Montmartre stands as a testament to Paris’s rich history and bohemian spirit. Located in the 18th arrondissement, this hilltop neighborhood boasts a blend of art, history, and charm.
Inside our guide you will find the following topics:
- Key Attractions
- Hidden Gems
- Top 10 Eateries in Montmartre with a Taste of Parisian Flair
- Where the Locals Go
- Where to Stay in Montmartre
- Books and Films to Immerse Yourself in Montmartre
- Music and YouTube Videos
- Journal Entry: Montmartre, Paris
Key Attractions
Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Dominating the Montmartre skyline, this Roman Catholic basilica offers unrivaled views of Paris. Its pristine white domes contrast the city’s muted palette. Step inside to witness its opulent mosaics and artworks, celebrating France’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
Place du Tertre: A few steps from the basilica lies a square teeming with artists sketching, painting, and selling their masterpieces. Engage with artists, buy a unique memento, or get your portrait done in this artistic haven.
Moulin Rouge: The iconic cabaret with its glaring red windmill is a sight to behold. Attend an evening show to dive into a world of feathers, sequins, and high-energy dance, encapsulating Parisian nightlife’s essence.
Musée de Montmartre: Housed in a 17th-century mansion, this museum unveils Montmartre’s vibrant history. Admire works from artists who once roamed these streets, including Toulouse-Lautrec and Modigliani.
Rue des Abbesses & Rue Lepic: Wander these quintessential Montmartre streets, lined with cafes, bakeries, and boutiques. Enjoy a croissant, sip on a café crème, and indulge in Parisian street life.
Le Mur des Je t’aime: In a small garden stands a blue-tiled wall inscribed with “I love you” in 250 languages, encapsulating love’s universality.
Hidden Gems
Le Clos Montmartre: Nestled amid the urban landscape is Paris’s last vineyard. Attend their annual grape harvest festival, celebrating wine and the area’s viticulture legacy.
Dalida Statue: Meander through Montmartre’s lanes and stumble upon a tribute to the legendary singer Dalida, reminding visitors of the artists who once called this neighborhood home.
Top 10 Eateries in Montmartre with a Taste of Parisian Flair
La Maison Rose: This iconic pink-painted eatery exudes old-world charm, serving sumptuous traditional French dishes amidst Montmartre’s historic backdrop.
Le Relais de la Butte: Perched high in Montmartre, this spot offers delectable French cuisine complemented by breathtaking panoramic views of Paris.
Boulangerie Coquelicot: Step in for the aroma of freshly baked baguettes and pastries, encapsulating the essence of Parisian mornings since 1978.
Café des Deux Moulins: Recognized from the film “Amélie,” this café serves both history and classic French dishes in an enchanting setting.
Le Saint Régis: A stone’s throw from Notre Dame, this charming café brings a blend of tradition and modern Parisian café culture.
La Mascotte: Established in 1889, dine in for a taste of Paris’s seafood heritage in a classic brasserie ambiance.
Soul Kitchen: A cozy, eco-friendly café offering a unique blend of homemade, organic, and vegetarian dishes.
Chez Toinette: Dive into a menu of southern French delights in this intimate and rustic setting.
Le Potager du Père Thierry: This restaurant serves up organic, fresh, and locally-sourced dishes, emphasizing Paris’s modern culinary movement.
L’Éte en Pente Douce: A delightful spot with a terrace view, offering a palette of gourmet dishes from foie gras to duck confit.
Where the Locals Go
While Montmartre is often thronged by tourists eager to see its famous landmarks, locals have their preferred haunts where the genuine spirit of the neighborhood shines through.
Le Refuge: Tucked away from the main streets, this cozy cafe-bar is a popular haunt for Montmartre residents. With its traditional interiors and warm ambiance, it’s a place where locals gather for an aperitif or a late-night drink.
Boulangerie Boris: While tourists queue up at the more well-known bakeries, Montmartre locals head to Boulangerie Boris for their morning croissant or baguette. This artisanal bakery, with its golden crusty breads and pastries, has been a neighborhood secret for years.
Café de la Poste: Frequented by the residents, this spot is perfect for a casual meal or a coffee. Its laid-back atmosphere is a far cry from the bustling tourist spots, making it a favored choice among locals.
Marché Barbes: Every Saturday under the metro tracks, this bustling market comes alive. From fresh produce to spices and textiles, it offers an authentic taste of everyday life in Montmartre, minus the touristy vibes.
La Cave de Marcounet: A wine bar with deep roots in the area, it offers a curated selection of French wines. Locals cherish this place for its intimate setting, especially its vaulted cellars which often host live music.
Autour d’un Verre: This wine bar, often missed by the regular tourist, serves organic and natural wines. Pair them with cheese or charcuterie, and you’ve got a classic Montmartre evening.
Cinéma Studio 28: Montmartre’s historic cinema is not just a theater; it’s an institution. Locals frequent it for its curated selection of films and the quaint courtyard where you can sip on a glass of wine pre or post screening.
Le Vrai Paris: As the name suggests, this café epitomizes the true essence of Paris. A gem away from the tourist circuit, locals love it for its relaxed ambiance and classic French menu.
Place Jean Marais: Named after the famous French actor, this square is a peaceful spot where locals come to read, chat, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility.
Chez Plumeau: This restaurant, with its sweeping views of the city, is nestled amidst the calm streets of Montmartre, offering a respite from the bustling city below.
Where to Stay in Montmartre
Montmartre is as varied in its accommodation options as it is in its art and culture. Whether you’re seeking luxury or looking for something budget-friendly, this neighborhood offers a range of places to rest after a day of exploration.
Hôtel Particulier Montmartre: Tucked behind high walls, this luxurious and discreet boutique hotel boasts private gardens and individually designed suites.
Terrass” Hotel: Known for its rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Paris, the Terrass” Hotel also provides stylish rooms and a spa.
Le Relais Montmartre: This charming hotel with its ivy-covered facade and cozy interiors offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of Montmartre.
Hôtel des Arts Montmartre: A budget-friendly option with a bohemian touch, it’s a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the Montmartre art scene.
Montmartre Residence: This elegant boutique hotel offers spacious suites, combining modern amenities with vintage charm.
Hôtel Basss: With a mid-century modern design, this hotel is both comfortable and trendy. It’s a favorite among younger travelers.
Hôtel Le Chat Noir: Named after the famous cabaret, this contemporary hotel boasts themed rooms and a location that’s hard to beat.
Hôtel 29 Lepic: Situated in the heart of Montmartre, this is a cozy and budget-friendly option offering simple, comfortable rooms.
Maison Souquet: A luxurious boutique hotel reminiscent of Paris’s Belle Époque era. Its opulent interiors and personalized service make it a standout choice.
Books and Films to Immerse Yourself in Montmartre
Before immersing yourself in the charming streets of Montmartre, it’s an enriching experience to delve into some books and films that evoke its essence. Here are some that capture the neighborhood’s atmosphere:
Books:
- “The Montmartre Investigation” by Claude Izner:
- Dive into the mysteries of Belle Époque Paris. This detective story, set in the heart of Montmartre, brings the neighborhood to life with rich historical details.
- “Tropic Moon” by Georges Simenon:
- Although not exclusively set in Montmartre, Simenon’s atmospheric prose captures the essence of Paris in the early 20th century.
- “The Artists of Montmartre” by Sue Roe:
- Roe paints a vivid picture of Montmartre’s bohemian world during the Belle Époque. From Picasso to Modigliani, the book sheds light on the artistic revolution that took place in this hilltop neighborhood.
- “Montmartre: Picasso, Matisse and Modernism in Paris 1900-1910” by Sue Roe:
- A continuation of Roe’s exploration, this volume focuses on the avant-garde artists and their revolutionary works that stemmed from Montmartre’s studios.
- “Paris Nocturne” by Patrick Modiano:
- Nobel Prize winner Modiano’s novel beautifully captures the enigmatic atmosphere of Paris, with several evocative scenes set in Montmartre.
Films:
- “Amélie” (2001):
- This whimsical romantic comedy, directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, is arguably the most famous film showcasing Montmartre. Following Amélie Poulain, it provides a magical portrayal of life in this Parisian quarter.
- Watch on IMDb
- “Moulin Rouge!” (2001):
- Directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, this vibrant musical drama revolves around the famous cabaret and paints a vivid picture of Montmartre at the turn of the century.
- Watch on IMDb
- “Midnight in Paris” (2011):
- While not entirely set in Montmartre, Woody Allen’s love letter to Paris transports viewers to various epochs in Parisian history, capturing the romantic and artistic spirit akin to Montmartre.
- Watch on IMDb
- “The Artists” (2017) aka “La Belle Époque”:
- This film takes viewers on a journey through a recreated Montmartre of the 1890s. It beautifully captures the essence, culture, and vibe of the era.
- Watch on IMDb
- “Renoir” (2012):
- Dive into the last years of Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s life in this biographical film. It provides a glimpse into the art world of early 20th-century Paris, of which Montmartre was the epicenter.
- Watch on IMDb
These books and films will transport you to the heart of Montmartre, allowing you to walk its streets, feel its pulse, and breathe its history and artistry. Delving into them will make your actual journey even more profound and meaningful.
Music and YouTube Videos
To truly appreciate Montmartre’s unique blend of artistic legacy and modern charm, it’s a treat to explore its musical roots and visual treasures. Here are some music recommendations and YouTube videos that capture its soul:
Music:
- Édith Piaf:
- Known as “The Little Sparrow” of Paris, Piaf’s songs, especially “La Vie en Rose” and “Non, je ne regrette rien,” take you through the streets of Montmartre where she once performed.
- Listen on Spotify
- Jacques Brel:
- His song “Le Moribond” and others evoke the quintessential Montmartre spirit, with references to its bohemian life.
- Listen on Spotify
- Yves Montand:
- His melodic tones in songs like “Les Feuilles Mortes” transport listeners to vintage Parisian cafes and Montmartre’s charming corners.
- Listen on Spotify
- Charles Trenet:
- Famous for “La Mer” and “Douce France,” Trenet’s melodies summon nostalgic feelings for a bygone Montmartre era.
- Listen on Spotify
YouTube Videos:
- “Montmartre, Paris – A Walk Through The Old Artist’s Village” by the World in 4K:
- This 4K video tour takes viewers through the picturesque streets and landmarks of Montmartre, offering a true sense of place.
- Watch on YouTube
- “The Secret World of Montmartre” by City Secrets:
- Explore the hidden nooks, stories, and histories of Montmartre that are not often part of standard tours.
- Watch on YouTube
- “Montmartre Morning Walk”
- Experience Montmartre as the sun rises, strolling its quiet streets before the bustle of the day begins.
- Watch on YouTube
Journal Entry: Montmartre, Paris
By Jenny Katz
Day 1: The City of Art and Romance
The cobblestone streets of Montmartre instantly captured my imagination. “C’est magnifique!” my dad exclaimed, aiming his camera at the ivy-draped buildings. Tom, with his tiny digital camera in hand, imitated Dad, which made everyone laugh.
First stop: Sacré-Cœur. We took the funicular uphill, watching the city of Paris unfold below us. Tom was convinced he saw a “dragon” in the distance, but it turned out to be the Eiffel Tower. I scribbled down his joke in my journal, thinking how different yet alike landmarks can look through a child’s imaginative eyes.
Lunch was a delightful affair at a bistro. Quiche and croissants were the stars. Tom made a funny observation about how croissants looked like “sleeping moon.” I wondered if I ever had such playful ideas at his age. Mom, in her element, spoke in fluent French to the waiter, much to Dad’s admiration.
Ended the day at Place du Tertre, watching artists paint and sketch. It’s fascinating to think that Picasso once roamed these very streets. I felt an urge to jot down every vivid detail, from the swirling colors of the palettes to the age-wrinkled faces of the local artists.
Day 2: Hidden Treasures
Today was about off-the-beaten-path adventures. Dad’s travel agent skills led us to Le Mur des Je t’aime, or “The I Love You Wall.” Words of love were etched in different languages. Tom pointed to one and declared, “That’s how aliens say I love you!”
Next, we explored the quieter parts of Montmartre. We found a small garden, Jardin Sauvage Saint-Vincent, a stark contrast to our neatly manicured lawn back in Georgia. Dad talked about the “hidden gems” in places, which he’ll probably feature in his next video.
For dinner, Mom picked a café with vegan options. As we savored Ratatouille and red wine (grape juice for Tom and me), she opened a discussion about mindfulness and the importance of living in the moment, especially when we’re trotting around the globe.
Day 3: A Taste of Bohemia
The day started with a visit to the Dali Museum. Tom, looking at the melting clocks, decided it was “time for ice cream.” I can’t wait to immortalize that joke in my journal.
After that, we strolled through Rue Lepic, a marketplace brimming with local foods, art, and trinkets. I found it like stepping into a scene from “Anne of Green Gables,” only set in France rather than Avonlea. Mom looked at me knowingly; she must have felt the same.
We couldn’t leave Montmartre without having Crêpes. Tom wanted his with “extra-extra chocolate,” and I went for the one with strawberries and Nutella.
As we sat on a park bench, sharing crêpes, Mom pulled out her notebook. “Let’s all write one thing that this trip has taught us,” she suggested. Tom scribbled something and showed it to us: “Dragons are everywhere, even in towers!” We all laughed.
I wrote, “Different places, different faces, yet some things remain the same—a family’s love, and the home it can make anywhere.”
Montmartre, you’ve been an enchanting page in my journal of adventures. Here’s to more discoveries, more laughter, and many more stories to write.
And so another chapter of our global escapades comes to a close. Montmartre has not just been a place but an experience, a vivid tapestry to add to my ever-expanding journal. My family, my constant companions in this wonderful odyssey, make every place feel like home—even one as wondrously different as Montmartre.
