Montmartre Walking Tour : a must see in Paris
Montmartre is a historic neighborhood in the north of Paris, France, known for its charming cobblestone streets, bohemian atmosphere, and stunning views of the city. The area is located on a hill that rises 130 meters (427 feet) above the rest of the city, making it a popular spot for artists, writers, and other creative types who have long been drawn to its romantic ambiance.
One of the most famous landmarks in Montmartre is the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, a stunning white church that sits atop the hill and offers panoramic views of Paris. Visitors can climb the 270 steps to the top of the church’s dome for an even more spectacular view of the city.
Montmartre is also home to a number of art galleries, studios, and cafes, many of which date back to the early 20th century when the neighborhood was a hub for artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, and Henri Matisse. The area’s artistic legacy is celebrated today in the annual Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre, a wine festival held in October that features music, food, and, of course, plenty of wine.
Other attractions in Montmartre include the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret, the Place du Tertre, a picturesque square where local artists sell their work, and the Cimetière de Montmartre, a peaceful cemetery that is the final resting place of many famous French artists and writers.
Overall, Montmartre is a charming and vibrant neighborhood that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Parisian history and culture. With its stunning views, rich artistic legacy, and bohemian vibe, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Paris.
Here are five places to visit in Montmartre
Montmartre Walking Tour : the best of Paris
The Basilique du Sacré Coeur
The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, also known as the Sacred Heart Basilica, is a stunning white church located at the top of the Montmartre hill in Paris, France. The basilica was built in the late 19th century as a symbol of national reconciliation following the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune.
The exterior of the basilica features a mix of Romano-Byzantine and Gothic Revival architecture, with a large dome and several smaller towers. The interior is equally impressive, with a vast nave, high ceilings, and numerous chapels and altars.
One of the highlights of the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is the panoramic view of Paris that can be seen from the top of the dome. Visitors can climb the 270 steps to the top for a breathtaking view of the city, including landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.
The basilica also houses a large organ with over 7,000 pipes and hosts regular concerts and musical events. Mass is held daily in the crypt chapel, and visitors are welcome to attend.
Overall, the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Paris. With its stunning architecture, panoramic views, and important historical significance, it is a true masterpiece of religious art and architecture.
Place du Tertre in Montmartre
Place du Tertre is a charming, picturesque square located in the heart of Montmartre in Paris, France. It is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the vibrant artistic culture of the neighborhood.
The square is lined with cafes, restaurants, and art galleries, and is surrounded by narrow, winding streets and charming old buildings. It is a pedestrian-only zone, which makes it a pleasant place to stroll around and enjoy the atmosphere.
Place du Tertre is also known for its outdoor artists’ market, where local artists display and sell their work. Visitors can watch the artists at work, commission a portrait or caricature, or purchase a unique piece of art to take home as a souvenir.
In addition to the artists’ market, Place du Tertre is also home to several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Maison Rose, a famous pink-colored building that was a favorite subject of many artists, and the Espace Dalí, a museum dedicated to the work of the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí.
Overall, Place du Tertre is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Montmartre or Paris. Its charming atmosphere, rich artistic culture, and unique history make it a one-of-a-kind destination that should not be missed.
The Moulin Rouge
This world-famous cabaret has been entertaining visitors since 1889 and is known for its elaborate shows and can-can dancers. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Montmartre and Parisian nightlife
The Musée de Montmartre
The Musée de Montmartre is a museum located in the historic neighborhood of Montmartre in Paris, France. The museum is housed in a 17th-century mansion that was once home to several famous artists, including Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
The museum features exhibits on the artistic history of Montmartre, with a particular focus on the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can see original works by artists such as Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Modigliani, as well as artifacts and photographs from the period.
The museum also features reconstructed period rooms, which offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the artists and other residents of Montmartre during this time. Visitors can see the bedroom of Suzanne Valadon, a famous model and painter who lived in the mansion in the early 20th century, as well as the studio of the sculptor Alfred Boucher.
In addition to the exhibits, the Musée de Montmartre also features a lovely garden that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Montmartre. The garden features a vineyard, a duck pond, and several sculptures, as well as a view of the city that is simply breathtaking.
Overall, the Musée de Montmartre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the artistic history of Paris. Its unique collection of art, artifacts, and period rooms, as well as its lovely garden and stunning views, make it a one-of-a-kind destination that should not be missed.
Le Consulat
Le Consulat is a historic café located in the heart of Montmartre in Paris, France. The café has been a popular destination for artists, writers, and intellectuals since it first opened in the 19th century.
Le Consulat is housed in a beautiful building that dates back to the early 1800s. The interior of the café features a charming, old-world atmosphere, with wooden tables, red velvet chairs, and antique décor. The walls of the café are adorned with works of art by local artists, which are available for purchase.
The café is famous for its outdoor terrace, which offers a stunning view of the Place du Tertre and the surrounding neighborhood. Visitors can enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while taking in the sights and sounds of Montmartre.
Over the years, Le Consulat has been a favorite destination for many famous artists and writers, including Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, and Emile Zola, a novelist from Aix-en-Provence. Today, it continues to be a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
Overall, Le Consulat is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Montmartre or Paris. Its historic atmosphere, stunning views, and rich artistic history make it a one-of-a-kind destination that should not be missed.
Valerie Trianon
