Summary
This page presents Boulevard Montmartre, a lively Parisian boulevard known for its theaters, cafés, museums, and Haussmannian architecture. It covers its history, atmosphere, major sights, transport options, and practical visitor information.
Overview
Boulevard Montmartre is one of the most iconic boulevards of the Grands Boulevards district. Known for its theaters, cafés, museums, and Haussmannian architecture, it offers a vibrant cultural and commercial atmosphere.
Located in the 9th arrondissement, it forms a key axis between Boulevard Poissonnière and Boulevard Haussmann, making it a must‑see destination for culture lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone exploring central Paris.
History
- 19th century — Created during Haussmann’s transformation of Paris.
- Late 1800s–1900s — Development of major theaters and cafés.
- 20th century — Expansion of commercial activity and modernization of façades.
- Today — A lively mix of culture, commerce, and architectural heritage.
Boulevard Montmartre remains one of the most iconic streets of the Grands Boulevards.
What to See
- Musée Grévin — famous wax museum.
- Théâtre des Variétés — classic Parisian theater.
- Cafés & Brasseries — perfect for Parisian dining.
- Haussmannian Buildings — grand façades and wide boulevards.
- Grands Boulevards — lively cultural and commercial district.
Atmosphere & Experience
Boulevard Montmartre offers:
- a lively, elegant cultural atmosphere,
- iconic architecture and historic theaters,
- wide sidewalks ideal for walking,
- a mix of luxury, history, and modern commerce.
It’s perfect for visitors seeking culture, architecture, and Parisian vibrancy.
Practical Information
Location
9th arrondissement — between Poissonnière and Haussmann.
Transport
- Metro: Lines 8 & 9 (Grands Boulevards)
- Bus: 20, 39, 48
Duration
A full walk along the boulevard: 25–35 minutes With cafés and visits: 1h30–2h
Nearby Landmarks
- Musée Grévin
- Théâtre des Variétés
- Boulevard Poissonnière
- Boulevard Haussmann
- Opéra Garnier (nearby)
Bouillon Chartier
- Address: 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris (just a few steps off the boulevard)
- Style: Legendary, historic French bouillon.
- Highlights: Operating since 1896, this stunning Belle Époque dining hall is a Parisian legend. It is famous for serving traditional, no-nonsense French classics (like escargots, steak-frites, and chocolate profiteroles) at incredibly low prices. The bustling atmosphere and traditional waiters writing orders directly onto the paper tablecloths make it an absolute must-visit experience.
Hard Rock Cafe Paris
- Address: 14 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009 Paris
- Style: American-style restaurant and music memorabilia hub.
- Highlights: Situated directly on the boulevard, this vibrant venue offers a familiar taste of American comfort food—ranging from signature burgers to smokehouse ribs—surrounded by rock ‘n’ roll history. It features an energetic atmosphere and a great street-facing terrace perfect for watching the busy crowds of the Grands Boulevards.
Le Brevant
- Address: 28 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009 Paris
- Style: Classic Parisian brasserie and cafe.
- Highlights: Boasting a fantastic outdoor terrace right on the main strip, Le Brevant is the quintessential spot for people-watching. It serves continuous food all day, making it just as ideal for a morning espresso and croissant as it is for a late-night drink or a comforting plate of French onion soup after visiting the nearby Musée Grévin.
Café Cézanne
- Address: 1 Boulevard Montmartre, 75002 Paris
- Style: Warm, traditional neighborhood brasserie.
- Highlights: Located at the corner where the boulevard meets the vibrant Rue Montmartre, this welcoming café offers a cozy interior and an extensive menu of bistro favorites, fresh salads, and great happy hour options. It perfectly captures the lively, friendly spirit of the local Parisian after-work scene.
Internal Links
Boulevard PoissonnièreBoulevard Poissonnière Paris
Boulevard HaussmannBoulevard Haussmann – Iconic Shopping & Architecture in Paris
Boulevard des ItaliensBoulevard des Italiens Paris
Frequently Asked Questions: Boulevard Montmartre
Where is Boulevard Montmartre located?
Despite its name, Boulevard Montmartre is not up on the famous Montmartre hill. Instead, it is one of the Grands Boulevards located in central Paris, acting as the border between the 2nd and 9th arrondissements. It directly connects Boulevard Haussmann and Boulevard Italien to Boulevard Poissonnière.
Why is it called Boulevard Montmartre if it isn’t in Montmartre?
The boulevard is named after the historic city gate, the Porte Montmartre, which once stood nearby along the old Louis XIV city walls. The gate itself was named because it marked the beginning of the road that led straight up north to the village of Montmartre.
What famous covered shopping arcades are on this boulevard?
Boulevard Montmartre houses the entrances to two of the most beautiful 19th-century covered passages in Paris, sitting directly across from each other:
- Passage des Panoramas (opened in 1799, famous for its old-world charm and stamp collectors).
- Passage Jouffroy (opened in 1845, featuring a stunning glass-and-iron roof and beautiful bookshops).
What historic museum is located on Boulevard Montmartre?
The boulevard is home to the Musée Grévin (at No. 10), one of the oldest wax museums in Europe, founded in 1882 by Arthur Meyer and Alfred Grévin. It features hundreds of wax figures of historical and modern celebrities displayed in breathtaking Belle Époque halls.
What is the boulevard’s connection to Impressionist art?
The street was immortalized by the famous Impressionist painter Camille Pissarro. In 1897, he spent months in a room at the Grand Hôtel de Russie (which overlooked the thoroughfare) and painted a celebrated series of 14 canvases capturing the Boulevard Montmartre at different times of day, under various weather conditions, and through shifting seasons.