Montmartre Cemetery
About
The Montmartre Cemetery, officially known as the Cimetière du Nord, is a historic 19th‑century necropolis located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. Spread over 10.48 hectares, it is the third‑largest cemetery in the city and serves as the final resting place for more than 21,000 people, including many celebrated artists, writers, and intellectuals such as Émile Zola, Edgar Degas, and Alexandre Dumas fils. The cemetery’s unique setting—a former gypsum quarry—offers a dramatic landscape of green trees and winding pathways, providing visitors with a contemplative and atmospheric experience. Today the cemetery is open daily to the public, with the schedule adjusted seasonally: Monday–Friday from 08:00 to 17:30, Saturday from 08:30 to 17:30, and Sunday from 09:00 to 17:30. There are no admission fees, and the site is fully accessible to visitors, including those with reduced mobility. The Paris city administration encourages respectful visits, reminding that the cemetery is an active burial ground where certain conduct (e.g., eating, music, or dog walking) is prohibited during ceremonies. For those interested in exploring the famous burial sites, the cemetery offers well‑marked sections that highlight the graves of Nobel laureates, composers, and early modernists. A wealth of historical signage, printed itineraries, and downloadable maps help visitors navigate the memorial landscape and appreciate the artistic and cultural significance embedded in each plot.
Highlights
- Historic Graves
- Natural Setting
- Active Ceremonies
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn, when the gentle Parisian weather and blooming trees create an inviting backdrop for a reflective stroll
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Free Admission
- Historical Atmosphere
- Accessibility
Things to consider
- Somber Setting
- Limited Facilities
What people are saying
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes