Summary
Paris is renowned for making an art of almost everything—even death and mourning. It’s no surprise, then, that the city’s cemeteries are poetic and inspired places that feel a bit like open-air museums. These historic sites, which opened primarily in the 18th and 19th centuries, serve as the burial places for countless writers, philosophers, musicians, politicians, and other famous figures, often providing beautiful spots for reflection and strolls.
In summary: Cemeteries don’t need to be depressing, and these four gorgeous places of rest in the city illustrate this wonderfully.
Père Lachaise: A Tranquil Haven in Northeast Paris
Père Lachaise, the first on our list of Paris’s most beautiful resting places, is a tranquil haven located in the uniquely non-touristy northeastern neighborhood of Menilmontant. The gently rolling hills, thousands of trees in various species, and famous graves—including those of Frederic Chopin, Oscar Wilde, Colette, Victor Hugo, Marcel Proust, and Jim Morrison—make it an exceptionally lovely place to walk and contemplate. This cemetery is so stunning that it has even earned recognition as one of the top attractions in Paris.
Montparnasse: Quiet Refuge in the South
Located at the opposite end of Paris, the Montparnasse cemetery, while less famous than Père Lachaise, remains one of the city’s most beautiful and peaceful resting spots. It provides a welcome retreat from Montparnasse’s bustling urban atmosphere, historically known for its vibrant modern arts and literary scene. This artistic and cultural legacy is reflected in its notable residents, including French poet Charles Baudelaire, philosopher and writer Simone de Beauvoir, and symbolist painter Eugene Carriere.
Getting There
- 3 Boulevard Edgar Quinet, 14th arrondissement
- Metro: Edgar Quinet or Montparnasse
Montmartre Cemetery
Nestled on a hilly mound in the Montmartre district, this unique cemetery rests beneath a large city bridge and is known for its quirky character. Its proximity to a neighborhood famous for its eccentric artists, along with a population of feral cats that have made it their home, gives this cemetery a smaller, more intimate atmosphere compared to Père Lachaise or Montparnasse. Notable figures here include French painter and sculptor Edgar Degas, Gustave Moreau, and filmmaker François Truffaut. It is best to visit on a sunny day or around Halloween or All Souls’ Day for a slightly eerie experience.
Getting There
- Main entrance at Avenue Rachel, 18th arrondissement
- Metro: Blanche
Passy Cemetery: Gorgeous Grounds and Views of the Eiffel Tower
At Passy Cemetery, located in the city’s northeastern corner, you can see the Eiffel Tower peeking through the graves and trees. Nestled in the chic district known as Passy, this cemetery is the fourth most significant historic burial ground in the city. Despite its prime views of France’s most iconic monument, it is often overlooked by tourists. Notable figures buried here include French impressionist painter Edouard Manet and musician Claude Debussy, along with many other significant contributors to French political and artistic life.
Getting There
- 2 Rue du Commandant Schloesing, 16th arrondissement
- Metro: Passy
