Place du Tertre Paris
Experience the vibrant heart of Montmartre's art scene at Place du Tertre, where talented artists create live portraits and sell unique Parisian artwo...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for browsing art
Place du Tertre Paris
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for browsing art

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the vibrant heart of Montmartre's art scene at Place du Tertre, where talented artists create live portraits and sell unique Parisian artwork amidst charming cafes and a bustling atmosphere.
"A must-do Paris bucket list item, offering a unique chance to get your portrait done by talented artists in a charming setting."
💰 Bring Cash for Art
Many artists at Place du Tertre prefer or only accept cash for portraits and artwork. Be prepared!
🗣️ Haggle & Compare Prices
Don't be afraid to ask for examples and discuss prices with different artists before choosing .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Portrait Artists
Central Square
Watch talented artists capture your likeness or the vibrant Montmartre scene in real-time. A unique souvenir from your 'Place du Tertre Paris' visit.

Charming Cafes & Al Fresco Dining
Around the Square
Soak in the lively ambiance from a sidewalk cafe. Enjoy a coffee or a meal while observing the artistic buzz of 'la Place du Tertre Montmartre'.

Unique Parisian Artwork & Souvenirs
Artist Stalls
Browse a diverse collection of paintings, sketches, and caricatures. Find a special piece of 'Paris art' to take home, directly from the creators.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Crowds & Artist Interactions
Cash is King for Portraits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Bring Cash for Art
Many artists at Place du Tertre prefer or only accept cash for portraits and artwork. Be prepared!
🗣️ Haggle & Compare Prices
Don't be afraid to ask for examples and discuss prices with different artists before choosing.
🚶♀️ Explore Montmartre's Backstreets
Beyond the square, discover charming streets like Rue l'Abreuvoir and Place Dalida.
⚠️ Be Wary of Pushy Artists
It's common to be approached, but politely decline if you're not interested.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Cash for Art
Many artists at Place du Tertre prefer or only accept cash for portraits and artwork. Be prepared!
🗣️ Haggle & Compare Prices
Don't be afraid to ask for examples and discuss prices with different artists before choosing.
🚶♀️ Explore Montmartre's Backstreets
Beyond the square, discover charming streets like Rue l'Abreuvoir and Place Dalida.
⚠️ Be Wary of Pushy Artists
It's common to be approached, but politely decline if you're not interested.
🍽️ Dine Outside the Square
For better food, venture downhill from Place du Tertre to nearby streets like Rue Lepic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Place du Tertre is widely praised for its vibrant, unique artistic atmosphere and the opportunity to witness artists at work. Visitors love the charming Parisian ambiance and the chance to acquire a personalized souvenir. However, some find it overly touristy, with occasional pushy artists and higher prices for food and art within the immediate square.
"In the past, famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh lived and worked in this neighborhood.
Place du Tertre is a famous square in the Montmartre area of Paris, France. It is located near the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and is known for its lively and artistic atmosphere. The square is full of charm, with cobblestone streets, small cafés, and many artists working in the open air.
One of the most special things about Place du Tertre is the many artists who paint live portraits. These talented painters set up their easels and create artworks right in front of you. You can sit down, and in just 15 to 30 minutes, an artist will paint or sketch your portrait. Each artist has their own unique style, from realistic to more cartoon-like drawings. Watching them work is a fun and interesting experience.
Many of these artists have been coming to Place du Tertre for years. Some are even professional painters who have had their art shown in galleries. Others are street artists who simply love painting people. This tradition of street painting has been part of Montmartre's history for a long time.
Visiting Place du Tertre is like stepping into a piece of art history. You can enjoy the beauty of the square, have your portrait painted, and take home a special memory. It’s a perfect place for tourists who want to feel the artistic spirit of Paris."
Ivan Tan
"Beautiful town! I would totally live there! I believe this was the town with the steps from John Wick! I walked all the way up them!! My calves were burning but worth it. You don’t have to walk up the steps they have a rail lift but you have to pay for it!"
Kyle Smith
"Even on a weekday extreme (too) busy with a lot of tourists. This makes the charm and loveliness of the market a lot less appealing. More than half of the market is now filled up with tents of the restaurants there which makes it even less appealing.
There is only a very small part for artists and mostly only touristic orientated portrait artists. We miss Parisian special artists like Jabert. Paris lost a lot of color and sparkle since he died.
However, it is a must see with a lot of small shops and restaurants. If you don’t mind a lot of tourists and a big climb, you might find it worth it."
Bob P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There & Around
To reach Place du Tertre, you can take the Metro to Anvers (Line 2) or Abbesses (Line 12). From there, you can either walk up the hill towards Sacré-Cœur, taking the stairs, or use the Montmartre Funicular, which is a fun and easy way to ascend. Many visitors combine a trip to Sacré-Cœur with a stroll through Place du Tertre.
While the funicular offers a convenient and enjoyable ride, it's not strictly necessary. You can also walk up the stairs from the base of Sacré-Cœur. The funicular is located near the Metro Anvers station, on the left side of the stairs leading up to Sacré-Cœur.
Walking is the best way to explore the charming streets of Montmartre. Beyond Place du Tertre, wander down Rue l'Abreuvoir, visit Place Dalida, or even find the last remaining vineyard in Paris. Bus line 40 also offers a scenic route through the 18th arrondissement, allowing you to hop off at interesting spots.
Montmartre, including Place du Tertre, is built on a hill with many cobbled streets and stairs, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. The funicular helps with the main ascent to Sacré-Cœur, but navigating the square itself and surrounding streets still involves uneven surfaces. Consider a taxi or ride-share to get closer to the square if walking is difficult.
Place du Tertre is located in the 18th arrondissement, a bit north of central Paris. It's a short walk from Sacré-Cœur Basilica. From the Louvre or Eiffel Tower, it's typically a 20-30 minute Metro ride. It's often visited as part of a 'Montmartre day trip' or 'Paris itinerary' focusing on the artistic side of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Place du Tertre is a public square, and there is no admission fee to enter or browse the artwork. You are free to walk around, soak in the atmosphere, and watch the artists at work without any cost. This makes it a great 'free thing to do in Paris'.
The cost of a portrait or caricature can vary widely depending on the artist, the size, the medium (e.g., charcoal, watercolor), and your negotiation skills. Redditors report paying around 45 euros for a drawing, but prices can range from 30 to over 100 euros. Always ask for the price and see examples before agreeing.
It's highly recommended to bring cash if you plan to get a portrait or buy artwork. While some artists might have mobile payment options, many still operate on a cash-only basis. Travelers frequently advise having euros on hand for this specific purpose.
The artists typically set up their easels from late morning until evening, especially during good weather and peak tourist season. In summer, they are known to stay later, sometimes after sunset, to cater to the crowds. For the best selection and interaction, visiting in the morning or late afternoon is ideal.
The art sold directly by the artists in Place du Tertre is generally authentic to their individual styles. It's a market for 'local art' and souvenirs. While it's a tourist-focused area, many visitors find unique pieces they love. If you're looking for high-end gallery art, you might explore other Parisian art markets, but for a charming souvenir, it's perfect.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience & Etiquette
At Place du Tertre, you can watch artists paint, have your portrait or caricature drawn, browse various artworks for sale, and enjoy the lively atmosphere from one of the many surrounding cafes. It's a fantastic spot for people-watching and soaking in the artistic spirit of 'Montmartre Paris'.
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to 2 hours at Place du Tertre, depending on whether they are just passing through, browsing art, or getting a portrait done. If you plan to sit at a cafe or have a portrait, allocate more time. It's a key stop on any 'Montmartre itinerary'.
Feel free to admire their work and ask questions. If you're interested in a portrait, approach an artist whose style you like, ask for their price, and see examples. If you're not interested, a polite 'Non, merci' is usually sufficient. Be aware that some artists might be more persistent than others.
Public restrooms are scarce directly within Place du Tertre. Your best bet is to use the facilities at one of the surrounding cafes or restaurants if you are a paying customer. Alternatively, there are public toilets near Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a short walk away.
Yes, Place du Tertre can be a fun and engaging experience for children. They might enjoy watching the artists, getting a caricature, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere. However, keep an eye on them in crowds, and be mindful of the occasional pushy artist.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are numerous cafes and restaurants lining Place du Tertre, Reddit users often suggest that the food quality directly in the square can be mediocre and overpriced due to its prime tourist location. Many recommend venturing slightly downhill for better dining experiences.
For better food options, explore the streets just a few minutes downhill from Place du Tertre. Rue Lepic is often recommended for its variety. Other popular spots in the 18th arrondissement include Babalou for pizza, Hardware Society for brunch, and Le Bon Bock for traditional French fare.
Absolutely! You'll find plenty of places for quick bites. Look for crêpes, pastries, and other French treats. One Instagram reel specifically mentions crêpes from Carette in Montmartre, which can be enjoyed right in the square.
While traditional French cuisine can be meat-heavy, many modern Parisian restaurants, especially in a diverse area like Montmartre, offer vegetarian and increasingly vegan options. Check menus posted outside restaurants or use apps to find suitable places nearby.
Yes, enjoying a coffee or a drink at one of the cafes in Place du Tertre is highly recommended for the experience. It's a perfect way to relax, people-watch, and absorb the unique artistic ambiance of the square, even if you choose to dine elsewhere for a full meal.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The entire square offers fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the artists at work, the charming cafe terraces, and the bustling crowds. For a classic shot, try to frame the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in the background from certain angles within the square or nearby streets. The colorful artwork also makes for great close-ups.
Early mornings (before 10 AM) are ideal for capturing Place du Tertre with fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots of the architecture and artists setting up. Late afternoon, as the light softens, also provides beautiful, warm tones, though crowds will be present.
Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of the general scene and artists at work. However, it's always polite to ask for permission if you're taking a close-up photo of an individual artist or their specific artwork, especially if you're not purchasing anything. Some artists might prefer you don't photograph their pieces without permission.
Beyond the square, explore the picturesque streets of Montmartre. Rue l'Abreuvoir, with the famous La Maison Rose, and Place Dalida offer iconic Parisian backdrops. The views from Sacré-Cœur, just a stone's throw away, provide panoramic 'Paris views' that are perfect for photography.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide shots of the square and closer details of the art and artists. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for capturing the vibrant atmosphere. Consider a small tripod for low-light shots if you visit in the evening, but be mindful of crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Go in the morning: Fewer crowds make it easier to navigate with strollers or young children.
* Set expectations: Explain that artists might approach them, and it's okay to politely decline.
* Combine with Sacré-Cœur: The nearby basilica and its steps offer space for kids to run around and enjoy the views after the square.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget-friendly tips:
* Pack a picnic: Instead of expensive cafe meals, grab some pastries or sandwiches from a local bakery and enjoy them on the steps of Sacré-Cœur with a view.
* Window shop: Admire the artwork without feeling pressured to buy. If you do want a souvenir, consider smaller, more affordable prints or postcards.
* Walk everywhere: Save on transport by exploring Montmartre on foot, enjoying the charming streets and hidden gems around 'Place du Tertre Paris'.
💖 Couples & Romantics
Romantic recommendations:
* Evening visit: The square takes on a magical glow as the sun sets, with artists often staying late, especially in summer.
* Shared portrait: Commission a joint portrait or caricature for a lasting memory.
* Stroll hand-in-hand: Explore the quieter, picturesque streets of Montmartre like Rue l'Abreuvoir after your visit to the bustling square.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Spirit of Montmartre's Artists
Visitors can witness the creative process firsthand, from quick charcoal sketches to detailed oil paintings. The variety of styles is immense, offering everything from traditional landscapes and cityscapes to modern abstracts and whimsical caricatures. Engaging with these artists is a quintessential 'Place du Tertre Paris' experience, offering a unique insight into Parisian art culture. It's a place where art isn't just displayed; it's made right before your eyes.
Beyond the Easels: Exploring the Montmartre Charm
Take a detour down Rue l'Abreuvoir, often called the most beautiful street in Paris, leading to the iconic La Maison Rose. Discover the tranquil Place Dalida, offering a quiet moment and a bust of the famous singer. Even the last remaining vineyard in Paris, Vigne du Clos Montmartre, is tucked away nearby. These hidden gems provide a quieter, more authentic glimpse into the village-like atmosphere that still defines this historic Parisian neighborhood, making your 'Paris Montmartre Place du Tertre' visit truly comprehensive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit