Montmartre Private Tour

Montmartre Historical Area Private Tour

Montmartre private tour : With its cobbled streets, artistic soul, and vibrant history, captures the essence of Paris like no other neighborhood. Nestled on a hill with breathtaking views of the city below, Montmartre is more than a tourist destination—it’s a glimpse into Parisian spirituality, modern art, and history.

From €360 up to 6 persons – 3 hours – USD $375 upon level of customization

When you choose a private tour with PARIS BY EMY, you are in for a customized, intimate journey through this iconic area. Indeed, PARIS BY EMY provides exclusive private tours, customized to suit each guest’s unique interests. Instead of a standard script or pre-set itinerary, every tour is personalized just for you.

Paris Private Tour Guide

Introduction to Montmartre Story

Montmartre, a historic district in Paris, has a rich past that dates back to ancient times. Originally, it was a small village outside the city, known for its high hill, which provided a strategic military advantage. The name “Montmartre” is believed to have originated from Mons Martis (Mount of Mars), later Christianized as Montmartre (Mount of the Martyrs) in honor of Saint Denis, the first bishop of Paris, who was beheaded there in the 3rd century.

During the Middle Ages, Montmartre remained a rural area with vineyards, windmills, and religious establishments, including the Abbey of Montmartre. In the 19th century, industrialization transformed the district, attracting workers and artists due to its affordable housing and vibrant social life. At this time, Montmartre became famous for its cabarets, including the iconic Moulin Rouge and Le Chat Noir, which became hubs for writers, painters, and performers.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Montmartre had become the artistic heart of Paris. Legendary artists like Pablo Picasso, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and Amedeo Modigliani lived and worked there, creating some of the most important works of modern art. The bohemian lifestyle of Montmartre made it a magnet for creativity and innovation.

Today, Montmartre remains a unique district within Paris, maintaining its historic charm while embracing modern tourism. The cobblestone streets, artistic atmosphere, and landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur Basilica draw visitors from around the world. Despite urban development, Montmartre has preserved its independent and creative spirit, with numerous galleries, street artists, and cafés continuing its legacy as a cultural hub.

Artistic Roots of Montmartre Private Tour

Here are the top five things to experience on your Montmartre tour with PARIS BY EMY.

A Historical Haven for Artists

Montmartre has long been a gathering place for artists, a trend that began in the 19th century when the likes of Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet frequented its studios and cafés. Wandering through Montmartre, you’ll see buildings and squares that have inspired world-renowned works. The artistic vibe here is palpable, making it a must-see for art lovers. PARIS BY EMY’s tour lets you walk the very paths these artists once took. Imagine stepping into the narrow alleyways where Van Gogh once lived or standing in front of the very studio where Picasso transformed art history.

The Inspiration Behind World-Renowned Works

Montmartre’s unique energy has inspired some of the most famous paintings, such as Renoir’s Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette. This painting is actually at Orsay museum. The Moulin de la Galette is actually made up of two windmills: the Blute-fin to the west and the Radet to the east, between which a public ball was opened which would take the name of “Moulin de la Galette”. Your guide from PARIS BY EMY will share fascinating stories behind these masterpieces, giving you a deeper understanding of the connection between the artists and their surroundings.

The Bateau Lavoir Montmartre private tour

Since 1904 a place of residence, meeting and creation of numerous French and foreign painters and sculptors, but also of people of letters, people of the theater and art dealers. Located on the charming Place Emile Goudeau, this wooden building, probably so derisively called, opened on the ground floor onto the square and opened three floors down the rue Garreau. This poorly heated refuge, with improvised workshops in what was once a piano factory, was obviously the crucible of Modern Art at the beginning of the 20th century. It was later nicknamed by Max Jacob as the “central laboratory of painting”.

The “band of energizers” that occupied this set of workshops, was often of foreign origin. Aged about twenty years, penniless, the occupants would nevertheless undermine the standards of classical painting, already abused by the Impressionists a few years earlier. Among these writers and artists were Apollinaire, Max Jacob, Mac Orlan, Modigliani, Van Dongen, Juan Gris… Upon his arrival at the Bateau Lavoir, Pablo Picasso revolutionized painting with his famous cubist painting, painted in 1907: Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.

Montmartre Private Tour Rich Spirituality

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica

• The crown jewel of Montmartre’s architecture, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, stands proudly at the highest point in Paris. Its dazzling white exterior is instantly recognizable, and its Byzantine-inspired interior transports visitors to a place of peace and reverence.
• Built as a symbol of hope and unity after France’s difficult times in the 19th century, the basilica holds historical significance for Parisians. A tour here gives insight into why it remains a cherished symbol for the people of Paris.
• A climb up to the dome rewards you with a sweeping panorama of Paris. Seeing the city stretch out below from this vantage point is an experience like no other, and a must for photography enthusiasts!

Saint Peter of Montmartre private tour

• This ancient church, often overshadowed by the nearby Sacré-Cœur, holds a deep connection to Paris’s spiritual history. Opting for a private tour of Saint-Pierre de Montmartre allows you to uncover the stories and architectural beauty that make this site a hidden gem.
• Saint-Pierre de Montmartre is one of Paris’s oldest churches, dating back to the 12th century. Established in 1147 by Queen Adelaide of Savoy, wife of King Louis VI, the church has served as a quiet witness to centuries of history in Montmartre.
• It’s a blend of Romanesque and early Gothic architectural styles. Despite renovations over the centuries, it retains its medieval charm and serene atmosphere. Saint-Pierre was once part of an abbey, and many believe it stands on the site of a temple dedicated to Mars, the Roman god of war.

Quaint Streets of Montmartre Private Tour

The 3rd floor of 54 rue Lepic in Paris was inhabited by Théo Van Gogh. He housed his brother Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890) there from June 1886 to 1888. Vincent van Gogh, after the death of his father, left the Netherlands and came to Paris. He arrived there in March 1886. He lived there with his brother Theodore.

• As you meander through Montmartre, you’ll encounter hidden gems at every turn.
• Rue Lepic is one of Montmartre’s most famous streets, with its iconic windmills.
• These windmills are relics of a bygone era when Montmartre was a rural area.

Place du Tertre Montmartre private tour

The Place du Tertre takes its name from its location at the top of a mound, a term designating a small hill with a flat top! Famous throughout the world for its painters, portraitists and terraces, the main square of the ancient village of Montmartre is the place of stroll par excellence where thousands of tourists flock every day.

This former public square opened in 1635 was frequented, from the end of the 18th century to the beginning of the First World War, by all the bohemian Montmartre: painters, singers and poets. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the square was part of the Montmartre Abbey, a religious complex that dominated the area. However, after the French Revolution, the abbey was destroyed, and Montmartre began evolving into a vibrant district. Today painters and sketchers of “minute portraits” welcome visitors throughout the year on the central embankment. This “artists’ square” is divided into 149 locations of 1m² each and allows two painters to take turns.

Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture

• Montmartre’s café culture is unparalleled. These cozy spots are where Parisians relax and socialize.
• Famous from the film Amélie, Café des Deux Moulins is a quintessential Parisian café.
• PARIS BY EMY’s tour can include stops at local bakeries — a delightful experience for foodies!

Vibrant Markets and Street Performers Montmartre Private Tour

• Montmartre is also home to vibrant street performances, where local artisans sell handmade goods.
• With a mix of live music and bustling energy, the atmosphere feels like a continuous celebration.
• Enjoy cabarets show with the historical Moulin Rouge, the Red Mill at the bottom of Montmartre.

Explore the Unique Museums of Montmartre

The Musée de Montmartre

The museum was created in 1960 in one of the oldest buildings on the Butte. Built in the 17th century, la Maison du Bel Air surrounded by gardens was the place of creation of many artists such as Auguste Renoir, Émile Bernard, Raoul Dufy, Charles Camoin, Suzanne Valadon or Maurice Utrillo.

• Here, you’ll find works from artists who lived in Montmartre, as well as a peaceful garden
• The museum provides a unique blend of art, history and the neighborhood’s artistic evolution

You will discover the permanent collections with a collection of paintings and drawings. You will discover the story of the Butte, the artistic effervescence, and its famous cabarets. The Museum includes an entire room dedicated to the French Cancan, while another room features rare zinc plates of dreamlike scenes from shadow theatre such as Le Chat Noir, the first modern cabaret founded by Rodolphe Salis in 1881.

The permanent collection will immerse you in the history of Montmartre. During the 19th century, the landscape of Montmartre began to change. In 1860, Montmartre was annexed to the city of Paris. Artists started to move to Montmartre in 1870 and the cafes and cabarets multiplied in the 1880’s. What quickly came to characterise Montmartre in the eyes of everyone was this effervescent bohemian spirit, a creative energy.

Espace Dalí

• Espace Dalí, dedicated to the surrealist Salvador Dalí with an art gallery next door.
• It houses a collection of Dalí’s works, including sculptures and lesser-known masterpieces.

Place Marcel Aymé

The Passe-muraille, frozen in the wall of the Place Marcel Aymé, is a statue made by the actor Jean Marais, in tribute to the work of the writer Marcel Aymé!

Originally from the Yonne, Marcel Aymé (1902-1967) spent a good part of his life in Montmartre, rue Norvins. He therefore set most of his novels in this neighborhood.

In the short story entitled “Le Passe-muraille”, Dutilleul, a modest office worker at the Ministry of Registration living in Montmartre. He discovers one evening that he has the power to cross walls. He first uses this faculty to take revenge for humiliation at the office, then commits burglaries and becomes a rich man, before being thrown into prison and… to escape! Falling in love with a pretty woman crossed rue Lepic, he crosses the walls to find her in the nose and beard of the jealous husband, until the day when losing his gift, he remains permanently frozen inside a wall, rue Norvins … Jean Marais, French actor and sculptor, immortalized the wall-pass in 1989 in the wall in front of Marcel Aymé’s house.

La Maison Rose

The Maison Rose (The Pink House), opened by Germaine Pichot in 1908, is a Montmartre canteen. Several generations of artists, Picasso, Modigliani, Dali… later Piaf, Barbara, Aznavour, Nougaro, Brel, or Camus came into this house. This emblematic place in Montmartre re-opened its doors at the end of 2017. Taken over by the granddaughter of Béatrice, who had bought La Maison Rose in 1948.

When La Maison Rose was purchased in 1905 by Laure Germaine and husband Ramon Pichot Girones. The building was average beige color. Germaine was always an artistic person, and was once Picasso’s muse and lover. She decided to paint the building pink after a trip to Barcelona where the colors inspired her. They added the words La Maison Rose déjeuners & diners (lunches and dinners). Written in green, with shutters painted in the same shade to match, this house is a must stop.

Montmartre Private Tour

Montmartre is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture, with each corner telling a story of its own. The PARIS BY EMY private tour of Montmartre brings these stories to life, offering a truly memorable and personalized experience. From world-famous landmarks to hidden corners, every part of Montmartre invites you fall in love with Paris.

Montmartre hosted a perfect storm of artistic creativity and avant-garde thinking. Located on the highest point of Paris, the Sacred Heart is the most emblematic monument. Very touristy but Montmartre offers a joyful environment marked by cabarets, fabulous painters and by spirituality. Indeed, Montmartre takes its etymology from “Mount of Martyrs”. We are talking here about Christian martyrs. Saint Denis, Saint Euléthère, Saint Rustique and many others, perished for their faith.

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