Montmartre, a district where Paris’s artistic soul still thrives. Its historic cobblestone alleys and the cafes once frequented by masters like Picasso and Van Gogh make you forget you’re in a modern metropolis.
This time, we’ll introduce 5 carefully selected spots that allow you to combine ‘Montmartre sightseeing,’ a highlight of any Paris trip, with ‘souvenir hunting’—a must-do. From classic scenic viewpoints to film locations, and even smart tips for light travel, we bring you real, essential information for visitors!
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
📍 Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
Perched atop Montmartre hill, this beautiful white-domed basilica is one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Admission is free, and stepping inside envelops you in a solemn, peaceful atmosphere. Thanks to its elevated position, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Paris cityscape from the square and stairs in front of the basilica.
The best time to visit is first thing in the morning when it’s relatively less crowded. On weekend afternoons, the stairs are filled with people enjoying the view, which itself creates a spectacular, quintessentially Parisian scene. If you wish to enjoy even higher views, climbing the dome (for a fee) is highly recommended. The steep climb is well worth it.
For those not confident in their stamina, the classic way to reach the top of the hill is by ‘funicular’ or bus, avoiding the steep slopes and stairs. Also, as this is a very busy tourist area, be sure to take thorough precautions against pickpockets.
Sacré-Cœur – I LOVE MONTMARTRE
📍 Address: 4 Rue Tardieu, 75018 Paris, France
This souvenir shop is ideally located just 50 meters from the Montmartre funicular station, making it a perfect base for sightseeing. Inside, you’ll find a stylish array of souvenirs, from local crafts to cute keychains, postcards, and tote bags designed by French artists.
The biggest draw of this store is its highly practical ‘luggage storage service’ (luggage concierge) for travelers. You can store your luggage for 5 euros a day from 10 AM to 10 PM, making it perfect for those who’ve checked out of their hotel in the morning but want to explore Montmartre light until evening.
The owner and staff are very kind and friendly. This hidden gem of a shop also offers rare and high-quality items, such as the popular croissant Jellycat keychains.
Montmartre Village
📍 Address: 11 Rue du Mont-Cenis, 75018 Paris, France
Tucked away on a cobblestone path behind the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, this general store stands out. While there are many similar souvenir shops around Montmartre, this one features a distinctively fashionable and cute selection. The space itself is exciting to browse.
Inside, you’ll find not only Parisian postcards but also ‘The Little Prince’ merchandise, a timelessly popular French souvenir, and beautifully designed glassware, among other items that capture a feminine charm. It’s perfect for finding a treat for yourself or a stylish gift for a dear friend.
The alleys around the shop retain a strong sense of old Paris, allowing you to feel the lingering presence of the era when artists gathered here. After shopping, it’s recommended to grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and stroll around.
Maison Georges Larnicol Chocolatier
📍 Address: 7 Rue de Steinkerque, 75018 Paris, France
This exquisite sweets shop, originating from Brittany, is run by a craftsman who has received the ‘Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF)’ award. Located on the main street leading to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, visitors are first amazed by the giant, elaborate chocolate sculptures inside. Works like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral are displayed, resembling museum sculptures.
Of course, beyond the visual spectacle, the sweets sold here are also exquisite. In addition to a wide variety of chocolates and macarons, the ‘kouign-amann’ and bite-sized ‘kouignettes,’ both specialties of Brittany, are an absolute must-try. Their buttery aroma and crispy caramelized texture are irresistible.
The shop is kept cool even in summer to maintain the quality of the chocolate, making it a perfect spot to cool down during hot sightseeing days. There’s also a rich selection of chocolates by weight, convenient for evening tea time at your hotel or last-minute souvenir shopping before your return.
Au Marché de la Butte
📍 Address: 56 Rue des Trois Frères, 75018 Paris, France
For movie buffs, especially fans of the hit French film ‘Amélie,’ this spot is an absolute must-visit. It’s a grocery store famous as the filming location for ‘Monsieur Collignon’s grocery store,’ where the protagonist Amélie used to shop. Perched at a street corner after climbing a steep flight of stairs, its appearance is straight out of the movie world.
It still operates as an ‘épicerie’ (grocery store) and cafe, with fresh fruits and vegetables displayed outside, and articles about the film proudly posted on the shop’s walls. The owner, who might seem gruff at first, eventually smiles and says ‘Arigato’ (thank you), showcasing the warm human touch typical of Montmartre’s working-class charm.
Here, it’s recommended to buy Muscat grapes or cherries for a snack when hungry, or pick up some wine to take back to your hotel. This is a valuable local spot that offers more than just a film location tour; it allows you to experience the real daily shopping of Parisians.
Tips for Smart Souvenir Shopping in Montmartre
Montmartre is an area with many slopes and stairs. If you plan to buy many souvenirs, it’s advisable to first use a luggage storage service like ‘Sacré-Cœur – I LOVE MONTMARTRE’ to travel light, and then start your exploration from the scenic heights (around Sacré-Cœur Basilica).
Also, while similar souvenir shops line the main streets, if you venture into the smaller alleys, you’ll discover independently owned antique shops and concept stores. Beyond standard keychains and magnets, the true delight of Montmartre is finding unique, one-of-a-kind items like watercolors by local artists or artisanal sweets.
