Guided tour of Montmartre in songs with a professional

A Musical Journey Through Montmartre: A Guided Tour with a Professional Singer

If you’re visiting Paris and want to experience Montmartre in a truly unique way, this guided tour offers just that. For about $28.66 per person, you’ll spend roughly two hours wandering the hill’s winding alleys, punctuated by live a cappella performances of famous French songs like La Bohème and La Vie en Rose. Led by a charming guide, Anne-Sophie, the tour showcases around thirty unusual spots and more than twenty songs, all woven into an engaging narrative of the neighborhood’s storied past and its legendary singers.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the musical component adds a warm, nostalgic layer to your walk, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a Parisian chanson. Second, Anne-Sophie’s storytelling is peppered with juicy anecdotes about the singers and Montmartre’s history, giving depth and context that transform a simple walk into an evocative cultural experience.

A possible consideration? The tour involves some walking through uneven, often cobbled streets, so it’s not ideal if you have serious mobility issues. Also, since it’s a small group (up to 28 travelers), booking in advance—typically about 20 days ahead—is recommended. This tour is perfect for those craving an authentic, intimate glimpse of Montmartre, especially if you appreciate music and storytelling woven into your sightseeing.

Key Points

• Unique blend of music and history: The tour combines singing with fascinating tales about Montmartre’s famous residents.
• Hidden corners and well-loved sights: You’ll visit iconic spots like the Moulin de la Galette, the Vineyards, and the Place des Abbesses away from the usual tourist crowds.
• Authentic French songs: Expect to hear classics performed a cappella in a way that captures the spirit of Montmartre’s bohemian past.
• Intimate group sizes: With a maximum of 28 people, you’ll enjoy a personal experience with plenty of interaction.
• Ideal for music lovers: The performances and anecdotes make this especially appealing for those interested in the artistic and musical heritage of Paris.
• Booking in advance: The tour is popular, typically booked 20 days ahead, so plan early to secure a spot.

Exploring Montmartre in Songs and Stories

Wandering through Montmartre can be a highlight of any Paris trip, but adding an element of music and storytelling elevates the experience. This tour offers a wonderful way to connect with the neighborhood’s soul, blending sights, sounds, and stories into a memorable two hours.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at the Place des Abbesses, a lively square lined with musicians and artists, setting the tone for an authentic Montmartre experience. Here, you’ll first admire the Saint Jean de Montmartre church, a charming spot that hints at the neighborhood’s spiritual and cultural significance. It’s a perfect photo backdrop and a good starting point for your wander.

From there, your guide Anne-Sophie will lead you to the Wall of I Love You at Le Mur des Je t’aime, where you can recognize the “I love you” phrase in various languages—a sweet reminder of the universal language of love that Montmartre embodies. It’s also a moment to sing along with your guide, creating a sense of community.

Next, you’ll stroll down Rue des Abbesses, often dubbed the “Champs-Élysées of Montmartre,” a bustling shopping street filled with local cafes and street musicians. This lively corridor offers a taste of everyday Parisian life. Then, passing by Rue Lepic, you’ll see Le Moulin de la Galette, immortalized by Renoir, adding a whiff of bohemia to your walk.

One of the highlights is visiting La Maison de Dalida, where you can see the singer’s former home and sing a favorite tune. Dalida’s influence on French music is palpable, and her memorial bust nearby offers a chance for a heartfelt singalong.

Continuing, you’ll encounter the Theatre Lepic, the former cinema of Claude Lelouch, linking film and song, and then move to the Dalida Statue, where another sing-along opportunity awaits.

Your route takes you along the most charming streets, such as Rue Norvins and Rue de Mont Cenis, passing by old cabarets like Au Lapin Agile—the oldest in Montmartre—and the famous Place du Tertre, filled with artists and portraits. The walk culminates at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, where the panoramic view over Paris provides a spectacular backdrop.

What to Expect at Each Stop

• Saint Jean de Montmartre: A peaceful, historic church offering insight into Montmartre’s spiritual roots.
• Place des Abbesses: A vibrant hub of local musicians, perfect for soaking up the neighborhood’s energy.
• Le Mur des Je t’aime: A colorful, romantic wall, ideal for recognizing languages and singing out loud.
• Rue des Abbesses & Rue Lepic: Streets full of life, history, and scenes from famous paintings.
• La Maison de Dalida & Dalida Statue: Places of musical pilgrimage, where fans can sing and remember.
• Old Cabarets and Streets: Feel the bohemian atmosphere that once attracted artists like Picasso and Monet.
• Sacré-Cœur: The sweeping view over Paris makes a fitting farewell to your musical journey.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

This tour’s charm lies in its personal, intimate feel. Anne-Sophie’s voice and storytelling turn a simple walk into a shared musical experience. As one reviewer put it, “Ann-Sophie is delightful, charming and a wonderful singer,” which hints at the warm, welcoming atmosphere you’ll enjoy.

The performance aspect is not just a gimmick; it’s woven into the narrative, making French chansons like La Vie en Rose or La Bohème come alive in their original spirit. For many, this adds a layer of emotion that standard sightseeing can’t provide.

The tour also does well to highlight little-known spots far from the usual tourist spots, giving you a more authentic sense of Montmartre’s bohemian past. Visiting places like the vineyards or the old cabarets offers a glimpse into the neighborhood’s hidden stories.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Group Size, and Booking

At about $28.66, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of live music and storytelling. Compared to paying for individual tickets to museums or shows, this experience provides a lot of cultural richness in a compact package.

The group size—capped at 28—ensures a balance between social intimacy and enough energy from a lively crowd. Since it’s booked an average of 20 days in advance, planning ahead is advised to avoid disappointment, especially during peak tourist season.

The duration of about two hours means it’s a manageable addition to your day, fitting well in between museum visits or a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who loves music, storytelling, and authentic neighborhood walks, this tour will hit the right note. It’s especially suited for those who want a lighter, culturally rich experience that doesn’t involve long museum lines or crowded attractions. The small-group format and charming guide make it feel like a private exploration, perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a friendly, engaging way to see Montmartre.

However, keep in mind that the walk involves some uneven terrain and may not be ideal for travelers with serious mobility limitations. Also, if your main goal is to see the main sights of Paris, you might want to combine this with a more traditional tour or museum visit.

This tour offers a delightful blend of sights, sounds, and stories that brings Montmartre’s musical soul to life in a fun, personable way. It’s a great choice for those seeking a memorable, culturally immersive experience that celebrates Paris’s artistic spirit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-French speakers?
Yes, the tour is conducted in French but includes English language translation on the pamphlet, making it accessible for English speakers to follow along.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately two hours long, making it a manageable addition to your day in Paris.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to book about 20 days ahead, as it’s a popular experience and limited in size.

Are the stops accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves some walking on uneven, cobbled streets, it’s not recommended for those with serious mobility problems.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided walk, the live a cappella singing at various stops, and the storytelling. It does not include entrance fees to sites like Sacré-Cœur, which are free but may have optional paid visits.

Can children participate?
The tour is suitable for anyone interested in music and history, but parents should consider their children’s walking endurance and interest in singing and stories.

To sum it up, this Montmartre in Songs tour offers an authentic, heartfelt way to experience the neighborhood’s artistic spirit. You’ll walk through beautiful streets, hear classic French songs performed live, and learn stories about Montmartre’s famous residents—all in a cozy, engaging setting. Perfect for music lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a different perspective on this historic hill, it’s a small investment for a big, memorable experience in Paris.