Rue des Martyrs, street in Paris, France
Rue des Martyrs is a street running through the 9th and 18th arrondissements of Paris, stretching nearly 900 meters in length. It is lined with older buildings featuring stone facades and traditional balconies, housing numerous small shops, bakeries, and cafes that serve residents and visitors.
The street takes its name from Saint Denis, the first bishop of Paris, who was beheaded during Roman times and reportedly traveled this route. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the neighborhood was known for nightclubs and the nearby Moulin Rouge, which drew artists and performers to the area.
Rue des Martyrs embodies a love for good food that is visible daily in its bakeries and specialty shops. Locals and visitors gather here to taste traditional French bread, pastries, and artisanal goods that shape the street's identity.
The street is best accessed via Pigalle or Saint-Georges Metro stations, a short walk away. Visit in the mornings to experience the busiest bakeries and fresh produce markets, and use public transport as parking can be limited along the route.
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, famous for painting Paris nightlife scenes, regularly visited nearby venues and drew inspiration from this area. Visitors today can still find small theaters and cabarets tucked in side streets, remnants of the neighborhood's creative past.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.