Pigalle

The Basics

Located at the base of the Montmartre hill, Pigalle has long been known for its sleazier pursuits as well as its artistic pedigree: the neighborhood was once frequented by everyone from Toulouse-Lautrec and Picasso to Van Gogh. Today, Pigalle retains something of its risque allure—the area is still home to various adult-entertainment venues and sex shops—but a recent revival means it now boasts a heavy concentration of trendy cocktail bars, hip restaurants, and edgy boutiques.

Pigalle can be discovered on history-themed walking tours, while evening performances at cabaret venues such as the Moulin Rouge and Nouvelle Eve draw flocks of after-dark visitors.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Some of the coolest addresses in the neighborhood are clustered in South Pigalle—or SoPi, as some have taken to calling it.

• The Rue des Martyrs, home to lively cafés, boutiques, and other small businesses, is one of the area’s most popular thoroughfares.

• In addition to its entertainment venues, Pigalle also hosts several cultural stops, including the Musée de la Vie Romantique and the Musée National Gustave Moreau.

How to Get There

Pigalle is served by several Métro stations, including Pigalle (lines 2 and 12), Place de Clichy (lines 2 and 13), and Blanche (line 2). It can also be reached by the 30, 54, or 67 bus, or the Montmartrobus, which serves the hilly area. Alternatively, head to Pigalle on foot, by Vélib’ bike, or by taxi.

When to Get There

Pigalle has always been a district that comes into its own when the sun goes down, and that’s still when you’ll find the area at its liveliest. Enjoy the charged atmosphere and dose of revelry when you attend a late-night performance at the Moulin Rouge or another of the area’s famed cabaret theaters.

Montmartre

Located at the foot of Montmartre, Pigalle is just a quick commute away from some of Paris’ loftiest heights (and most impressive views). Couple your Pigalle explorations with a trip to the Sacré-Coeur Basilica—preferably at sunset, if it’s a romantic atmosphere that you crave.

Ways to explore

Once frequented by everyone from Toulouse-Lautrec to Picasso and Van Gogh, Pigalle later developed a risqué reputation—the area is still home to various adult-entertainment venues and sex shops—but a recent revival means it now also boasts trendy cocktail bars, hip restaurants, and edgy boutiques, especially in the southern part of the district (SoPi).

You can explore Pigalle and learn about its colorful history on walking tours around Montmartre, or immerse yourself in the quartier’s ambiance with a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge or La Nouvelle Eve.

Accessibility

Pigalle’s cobblestone streets may present challenges for wheelchair users.

Age limits

Given its red light associations, Pigalle may not be the most suitable neighborhood for young children to explore.

What to pack

Crossbody bag to avoid being pickpocketed; refillable water bottle

What to wear

Casual chic, like a Parisian, comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones

Not allowed

Smoking indoors, photography during Moulin Rouge shows

Amenities

Water fountains at Pigalle station, public restrooms, bars, restaurants, stores

Address

The Pigalle district is at the foot of the Montmartre hill, centered around Place Pigalle on the border between Paris’ 9th and the 18th arrondissements.

Driving

Navigating traffic in Paris can be stressful, and driving is restricted by the Paris Low Emission Zone. Hail a taxi or book a rideshare service instead.

Public transportation

Pigalle is served by several Métro stations, including Pigalle (lines 2 and 12), Place de Clichy (lines 2 and 13), and Blanche (line 2). You can also get there by the 30, 54, or 67 bus.

Best times to visit

For the best Pigalle experience, visit after dark when the neon is lit and the bars are buzzing.

Best days to visit

The neighborhood is at its liveliest on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Best months to visit

The spring and fall months are the best for exploring Paris. Summers are hot, but you can keep cool by sipping a drink at a café sidewalk table.

Special events

Pigalle hosts special events throughout the year, including Fête de la Musique festivities in June, which turn Place Pigalle into an outdoor concert venue.