Join us for an unforgettable journey through the charming streets of Montmartre, where the lively spirit of the Cancan still thrives today. Guided by a cancan dancer, you’ll explore the history of this exuberant dance, learn iconic dance steps, and discover the stories of its legendary dancers.
Step back into Paris of the 1800s, a time when Montmartre was a quaint, countryside neighborhood on the outskirts of the city, dotted with vineyards and windmills. After the French Revolution, this unassuming area blossomed into the vibrant heart of “Gay Paris,” teeming with cabarets, artists, and, of course, the spirited cancan dance.
Starting at the legendary Moulin Rouge square, you’ll embark on an uphill journey led by La Goulue (the “greedy one”) and Valentin le Désossé (the “boneless Valentin”). La Goulue, an iconic figure at the Moulin Rouge, was celebrated for her energy, audacity, and love of food and revelry. Immortalized in Toulouse-Lautrec’s famous posters, she remains a symbol of the Belle Époque. Her partner, Valentin le Désossé, was renowned for his extraordinary flexibility and unique style, earning him fame as a star of the cabaret. Together, they formed a legendary duo that embodied the spirit of the cancan and the Moulin Rouge.
As you follow their steps, you’ll uncover the fascinating history of the cancan, a bold and rebellious dance born from the quadrille and rooted in women’s fight for freedom—reclaiming control of their bodies and dancing on their own terms.
Discover how women from diverse walks of life rose to fame as cabaret stars at iconic venues like the Moulin Rouge, the Elysée Montmartre, and the Moulin de la Galette. Learn how Toulouse-Lautrec’s groundbreaking posters not only revolutionized marketing but also reflected his deep care and support for his dancer friends.
Your guides for this journey are none other than real cancan dancers! They’ll demonstrate signature moves like the “mayonnaise,” the “cathedral,” and the cheeky “coup de cul,” explaining their deeper meanings while teaching you how to master them. You’ll even learn the dancers’ iconic rallying cry!
Step into the shoes—or rather, the boots—of a cancan dancer, and bring this vibrant Parisian tradition to life in a truly unforgettable way.
- Fully guided walking tour with a professional guide
- Limited groups of 15 people or fewer
- Hotel pick up/drop off
- Gratuities
Start Location: Place Blanche, Pl. Blanche, Paris, France
Start Location Notes: Meet your guide on Place Blanche, just opposite the Moulin Rouge.
- Duration: 1h 30m
- Instant confirmation
- Mobile tickets accepted
- Not wheelchair accessible
Cancellation Policy: standard
Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours
Cancellation Notes: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Montmartre 2025
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What is the tour cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
Is there a lot of walking on this tour?
There is a reasonable amount of walking on this tour. Please ensure you wear comfortable shoes.
How many people will be in the group?
There will be a maximum of 15 guests in the group.