Tertre Saint-Nicolas
Montmartre's iconic artists' square, where painters and sketch artists create and sell their work amidst a lively Parisian atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Tertre Saint-Nicolas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Montmartre's iconic artists' square, where painters and sketch artists create and sell their work amidst a lively Parisian atmosphere.
"A vibrant hub of creativity where you can watch artists at work and soak in the true bohemian spirit of Paris."
🎨 Watch the Artists
Don't miss the chance to see artists at work on the square; it's a quintessential Montmartre experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Venture off the main square to discover quieter, charming alleys with unique shops and cafes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Place du Tertre Artists
Place du Tertre
Watch artists paint and sketch in real-time, capturing the essence of Montmartre. A true Parisian art scene unfolds before your eyes.
Saint Nicolas Festivities
Tertre Saint-Nicolas
Experience the lively atmosphere during Saint Nicolas celebrations, a time when the area truly comes alive with local spirit.
Charming Parisian Streets
Surrounding streets of Tertre Saint-Nicolas
Wander through picturesque cobblestone lanes, discovering hidden gems and soaking in the quintessential Montmartre charm.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎨 Watch the Artists
Don't miss the chance to see artists at work on the square; it's a quintessential Montmartre experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Venture off the main square to discover quieter, charming alleys with unique shops and cafes.
📸 Capture the Moment
The lively atmosphere and artistic displays make for fantastic photo opportunities.
☕ Enjoy a Café Break
Relax at a sidewalk café and people-watch, soaking in the Parisian ambiance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎨 Watch the Artists
Don't miss the chance to see artists at work on the square; it's a quintessential Montmartre experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Venture off the main square to discover quieter, charming alleys with unique shops and cafes.
📸 Capture the Moment
The lively atmosphere and artistic displays make for fantastic photo opportunities.
☕ Enjoy a Café Break
Relax at a sidewalk café and people-watch, soaking in the Parisian ambiance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant artistic atmosphere and the quintessential Parisian charm of Tertre Saint-Nicolas. It's a lively spot to witness artists at work and soak in the bohemian spirit of Montmartre. Some find it can be quite crowded and tourist-focused, with prices reflecting its prime location.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tertre Saint-Nicolas is located in Montmartre, Paris. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the Metro to Abbesses (Line 12) or Anvers (Line 2), followed by a walk uphill or a funicular ride to Sacré-Cœur, then a short stroll to the square.
Yes, Tertre Saint-Nicolas is well-served by public transport. The Metro stations Abbesses and Anvers are the closest options, providing easy access to the Montmartre area.
From Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), you can take the RER B train towards Paris, then transfer to a Metro line that will take you to the Montmartre area. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share service offers a more direct but pricier option.
Parking in Montmartre can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport. If you must drive, look for public parking garages like Parking Lamarck-Caulaincourt or Parking Clignancourt.
While it's a significant walk, if you're exploring other parts of Montmartre like Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Tertre Saint-Nicolas is easily accessible on foot. It's not a practical walk from central Paris attractions like the Eiffel Tower.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tertre Saint-Nicolas is a public square and is free to enter and explore. You only pay if you decide to purchase art or dine at the surrounding restaurants and cafes.
Tertre Saint-Nicolas is accessible at all hours as it's an outdoor public space. However, the artists typically set up their easels during daylight hours, and surrounding businesses have their own operating times.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Place du Tertre. It's a lively public square where artists display and sell their work.
You cannot book a specific time to see the artists, as they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Visiting earlier in the day might offer a less crowded experience.
While the square itself is free, there might be special events or festivals held in the Montmartre area, including around Tertre Saint-Nicolas, which could have associated costs or require tickets. It's best to check local listings for specific dates.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Tertre Saint-Nicolas. It's a picturesque location with artists at work and charming Parisian architecture.
You can take photos of the artists and their work, but it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up shots or if you plan to use the images commercially.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photographic conditions. The golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is heavily regulated in Paris, especially in densely populated areas like Montmartre. It's essential to check current regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
You can capture vibrant street art, portraits of artists, charming Parisian street scenes, and the lively atmosphere of the square.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
The area around Tertre Saint-Nicolas is filled with charming cafes, bistros, and restaurants offering classic French cuisine, crepes, and pastries.
While some restaurants can be tourist-priced, you can find more affordable options by venturing a few streets away from the main square. Look for 'prix fixe' menus for good value.
Absolutely! Many establishments in Montmartre serve traditional French dishes like onion soup, escargots, coq au vin, and steak frites.
Yes, numerous bakeries (boulangeries) and cafes offer quick bites like croissants, pain au chocolat, sandwiches, and of course, excellent coffee.
Expect to pay anywhere from €15-€25 for a main course at a mid-range restaurant, with cafes offering lighter fare for €8-€15. Tourist traps can be more expensive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the square itself is lively, consider bringing snacks or planning for a meal at one of the many cafes. The walk up to Montmartre can be tiring for little ones, so the funicular ride up the hill can be an exciting part of the adventure.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond the square, Montmartre is dotted with small galleries and museums, including the Musée de Montmartre, which further delves into the area's rich artistic history. Allow ample time to explore the surrounding streets for more artistic discoveries.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the 'golden hour' – early morning or late afternoon – for the best light. Be mindful of crowds and try to capture candid moments of artists and visitors interacting. The surrounding streets also offer picturesque backdrops for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Heart of Montmartre
Many visitors come to Tertre Saint-Nicolas specifically to commission a portrait or buy a unique piece of art as a souvenir. While the quality and price can vary significantly, it's an experience in itself to interact with the artists and appreciate their craft. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the iconic Parisian backdrop, makes it a photographer's delight.
Beyond the art, the square is surrounded by charming cafes and restaurants, offering a perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and soak in the lively ambiance. It’s a quintessential Montmartre experience that captures the artistic soul of Paris.
Navigating Montmartre's Charm
Exploring the area around Tertre Saint-Nicolas is highly recommended. Wander through the narrow, picturesque lanes, discover hidden squares, and stumble upon charming boutiques and local eateries. This is where you'll find the authentic Montmartre vibe, away from the main tourist throngs. Keep an eye out for historical markers and the unique architecture that defines this beloved Parisian quarter.
Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season and weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more serene experience, allowing you to better appreciate the artistic atmosphere and the beauty of the surroundings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit