Montmartre: Guided Tour for Kids and Families

Planning a visit to Montmartre with children can feel a bit daunting—how do you keep the little ones engaged while soaking in the charm of this iconic Paris neighborhood? Luckily, there’s a tour designed just for families that balances sightseeing, storytelling, and fun for kids. With a 4.8/5 rating based on 53 reviews, this 2 to 2.5-hour guided experience offers a well-rounded way to introduce your family to Montmartre’s treasures without the usual overwhelm.

What we love about this tour is its thoughtful approach—it’s tailored specifically for children and families, offering light historical explanations and plenty of stops at playgrounds and carousels. It’s not just about walking and sightseeing; it’s about actively engaging kids with stories, rides, and interactive moments that make the neighborhood come alive.

One potential consideration is the walk up the hill to Sacré-Cœur, which might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues. The tour isn’t accessible for wheelchairs or people with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly if you have little ones or guests with special needs.

This experience is best suited for families with kids who want to explore Montmartre in a playful, relaxed manner. It’s perfect if you want your children to learn about art, history, and local culture but in a way that keeps them entertained and involved.

Key Points

• Family-focused experience designed specifically for children and parents
• Engaging storytelling by experienced guides who connect with kids
• Includes fun stops at playgrounds and carousel rides
• Visit iconic sites like Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre
• Accessible for kids up to age 7 on carousel rides
• Not wheelchair accessible due to hill walking and terrain

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Perfect Introduction to Montmartre for Families

Montmartre is one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods, famous for its bohemian history, artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, and sweeping views over the city. This tour offers a curated, family-friendly way to experience its highlights without rushing or losing the kids’ interest. Starting outside the Anvers metro station, your guide—experienced in kids’ tours—will meet you with a friendly smile and a Get Your Guide sign, setting the tone for a relaxed adventure.

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica & Scenic Views

You’ll begin with a photo stop and guided visit of the Sacre-Cœur Basilica. This basilica, perched atop Montmartre’s highest point, is awe-inspiring with its white domes and intricate interior. The guide provides a light explanation, suitable for children, about the basilica’s significance and stunning architecture. Expect about 30 minutes here, perfect for photos and a quick peek inside. From the steps, you’ll enjoy some of the best views over Paris—an ideal moment for memorable photos.

According to reviews, guides like Sylvia or Monica excel at making these explanations engaging for kids, sharing fun facts that spark their curiosity about the neighborhood’s history and art.

The Artistic Heart at Place du Tertre

Next is the lively Place du Tertre, where artists display their paintings and portraits. Here, your family will get a taste of Montmartre’s artistic spirit—an environment buzzing with creativity. The guide will lead a 30-minute walk around the square, pointing out local artists’ works, and sharing stories of Montmartre’s legendary painters. Kids often love watching artists at work and seeing their drawings come to life.

This stop also includes free time for shopping or simply soaking in the vibrant scene. It’s an excellent opportunity for children to see art in action and perhaps pick up a small souvenir.

Play & Rides at Iconic Carousels

One of the tour’s highlights is the chance for children to ride on two carousels—a big hit with kids. The guide will buy tickets for the Montmartre Carrousel at the beginning and the Abbesses Carrousel, where children under 7 can enjoy a second ride. These rides break up the walking and give kids a tangible, fun experience amid the historic surroundings.

The tour also includes stops at city playgrounds where kids can burn off some energy. Reviewers mention guides like Crystal and Sylvia are excellent at engaging children, making sure they’re excited about the sights and comfortable with the pace.

Discovering Montmartre’s Hidden Corners

As you walk downhill from the basilica, your guide will point out vines of the Clos Montmartre—a tiny vineyard still producing wine, a quirky reminder of the neighborhood’s rural past. Next, you’ll see the Dalida statue and the famous Moulin de la Galette, where artists like Renoir painted scenes of local life.

A stop at Le Bateau-Lavoir, an artist’s studio where Picasso and others worked, adds a touch of artistic history, while the vineyard and cabarets reveal Montmartre’s lively, bohemian past. Reviewers appreciate how guides weave stories into these stops, making the neighborhood’s history come alive for both adults and children.

The Artistic & Cultural Hub: Abbesses & the Wall of Love

Descending further, you’ll reach the Place des Abbesses, home to the “I Love You” wall, a colorful mural with “I love you” written in over 250 languages. Kids find this fun, while adults enjoy the photo opportunity. The Abbesses carousel offers a second ride for kids, rounding off the fun.

The Tour’s Grand Finale at Moulin Rouge

The tour concludes at the famous Moulin Rouge, a fitting end to a colorful, artistic adventure. While the tour doesn’t include entry to the venue, the exterior view and photo opportunities make for a memorable ending.

The Practicalities & Value

The tour is priced at $69 per person, which includes a knowledgeable local guide, entry to Sacré-Cœur, and tickets for two carousel rides. This makes it a very value-conscious way to explore Montmartre with kids. It’s designed to balance sightseeing with entertainment, making it ideal for families who want a relaxed pace and interactive experiences.

While the price does not include food, drinks, or funicular tickets, the focus remains on the neighborhood’s sights and fun stops. The guide can assist with photos if requested, and the tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Italian.

Group Size & Accessibility

The tour generally operates as a small group experience or private tour, which ensures personalized attention. However, due to the walk up the hill and uneven terrain, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility issues.

Timing & Weather Considerations

The tour lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it manageable even for young kids. If rain affects the day, playground access might be limited, but carousel rides are still possible, which kids love. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

What Our Reviews Highlight

Multiple reviewers mention guides like Monica, Crystal, and Sylvia as being friendly, engaging, and adaptable, especially when explaining things to children. Arantxa from Spain appreciated her guide Monica, who “explained everything really well,” making the experience truly enjoyable for both adults and kids.

Guests also rave about the fun stops—the carousel rides, playgrounds, and the chance to see Montmartre’s vibrant art scene—making the tour feel lively and memorable. The views from Sacré-Cœur and the artwork at Place du Tertre are consistently praised for their beauty and atmosphere.

This Montmartre guided tour strikes a fine balance between sightseeing, storytelling, and fun for children. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that allows families to explore the neighborhood’s most iconic sites without the fatigue of a traditional walking tour. The inclusion of playgrounds, carousel rides, and engaging guides makes it a hit for families wanting a memorable, relaxed day in Paris.

If your family loves art, history, and lively neighborhoods but needs some playful breaks, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for children up to around age 7 for carousel rides, but older kids and teens will also enjoy the stories and sights. Just remember, the walk involves some hill climbing, so bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a workout.

This experience is perfect for families seeking an authentic, lighthearted way to discover Montmartre’s magic, with plenty of opportunities for photos and fun. It offers a genuine glimpse into the neighborhood’s artistic soul, with enough entertainment to keep everyone smiling.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for very young children?
Yes, children of all ages can enjoy the carousel rides and playground stops. The tour is designed with kids in mind, with engaging stories and fun breaks.

Are the carousel rides included in the price?
Yes, tickets for two carousel rides are included in the tour fee.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour involves walking up hills and uneven terrain, so it’s not suitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility difficulties.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks, especially for kids.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour runs for about 2 to 2.5 hours, making it manageable for small children.

Where exactly do we meet the guide?
You meet outside the Anvers metro station, line 2, holding a Get Your Guide sign. Arrive 10 minutes early.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a private option?
Yes, private groups are available, which can be tailored to your schedule and needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially for hill walking.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is offered in English, Spanish, French, and Italian.

In all, this Montmartre tour offers a thoughtfully crafted, engaging experience perfect for families eager to see Paris through a playful, artistic lens. The combination of storytelling, fun stops, and iconic sights makes it a memorable way to introduce kids to the city’s bohemian spirit.