Paris Montmartre: Secret Streets Walk & Croissant Tasting

Summary

Cobblestones underfoot buttery croissant in hand stories of painters and secret views in montmartre

You’ll wander Montmartre’s tangled streets with a local guide, taste one of Paris’ best croissants fresh from the oven, spot secret city views most visitors miss, and pause by both ancient vineyards and iconic cabarets. Expect laughter, stories you’ll want to retell, and glimpses of Paris that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the way the morning light hit the Moulin Rouge windmill—red paint chipped in places, but somehow that made it better. Our guide, Camille, waved us over with a grin and started us up those steep Montmartre streets. I was already out of breath by the first corner (don’t judge), but she stopped at this bakery where the smell of butter just sort of floats out onto the street. We each got a croissant—flaky, warm, kind of perfect—and ate them leaning against a wall while she told us about Van Gogh living just up the road. I tried to say “croissant” with my best French accent; Camille laughed and told me not to worry, even Parisians argue about it.

We passed little squares where old men played pétanque and kids darted between legs. At Le Mur des Je T’aime, Camille pointed out “I love you” scrawled in what felt like every language on earth—I found “te quiero” for my grandma back home. There was this odd silence for a second as everyone read their own version. Then we wound through alleys I’d never have found alone—one had vines crawling up painted shutters and another opened suddenly onto this view of Paris I swear isn’t on any postcard. The keyword “Montmartre walking tour” popped into my head right then—like, if anyone asks what to do in Paris, this is it.

Later we stood by the last vineyard in Paris—tiny rows of grapevines squeezed between stone walls and city noise. Opposite was Le Lapin Agile cabaret; Camille told us about Lolo the painting donkey (I’m still not sure if she was joking). The air smelled faintly of wine and something sweet drifting from a café nearby. My feet were tired but I didn’t really care anymore.

The final climb to Sacré-Cœur was quieter than I expected—just our group and some pigeons. Instead of joining the crowds at the front steps, Camille led us around back for this sideways view where all you hear is your own breathing and maybe someone humming from inside the basilica. She gave us tips on other places to eat (I scribbled down three names but lost the paper). Even now when someone mentions Paris, it’s these odd corners and small moments I think about—not just the big sights.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Montmartre's secret streets

• Start opposite Moulin Rouge windmill
• Climb hill spotting Amélie café and Van Gogh’s home
• Taste buttery croissant at prize-winning bakery
• Learn “je t’aime” in 250 languages
• Hear legend of first Parisian bishop
• Climb stairs to Picasso’s former home and lovely square
• Pass last remaining windmill
• Walk down Montmartre’s Champs-Élysées
• Enter secret passage with city views and cobbled street
• Visit Montmartre vineyards and hear Le Lapin Agile legend
• Admire Sacré-Coeur Basilica from hidden viewpoint
• Enjoy final panoramic Paris view

Top questions

How long is the Montmartre walking tour?

The tour covers about 2 km (1.2 miles) on foot through Montmartre’s streets.

Is there food included on this Montmartre tour?

Yes, you’ll get to taste an award-winning butter croissant during the walk.

Does this tour visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica?

Yes, you’ll see Sacré-Cœur from a unique perspective away from most tourists.

Are children allowed on this walking tour?

This is a child-friendly tour; let them know if you’re bringing kids under 12.

Is hotel pickup included for this Montmartre tour?

No hotel pickup; you meet your guide near Moulin Rouge at the start point.

How many people are in each group?

The small group size is limited to 14 guests maximum per tour.

What languages is the tour offered in?

The main language for this Montmartre walking tour is English.

Can vegetarians join this food tasting?

Yes—the croissant tasting can be enjoyed by vegetarians as well.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your local English-speaking guide near Moulin Rouge before strolling through Montmartre’s cobbled lanes together. You’ll taste an award-winning butter croissant at one of Paris’ top bakeries, stop for panoramic city views only locals seem to know about, pass by Picasso’s former home and ancient vineyards opposite Le Lapin Agile cabaret, then finish at Sacré-Cœur Basilica—all within a relaxed small group setting.