Living in Montmartre / Abbesses, Paris
Montmartre/Abbesses exudes a bohemian, charming, and historically rich vibe, often feeling like a village within the city. It's undeniably touristy but retains an artistic soul.
🏙️Lifestyle & Culture
Life in Montmartre/Abbesses means embracing a charming, albeit often bustling, Parisian village atmosphere. Days are spent climbing the picturesque streets, visiting Sacré-Cœur Basilica, or exploring the Place du Tertre where artists paint en plein air. This area attracts expats, creatives, and young professionals who are drawn to its unique history and bohemian spirit, despite the crowds. Weekends are lively with tourists, but locals find solace in the quieter backstreets, enjoying coffee at a charming cafe or discovering hidden staircases. The community is a mix of long-time residents, artists, and international newcomers, fostering a unique blend of local charm and global appeal.
🏠Housing & Flatshares
Flatshares in Montmartre/Abbesses are typically found in older, character-filled buildings, often with sloping floors or unique layouts. Expect 2-3 bedroom apartments, with individual rooms generally sized between 10-15 sqm. Rent for a room usually falls between €700-€1050. While still competitive, the charm of Montmartre often justifies the price. Apartments can be small, reflecting the historic nature of the buildings. A guarantor is highly recommended, and deposits are standard (one to two months' rent). Many rooms are furnished, catering to the international and transient population, though finding modern amenities can be a challenge.
🚇Getting Around
Montmartre/Abbesses has good transport links, but navigating the hilly terrain requires some effort. Métro lines 2 and 12 serve the area, with key stations like Abbesses, Anvers, and Lamarck-Caulaincourt. The funicular provides easy access to Sacré-Cœur from Anvers. Bus lines are also available, particularly useful for traversing the hills. The neighborhood is highly walkable, but be prepared for steep climbs and many stairs. Cycling can be challenging due to the inclines, though many enjoy it. Despite the hills, the Métro network connects you efficiently to the rest of Paris.
🍽️Food & Nightlife
Montmartre/Abbesses offers a charming array of food and nightlife options. You'll find traditional French bistros, cozy cafes like Le Consulat, and numerous crêperies catering to both locals and tourists. Around Place du Tertre, many restaurants offer classic French fare. For nightlife, there are numerous quaint bars and pubs, particularly around Rue des Abbesses, providing a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere than other party districts. While it has its share of tourist traps, many genuine local gems exist. Iconic cabaret venues like the Moulin Rouge also draw crowds for evening entertainment.
Pros & Cons of Living in Montmartre / Abbesses
✓Pros
- •Incredibly charming and picturesque atmosphere, feeling like a village within Paris.
- •Rich artistic history and cultural landmarks, including Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- •Unique bohemian vibe, attracting artists and creatives from around the world.
- •Numerous quaint cafes, traditional bistros, and independent shops to explore.
- •Good public transport options, despite the hilly terrain, connecting you to the city.
✗Cons
- •Can be extremely touristy and crowded, especially around major landmarks and during peak season.
- •The hilly terrain and numerous stairs can be challenging for daily commutes.
- •Rental prices are relatively high for the apartment size, reflecting its desirability.
- •Some areas are prone to tourist traps and inflated prices for food and souvenirs.
- •Safety can be moderate late at night around tourist hotspots and the base of Sacré-Cœur.
💡 Insider Tips
Wake up early to experience Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre before the tourist crowds descend for a magical, quiet moment.
Discover the 'I Love You Wall' (Le Mur des Je t'aime) in Square Jehan Rictus, a romantic hidden gem.
Seek out the small vineyards (Vigne de Montmartre) and enjoy a glass of local wine at a nearby bar for an authentic experience.
✨ Highlights
Find Rooms & Roommates in Montmartre / Abbesses
Browse available flatshares and compatible roommates in Montmartre / Abbesses, Paris.
Browse Paris →Explore Other Neighborhoods in Paris
Latin Quarter
historic, student, lively
€750-€1100
Le Marais
historic, chic, vibrant
€850-€1300
Canal Saint-Martin
trendy, bohemian, relaxed
€700-€1150
Bastille / Oberkampf
Energetic, nightlife, artistic
€700-€1100
Belleville / Ménilmontant
artsy, diverse, authentic
€600-€950
Buttes-Chaumont / La Villette
green, calm, emerging
€650-€980