Panoramic view of Montmartre vineyard in Paris with cityscape in background

Musée De Montmartre

Musée de Montmartre: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Paris’s Historic Art District

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Paris’s iconic Montmartre district, the Musée de Montmartre is a vibrant testament to the neighborhood’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Housed in some of Montmartre’s oldest buildings, dating back to the 17th century, the museum was once both home and creative hub for legendary artists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Suzanne Valadon, and Maurice Utrillo. Today, it preserves an extensive collection of paintings, drawings, posters, and photographs, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into the bohemian spirit that shaped Montmartre during the Belle Époque and beyond. Whether you’re searching for practical details such as “Musée de Montmartre visiting hours” and “tickets,” or seeking to explore Paris historical sites, this guide provides essential information and insightful context to help you make the most of your visit (Musée de Montmartre Official Site, French Quarter Mag, France Today).

Panoramic view of Paris cityscape from Montmartre museum terrace

Introduction
Origins and Early History
The Artistic Golden Age
Foundation and Evolution of the Museum
Key Historical Figures and Residents
Preservation and Restoration Efforts
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Location, Getting There, and Accessibility
Special Events and Educational Programs
Museum Collections and Highlights
The Renoir Gardens and Vineyard
Nearby Attractions and Complementary Experiences
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Origins and Early History

The Musée de Montmartre is deeply intertwined with the artistic evolution of Montmartre, one of Paris’s most storied neighborhoods. The museum is located at 12 Rue Cortot in a building that stands as one of the oldest in Montmartre (Musée de Montmartre). In the late 1800s, Montmartre—then outside the Paris city limits—was a magnet for artists, writers, and bohemians drawn by affordable rents and a spirit of creative freedom (paristourisms.com). The building that now houses the museum became a gathering place for this burgeoning artistic community, fostering collaboration and innovation that defined the era.

The Artistic Golden Age

During the Belle Époque, Montmartre became the epicenter of Parisian avant-garde culture. Artists such as Renoir painted masterpieces like “La Balançoire” in the museum’s gardens, while Suzanne Valadon and her son Maurice Utrillo lived and worked in these very buildings (French Quarter Mag). The museum’s location was not only a residence but also a social hub, attracting notable figures like Émile Bernard, Raoul Dufy, and André Utter.

Foundation and Evolution of the Museum

Established in 1960 by the Society of Old Montmartre (Le Vieux Montmartre), the Musée de Montmartre’s mission is to preserve and celebrate the neighborhood’s distinctive heritage (French Quarter Mag). Over the decades, the museum has expanded its collections to include paintings, drawings, posters, photographs, period furnishings, and memorabilia, recreating the unique atmosphere of Montmartre during its artistic heyday (Musée de Montmartre).

Key Historical Figures and Residents

Pierre-Auguste Renoir: Lived and worked at 12 Rue Cortot (1875–1877), creating some of his most celebrated works inspired by the lush gardens (French Quarter Mag).
Suzanne Valadon: An acclaimed model-turned-painter, Valadon’s studio is preserved in the museum, showcasing her significant contributions as one of the first women admitted to the Société Nationale des Beaux-Arts.
Maurice Utrillo: Renowned for his evocative paintings of Montmartre’s streets, Utrillo spent much of his life in the neighborhood.
Émile Bernard, André Utter, and others: Their collective presence cemented Montmartre’s reputation as a crucible for artistic innovation.

Preservation and Restoration Efforts

The museum has undergone significant restoration to maintain its historical authenticity while providing modern amenities. Renoir’s gardens, depicted in several of his paintings, have been restored to reflect their original appearance, offering visitors a serene retreat and a tangible link to the past (Musée de Montmartre). The museum also collaborates with local organizations to protect Montmartre’s broader cultural heritage.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:
Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM)
Closed Mondays and select holidays
(Musée de Montmartre Official Site)
Tickets:
- Adults: €12
- Reduced rate (students, seniors): €9
- Free for children under 18 and EU residents under 26
- Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum entrance.
  Combined tickets for special exhibitions are available (Paris Top Ten).

Location, Getting There, and Accessibility

Address: 12 Rue Cortot, 75018 Paris
Metro: Abbesses (Line 12) or Lamarck-Caulaincourt (Line 12), a short walk from the museum
Bus: Lines 30, 80, 95
Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and accessible restrooms. Some historic sections may pose challenges; visitors with specific needs are encouraged to contact the museum in advance (The Tourist Checklist).

Special Events and Educational Programs

The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions (such as the 2025 “Maximilien Luce, l’instinct du paysage”), workshops, lectures, and community outreach programs for all ages (Musée de Montmartre - Maximilien Luce). Annual events like the Fête des Vendanges celebrate Montmartre’s living heritage with art, music, and local traditions.

Museum Collections and Highlights

Paintings and Masterpieces

Renoir’s Atelier: Experience the reconstructed studio where Renoir painted “La Balançoire.”
Valadon and Utrillo’s Apartment: Discover the preserved living and working spaces of Suzanne Valadon and Maurice Utrillo.
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec & Others: View iconic posters and illustrations, including “Le Divan Japonais” and works by Steinlen, Degas, and van Dongen.
Photographs & Manuscripts: Explore vintage cabaret posters and archival photographs documenting the area’s vibrant artistic life.

Thematic Displays

Permanent and temporary exhibits trace Montmartre’s transformation from rural village to bohemian art hub.

The Renoir Gardens and Vineyard

The museum’s gardens, restored to mirror their 19th-century appearance, offer panoramic views of Paris and overlook the Clos Montmartre vineyard—the last remaining vineyard in the district. The tranquil setting inspired many Impressionist masterpieces and today houses the charming Café Renoir (France Today).

Nearby Attractions and Complementary Experiences

Place du Tertre: Lively square known for its street artists.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Iconic white-domed church with panoramic city views.
Clos Montmartre Vineyard: Offers seasonal tours and tastings.
Moulin Rouge: Legendary cabaret nearby, with evening performances (The Tourist Checklist).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Musée de Montmartre visiting hours?
A: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and select holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults €12; reduced €9; free for children under 18 and EU residents under 26.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators and accessible restrooms, though some historic areas may be limited.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages. Advance booking recommended.

Q: Can I visit the vineyard?
A: Yes, the Clos Montmartre vineyard is part of the museum grounds and included in some tours.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Best times to visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds, especially in gardens and special exhibitions.
Duration: Allocate 1.5–2 hours for the museum, plus time for the gardens and nearby sites.
Photography: Permitted in most areas (no flash or tripods).
Café: Enjoy light meals and refreshments at Café Renoir.
Family-friendly: Interactive displays and gardens are suitable for children; strollers may be difficult in some areas.
Safety: Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas and respect museum etiquette.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Musée de Montmartre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Paris’s artistic and cultural legacy. With its rich collections, immersive studios, beautifully restored gardens, and engaging exhibitions, it offers a unique window into the enduring spirit of Montmartre. Plan your visit today by checking the latest hours and ticketing options on the official museum website, download the Audiala app for curated guides, and follow us on social media for updates on events and exhibitions.