Paris is magical. At every turn, you find some other charming aspect to remind you that you are in the capital of France. One of the most charming and magical neighborhoods in Paris can be found in the shadows of the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. This basilica is easy to spot from almost anywhere in the city as it sits at the highest point of the Paris. Sacré-Cœur can be found perched atop a hill in the 18th arrondissement. Almost as if it were a beacon to one of Paris’s most iconic neighborhoods; Montmartre. If you don’t have this neighborhood on your Paris travel itinerary, you are missing out. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to explore. No matter how many times I’ve visited the Montemarte district of Paris, I discover something new. It never feels exactly the same and that’s part of the allure of this magical place.
Historical Significance
For context, Montmartre whose name means “Mount of Martyrs,” was originally a village outside Paris. It was annexed to the city in 1860. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Montmartre became a hub for artists, writers, and performers . It attracted famous figures like Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Today, its bohemian vibe and artistic legacy attract countless visitors to the famed streets. The remnants of artistic culture are still alive up this hill but now there are a lot more tourist. And far more people taking selfies than truly exploring the magical scene.
Now that you know more about the area, let’s get you there.
Getting There
If you are taking the metro train, get off at the Abbesses or Pigalle stop. You can also get there by taxi or bus but I prefer the metro. The tricky part about the metro. When you get off at the Abbesses stop, you could easily miss the elevator or escalator option to exit. Big Mistake. There are a lot of stairs. The first three flights were cool but those last 5 or 6 (I lost count) were a beast. And while there are some parts of the stairwell that are absolutely gorgeous, you probably don’t want to see them unless you are challenging yourself to some new level of fitness. If you do get lost and find yourself on the never-ending stairway, take some time to admire some of the cool murals that lines the walls.
While you can officially start from anywhere to explore the area, the easiest route would be to go up to the Sacre Couer and work your way through the streets from there back down the hill. The funicular is a quick and fun way to ascend the steep hill to the Sacré-Cœur. It runs every few minutes and is included in the Paris Metro ticket system, so you can use a standard metro ticket or pass. Choose the route that works best for you (funicular, bus, stairs, etc) and get going.
What to See in Montmartre
Certainly you won’t be visiting Montmartre simply for the instagram photos. That would be such a waste of a day in this iconic neighborhood. But while you are there, take advantage of the amazing scenery and snap a few unforgettable shots of what some consider the most beautiful.
Most Instagrammable
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur
Of course, everyone will be taking photos of this amazing basilica. Take that one too then turn around to get the most amazing view of Paris. You can even see the Eiffel Tower from here. Ignore the ‘artists’ offering to draw a photo of you (it’s a scam) and in short order, head around to the side of the building to get the almost tourist free pic of basilica.
La Maison Rose
Located at the corner of Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue des Saules you’ll find this picturesque tiny pink cafe that is already instagram famous. It has been featured in a few tv shows set in Paris including Emily in Paris. But long before Emily sipped coffee here, artists like Picasso could be found here chatting it up with the owners. Stop for the photo or stay for an authentic Parisian meal. It will be packed with tourist so perhaps not the best spot to stop for a coffee but grab a picture to use for your brag wall.
Rue de l’Abreuvoir
Since you will already be in the area, take a look at the street leading up to the cafe; Rue de l’Abreuvoir. This is known as the most beautiful street in all of Paris. The street is one of the few that still stand as it was intentionally designed. Lined with houses that date back to the early 1900s it is pretty fabulous and serene. From the bottom of the street you can get an amazing photo that includes the cobblestone, the foliage and the Sacre Coeur. Sadly, I missed that photo opportunity.
Le Moulin de la Galette
Did you know there is a windmill in Montmartre? Actually, there are two. This historic windmill, is a bit hard to spot. It now sits atop a restaurant of the same name; Le Moulin de la Galette. The other one is at Moulin Rouge. At its peak there were thirty windmills that once stood atop the hill of Montmartre. Art enthusiast will recognize this on from 1887 Van Gogh piece that depicts this very windmill.
Montmartre Vineyards (Vigne de Montmartre)
I know what you are thinking. And yes, there is a small vineyard right in the heart of Paris. It’s called Vigne de Clos and has been around since the early 1900s. I hear the wine is not great but the idea of a vineyard here makes it imperative that you stop for a photo. Today, you can visit the grounds with a tour of the Montmartre Museum.
Le-Passe-Muraille (The Man Who Could Walk Through Walls)
Now this one is a bit strange but worth the photo nonetheless. The statue brings a famous French novel about the supernatural to life. The subject of the novel is said to have the ability to walk through walls. You can look for the short story in one of the many bookstores in the neighborhood.
Le Mur des je T’aime (I Love You Wall)
Since Paris is the city of love, it makes sense that someone created the “I Love You” Wall. Located at the foot of the hill it’s a great place to stop as you close out your visit to Montmartre. The wall, created as a rendezvous location for lovers, features “I love you” in 311 written declarations in 250 different languages.
There are so many cools spots to enjoy in the Montmartre District in Paris that no post can do it justice. When you’re finished running around grabbing photos, search out some of the local artisans in the area and support local business. When you need a break pop in to one of the many lovely cafe’s around…or grab a bottle of wine and enjoy it on the steps of Sacre Coeur. The possibilities are endless.
My Perspective
Every time I visit Paris, I make it a point to head up to Montmartre. There is a special magic in the air here that makes it a must stop on any Paris itinerary. Montmartre, Paris has a little something for everyone. If you haven’t discovered this amazing neighborhood make sure you add it to your next visit to Paris. You won’t be disappointed. For more details on Paris, check out my blog Planning an Epic Trip to Paris.
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