From train or RER · Guide 2026
Gare du Nord to Montmartre
Gare du Nord is close enough to Montmartre for walking to be possible, but the right choice depends on luggage, mobility, weather and your exact destination. The summit, Abbesses and Pigalle require different routes. This guide therefore begins with a simple decision: walk light towards the south-eastern hill, or use a connection checked in the RATP journey planner.
The short answer
What matters before you go.
Without heavy luggage, walking via Barbès and Anvers reveals the approach to the hill before climbing through square Louise-Michel or taking the funicular. With a suitcase, children or limited mobility, use the RATP planner for the station nearest your accommodation or activity. Do not default to Abbesses if your destination is on the northern slope.
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.
Choose the right exit
Locate rue de Dunkerque, boulevard de Denain or faubourg Saint-Denis on the official plan. The wrong exit quickly adds a busy crossing.
Decide before Barbès
If walking becomes uncomfortable, switch to the metro or another available service. Do not continue over cobbles with a suitcase simply to follow a theoretical route.
Anvers and the foot of the hill
From Anvers, choose the gardens and steps or the funicular. Check service and keep circulation routes clear.
Arrive at the right level
Once at the summit, do not cross the whole hill by reflex. Go directly to your visit, accommodation or planned descent.
Useful trade-offs
What really changes the visit.
Exact name and address
Montmartre covers several slopes. Enter the final address, not just the neighbourhood name.
Suitcases
Wheels, cobbles, narrow pavements and steps combine badly. Store luggage before visiting if possible.
Live traffic
Works and disruptions can invalidate a line recommendation, so recalculate when leaving.
Practical questions
Before confirming the route.
Can I walk to Montmartre?+
Yes, if you walk comfortably and travel light. Allow more time to reach the summit than the foot of the hill.
Which station should I choose?+
It depends on the final address: Anvers for the south-eastern foot, Abbesses for the central area and Lamarck–Caulaincourt for the northern slope. Always check the live journey.
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.
