Questions on security in Montmartre come up typically, and it’s comprehensible. Its location within the north of Paris can simply increase issues.
Having lived in Montmartre and nonetheless visiting often, I can confidently say it’s an exquisite place to discover. The truth is, it’s my favourite neighborhood in Paris and On this article, I’ll share my insights and security ideas that can assist you benefit from the space with ease.
Salut, I’m Lena – journey planning skilled and parisienne since 2006 🩷
Is Montmartre Secure?
Montmartre, perched on its well-known hill, is certainly one of Paris’s most iconic neighborhoods. Recognized for its inventive legacy, breathtaking views, and charming streets, it attracts numerous guests yearly.
I’ve lived in Montmartre for a number of years and nonetheless go to often, day and evening. Whereas positioned within the north, part of town that’s typically related to areas that really feel much less secure, you will need to make clear: Montmartre is not certainly one of these areas.
That stated, there are some things to remember for a secure go to. Montmartre’s recognition as a vacationer hotspot brings with it the same old challenges: crowds, vacationer traps, pickpockets, and the occasional rip-off.
My Tackle Montmartre as a Native
As an area, I’ve at all times felt that Montmartre is secure, particularly in its residential areas. These quieter streets, like these round Lamarck-Caulaincourt or the northern a part of Rue Lepic, have a peaceable and welcoming vibe.
The touristy elements close to the Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre can really feel extra overwhelming, with crowds, the traditional vacationer scams, and pickpockets. It’s vital to remain conscious, safe your belongings, and keep away from distractions in these busy spots.
Montmartre itself is way from being a dodgy or sketchy space—it’s really an upscale residential neighborhood at its core.
Although I not stay there right this moment, I nonetheless cross the world often on my means house late at evening. It feels extra peaceable than something.
The streets are calm and quiet after darkish, and I’ve at all times felt very secure strolling by way of. Nonetheless, as you progress farther east, the vibe modifications. Barbès, a part of the northern district, has improved over time however nonetheless feels chaotic and edgy. I’d advise towards spending time there.
Vacationer Scams in Montmartre
➤ Additionally learn: Scams in Paris: 13 Prime Tricks to Keep away from Widespread Cons
When questioning about security in Montmartre, we now have to speak about scams. As a result of Montmartre is so widespread with vacationers, it’s additionally a hotspot for petty scams.
None of those are harmful, however they will bitter your expertise should you’re unprepared. Listed below are the most typical ones to look out for:
#1 The Signature Rip-off
It is a basic Paris rip-off, typically noticed on the steps main as much as the Sacré-Cœur. Teams of younger women, generally pretending to be deaf, will strategy with a petition. They’ll ask you to signal it, normally claiming it’s for a trigger or charity.
When you’re distracted, they could attempt to decide your pocket or stress you to make a donation. They gained’t change into aggressive, however they are often persistent.
The very best technique? Preserve strolling. Don’t cease or interact, and ensure your valuables are safe.
#2 The Bracelet Rip-off
One other well-known Montmartre rip-off includes friendship bracelets. On the steps to the Sacré-Cœur, somebody would possibly seize your wrist and begin tying a bracelet earlier than you also have a probability to react.
As soon as the bracelet is tied, they’ll ask you to pay for it. These people are normally pleasant and smiling, however the tactic is pushy.
To keep away from this, maintain your fingers near your physique or in your pockets as you move by. If somebody approaches, firmly however politely decline and maintain shifting.
#3 The TukTuk Rip-off
TukTuks, the three-wheeled autos providing rides to vacationers, can generally be extra bother than they’re price. Drivers might promote what looks like an affordable value, however upon arrival, you’ll discover the speed is per particular person, not per journey.
I consider these teams are a part of organized crime.
This rip-off isn’t distinctive to Montmartre, nevertheless it’s changing into more and more widespread round vacationer points of interest in Paris.
To keep away from surprising prices, it’s higher to skip spontaneous TukTuk rides. If you wish to strive one, prepare it prematurely with a good service. Right here for instance.
#4 Pickpockets
Pickpockets function in each tourist-heavy space of Paris, and Montmartre is not any exception. They typically goal crowded areas, just like the steps of the Sacré-Cœur or busy streets close to Place du Tertre.
Preserve your baggage zipped, put on them throughout your physique, and keep away from placing valuables in simply accessible pockets. In the event you keep conscious, you’ll haven’t any points.
Is Montmartre Secure at Night time?
➤ Additionally Learn: 32+ Memorable Issues to do in Paris at Night time
Sure, Montmartre is secure at evening. Whether or not you’re strolling house after dinner or taking within the view of Paris from the Sacré-Cœur steps, the neighborhood maintains its calm and welcoming vibe after darkish. I by no means felt unsafe there.
The residential areas, like these round Lamarck-Caulaincourt and the northern finish of Rue Lepic, are notably peaceable. These streets have an upscale, village-like really feel, far faraway from any notion of sketchiness.
Even the tourist-heavy elements of Montmartre, whereas quieter at evening, stay lively sufficient to really feel safe.
Having lived within the space and often crossing by way of Montmartre late at evening, I’ve by no means felt unsafe or uneasy. The truth is, the quiet streets and relaxed ambiance typically make nighttime walks by way of Montmartre really feel tranquil and pleasing.
That stated, as with every metropolis, it’s at all times good to remain conscious. Preserve your belongings safe and follow well-lit, populated streets. In the event you keep away from venturing far east into areas like Barbès, you’ll discover that Montmartre at evening feels extra peaceable than anything.
Areas Close to Montmartre to Know About
Montmartre itself is energetic, charming, and customarily secure. However it borders some areas that may not align together with your expectations.
Positioned within the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is a part of a district that doesn’t at all times have the perfect status. Reality be instructed, some close by areas are locations I’d suggest avoiding. That stated, Montmartre is not certainly one of them.
This being stated, not one of the much less enticing areas have an effect on Montmartre itself, the place the ambiance stays charming and safe. Nonetheless, it’s price being conscious of those close by areas when planning your keep
Barbès-Rochechouart, Château d’Eau & La Chapelle
The places that really feel edgy and gained’t add to your expertise are the neighborhoods east of Montmartre: Barbès, Château d’Eau, and La Chapelle. They’re just some hundred meters away, however they’ve little or no in widespread with Montmartre and the picturesque Paris you recognize.
It’s aggressively crowded and sketchy, and also you’ll discover the distinction properly earlier than reaching them. They’re not on the butte (the hill), and the colourful, welcoming ambiance of Montmartre merely fades as you progress towards these neighborhoods.
To provide you an thought: La Chapelle can also be known as “colline du crack”.
However there’s not an excessive amount of to fret about, as a result of one factor is definite: should you’re planning to go to Montmartre, you gained’t find yourself in these areas by mistake. They’re off the same old vacationer routes and never locations you’ll wander into unknowingly.
My tip: When reserving lodging, double-check the handle. Some lodges promote themselves as being in Montmartre however are literally nearer to Barbès, which is probably not the expertise you’re on the lookout for.
➤ to keep away from this, test my record of hand-picked lodges in Montmartre, which might be 100% secure to e book: Prime Resorts in Montmartre: 10 Nice Picks for Each Funds!
Pigalle & the Pink-Mild District
Positioned simply south of Montmartre, Pigalle is named Paris’s red-light district. It’s a preferred nightlife vacation spot, full of bars, cabarets (just like the well-known Moulin Rouge), and grownup retailers.
By day, Pigalle is energetic and bustling, stuffed with vacationers and locals alike. At evening, it turns into a bit rowdier. Whereas it’s not unsafe, it could possibly really feel rougher in comparison with the appeal of Montmartre’s cobblestone streets.
In the event you’re touring with kids or want quieter environment, you would possibly wish to skip Pigalle within the night.
That stated, for these fascinated with nightlife, it affords loads of leisure and a vibrant crowd. I spent the perfect nights on the market and it’s additionally the placement of one of many greatest cocktail bars in Paris: The Soiled Dick.
Last Phrases on Montmartre’s Security
Montmartre is without doubt one of the most enchanting neighborhoods in Paris, and for good cause. Its appeal, historical past, and artwork scene make it a must-visit vacation spot.
Sure, it’s a vacationer hotspot, and with that comes a couple of small dangers. However with fundamental consciousness and somewhat preparation, you’ll be able to get pleasure from every thing Montmartre has to supply with out fear.
Whether or not you’re sipping espresso at a terrace café, climbing the steps to the Sacré-Cœur, or wandering its winding streets, Montmartre is a spot to chill out and absorb the great thing about Paris. Keep conscious, and also you’ll go away with nothing however nice recollections.
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