18th Arrondissement, Paris guide

Thanks to its basilica, cabarets and artistic heritage, Montmartre has become one of Paris’ most romantic destinations. While most flock to the area for its headline sites, our 18th Arrondissement guide is here to show you what lies beyond the well-trodden cobblestone path. From Paris’ only vineyard to the Goutte d'Or district’s multicultural markets, there’s a world of history, nature and art to discover in this creative corner of the capital.

18th Arrondissement highlights

Hidden nature

While best known for its cobblestone streets and iconic monuments, there’s nature to discover in the 18th Arrondissement too. Explore La Petite Ceinture, a nature trail along an abandoned railway. And steal a moment of calm in the Square de la Turlure. Though usually closed to the public, you can spot Paris’ only vineyard — the Vignes du Clos Montmartre — from Rue des Saules.

Bohemian spirit

Once home to artists like Picasso, Renoir and Van Gogh, the 18th Arrondissement has always been a hub of creativity. Discover the neighbourhood’s modern-day bohemia with a stroll through Place du Tertre, where artists display their daily creations. And if you’re a street art fan, head to Rue Cavallotti at night to see the shuttered shops turn into an open-air gallery.

Historic corners

Beyond the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Moulin Rouge, you’ll find a wealth of historic sites in the 18th Arrondissement. The 12th-century Saint-Pierre de Montmartre is one of Paris’ oldest churches and boasts beautiful stained glass and frescoes. And the Cimetière de Montmartre is the final resting place of many notable French artists, including Edgar Degas and Émile Zola.

Things to do in 18th Arrondissement

Family-friendly things to do

Kids will love getting their caricatures done by the artists in Place du Tertre. And the Montmartre Funicular is the best way to access the Sacré-Cœur Basilica if you’re travelling with children in tow. Looking for the perfect Parisian souvenir? Gather together for a photo in front of the famous ‘Le mur des je t'aime’ (Wall of I Love You).

Museums and culture

One of the best museums in the 18th Arrondissement is the Musée de Montmartre, which highlights the neighbourhood’s bohemian past. If you’re a fan of surrealism, check out Dalí Paris to see more than 300 of the artist’s original works. Feel like gallery hopping? Choose from the Jeune Création, Galerie Chappe and Le Bal.

Restaurants

From traditional bistros to multicultural cafes, discover some of Paris’ best restaurants in the 18th Arrondissement. Rue des Abbesses is lined with brasseries, bakeries and French food shops. And Rue Ramey has become a foodie hotspot with restaurants focused on seasonal menus. If you’re a film fan, grab a bite at the Café des Deux Moulins, made famous in the movie ‘Amélie’.

Nightlife

After dark, the 18th Arrondissement promises to show you a good time with its bars, cabarets and late-night cafes. Nothing says a Parisian night out like a show at the iconic Moulin Rouge in Pigalle. But if you prefer a more low-key live show, try a night of cabaret at the Au Lapin Agile, open since 1860.

Shopping

The multicultural Goutte d'Or district is known for its traditional West and North African shops. And Rue des Gardes is a go-to spot for independent fashion retailers. The 18th Arrondissement is also a hub for markets, with Marché Dejean and the twice-weekly Marché Barbès being two of the area’s most famous.

Events

Every August, the 18th Arrondissement’s streets burst with colour in celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi. As one of the largest Hindu celebrations in Paris, you can expect a rainbow of floats parading the streets alongside a procession of musicians and dancers. Visiting in October? Join the crowds at Butte Montmartre for the five-day Fête des Vendanges, Montmartre’s grape harvest festival.

FAQs about 18th Arrondissement holidays

The 18th Arrondissement is a year-round destination with plenty to see and do no matter when you visit. If you’re a wine lover, consider visiting in October for the Fête des Vendanges. Prefer to sightsee without the crowds? Aim for Paris’ shoulder seasons between April and May or September to November.
While generally less expensive than some of Paris’ more central neighbourhoods, the 18th Arrondissement is a popular tourist destination, which can mean higher prices. If you’re travelling on a budget, aim to visit during the off-season between November and February for cheaper accommodation.
The 18th Arrondissement is best known for the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, the Moulin Rouge and its picturesque cobblestone streets. If you’re a film fan, you’ll recognise the area from famous movies like ‘Amélie’, ‘Midnight in Paris’ and ‘La Vie en Rose’.