A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Montparnasse
Dive deep into Montparnasse: discover culture, art, cafés, and history in Paris’s vibrant left bank neighborhood.
Montparnasse, located on the Left Bank in Paris’s 14th arrondissement, is a lively neighborhood renowned for its artistic heritage, buzzing café scene, and unique vantage points over the city. Once the playground of Picasso, Modigliani, and countless avant-garde artists, this area remains steeped in creative energy, complemented by stunning city views, celebrated eateries, and tranquil green spaces. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making the most of Montparnasse, from historic sites and cultural highlights to local food and hidden gems.
Why Visit Montparnasse?
- Authentic Parisian atmosphere: Fewer tourists, a bustling local scene, and a legacy of creativity.
- Rich artistic history: Home to legendary artists, writers, and intellectuals.
- Diverse attractions: From panoramic views to quirky museums, catacombs, iconic cafés, and leafy parks.
- Gastronomic delights: Crêperies, bakeries, and traditional brasseries abound.
Top Things to Do in Montparnasse
Tour Montparnasse
The Tour Montparnasse is Paris’s only true skyscraper and stands out for its modernist architecture, polarizing local opinion since its completion in 1973. Rising 210 meters above the city, the tower features a unique draw: unmatched panoramic views from its observation decks—as far as the eye can see, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the timeless Parisian skyline.
- Observation Decks: The 56th-floor enclosed deck and 59th-floor open-air terrace provide 360-degree vistas.
- Best Times to Visit: Arrive before sunset to catch daytime, dusk, and nighttime cityscapes in one visit.
- Historical Note: Controversy over its height led to bans on future inner-city skyscrapers, thus ensuring the predominance of classic Paris architecture elsewhere.
- Location: 33 Avenue du Maine, Montparnasse
Tip: Bring a camera—this is one of Paris’s ultimate selfie spots.
Cafés of Montparnasse: Soaking Up Artistic History
Montparnasse’s iconic cafés and brasseries were the vibrant heart of 20th-century Parisian culture. Legendary artists, writers, and philosophers—including Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Picasso, Simone de Beauvoir, and Jean-Paul Sartre—gathered in these lively establishments to debate, create, and socialize. Today, their historic spirit lives on in the buzzing café terraces, offering visitors both inspiration and a true taste of Parisian life.
- La Coupole: A stunning art deco brasserie frequented by Picasso and Josephine Baker.
- Le Dôme: Known for its seafood and as a historic haunt of painters and writers.
- Le Sélect & La Rotonde: Iconic meeting places in the heart of boulevard Montparnasse, brimming with creative energy.
- Savor the Experience: Enjoy a coffee, glass of wine, or meal on a terrace and watch Montparnasse life unfold around you.
Don’t miss the evening ambiance, when the cafés light up and the neighborhood turns magical.
Crêpes and Gastronomy: Culinary Traditions
Montparnasse is particularly noted for its Breton crêperies, owing to the large population of Brittany natives who settled here in past centuries. Even today, the area’s streets—most famously Rue de Montparnasse—are dotted with authentic crêperies serving both sweet (sucre) and savory (salée) delicacies.
- Must-Try: A classic buckwheat galette filled with ham, cheese, and egg, or indulge in a dessert crêpe with caramelized apples and salted butter caramel.
- Recommended Crêperies: Stop by Crêperie de Josselin, Crêperie Genia, or Crêperie Plougastel for an authentic taste.
- Market Treats: Pair your crêpe with fresh cider at one of the city’s nearby food markets, like Marché Edgar Quinet.
Many crêperies are family-run and have retained their cozy, traditional décor—perfect for an atmospheric meal.
Montparnasse Cemetery: A Walk Through History
The Montparnasse Cemetery is not only a tranquil green space but also a veritable who’s-who of French cultural history. Established in the early 19th century, this sprawling, tree-lined cemetery houses the graves of luminaries from the arts, literature, and philosophy.
- Notable Graves: Jean-Paul Sartre & Simone de Beauvoir, Samuel Beckett, Charles Baudelaire, Susan Sontag, Serge Gainsbourg, Brassaï, Man Ray, and Marguerite Duras.
- Atmosphere: Shady paths, unusual funerary art, and an almost poetic calm make it a contemplative spot for a stroll.
- Location: 3 Boulevard Edgar Quinet
Many visitors leave notes, coins, or small tributes at the graves of their favorite writers and artists.
The Paris Catacombs: The Empire of the Dead
Beneath the streets of Montparnasse lies one of Paris’s most haunting and unique attractions: the Catacombs of Paris. This underground ossuary contains the bones of more than six million Parisians, transferred here in the late 18th and early 19th centuries to address overflowing cemeteries and public health concerns.
- Experience: Visitors descend more than 100 steps to walk 1.5km through a labyrinth of tunnels, lined with neatly arranged human bones and skulls. The entrance inscription reads, “Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la mort” (“Stop! This is the empire of the dead”).
- Historical Background: The catacombs were established in repurposed stone quarries. The first bones, from the Saints-Innocents Cemetery, arrived in 1786.
- Practical Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a sweater—the catacombs can be chilly. The tour lasts about an hour and is not recommended for those with mobility issues.
- Location: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy
Due to popularity, advance booking is highly recommended.
Parc Montsouris: Parisian Green Escape
To the south of Montparnasse lies Parc Montsouris, one of the city’s largest green spaces. This English-style landscape park, spanning over 15 hectares, is beloved by locals for its peaceful lakes, meandering paths, and shaded lawns.
- Perfect For: Picnics, jogging, leisurely strolls, or admiring the swans and blossoming trees.
- Family-Friendly: Pony rides, puppet shows, and playgrounds make it popular with children and families.
- Student Life: Close to the Cité Universitaire, it’s a favorite hangout for university students.
- Insider Tip: Visit in spring for cherry blossoms, or in autumn when the trees blaze with color.
Look out for the meteorological observatory and whimsical sculptures scattered throughout the park.
Museums and Contemporary Art in Montparnasse
Montparnasse’s artistic heritage is showcased through a variety of unique museums and galleries celebrating both classic and modern creative expression.
- Fondation Cartier pour l’Art Contemporain: A sleek, contemporary art museum featuring thought-provoking international exhibitions, artist residencies, and family-friendly workshops.
- Musée Bourdelle: Dedicated to the monumental works of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle, the museum features luminous, sculpture-filled halls and tranquil gardens.
- Musée Zadkine: A small yet charming museum nestled in an artist’s old studio and home, spotlighting the Russian-born sculptor’s abstract masterpieces.
- Musée de la Libération de Paris: Chronicles the dramatic events of Paris’s liberation in WWII, including rooms dedicated to Resistance leaders Jean Moulin and General Leclerc.
A mix of bigger institutions and hidden gems, Montparnasse’s museums delight art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Markets and Shopping: Local Finds
Vibrant open-air markets and independent boutiques imbue Montparnasse with a sense of authenticity. The local markets enliven the neighborhood and offer some of Paris’s freshest produce, cheeses, baked goods, and artisan specialties.
- Marché Edgar Quinet: A bustling market set along Boulevard Edgar Quinet, noted for its produce, cheese, flowers, and arts-and-crafts stalls.
- Marché Saxe-Breteuil: Renowned for picturesque stalls framed by views of the Eiffel Tower and Hôtel des Invalides, open Thursdays and Saturdays. Here, artisanal foods from every corner of France are on offer.
- Shopping: Explore boutiques on Rue de Rennes for fashion, design stores, bookshops, and vintage finds.
Markets are a way to experience the local rhythm of life—have a chat with a stallholder, sample cheese, or pick up a baguette for a picnic in Parc Montsouris.
Theatre, Cinema, and Nightlife
Montparnasse is home to a lively theatre and cinema scene that continues its artistic legacy.
- Rue de la Gaîté: A street famed for its theatres, including Théâtre Montparnasse, Théâtre Bobino, and Théâtre de la Gaîté-Montparnasse, offering everything from contemporary plays to traditional French cabaret.
- Cinemas: Classic movie houses such as Le Bretagne and Le Gaumont Parnasse screen French and international films—from blockbusters to indie productions.
- Bars and Jazz Clubs: Check out intimate wine bars, modern cocktail lounges, or jazz venues like Le Petit Journal Montparnasse for a night out in true Parisian style.
As night falls, Montparnasse pulses with energy—making it perfect for theatre lovers, cinephiles, and night owls alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Montparnasse best known for?
A: Montparnasse is best known for its rich artistic heritage, iconic literary cafés, the only Parisian skyscraper with panoramic views (Tour Montparnasse), the Catacombs, and its role as a hub for 20th-century creatives.
Q: Are the Montparnasse Catacombs suitable for children?
A: The catacombs can be intriguing for older children but may be frightening for younger visitors due to their dark, underground passages and displays of human bones. There are also many steps and uneven paths, so strollers are not allowed.
Q: Where can I get the best crêpes in Montparnasse?
A: Rue de Montparnasse is famous for authentic Breton crêperies, such as Crêperie de Josselin and Crêperie Genia, where you can savor both savory and sweet varieties.
Q: Which museums should art lovers not miss?
A: Fondation Cartier is a must for contemporary art fans, while Musée Bourdelle and Musée Zadkine showcase sculpture and modernist art in intimate settings.
Q: Is Montparnasse expensive compared to central Paris?
A: Montparnasse offers a range of accommodation and dining options, often at lower prices than the city center, making it attractive to budget and mid-range travelers looking for authentic Parisian experiences.
Q: How do I get around Montparnasse?
A: The area is served by Montparnasse–Bienvenüe metro station (with four metro lines), multiple bus routes, and is very walkable. Bicycles and electric scooters are also convenient for exploring the neighborhood.
Final Tips for Exploring Montparnasse
- Start your day with coffee at a famous café, followed by an early visit to the Montparnasse Tower for clear views.
- Wander through the Montparnasse Cemetery, then treat yourself to a market picnic in Parc Montsouris.
- Book catacomb tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
- Catch a play or enjoy live music for an unforgettable Parisian night out.
Montparnasse stays true to its bohemian past, offering authentic Parisian delights for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a lover of art, history, gastronomy, or the simple pleasures of café life, this vibrant neighborhood is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the soul of Paris.
