Across the hill · Guide 2026
From Abbesses to Caulaincourt
A few streets between Abbesses and Caulaincourt reveal several faces of Montmartre. This walk leaves a district of shops and terraces, crosses residential slopes around Junot and Girardon, then reaches the northern side. It suits visitors who want to understand the hill without necessarily crossing the Sacré-Cœur forecourt.
The short answer
What matters before you go.
Start at place des Abbesses, move towards rue Lepic and rue Tholozé, then reach avenue Junot. Follow rue Girardon to square Suzanne-Buisson and finish near Lamarck–Caulaincourt. The square has its own opening hours: check them if this stop is essential to your route.
Action plan
The route,
step by step.
Times and order are guideposts. Always adapt the visit to crowds, actual access and your group’s energy.
Take in place des Abbesses
The square is an easy meeting point but often busy. Set your direction before leaving and keep metro entrances clear.
Cross Lepic and Tholozé
Shops gradually give way to sloping streets. Pause if needed: short map distances can conceal a real climb.
Follow Junot and Girardon
Walk at a neighbourhood pace through these residential streets. Notice architecture and changes in level without occupying doorways or private entrances.
Pause at the square
Square Suzanne-Buisson at 7 bis rue Girardon offers a shady stop. The City lists seasonal opening hours and facilities: check them before making it an essential stop.
Useful trade-offs
What really changes the visit.
Flexible direction
The route works both ways. Starting at Lamarck may make the walk downhill towards Abbesses.
Seasonal square
Municipal gardens close at different times through the year. Check the square’s City page on the day.
Possible detours
You can continue towards the vineyard or cemetery, but keep the route realistic if visiting with children.
Practical questions
Before confirming the route.
Must I climb to Sacré-Cœur?+
No. This walk connects two sides through neighbourhood streets; the monument summit is an optional detour.
Is square Suzanne-Buisson always open?+
No. Its hours depend on the season and day. The City of Paris publishes the current schedule on the square’s page.
Check on the day
Official and practical sources.
Hours, outages, works, prices and access conditions change. For any important requirement, check the relevant source and contact the venue directly.
