Adya & Otto Van Rees: At the Heart of the Avant-Garde
- Musée de Montmartre, Paris
20 Mar - 13 Sep 2026
From€16.00
A profound exploration of a pioneering duo at the nexus of modern art and intimacy.
Exhibition at Musée de Montmartre
Discover the current major exhibition showing at Musée de Montmartre in 2026.
Tucked away in the winding lanes of the 18th arrondissement, the Musée de Montmartre offers an intimate journey into the soul of Paris's most legendary bohemian district. Established in 1960, the museum is housed within a cluster of 17th and 18th-century buildings, including the Maison du Bel Air, one of the oldest residences on the Butte. This site was once a vibrant communal hub where iconic figures such as Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Suzanne Valadon, and Maurice Utrillo lived and worked. Stepping inside feels less like entering a traditional gallery and more like visiting an exquisitely preserved home, where the walls themselves bear witness to the creative energy of the Belle Époque.
The museum's permanent collection is a treasure trove of posters, paintings, and drawings that chronicle the district's artistic effervescence. Visitors can explore the history of local cabarets and entertainment venues, with a fascinating section dedicated to landmarks like Le Chat Noir, Le Lapin Agile, and the Moulin Rouge. A highlight of the visit is the reconstructed Atelier-Appartement of Suzanne Valadon and Maurice Utrillo, which was meticulously restored in 2014. Additionally, standing in Renoir's Studio, one can almost feel the presence of the master as natural light floods the room, much as it did when he painted masterpieces like The Swing on these very grounds.
Beyond the galleries, the museum is surrounded by the enchanting Renoir Gardens. These three distinct green spaces were redesigned to evoke the spirit of the artist's most famous works and offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling Place du Tertre. From the gardens, visitors can enjoy a rare and breathtaking view of the Clos Montmartre, the neighborhood's historic vineyard which has existed since the Middle Ages. The atmosphere is one of profound tranquility, blending the scent of overgrown rose bushes with the rugged appeal of the neighboring Jardin Sauvage Saint-Vincent, creating a true countryside escape perched high above the city.
For those seeking a moment of reflection, the Café Renoir provides a welcoming terrace within the gardens, perfect for a quiet tea time or a light lunch. Whether you are drawn by the legacy of the bohemian artists, the unique Directoire-era architecture of the Hôtel Demarne, or the lush landscapes, the Musée de Montmartre captures the vital spark of Parisian history. It remains a living testament to a bygone era, inviting every traveler to connect with the "bohemian soul" that continues to resonate throughout its hallowed halls and hidden courtyards.
Highlights
- The museum features a faithful reconstruction of the Suzanne Valadon and Maurice Utrillo Studio-Apartment where the artists lived and worked between 1912 and 1926.
- The lush Renoir Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with exceptional views overlooking the historic Clos Montmartre Vineyard.
- The permanent collection displays iconic original posters and paintings including Steinlen's famous Le Cabaret du Chat Noir.
- Visitors can explore the historic Hôtel Demarne and Maison du Bel Air, which are among the oldest buildings in the hilltop district of Montmartre.
- A dedicated room celebrates the history of the French Cancan and the legendary nightlife of the neighborhood's famous cabarets.
- The charming Café Renoir provides a bucolic setting under a glass roof for a quiet break in the heart of the museum's gardens.
Must-Dos
- Gaze through the high windows of the museum's upper floors to catch a unique perspective of the iconic white domes of the nearby Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Take a moment to sit on the wooden swing in the gardens, inspired by the one featured in Pierre-Auguste Renoir's famous 1876 painting.
- Examine the intricate scale models and historical photographs that trace the dramatic urbanization and architectural evolution of the Montmartre hilltop.
- Listen for the distant melodies of street performers and the neighborhood's bustle while wandering the quieter, shaded paths at the rear of the property.
- Discover the collection of zinc bar counters and vintage artifacts that recreate the spirited atmosphere of the district's legendary 19th-century artistic hubs.
Guidelines
- All visitors must undergo a security inspection of their bags and personal items upon entry.
- Any bags or items larger than 11 x 15 inches are not permitted in the galleries and must be stored in the Coat Room.
- Backpacks smaller than the size limit may be carried as a handbag or worn on the front of the body to protect the artwork.
- The use of flash photography, selfie sticks, and tripods is strictly prohibited inside the museum.
- Food and drinks are not allowed in the exhibition rooms, though closed water bottles may be carried.
- Visitors are prohibited from smoking or using electronic cigarettes anywhere on the museum premises.
- Touching the artworks or sculptures is forbidden to ensure their continued preservation.
Tips
- Arrive right when the museum opens at 10:00 to enjoy the Renoir Gardens in peaceful solitude before the afternoon crowds arrive.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes to safely navigate the steep, uneven cobblestone streets leading to the museum at 12 Rue Cortot.
- Note that Café Renoir has more limited hours than the museum, typically operating from Wednesday through Sunday.
- Take a moment to look through the windows of the Suzanne Valadon and Maurice Utrillo Studio for an authentic glimpse into the lives of legendary artists.
- Since there is no luggage room on-site, be sure to store any large bags elsewhere before heading up the hill.
- Plan your visit for a Wednesday in July or August if you want to experience the museum during special nighttime visits until 10:00 PM.
- Follow your visit with a stop at the nearby Place du Tertre to see local artists at work, but avoid the restaurants there as they are often pricey tourist traps.
Why Visit
Visiting the Musée de Montmartre is an essential pilgrimage for anyone seeking to uncover the true, unfiltered heartbeat of Paris. While the crowds gather at the nearby basilica, this sanctuary offers a rare, intimate encounter with the ghosts of the avant-garde. It is here, amidst the creaking floorboards of the oldest buildings on the Butte, that the legendary stories of Picasso, Renoir, and Valadon transition from textbook history into a living, breathing reality. You aren't merely observing art; you are stepping into the very sanctuary where the modern art movement was born, surrounded by the authentic artifacts and spirited cabaret posters that fueled the neighborhood's creative fire.
To wander through the museum is to experience a profound sensory awakening that transports you back to the Belle Époque. As you move through the light-drenched studios, the soft scent of overgrown roses from the Renoir Gardens drifts through the open windows, mingling with the distant, melodic echoes of street performers outside. The sight of the sun-dappled Clos Montmartre vineyard, visible from the tranquil garden paths, evokes a nostalgic serenity that feels more like a countryside escape than a city visit. Every detail—from the tactile cool of a vintage zinc bar counter to the gentle creak of the wooden swing—invites an emotional connection to a bygone era of unfettered creativity and bohemian freedom.The Musée de Montmartre is the ultimate Parisian hidden gem, offering a soulful and evocative retreat that perfectly captures the enduring, artistic spirit of the city's most legendary hilltop village.
When to Visit
First Light in the Maison du Bel Air
Arriving exactly at 10:00 ensures you are among the first to enter the grounds, allowing for a peaceful walk through the three gardens before the midday tour groups arrive. Opting for weekdays, specifically Monday through Thursday, typically results in lower foot traffic compared to the busy weekend afternoons. This early slot is particularly effective for observing the soft, even north light that traditionally illuminated the artists' studios without the high-contrast glare of the midday sun.
Evening Radiance across the North View
Scheduling a visit for the late afternoon, around 16:00 or 17:00, provides the most dramatic lighting as the sun begins to dip over the 18th arrondissement. This timing captures the warm, amber hues illuminating the museum’s private vineyard and the vast plains north of Paris visible from the garden's edge. Extended hours on Wednesdays during July and August allow guests to remain until 22:00, offering a rare opportunity to see the garden's lily pond and the Valadon studio bathed in the soft glow of sunset after the primary crowds have dispersed.
How to Visit
Finding your way to the Musée de Montmartre at 12 Rue Cortot is half the fun, as it sits tucked away from the main tourist drag. You should budget about 90 minutes to 2 hours to fully appreciate the complex, which includes the museum collections, the historic studios, and the stunning outdoor spaces. Since it is one of the smaller, more intimate venues in Paris, you won't face the massive security lines of the Louvre, but having a pre-booked ticket ensures you breeze through the single main entrance.
Navigating the Artist's Footsteps
To get the most out of your visit, I recommend following a path that moves from the historic foundations to the private living quarters.
- Start in the Maison du Bel Air, the oldest building on the site, to explore the permanent collections that detail the history of the Butte and its famous cabarets like the Chat Noir.
- Head to the Hôtel Demarne to see the rotating temporary exhibitions.
- Make your way up to the first floor to find the highlight: the reconstructed Studio-Apartment of Suzanne Valadon. It has been meticulously restored to look exactly as it did when the "infernal trio" lived there in 1912.
- Don't miss Maurice Utrillo's bedroom, where the wood paneling and the view through the window grille provide a window into his reclusive world.
The View from the Vines
Once you have explored the interiors, exit into the Renoir Gardens. This is the best place to find a bit of quiet. From the edge of the gardens, you can look down onto the Clos Montmartre, the neighborhood's secret vineyard, and see the plain of Saint-Denis stretching out to the north. If you need a break, the Café Renoir offers a lovely glass conservatory where you can sit and soak in the atmosphere of the fruit trees and roses.
Schedules
Opening Hours
- The Musée de Montmartre is open every day of the week from 10:00 to 19:00.
- The last entry for visitors is allowed until 18:15, which is 45 minutes before the venue closes.
- The museum galleries and exhibition rooms begin to close to the public at 18:45.
Special Days
The museum remains open on all public holidays, though the Renoir Gardens and Café Renoir are specifically closed on May 19 and 27, 2026.
A special early closure at 18:00 is scheduled for May 21, 2026, while the museum will also close at 17:00 on June 27, 2026.
Admission is free for children under 10 years old every day, and the venue remains accessible on major holidays like December 25 and January 1.
How to get there
Nestled within the charming, winding lanes of the 18th arrondissement, the Musée de Montmartre offers a serene escape atop Paris's highest hill, accessible through a variety of scenic transit routes. While its hilltop position requires a bit of a climb or a short bus ride, the journey rewards visitors with a unique perspective of the city's bohemian heart.
- Metro: Line 12 to Lamarck-Caulaincourt (closest and most direct, featuring an elevator to the street level) or Line 2 to Anvers, followed by a walk or funicular ride.
- Bus: Line 40 (the dedicated Montmartrobus) to the Saules-Cortot or Place du Tertre - Norvins stops, which brings you directly into the historic village without the steep uphill walk.
- Funicular: Take the Funiculaire de Montmartre from the base of the hill near Place Saint-Pierre to the summit by the Basilica, then enjoy a short, level walk to the museum.
Directions
Contact
Frequently Asked Questions about Musée de Montmartre
The museum does not have a formal cloakroom for large luggage or suitcases. Visitors are encouraged to bring only small bags or backpacks that can be carried throughout the visit, as security protocols in the 18th arrondissement strictly limit the size of items allowed inside the historic buildings.
While the Renoir Gardens are accessible, the historic buildings of the museum, including the Suzanne Valadon studio, involve narrow staircases and uneven floors typical of Belle Epoque art hubs. It is recommended to use a baby carrier instead of a stroller to fully explore the Maison du Bel Air and the upper exhibition levels.
The most iconic photo locations include the 'Renoir Swing' in the gardens, which inspired the famous Impressionist paintings, and the balcony of the Suzanne Valadon studio. For a rare view, head to the edge of the gardens to photograph the Clos Montmartre vineyard, the oldest in Paris, against the backdrop of the city.
Access to the Renoir Gardens and the seasonal Café Renoir requires a standard admission ticket. This ticket allows you to experience the three distinct green spaces that immerse you in Montmartre art history and offer a peaceful escape from the nearby Place du Tertre.
Yes, the museum frequently hosts rotating exhibitions in the Hôtel Demarne that focus on different aspects of the Belle Époque and the artists of the Butte. These temporary displays are typically included in your general admission ticket and provide deeper insight into the neighborhood's bohemian soul.
While self-guided visits are common using provided booklets, the museum occasionally offers guided tours in multiple languages. These tours often delve into the lives of Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Maurice Utrillo, highlighting the specific creative energy that defined this communal hub during the late 19th century.
The Clos Montmartre vineyard itself is closed to the general public to protect the vines, but the Musée de Montmartre offers the best vantage point in Paris to see it. You can admire the vineyard's layout and seasonal changes directly from the museum's terraced Renoir Gardens.
To fully appreciate the permanent collections, the reconstructed Suzanne Valadon studio, and a relaxing break at Café Renoir, you should allocate approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows for a leisurely pace through the historic Maison du Bel Air and the tranquil garden paths.
Reduced price tickets are available for students under 25 and individuals with disabilities. Given the museum's role in preserving the legacy of the Belle Époque, it remains a popular site for art history students seeking to study the original environment where masterworks like 'The Swing' were created.
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