The 18th arrondissement is arguably the most emblematic of Paris when it comes to art and nightlife. Perched atop the hill, Montmartre is a charming little village that began welcoming world-renowned painters and writers as early as the 19th century. These include painters and artists such as Auguste Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Picasso once roamed its cobbled streets, alongside writers from the Beat Generation, such as Boris Vian and Jacques Prévert and many others. Below Pigalle has long captivated the world’s imagination with its iconic red-light district, frequently immortalized on the big screen. If you’re wondering what to do with friends in Montmartre, look no further. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy a successful day out with friends in Montmartre at the heart of Paris.
A morning of adventure for a day with friends in Montmartre…
To kick off your day with friends in Montmartre in Paris, enjoy a delicious coffee at Café Dose Jules Joffrin. This Dose brand coffee shop will share all its expertise with coffee lovers for an explosion of aromas and flavours. The pastry menu featuring sweet, savory, vegan, and gluten-free options is mouth-wateringly generous. Plus brunch is served every day of the week!
📍 96 rue Ordener, Metro Jules Joffrin.
Next, immerse yourself in Montmartre with our escape game designed to guide you through the district’s hidden corners. You’ll discover the secrets of this magical neighborhood while chasing clues and treasure! From the Moulin de la Galette and Montmartre’s hidden vineyards to the Dalida House and the Wall of Love, enjoy the adventure with your friends in Montmartre.
But if the weather is unfortunately not suitable for outdoor activities, opt for our indoor escape game inside the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur. It’s a fun and engaging way to learn about the dramatic history of this iconic monument. If your team cracks the code in time, a treasure awaits!
To forever capture the magic of your adventure, we recommend booking a photo session with our team. Depending on your group, choose from one of our tailor-made packages:
A thoughtful afternoon in the 18th…
For a smart and sustainable lunch break, stop by La REcyclerie. This hybrid eco-space is part cultural hub hosting talks, podcasts, and short film festivals but also a repair workshop and a urban farm with a large vegetable garden. Book a tour of its 1,000 m² site before grabbing a bite at the café-canteen, where everything is local and homemade.
📍 83 Boulevard Ornano, Metro Porte de Clignancourt.
Note: the visit is not suitable for children under 10.
Afterwards, go to explore the Halle Saint-Pierre, the only museum in Paris entirely dedicated to Outsider Art also known as Art Brut, Naïve Art, or Singular Art. What is it? The concept was invented by artist Jean Dubuffet. This great collector was also the founder of the world’s largest Art Brut museum, located in Lausanne. ‘Art brut’ describes spontaneous creativity from individuals outside conventional art circles—often neurodivergent or marginalized. Their work, untouched by academic influence or commercial trends, is raw, free, and deeply expressive. Expect colorful, playful, and deeply moving pieces. The beautifully restored Baltard-style market hall also houses a cozy café and a fascinating bookshop focused on art and popular culture.
📍 2 rue Ronsard.
An unusual evening for a day with friends in Montmartre in Paris’s 18th arrondissement….
Then, before or after a well-earned dinner, consider catching a show at the Funambule Theatre in Montmartre. With its bold and original programming, this theatre will delight any curious mind – a perfect addition to your list of what to do with friends in Montmartre.
📍 53 rue des Saules, Metro Lamarck-Caulaincourt.
Bonus: this is one of the few Parisian theaters that stays open throughout the summer!
As you pass by, take a moment to peek through the gates at 6 rue Francoeur. There, you might catch a glimpse of students from La Fémis. This is France’s most prestigious film school, known as the alma mater of many internationally acclaimed filmmakers.
Finally, to end your day with friends in Montmartre on a high note, grab dinner at the beloved Bouillon Pigalle. Continuous service from noon to midnight at very low prices is the philosophy of these insitutions. In fact, they are called ‘bouillon’ because this dish was served to workers. Its traditional menu and Parisian decor will immersive you in the atmosphere of typical French brasseries.
📍 22 Boulevard de Clichy, Metro Pigalle.
Reservations highly recommended!
When night falls, get lost in the glowing neon lights of Pigalle. Go in search of legendary cabaret and music venues like the Moulin Rouge, La Cigale, or Les Trois Baudets.
Just want a drink and a bit of dancing? Head to Sullivan By the Mill, open until 5 AM!
📍 92 Boulevard de Clichy, Metro Pigalle.
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