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Place du Tertre: The Artists' Square of Montmartre

Experience the artistic heart of Montmartre at Place du Tertre, where painters, history, and Parisian charm converge.

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Place du Tertre, located in the Montmartre district of Paris, is a vibrant square renowned for its artists. Since the 19th century, it has been a gathering place for painters, caricaturists, and portrait artists, drawing millions of visitors annually. The square offers a glimpse into Montmartre's bohemian past and remains a lively center for artistic expression.

A brief summary to Place du Tertre

  • Pl. du Tertre, Paris, 75018, FR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.
  • Negotiate the price with artists before commissioning a portrait or purchasing artwork.
  • Explore the side streets around the square to discover hidden shops and cafes.
  • Visit between 10 AM and 6 PM to see the greatest number of artists at work.
  • Be aware of your belongings as the area can get crowded and touristy.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Paris, take Metro Line 12 to Abbesses or Line 2 to Anvers. From Abbesses, it's a 5-minute uphill walk to Place du Tertre. From Anvers, walk uphill towards Sacré-Cœur Basilica, then continue a short distance to the square. A single Metro ticket costs €2.10.

  • Funicular

    Alternatively, from the bottom of Montmartre, near Place Saint-Pierre, take the funicular to the top. A funicular ride costs the same as a Metro ticket, €2.10, and is included in some travel passes. From the upper funicular station, it's a short walk to Place du Tertre.

  • Walking

    From Place Blanche, near the Moulin Rouge, it is about a 10-minute walk to Place du Tertre. Walk north-east, following the signs for Sacré-Cœur. The route is uphill. Alternatively, from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, walk west for a few minutes to reach Place du Tertre.

  • Bus

    Several bus lines stop near Place du Tertre, including lines 30, 302, 56, 68 and 80. The nearest bus stop is Place du Tertre - Norvins. A single bus ticket costs €2.10.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Place Blanche to Place du Tertre typically costs between €7 and €9 and takes about 4 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are also available.

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Discover more about Place du Tertre

Place du Tertre, situated in the heart of Montmartre, is a historic square famous for its thriving artistic community. Dating back to the 12th century as part of the Montmartre Abbey, the square was opened to the public in 1635 and became a central hub for village life. By the late 19th century, Place du Tertre had transformed into a haven for artists, writers, and poets, solidifying its reputation as a bohemian enclave. Today, Place du Tertre is a bustling open-air studio where artists create and display their work. Visitors can watch artists at work, commission portraits, and purchase paintings. The square is home to about 150 spaces, each occupied by two artists who alternate days. A rigorous jury system ensures that only qualified artists are granted the right to work in the square. The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, many with a long history. Among the most notable are La Mère Catherine, established in 1793, and Le Consulat, known for its classic Parisian ambiance. These establishments offer visitors a place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of this iconic location. Place du Tertre is conveniently located near other Montmartre landmarks, including the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, the Musée de Montmartre, and the Espace Dalí. Exploring the surrounding streets reveals artisanal shops and hidden gems, providing a deeper experience of Montmartre's unique charm.

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