When you’re heading to Montmartre for the first time, the simplest overall plan is this: take the direct airport train into the city, then switch once to the Underground and ride uphill as far as possible before finishing on foot. It keeps transfers reasonable and avoids long surface navigation. As a backup, a direct taxi from the airport removes almost all decisions, especially after a long flight.
Montmartre sits on elevated ground in northern Paris, so your main goal is not just “getting close,” but arriving at a station that reduces uphill walking. Keep that in mind as you choose your final stop.
Practical nearby station note
For Underground access, Abbesses (Line 12) and Anvers (Line 2) are the most practical entry points depending on which side you’re approaching from.
For a major rail anchor, Paris Gare du Nord is the easiest central gateway if you’re coming from the airport or elsewhere in France.
From Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
The airport-to-city backbone is reliable and straightforward.
- Follow signs in your terminal for RER B (suburban train).
- Purchase a ticket into central Paris before boarding.
- Ride RER B toward the city and get off at Gare du Nord.
- Transfer to the Underground: from Gare du Nord, follow signs for Line 2 toward Anvers, or connect to Line 12 depending on your preference.
- Exit at your chosen Montmartre-side station and walk the remaining distance uphill.
You’re on the right track when you see clear RER B signage in blue and white and platform displays showing trains toward central Paris.
If you see Line 2 arriving sooner than Line 12, choose Line 2 for a more direct transfer from Gare du Nord.
Arrival comfort line: Once you exit the Underground, the atmosphere shifts to smaller streets and a gradual climb—that’s normal and means you’re close.
Time buffer tip (use once only): Add about 20 minutes to your total travel estimate from CDG to allow for ticket machines and transfer corridors, especially during busy periods.
From Paris Gare du Nord
If you’re already at Gare du Nord, you’re well positioned.
- Follow Underground signs within the station complex.
- Take Line 2 toward the northern direction.
- Exit at Anvers for a steady uphill walk.
- Alternatively, connect to Line 12 and exit at Abbesses for a shorter surface walk.
- Walk toward the higher streets, keeping a relaxed pace.
You’re on the right track when train maps inside the carriage show your stop only one or two stations ahead.
If you prefer fewer stairs above ground, choose Anvers; if you want a shorter outdoor walk, choose Abbesses.
Arrival comfort line: The climb is gradual and manageable—most visitors do it without difficulty.
Underground Only (if you’re already in central Paris)
The Underground network is extensive and easy to navigate.
- Identify the closest station to you.
- Transfer as needed toward Line 12 (Abbesses) or Line 2 (Anvers).
- Exit the station and orient yourself briefly before walking.
- Follow your map uphill toward Montmartre.
You’re on the right track when the station signs clearly display Line 12 in green or Line 2 in blue.
If you notice your train heading the opposite direction on the platform display, simply cross to the other side before boarding.
Arrival comfort line: Exiting at either station places you within walking distance, even if the streets curve slightly.
Bus Option (surface route alternative)
A bus can be useful if you prefer staying above ground.
- Check the nearest bus stop using a transport app or local map.
- Look for buses that run toward stops near Montmartre’s lower slopes.
- Board and validate your ticket.
- Exit at the closest stop to your accommodation or entry point.
- Walk the final stretch uphill.
You’re on the right track when onboard displays list stops climbing gradually northward.
If traffic appears heavy, Underground may be faster.
Arrival comfort line: A bus lets you visually understand the neighborhood as you approach.
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
For simplicity, especially late at night, this is the lowest-effort choice.
- Request a taxi at an official rank or through a ride-hailing app.
- Enter “Montmartre” as your destination.
- Confirm the drop-off point on the map before departure.
- Let the driver handle the uphill navigation.
You’re on the right track when the route begins heading north and gradually ascending.
If traffic looks dense on the app map, consider Underground instead during peak hours.
Arrival comfort line: Being dropped close to your address reduces unnecessary walking on arrival day.
Walking (if you’re already nearby)
If you’re within a few stations, walking can be pleasant.
- Set Montmartre as your destination on your map app.
- Choose a route that gradually climbs rather than one with sharp steps.
- Walk steadily, taking short pauses if needed.
- Follow signs toward the higher streets.
You’re on the right track when storefronts thin out and the incline becomes noticeable.
If you encounter long staircases and prefer gentler slopes, reroute slightly to a parallel street.
Arrival comfort line: The steady climb signals you’re reaching the elevated neighborhood.
If you get lost
- Go directly to Châtelet–Les Halles Station, the city’s major Underground hub.
- From there, take the Underground toward Line 12 (Abbesses) or transfer toward Line 2 for Anvers.
- Exit and resume your approach calmly using your map for the final stretch.
The last 5 minutes
The final approach usually involves narrower streets and a noticeable incline. Pavement may shift from broad avenues to more intimate lanes. You’ll know you’re close when the slope increases slightly, pedestrian traffic becomes more relaxed, and the city noise softens. Small cafés and corner shops begin to appear. If your map shows only a few short turns left and you feel the elevation change, you’re exactly where you should be.
FAQ
Is Montmartre difficult to reach from CDG?
No. The RER B to Gare du Nord plus one Underground connection keeps it manageable.
Which Underground station is best?
Abbesses reduces surface walking distance; Anvers may feel easier for some travelers due to station layout.
Is a taxi worth it?
Yes, especially with luggage or late arrival. It simplifies navigation entirely.
Are there many stairs?
Some streets are steep, but alternative gradual routes exist if you prefer fewer steps.
Is it safe to travel at night?
Public transport operates reliably, and taxis are widely available.
Quick checklist
- Follow RER B signs at CDG
- Transfer once at Gare du Nord
- Choose Abbesses or Anvers strategically
- Add a small time cushion at the airport
- Walk steadily uphill on arrival
Sources checked
(Verification scope used for this article)
- Confirmed airport-to-city backbone options.
- Confirmed main rail hub connectivity.
- Confirmed city public transport network coverage.
- Used map reference for walking layout only.
- Checked destination access notes at a high level.
Paris Aéroport — airport transport overview — https://www.parisaeroport.fr
RATP — Paris public transport network — https://www.ratp.fr
Île-de-France Mobilités — regional transport coordination — https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr
SNCF — national rail operator connectivity — https://www.sncf.com
Paris Tourist Office — city transport basics — https://en.parisinfo.com
OpenStreetMap — general walking layout reference — https://www.openstreetmap.org
Last updated: March 2026
