Paris, April 23, 2026 – Visitors planning to use the Montmartre Funicular to reach the Sacré-Cœur Basilica today, Thursday, April 23, 2026, will need to ascend on foot. The service is interrupted until 4 PM due to scheduled maintenance work.
Essential Maintenance Leads to Funicular Closure
The Montmartre Funicular, a popular attraction located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, is undergoing essential maintenance today. This closure means that tourists and residents alike will be unable to use the inclined railway to traverse the 36-meter elevation difference to the summit of Montmartre Hill.
The RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens), which operates the funicular, announced the service interruption on its website. The maintenance work is crucial to ensure the safety and continued reliable operation of the system.
Alternative Route: The 222 Steps of Rue Foyatier
For those wishing to reach the Sacré-Cœur during the closure, the alternative is to climb the 222 steps of Rue Foyatier, which runs alongside the funicular. While a more strenuous option, it offers a scenic route with views of the city.
History and Operation of the Montmartre Funicular
The current Montmartre Funicular was transformed in 1991 and operates as a double inclined elevator. It spans 108 meters and typically transports passengers to the top of Montmartre in less than ninety seconds. Regular maintenance is a standard procedure for any public transport system to guarantee passenger safety and operational efficiency.
Previous Closures and Modernization Efforts
The funicular has undergone several maintenance periods in recent years. Modernization work was carried out between 2017 and 2019. In June 2025, the funicular was also temporarily out of service. More recently, one of its two cabins was removed for a two-month period for specific repairs. Today’s full closure is part of this ongoing commitment to upkeep.
Impact on Tourists and Local Transport
The closure, while temporary, affects a significant number of tourists who rely on the funicular for convenient access to the Sacré-Cœur and the surrounding Montmartre district. The RATP advises travelers to plan their journeys accordingly and consider the additional time required for the ascent on foot.
This interruption highlights the continuous effort required to maintain Paris’s historic and modern infrastructure, ensuring it remains safe and accessible for millions of visitors and daily commuters.
The funicular is expected to resume normal service at 4 PM today, April 23, 2026.
