Part 2 of the series:
DISCOVER the Most Desired Neighborhoods to Visit While in PARIS.
Nestled atop a hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, Montmartre beckons with its cobblestone streets, artistic heritage, and panoramic views of the city below. This charming neighborhood, once home to some of the world's most renowned artists, continues to inspire visitors with its bohemian spirit and vibrant atmosphere. Join me as we wander through the winding streets of Montmartre and discover its hidden treasures.
In this blog series I won't be covering the main landmark attractions as you can find that in any tour guide. To capture the feel of current day Montmartre, take time learn about the famous artists and their bohemian lifestyle back in their day, then take in the everything we love so much about this neighborhood.
Exploring the Streets
Walking the streets to find culinary delights is one of my favorite Parisian pastimes. Montmartre doesn't disappoint. It's got plenty of treats and low-key restaurants. The best streets to walk around to soak up that bohemian culture:
Rue des Abbesses: Begin your journey in Montmartre by strolling along Rue des Abbesses, a lively street brimming with cafes, boutiques, and quaint shops. Stop by a local bakery for a freshly baked croissant or indulge in a decadent chocolate treat at one of the neighborhood's renowned chocolatiers.
Rue Lepic: Follow the winding cobblestone streets to Rue Lepic, where you'll find a delightful mix of artisanal shops, cheese shops, and flower markets. Don't miss the chance to visit Maison Collignon, the iconic green grocery store immortalized in Vincent van Gogh's painting "Le Moulin de la Galette."
Place du Tertre: Step back in time as you wander through Place du Tertre, a charming square that has long been a gathering place for artists and performers. Watch as local artists sketch portraits, create caricatures, and showcase their talents amidst the backdrop of historic buildings and bustling cafes.
Did you know?
At the end of the19th century and beginning of the 20th,
famous artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir,
Edgar Degas and Pablo Picasso lived amongst these streets.
Market Days & Shops in Montmartre: for Art and Antique Lovers
Broconte & antique shops are found primarily surrounding Rue du Durantin. If you are a hardcore antique & broconte shopper, that's another blog for another time, but I would start with Google Maps.
The artists market takes place daily in the main square of Place du Tertre.
The cuisine market in arrondissement 18 is Marche Dejean. If you are foodies like us you'll want to take in the fruits of an international city. This market specializes in African cuisine that will introduce you to spices and condiments that you may find will be worthy of taking home to add some new flavors to your culinary routine.
Dining and Culinary Delights
Montmartre is a favored location for dining, perhaps at sunset with gorgeous early evening light after taking in the views up the hill of the famous Sacre Couer cathedral is the right time for you!
Like many famous destination cities there are so, so many great restaurants. With a variety of different tastes, it's challenging to site the best for you. The most important thing is to be sure to make a reservation well in advance to ensure you get to eat at the best restaurants. During tourist season – and certainly during the Olympics – the best will surely be booked. Word has it that all hands are on deck in France, every mayor in every city in France is required to stay in the country during the Olympic Games to make sure all is optimal for its millions of visitors.
For fine dining, I would check the Michelin Guide and The Fork.
Paris is famous for its bistro-style dining that is traditionally family-owned and passed down through the generations. Typically they'll have a few tables inside and out with bar counter seating and serve small dishes that the cook decides to make that day depending on what's good at the market. Quintessentially French. It's a very casual environment, so don't be surprised when they have only a few options for wine – but it is typically very good French wine. It's a good family option. The Fork also has specific recommendations for bistros.
The meaning of brasserie is assimilated to a larger format local brewery that typically serves simple, hearty food. The Fork has a category for them in the Montmartre neighborhood too.
Ooo la la! We love the creperie. There are several in Montmartre with plenty of variety of sweet and savory options. It's also a family pleaser.
And last but not least, don't forget to make a daily trek to the boulangerie and patisserie in the neighborhood. In fact, if you're staying in Montmatre, make sure to spot the local favorite and catch the opening times so you're ready to walk around the block to pick up a very Parisian pastry to start the day and don't forget to take a tarte back to your flat for lunch or after dinner! The pastries are out of this world good!
Food you and your family must try while in Paris! There is nothing like it around the world. Many people attempt to copy these favorites but fall short. You'll know what I mean when you try them here in Paris.
Croissants and pain au chocolate!
The cheese. My current favorite is Camembert – so many.
The butter – nothing like French butter on a fresh baguette
Charcuterie & cheese plates
Baguette sandwich – ham with butter and/or cheese (Comte if possible)
Croque-monsieur or madame (the madame has an egg on it)
Crepes – both savory and sweet
Quiche Lorraine
Macarons!
Eclairs
Chocolate!
Tarta tatin and tarte a'flette with fresh fruit (personal favorite)
Orangina!
These are just a few of the famous culinary attractions. Be sure to do your research for the type of restaurant you like, or contact your concierge at your hotel to get a recommendation for reservations ahead of your trip.
Museums and Cultural Attractions:
Musée de Montmartre: Immerse yourself in the artistic legacy of Montmartre at the Musée de Montmartre. A must see if you enjoy learning stories about artists lives and the bohemian lifestyles they led. Housed in a historic 17th-century mansion, the museum showcases an impressive collection of artworks, photographs, and memorabilia that celebrate the neighborhood's rich cultural heritage and famous residents. Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, which inspired many of the famous artists who once called Montmartre home.
Did you know ?
The Musee de Montmartre was
Pierre-Auguste Renoir's first Montmartre address!
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur: No visit to Montmartre is complete without a visit to the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, a majestic white-domed basilica that crowns the summit of the hill. Marvel at the stunning architecture and panoramic views of Paris from the basilica's esplanade, then step inside to admire the ornate interior and magnificent mosaics. It's worth the hike up the hill.
Moulin Rouge: is the famous theatre of theatrical artists. If you haven't seen the movie of the same name starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor – you should watch it before you visit. Moulin Rouge has a culture of its own in this famous district. The famous Moulin Rouge cabaret attracts visitors and nightlife enthusiasts alike.
Location & Map
Nestled in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre, also referred to as "La Butte," is a picturesque hilltop district with a rich artistic history. Formerly home to luminaries like Picasso and Dalí, this area boasts panoramic city vistas. Its steep, winding streets offer stunning views, while Montmartre's Lamarck area is dotted with trendy retro bars and eateries, adding to its edgy charm.
Map of Montmartre, Arrondisement 18 – with the locations mentioned in this blog.
The Sights, Sounds, Tastes and Experiences:
Montmartre buzzes with life in the summer, offering a captivating blend of sights, sounds, tastes, and experiences. Stroll down cobblestone streets like Rue des Abbesses and Rue Lepic, where vibrant cafes, artisanal shops, and colorful flower markets create a lively atmosphere. The bohemian spirit thrives in Place du Tertre, where local artists paint amidst historic architecture and bustling cafes. Savor the neighborhood's diverse culinary delights, from crepes to exquisite pastries, and explore the rich flavors of the Marche Dejean market.
Sunset and evenings in Montmartre are unforgettable. In the height of summer balmy nights walking around the streets and taking in the views are the stuff holidays are made of. You can see why the artists were so inspired.
It's an unforgettable summer experience that perfectly encapsulates the charm of Parisian life.
Summary
The artistic heritage of Montmartre brought to life in the 17th century by famous artists who lived and worked here captivates visitors with its history and bohemian flair. Whether you're wandering its cobblestone streets savoring French delicacies at a local bistro, or immersing yourself in its cultural attractions, or taking in the incredible views atop the hill at Sacre Coeur Montmartre promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Parisian life. So next time you're in the City of Light, be sure to venture up the hill to discover all that this charming neighborhood has to offer. And bring comfortable walking shoes!
Enjoy Montmartre on your own to discover what you adore about it. I'd love to hear from you about your favorite or not-so favorite finds.
Stay tuned for the next blog in the series about another famous Parisian neighborhood!
Happy travels!
Kyle Matson
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If you haven't already, enjoy the first in the series: Discovering Le Marais: A Charming Neighborhood in the Heart of Paris.
If you're traveling to Europe with children between the ages of 8 to12, or just want to inspire a young mind for a future of world travel, check out the kids' travel guide, journal, and the Paris 2024 kids' Olympic guide on our home page. The series is a best seller on Amazon.
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