A Romantic Stroll through Montmartre: The Artists Neighborhood

Hello again, fellow travelers! If you're planning a trip to Paris, Montmartre should be right at the top of your must-see list. Picture this: cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and a bohemian ambiance that will sweep you off your feet. As a Paris-loving wanderer, I couldn't resist sharing my tips for exploring this enchanting neighborhood while staying safe and avoiding the crowds. Here, I'll be taking you through the artistic history of this quaint part of Paris, some lovely photo spots, and of course, the delicious cafes you can rest your legs in during the long walk uphill.

Montmartre's Artistic Legacy: From van Gogh to Moulin Rouge

Before we start our adventure, let's appreciate Montmartre's artistic heritage. It was the creative haven for famous artists like Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh and Picasso. Remember watching "Moulin Rouge" or "Amélie" in high school? Well, those movies ignited my curiosity to visit this place of romance and inspiration. And in an instant I signed up for a walking tour in this part of Paris. We did meet some lovely people on our tour who had travelled from around the world, a mother-daughter duo from Scandinavia, a family from China, 2 beat friends from London, a couple from Mexico, to name some.

Getting There: All Aboard the Metro

Getting to Montmartre is a breeze! We hopped on the Abbesses metro stop, Line 12, and started our journey at the "bottom" of the hill from the Starbucks. But beware, Abbesses is the deepest metro station in Paris, so get ready for a mini-adventure climbing up the stairway from hell. But don't worry; there's an elevator if you prefer to skip the challenge.

The Sights You Can't Miss

Once you're up in Montmartre, the real fun begins. Here are some of the top sights I visited here:

Passe-Muraille (Walker-Through-Walls):

This quirky public art installation is inspired by a book about a man who could walk through walls. It's a whimsical stop worth snapping a photo of. Legend has it that whoever shakes hands with this walker, will have a cloud of good luck on them for a long time. We jumped in on the opportunity, Afterall, who doesn't like good luck (wink)!

The Sinking House:

Prepare to be fooled by an optical illusion! The sinking house is a clever camera trick that'll make you do a double-take. Strike your best pose, and you'll have a gravity-defying souvenir.

Mur des Je t’aime:

Couples worldwide flock to Paris, the city of love, to witness the I Love You Wall. Conceived by Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito, this artwork spans 40m² and comprises 612 squares of enamelled lava. 'I love you' graces it in 311 languages, while red splashes symbolize mended hearts on the broken canvas, fostering unity. This ode to love rests at Montmartre's Place des Abbesses, an extraordinary testament to romance. Calling all romantics! It's a heartwarming spot to embrace the power of love.

Montmartre Windmill (Moulin de la Galette):

Once used for grinding flour and pressing grapes, the neighboring windmills had a unique bond. The Debray family acquired them in 1809. Amidst the 1814 Paris siege, brave miller Debray defended one mill, paying with his life. His son transformed it into 'Moulin de la Galette' dance hall, serving the eponymous brown bread and milk. By 1830, wine replaced milk, and the Moulin turned cabaret. Step back in time and admire one of the remaining windmills that once ground flour and pressed grapes. A slice of Montmartre's rustic past.

Exploring the Sacre-Coeur Basilica

The crown jewel of Montmartre is undoubtedly the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, perched majestically atop the butte. Its construction began in 1874 and stands as a symbol of unity and remembrance. Although entrance is free, brace yourself for potential crowds, especially during peak hours. But trust me, the stunning architecture and panoramic views make it worth the wait.

Navigating the Scams: Stay Alert, Stay Safe

While Montmartre is a dreamy destination, we can't ignore the reality of tourist scams. Be cautious, and remember:

Avoid strangers: If someone approaches you, a polite "non, merci" should do the trick. Your safety comes first!

Common Scams: Beware of finger traps, bracelet tying, and petition signing distractions, all designed to pickpocket the unsuspecting. Stay alert and stay away!

Montmartre Cafes: Fueling Your Wanderlust

As you explore, you'll stumble upon charming Montmartre cafes. Don't miss these gems:

La Maison Rose:

This century-old cafe was frequented by artists like Picasso. Savor a coffee and let history embrace you. La Maison Rose gained fame through Utrillo's art, yet Élisée Maclet's earlier influence is now acknowledged. This place's wartime past remains enigmatic, possibly a cabaret. In 1948, Beatrice Miolano, Italian by origin, acquired it, creating a haven for artists like Camus, Delon, and Dalida. Reopened in 2017 by Beatrice's granddaughter, it embraces Montmartre's legacy, offering a warm, eco-conscious space for locals and travelers to gather, celebrate, and savor, blending French and Italian heritage.

Le Consulat:

Exploring Montmartre is a must in Paris. Its charm-filled streets, like Le Consulat Paris, boast historic and Instagram-worthy architecture. This cafe, reminiscent of Le Chat Noir Paris, is among the city's cutest, ideal for a delightful Parisian brunch. Bonus: It's close to the iconic Sacré-Coeur, a perfect addition to a 4-day Paris adventure in search of the finest brunch.

Chez Eugene:

Don't be put off by Chez Eugène's touristy spot on Place du Tertre. While not a hidden gem, it's perfect for people-watching. Waiters sport 1930s attire, and you can enjoy the terrace for prime square views. After climbing Butte Montmartre, unwind here with an apéritif. Remember, it's about the location, not the food. Opt for drinks and appetizers for a delightful experience. Enjoy a cup of coffee while observing artists at work in Place du Tertre.

In Conclusion: Montmartre's Timeless Charm

Montmartre is a quintessential Parisian experience you won't want to miss. From its artistic heritage to the picturesque cafes, this romantic neighborhood holds an allure that captivates every traveler. So, whether you're channeling La Boheme or just seeking a magical adventure, Montmartre will leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return.

Have you been to Paris yet? Planning a trip to the city of love anytime soon? Check out this 4-day itinerary for all things Paris. Did you know Paris has a variety of day-trips to offer? Check out my most favourite day-trip experience to the Palace of Versailles. Wondering where to stay in Paris? This article will answer all your questions about the different areas to stay in Paris.

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