A place you simply must visit while in Paris

Montmartre is one of Paris’ most famous districts and this fabulous little gem in Paris is definitely worth a visit as it is also the highest point in the city of Paris and has a lot to offer any traveler. Here are a few of the best things to do and see when in Montmartre:

In my opinion, a typical walk almost always should start at the intriguing Moulin Rouge, with its red windmill in Boulevard de Clichy, at the foot of the hill. From here you can explore and walk your way up to the top of the famous Montmartre hill.

On your way up the hill, you’ll see fabulous and famous places like Cafe des Deux Moulins (Cafe des 2 Moulins – Cafe of the 2 windmills) in Rue Lepic (street), a delightful little restaurant from the movie Amelie. Further up is a grocery store which is also from the movie. Cafe des Deux Moulins is named after two windmills in the area:

Moulin du Radet (dating back to 1717 and situated in Rue Lepic), which is now a restaurant, and
Moulin Blute-Fin (dating back to 1622) is still in working condition.

And then we tell you to go see a wall...

Also in the area, you’ll find Le Mur des Je t’aime (The wall of love). This wall says ‘I love you in more than 300 languages. Situated at Square Jehan-Rictus, Pl. Des Abbesses. It is actually fun to see if you can spot your own language on there.

Is Villa Léandre worth a visit?

Walking around in the district you’ll find tiny vineyards and beautiful streets to wander in, like Rue Lepic and many more.

However on many “most beautiful streets in Paris lists” and “to-do lists,” there is this little street (small cul de sac) called Villa Léandre, and well, I simply don’t think it is that much of a wow. I would rather explore the fabulous stores and more… (At the time of my visit it was to me, just a normal little street with houses.)

Place du Tertre

For lunch stop at the Place du Tertre, with its beautiful little bistros and restaurants. Order a baguette and sit back while you take in the surroundings. Time to relax, before you head up further. This town square is also home to many stalls with fabulous local artists displaying their work.

TRAVEL TIP: You’ll find that you will enjoy the experience much more if you’re not rushing to get from one tourist spot to another.

Don’t be in a hurry to get to the top of the hill as there are thousands of fabulous places along the way. Explore, experience, and become part of the city as you walk the streets of Paris. Stop and do the classic French Café scene. Enjoy buying at the classic French deli, Charcuterie, and market-like shops.

Find the pretty streets for shopping:

One such beautiful little street full of souvenir shops and small restaurants are: Rue du Chevalier de la Barre

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The Cimetiere du Calvaire

Saint-Pierre de Montmartre church and Sacré-Cœur Basilica at the top of the hill are also easily reachable by funicular if you’re not keen on doing more than 200 steps to get to the top of the hill.

The Cimetiere du Calvaire – cemetery (de Saint-Pierre de Montmartre) dates back to 1688 and is actually the highest point in Paris. (Unfortunately, it is only open to the public one day of the year – 01 November 2021 (on All Saints Day))

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

At the top of Paris

Standing at the highest point in Paris, you’ll have spectacular views. The Sacré-Cœu basilica was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Therefore it is actually quite new in comparison to other famous Paris basilicas. But don’t let me tell you all about it: Check out this video!

Photo Opportunity

This photo opportunity is right next to the Basilica. Standing at the foot of the steps to the Basilica, you’ll find the Sinking House Of Montmartre just to the right-hand side of the famous Sacré-Coeur.

Hiding behind a bank of grass this optical illusion is created by tilting your photo to the left (after you’ve taken it) so that the bank of grass is level in your photo when you publish it to social media. This is obviously a favorite Instagram spot.

Walking back down again

La Maison Rose is a nice place to stop for something to eat and drink. This petit restaurant offers traditional French cuisine and you simply can’t miss the picturesque pink maisonette on the street corner.

Address: 2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris, France (Remember to make reservations for lunch and/or dinner before going there.)

On your way down, walk down the pretty Rue de l’Abreuvoir which will give you more pretty photo opportunities.