Montparnasse Cemetery

Description

Walking through the historic grounds of Montparnasse Cemetery feels like stepping into Paris’s artistic soul. As [the second largest necropolis in Paris](https://parisjetaime.com/eng/culture/cimetiere-du-montparnasse-p1007), spanning an impressive 19 hectares, this serene space opened its gates in 1824 and has since become the eternal home to some of history’s most brilliant minds.

You’ll find yourself wandering among towering trees and impressive monuments, each telling its own story. This isn’t just any cemetery – it’s a peaceful refuge where literature, philosophy, and art converge. The atmosphere here is different from the tourist-packed spots elsewhere in Paris. It’s quieter, more contemplative, and honestly, that’s exactly what makes it special.

Key Features

• Stunning architectural monuments and sculptures that showcase 19th and 20th-century funerary art
• Final resting place of notable figures like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Samuel Beckett
• [Massive grounds with large memorials](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187147-d194992-Reviews-Montparnasse_Cemetery_Cimetiere_Montparnasse-Paris_Ile_de_France.html)
• Tree-lined pathways perfect for peaceful walks
• [More intimate atmosphere compared to Père Lachaise](https://www.ipreferparis.net/2018/06/montparnasse-cemetery.html)
• Beautifully maintained gardens and greenery
• Historical sections dating back to the early 19th century
• Unique mix of traditional and modern memorial designs

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are absolutely magical here – the changing colors of the leaves create an enchanting atmosphere that photographers will love. Early mornings tend to be particularly special, when the morning light filters through the trees and you practically have the place to yourself.

Summer afternoons can get warm, but the tree cover provides welcome shade. Winter visits have their own charm – the bare branches and occasional dusting of snow lend an ethereal quality to the monuments. Just remember to dress warmly!

How to Get There

Getting to Montparnasse Cemetery is pretty straightforward using Paris’s excellent public transportation system. Take the Metro to either Edgar Quinet or Raspail stations – both are just a short walk away. The cemetery sits in the heart of the Montparnasse district, and you might want to combine your visit with other nearby attractions.

Tips for Visiting

Grab a map at the entrance – trust me, you’ll want one. The cemetery is huge, and while getting lost among the graves can be interesting, having a map helps you find specific tombstones you’re interested in seeing.

Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll do quite a bit of walking on sometimes uneven surfaces. I learned this the hard way during my first visit! Bring a water bottle and maybe a small snack, especially if you’re planning to spend more than an hour exploring.

Photography is allowed, but remember this is still an active cemetery – be respectful of any funeral services or mourners you might encounter. Morning visits typically offer the best lighting for photos, and you’ll find fewer tourists around.

The cemetery closes for lunch, which catches many visitors off guard. Plan your visit either before or after this break to avoid being disappointed. And speaking of timing, give yourself at least two hours to explore – there’s so much to discover here that rushing through would be a shame.

Consider bringing a small notebook to jot down interesting inscriptions or locations you’d like to research later. Some of the most fascinating stories I’ve learned about Paris came from simply noting down names and dates I found intriguing here.

Weather can change quickly in Paris, so pack a light jacket or umbrella, even on sunny days. The paths can get a bit slippery when wet, so watch your step after rain.

For history buffs, downloading a cemetery guide or biographical information about its famous residents beforehand can really enhance your visit. You’ll appreciate the graves so much more when you understand the stories behind them.

Lastly, try to visit on a weekday if possible. Weekends can get surprisingly busy, especially during peak tourist season. The quieter atmosphere during weekdays really lets you soak in the peaceful, contemplative nature of this remarkable place.

Remember, this isn’t just a tourist attraction – it’s a piece of Paris’s soul, where art, history, and memory intertwine. Take your time, be respectful, and let yourself be moved by the stories etched in stone around you.

Location

Places to Stay Near Montparnasse Cemetery

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