Discover the funicular of Montmartre
The Montmartre funicular is an automatic inclined elevator with two cabins. It connects the bottom of Montmartre hill to its summit—where the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur is located—in just 1 minute 30 seconds (without having to climb the 220 steps).
In this article, discover its history with its three renovations, its fares, its access points, and the opening hours of the iconic Montmartre funicular.
What is the history of the Montmartre funicular?
The Water-Powered Montmartre Funicular (July 13, 1900 – November 1, 1931)
The first funicular on Montmartre hill opened on July 13, 1900.
Who operated this water-powered funicular?
The Electric Montmartre Funicular (February 2, 1935 – October 1, 1990)
The braking system of the water-powered funicular was deemed too dangerous, and operations stopped on November 1, 1931.A new electric funicular entered service on February 2, 1935, allowing the ascent in 70 seconds.
An Automatic Elevator (October 5, 1991 – Today)
After 50 years of service, the electric funicular ceased operating on October 1, 1990.
It was replaced by the Montmartre funicular we know today, which entered service on October 5, 1991.
Who operates this automatic elevator?
The RATP operates this automatic funicular.
How does this automatic funicular work?
The Montmartre funicular uses the same technology as an electric traction elevator. In fact, it was installed by the Swiss elevator company Schindler.
The Montmartre funicular is fully automated—there is no driver in the cabins.
This automated funicular can detect the presence of passengers, adjust its speed according to traffic, determine departure times, and control when to open and close the cabin doors.
How many passengers can this system carry per year?
In 2017, it carried 3.3 million passengers.
How much does a ride on the Montmartre funicular cost?
You can use the funicular with a standard metro ticket or a transport pass.
So, the fare for the Montmartre funicular is the same as a metro ticket.
However, if you have a transport pass (Paris Visite, Navigo pass, or a daily metro ticket), you don’t need to pay anything extra to ride the funicular.
How to get to the Montmartre funicular?
The closest metro stations to the Montmartre funicular are:
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Abbesses (Line 12)
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Anvers (Line 2)
The bus stops serving the Montmartre funicular are:
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Line 54, stop Anvers – Sacré-Cœur
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Line 56, stop Barbès – Rochechouart
What are the opening hours of the Montmartre funicular?
The Montmartre funicular is open every day from 6:00 a.m. to 12:45 a.m.
