Abbesses district: charm and authenticity at the foot of Butte Montmartre

History and heritage of the Abbesses

The origins of the Abbesses district

The Abbesses district, located in the heart of Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, owes its name to the former abbey of the Dames de Montmartre, founded in the 12th century. This place of religious contemplation for women has long marked the life of this district. In fact, Montmartre was only incorporated into Paris at the end of the 19th century, enabling Les Abbesses to preserve its unique character and village charm. Its narrow, cobbled streets still bear the imprint of a rich history, a blend of religious and artistic life. For the record, Paul Verlaine married here in 1870.

Over the centuries, the Abbesses has evolved while retaining the bohemian spirit that still attracts artists, writers and visitors from all over the world. The neighborhood's transformation accelerated with the arrival of the Montmartre funicular in 1900 and the metro in 1912, facilitating access to this hilltop district. The area is a favorite with history buffs, who find the Abbesses a veritable journey back in time.

Saint-Jean de Montmartre church, an architectural treasure trove

One of the district's jewels is undoubtedly the Saint-Jean de Montmartre church. Built between 1894 and 1904, it is a fascinating example of Art Nouveau architecture. Located on the Place des Abbesses, this church was the first in France to use reinforced concrete, an architectural innovation that testifies to the avant-garde spirit of the time. Its geometric shapes, colorful mosaics and floral stained glass windows make it a must-see for art and architecture enthusiasts. For history buffs, this church represents a milestone in the evolution of religious architecture in Paris, combining technical daring with refined aesthetics.

But Saint-Jean de Montmartre is more than just a technical feat. It is also a lively place of worship, where the local community gathers regularly. The peaceful atmosphere here contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the surrounding streets, offering visitors a moment of calm and contemplation.

Place des Abbesses, a symbolic Montmartre landmark

Place des Abbesses is the heart of the district. With its Art Nouveau metro entrance designed by Guimard, one of the few still preserved in Paris. Historically, this square was a meeting place for the hill's inhabitants, and even today, it retains this central role in the life of the district. Surrounded by cafés, boutiques and artisans, the square is one of the liveliest spots in Abbesses.

C’est également ici que se trouve le célèbre Mur des Je t'Aime, une œuvre poétique où le mot « je t’aime » est écrit en 311 langues. Ce mur, devenu un symbole du romantisme parisien, attire les visiteurs du monde entier. La place des Abbesses, avec ses bancs publics et ses artistes de rue, est un lieu de passage incontournable pour ceux qui veulent s’immerger dans la vie locale tout en profitant de l’âme bohème de Montmartre. Elle incarne à merveille le mélange d’histoire, de culture et de convivialité qui fait tout le charme du quartier.

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Living in Les Abbesses today

A neighborhood with village charm in Paris

Les Abbesses is distinguished by an atmosphere that contrasts with that of other Parisian neighborhoods. Here, the hustle and bustle of the city gives way to a quieter, more intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of a village. The narrow streets, lined with old buildings, give residents the feeling of belonging to a distinct community. Every street corner reveals a different aspect of this neighborhood, where time seems to flow at a different pace.

Residents and visitors alike enjoy the picturesque setting, where café terraces fill up early in the morning. Weekly markets add a touch of conviviality. Away from the main Parisian avenues, the Abbesses offers peaceful strolls through charming houses, hidden gardens and artists' studios. This village atmosphere has not been destroyed by time or tourism, making it an authentic, unspoilt place, appreciated by locals and the curious alike.

Dynamic shopping on rue des Abbesses

The Abbesses district is also famous for its eponymous street, one of the liveliest in Montmartre. Rue des Abbesses is packed with small independent shops, fashion boutiques, bookshops and numerous cafés that delight Parisians and visitors alike. The dynamism of this main thoroughfare gives the district a special energy, blending local life with the charm of typically Parisian shops.

This is where you'll find the artisanal bakeries, delicatessens and bistronomic restaurants for which the district is famous. Les Abbesses has retained its authenticity, with farmers' markets, wine shops and small designer boutiques. This commercial vitality attracts a clientele looking for unique products and personalized service, a far cry from the big chains that dominate other parts of the capital.

❤️ Our favorite, just a stone's throw from rue des Abbesses:
GCD : cellar for drinking (natural) and eating (too good).

A friendly, family-friendly neighborhood

At Les Abbesses, conviviality and a village spirit are the hallmarks of a lively, family-friendly neighborhood. The neighborhood is particularly popular with families, who appreciate its friendly living environment.

Neighborhood events, such as street parties and craft markets, are opportunities for residents to get together, reinforcing their sense of belonging to a close-knit community. In Les Abbesses, everyone knows or recognizes each other. This warm, friendly atmosphere is attracting more and more young couples in search of a pleasant, dynamic living environment on a human scale.

The real estate appeal of Les Abbesses

Property prices in the district

The Abbesses district is one of the most sought-after areas in Montmartre. This is reflected in the price of real estate in Paris. Due to its privileged location at the foot of the Butte Montmartre and its village atmosphere, prices are relatively high compared to other Parisian neighborhoods. In 2024, the price per square meter can vary between 12,000 and 14,000 euros, or even more for prestige properties or those with views over the capital. This price level can be explained not only by the scarcity of real estate supply, but also by sustained demand, driven by buyers looking to invest in a unique living environment.

Although prices are high, the Abbesses district attracts a varied clientele. Beautiful apartments sell quickly, often because of their character or location.

Types of apartments available

Thereal estate on offer in the Abbesses district is as diverse as its architecture. The majority of apartments are located in older buildings, most of which date back to the 19th century. These timelessly charming buildings, often with stone facades, conceal apartments of varying sizes, from studios for students or young professionals, to large family apartments. The rental market is equally dynamic, with generally high rents reflecting the district's appeal.

Typical Abbesses apartments offer a unique lifestyle: antique parquet flooring, marble fireplaces and sometimes small terraces or balconies overlooking lush courtyards. Some buildings also boast features that are rare in Paris, such as unobstructed views of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica or the city's rooftops.

Why the Abbesses is increasingly attractive to young couples and expatriates

The Abbesses district is an undeniable magnet for young couples and expatriates looking for an authentic, dynamicliving environment. Its central location in Montmartre, combined with its bohemian charm and lively neighborhood life, makes it a prime destination for those looking for a Parisian experience away from the more conventional neighborhoods. Young couples, often looking to buy their first property, find a stimulating and romantic environment here, perfect for starting a life together.

The district also appeals to expatriates, not least because of its international dimension and proximity to schools and family-friendly facilities. The cosmopolitan atmosphere of Les Abbesses, with its varied shops, cultural events and relaxed, trendy lifestyle, meets the expectations of an international clientele looking to integrate into Parisian life. For these newcomers, the Abbesses district represents the perfect compromise between village life and direct access to the capital's major attractions.

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Les Abbesses' best addresses

Iconic cafés and restaurants

The Abbesses district is brimming with cafés and restaurants that perfectly embody the spirit of Montmartre. Among the most emblematic addresses is Le Relais Gascon, a traditional bistro prized for its generous salads and friendly atmosphere. Located on rue des Abbesses, this restaurant is a must for anyone wishing to enjoy simple, authentic cuisine in a typically Parisian setting.

Another institution is Sancerre, a café-restaurant on the corner of rue des Abbesses and rue Tardieu. Many locals come here for their morning coffee or a glass of wine after a busy day. Finally, for a more sophisticated dining experience, nearby Coq Rico is renowned for its poultry dishes. This restaurant offers a refined culinary experience in elegant surroundings, perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

And for lovers of Japanese cuisine, the excellent Sushi Sinei: a sensory voyage guaranteed.

Independent boutiques and concept stores

Far from the usual chain stores, the Abbesses district is a haven for lovers of independent boutiques and concept stores. Here, local merchants offer a unique selection of clothing, accessories and decorative items that reflect the creativity and bohemian spirit of Montmartre. Make My D, for example, is a must for fashionistas. Another local gem: Neo T for tea lovers. Over 200 references are on offer.

Cultural and artistic spaces

Art is at the heart of the Abbesses identity. The district abounds in cultural and artistic spaces. The Théâtre de l'Atelier, located on Place Charles Dullin a stone's throw from Les Abbesses, is one of the district's most respected cultural institutions. This theater hosts contemporary plays, revisited classics and performances that attract an audience of connoisseurs. It's a key venue for those wishing to discover the Parisian theater scene in an intimate setting.

La Halle Saint Pierre is an exhibition space dedicated to Art Brut and Pop Culture, with a superb bookshop and café. Les Abbesses is thus home to an independent commercial ecosystem, where each boutique offers a personalized shopping experience, a far cry from Paris's main commercial thoroughfares.

Close to Montmartre's other districts

Abbesses and Butte Montmartre, an inseparable duo

Les Abbesses cannot be dissociated from the famous Butte Montmartre, which dominates the district and offers one of the most spectacular views in Paris. Only a few minutes' walk away, the ascent to the Butte is easily made from the Place des Abbesses, either by the steep stairs or the funicular railway. The district and the Butte form an inseparable duo. The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, crowning Montmartre, is a place of meditation but also an incredible vantage point for admiring Paris as far as the eye can see.

The artists' quarter: Pigalle and its legendary venues

Descending from Les Abbesses, we soon arrive in the Pigalle district, another emblematic Montmartre landmark. Historically known for its cabarets, bars and sultry nightlife, Pigalle has evolved to offer a striking contrast with the peaceful atmosphere of the Abbesses. Far from the clichés, Pigalle is now a hot spot on the Parisian art and music scene. Venues such as La Machine du Moulin Rouge and Le Trianon continue to thrill fans of live music, while the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret continues the tradition of feather and rhinestone shows.

Pigalle is also a popular district for artists, with numerous galleries and studios nestling in its streets. Lovers of art and culture find here a fertile ground for creative expression, where old and new meet in a constant cultural effervescence.

Little-known green spaces around Les Abbesses

Despite the urban density, the Abbesses district and its surroundings offer a few green oases for those seeking a little peace and quiet. While the famous Square Louise Michel, below the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, attracts most visitors, there are also more intimate and lesser-known gardens. Square Jehan Rictus, just off the Abbesses metro station, is a haven of peace where the famous Mur des Je t'aime (Wall of Love) takes pride of place. This romantic spot is often less crowded and ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle of the district.

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Another quiet space, the Saint Vincent cemetery: nestling at the foot of the Butte Montmartre, this is a small, discreet Parisian cemetery steeped in history. Inaugurated in 1831, it is less well known than its neighbor, the Cimetière de Montmartre, but is nonetheless a fascinating place for lovers of art and culture. This resting place is home to the graves of numerous personalities, including artists who left their mark on Montmartre, such as painter Maurice Utrillo and poet Marcel Aymé. With its peaceful atmosphere and shady alleys, the Saint-Vincent cemetery offers a timeless interlude.

Les Abbesses: a Parisian village with undeniable charm

In conclusion, the Abbesses district perfectly embodies the authentic, bohemian spirit of Montmartre. With its picturesque alleyways, rich historical heritage and unspoilt village atmosphere, this district has a timeless charm all of its own. Away from the tourist crowds, Les Abbesses offers a peaceful, friendly living environment, while also boasting unrivalled commercial and cultural dynamism. For buyers and investors looking for a unique place to live in Paris, the Abbesses district is a sure bet, combining history, modernity and exceptional quality of life.