Beyond the painters and portrait artists, Montmartre has a thriving street art scene, especially in the lower part of the neighbourhood near Pigalle and Abbesses. Wander the side streets and alleyways and you’ll spot colourful murals, cheeky stencils, and tiled pixel art by French artist Invader. Look out for works by Miss.Tic, whose bold female figures and poetic slogans are peppered throughout the area. Unlike the polished galleries, this art is raw, political, playful—and totally free. For the best route, start near rue Houdon and wind your way downhill toward boulevard de Clichy. Along the way, you’ll pass cool cafés, vintage shops, and plenty of surprises that shift Montmartre from historical to contemporary. It’s a great way to see a different side of the neighbourhood—one that’s still creative, still rebellious, and very much alive. 

Montmartre may be known for its hilltop basilica, but stick around and you’ll uncover a neighbourhood that’s full of personality, history, and quiet surprises. Whether you’re sipping wine where Picasso once sketched, uncovering mosaics in an ancient chapel, or hunting down modern street art, the area around Sacré-Cœur rewards curious wanderers. It’s equal parts romantic, rebellious, and effortlessly charming—the kind of place where time slows down just enough for you to really take it all in. So once you've snapped your panoramic photo from the top, take a deep breath, and start exploring. Montmartre has so much more to offer than just a view. 

In the mood for love? Check out this blog on the most romantic things to do in Paris. 

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