Montparnasse is one of my favorite spots in Paris’ Left Bank—a mix of art, history, and great food. Once the stomping ground of famous artists, today it’s full of hidden gems, cozy cafés, and stunning views.
Whether you’re here for culture, a good crêpe, or just a stroll, Montparnasse has plenty to offer. Here are my top picks for the best things to do in this iconic neighborhood!
Let’s start by looking at these places on a map:
Montparnasse Tower Panoramic Observation Deck
33 Avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris
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The Tour Montparnasse is a skyscraper in Paris that stands 210 meters tall (about 689 feet).
On its 56th floor, there’s an observation deck offering a 360-degree view of the city. Visitors can also access the rooftop terrace on the 59th floor.
The elevator ride to the 56th floor takes only 38 seconds.
From the top, you can see famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Book your visit to the Tour Montparnasse (and benefit from an exclusive discount of over 10% with the combined offer of a cruise on the Seine).
Le Ciel de Paris
33 Avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris
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In this panoramic restaurant situated at the top of the Tour Montparnasse, you can enjoy a meal while admiring the breathtaking view of the capital.
Le Ciel de Paris offers an exceptional culinary experience in an elegant and refined setting.
Thus, you’ll be able to admire the lights of the city and the emblematic monuments of Paris while savoring tasty and inventive dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal produce.
Among these delights is the roasted duckling filet with a fresh apricot stir fry accompanied by a melting sweet potato cream and vitelotte potato chips.
Catacombs of Paris
1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy
Immerse yourself in Paris’ underground history with a visit to the Catacombs.
This network of galleries is home to ancient quarries and fascinating ossuaries. As you go down into the depths of the city, you’ll discover a place full of history.
The visit is a unique experience that will give you a better understanding of the complexity of the Parisian underground and the capital’s history.
Read more: Visiting the Catacombs of Paris: Is It Worth It?
Book your visit to the Catacombs.
Fondation Cartier pour l’Art Contemporain
261 boulevard Raspail, 751014 Paris
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Since 1984, the aim of this institution has been to promote and support international contemporary artistic creation through various activities (exhibitions, various events, shows, new acquisitions, allocation of funds, publication of books and catalogs).
The Fondation covers a wide range of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, video, sound, design and photography.
The Fondation specializes in the acquisition of large-scale works of art, and its 1,200 m² of exhibition space enables it to bring together a highly varied collection of over 1,000 works by 300 different artists.
What’s more, every year the Fondation tries to promote new artists and new artistic movements.
Visit the Fondation Cartier
Closerie des Lilas
171 Boulevard du Montparnasse
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This historic literary café has been home to writers such as Hemingway and Apollinaire.
The restaurant and brasserie menus include gourmet dishes, tasting platters, classic starters and desserts.
The café has a terrace, as well as an elegant fully glazed interior, including the ceiling, so that you can enjoy a breathtaking view during your meal.
Musée Bourdelle
18 Rue Antoine Bourdelle
Art lovers will appreciate the intimate, artistic atmosphere of this 19th-century museum.
There, you can discover the fascinating works of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle. You’ll be immersed in the creative world of this renowned sculptor, surrounded by his bronze and marble sculptures, which even decorate the museum’s garden.
The museum also offers exhibitions and activities for children and families throughout the year.
Visit the Musée Bourdelle
Crêpes Kingdom!
Montparnasse isn’t just famous for its art, history, and lively streets—it’s also known for its delicious creperies. Thanks to a strong Breton heritage, many creperies have made this neighborhood a true haven for lovers of crepes and galettes.
Here are two of my favorites:
Brutus
28 Rue de la Gaité, 75014 Paris
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Brutus is a popular crêperie in Montparnasse that serves both savory galettes (made with buckwheat) and sweet crêpes.
It’s known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients and offering a modern take on traditional recipes.
One of the highlights at Brutus is its huge selection of ciders—over 25 different kinds to pair with your meal.
The menu includes unique options like crêpes with truffled ham, goat cheese, and marinated peppers.
La Creperie Le Petit Josselin
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La Creperie Le Petit Josselin is another must-visit spot.
This charming, family-run creperie offers a cozy setting and mouthwatering crepes that are made with time-honored recipes.
Every bite gives you a taste of genuine Breton flavors, connecting you with the rich culinary traditions that have made Montparnasse famous for its creperies.
Montparnasse Cemetery
3 Bd Edgar Quinet, 75014 Paris
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Montparnasse Cemetery is a quiet, green space where many famous people are buried.
You can find the resting places of great artists and writers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Samuel Beckett.
Walking here feels like stepping into a history book, and you might even see beautiful sculptures and old tombstones that tell stories of the past.
Jardin Atlantique
Place des Cinq Martyrs du Lycée Buffon, 75015
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Located above the Montparnasse train station and its TGV tracks, this suspended theme garden extends over 3 hectares, perfect for a long stroll.
Sports facilities are also provided, including ping-pong tables, a body-building area, tennis courts and numerous play areas for children.
The (almost secret) access to the garden can be reached from the Place des Martyrs du Lycée Buffon, or by walking along the right-hand side of the number 20 tracks. Few Parisians, and even fewer tourists, know about this enchanting place.
Discover the Jardin Atlantique (website in French)
Rue de la Gaîté – The Street of Theaters
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Rue de la Gaîté is known as the “Street of Theaters” because many small theaters and performance halls are found here.
It is a lively street filled with fun shows and plays.
When you stroll along this street, you can imagine the sound of laughter, music, and the excitement of live performances that have entertained people for many years.
La Rotonde
105 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris
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La Rotonde is a famous brasserie that has been around for a long time.
In the early days, artists like Picasso and Modigliani used to visit this café.
Today, you can sit there, enjoy a hot chocolate or a snack, and think about the many creative people who once gathered to share ideas and art.
Website (in French)
Le Dôme Café
108 Bd du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris
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Le Dôme Café is another historic spot in Montparnasse.
With its beautiful Art Deco style, this café has been a favorite meeting place for many famous figures from the 1920s.
Its classic design and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to see a bit of Paris’s past come to life.
Website (in French)
La Coupole
102 Bd du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris
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La Coupole is a large, well-known café-brasserie famous for its huge dome-shaped ceiling.
This place is not only about food; it is also a piece of Paris history.
Its grand interior and tasty menu have made it a must-visit spot for people who want to enjoy a real Parisian experience.
Le Select
99 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris
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Le Select is a small, traditional café that has a cozy and friendly feel.
It has kept its old charm over the years, making it a perfect spot to have a relaxing coffee or snack while watching the busy streets of Montparnasse.
Notre-Dame des Champs Church
91 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris
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Notre-Dame des Champs is a lovely church known for its beautiful architecture and calm, peaceful inside.
Even if you are not very religious, visiting this church can be a nice break from the city’s hustle and bustle, giving you a moment to sit quietly and admire its design.
Boulevard du Montparnasse
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Boulevard du Montparnasse is one of the main streets in the neighborhood.
Here, you can see many shops, cafés, restaurants, and even theaters.
Walking along this boulevard is like taking a peek into the daily life of Paris, where every corner tells a different story.
Edgar Quinet Market
Bd Edgar Quinet, 75014 Paris
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At the Edgar Quinet Market, you can experience the true flavors of Paris.
This market is filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local specialties.
It’s a great place to taste delicious foods and meet friendly vendors who are proud of their local products.
Des Gâteaux et du Pain
63 Bd Pasteur, 75015 Paris
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For those who love sweets and fresh bread, Des Gâteaux et du Pain is a must-visit bakery and pastry shop.
Here, you can try delicious pastries, artisanal bread, and other treats that show off the famous French baking traditions.
Website (in French)
Food Society Paris
68 Av. du Maine, 75014 Paris
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The Food Society Paris is a food court, or dining space, that brings together 15 different restaurants, offering a wide variety of cuisines in a single location.
The advantages of a food court lie in the culinary diversity it offers, allowing you to choose from a wide selection of dishes ranging from local specialties to international cuisines, such as falafel, empanadas or burgers.
In the outdoor area, you’ll regularly come across DJ sets or other types of events.
Les Fondus de la Raclette
209 Bd Raspail, 75014 Paris
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In this charming little mountain chalet-style restaurant, you’ll discover the delights of Savoyard specialties.
The restaurant offers three formulas, as well as a variety of starters, hearty raclettes with charcuterie and unlimited potatoes, and fondues served with salad and unlimited bread.
The establishment also offers grilled food, mountain specialties and gourmet desserts.
With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
