Lonely Planet Experiences Private Paris Tour: Hidden Montmartre

Get away from the selfie-sticks and discover one of the most romantic enclaves in Paris, on your own private tour with a local guide leading you to the best hidden spots. With its exquisite squares, pretty churches and idyllic, winding streets, it’s easy to see why generations of artists have called Montmartre home. We’ll go off the beaten track and spot the Parisian abodes of Van Gogh and Picasso and venture down secret passages that’ll reward us with stunning panoramic views. Throw in some anecdotes about the district’s most colourful residents and a bite of France’s most iconic pastry and that’s your perfect morning in Paris sorted! 

This tour is priced for a minimum group size of two travellers. A solo traveller may still book this private experience but will be charged the base rate of two travellers.

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Welcome to Montmartre, the Paris of your dreams!  Your private tour begins opposite a quintessential Parisian landmark: the Moulin Rouge windmill. We’ll start the climb up the hill, spotting the café where the film Amélie was shot and Van Gogh’s home as we go. 

Our first stop will be at one of Paris’ best bakeries, winner of many prestigious prizes for its bread and pastries. Here we will taste one of France’s most famous patisserie: a deliciously buttery croissant. Is there any better way to start your morning in Paris? 

After learning how to say “je t’aime” in 250 different languages and listening to the crazy legend about the first Parisian bishop, we’ll climb a few more stairs to discover one of Montmartre’s loveliest squares and the one-time home of Pablo Picasso. Hear the stories of struggle endured by many local artists here before they found fame and fortune. 

From here we’ll pass by the house of Dalida, one of France’s most famous singers and an iconic figure in Montmartre. Find out more about her dramatic life and why she became an icon for the gay community in Paris and beyond. 

We’ll pass by one of the last remaining windmills in Paris, now totally privatised, then we’ll promenade down the “Champs-Élysées” of Montmartre, where we’ll see some of the most expensive houses in the capital. Your guide will then lead you through a totally secret passage that reveals not only one of the best views over Paris but also one of the cutest cobbled streets in the city! 

Next up are the famous vineyards of Montmartre. Almost on the top of the hill they overlook the suburbs of Paris and produce a surprisingly good red wine. Opposite the vineyard is the entrance to the famous Cabaret, Le Lapin Agile, where your guide will tell you the legend of Lolo, the painting donkey.

Finally we’ll walk to the iconic Basilica Sacré-Coeur, where we’ll stop to admire a view of the church from a perspective that very few tourists know about, leading onto our grand finale of another stunning Paris panorama. 

Before you go, don’t forget to pick your guide’s brains for the latest on what to see and do during your stay in Paris. 

(If you’d prefer to travel as part of a regular group experience, please book our Hidden Montmartre group tour.) 

This tour is priced for a minimum group size of two travellers. A solo traveller may still book this private experience but will be charged the base rate for two travellers.