Hailed as the arts quarter, Montmartre's romanticism and charm lures thousands of visitors - and for good reason! This 18th arrondissement hill has influenced many world-renowned artists, is home to two original windmills and one of the best panoramic views of Paris.
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1. Climb the Tower at the Sacré-Cœur, Montmartre
But before you do that, catch its best side at Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet - a lovely little public garden with a fantastic view of the monument devoid of any crowds.
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris is well worth fighting the crowds for a visit, and while the church is free, the tower will cost you a little more than the 7€ entry fee - aching thighs, sore feet and a bit of grit and determination to climb the 300 steps. But those that make it are afforded 360 views of Paris - of which the Eiffel Tower is visible.
2. Get a Unique Portrait at Place du Tertre
Place du Tertre or Artists's Square is close by the Sacré-Cœur and well worth a visit. Ranging from 20€ to 110€, local artists sell their paintings and works, and those looking for a unique souvenir can grab a portrait. If you're getting a portrait - be sure to settle the price begfore you sit down.
3. Enjoy an Appetiser at La Maison Rose
By far the most Instagrammed spot in Montmartre, La Maison Rose is more than just a pretty pink house. Dating back to 1905, this restaurant serves up some of the best French cuisine, using fresh and seasonal produce with wine by the carafe. In past times, it was frequented by several generations of artists including Picasso and Modigliani.
4. Wine Tasting, the French Way
They say the best way to taste wine is with cheese, and La Cave des Abbesses rustles up some fabulous platters.
After attending a Montmartre walking tour - that was more of an art history lesson - we can away with a few handy reccomendations from a local Parisian and this was one of them. With aching feet and a rumbling tummy, we settled in to an outdoor table and ordered tge Grand Platter - charcuterie, cheese and bread. With opted for a couple of glasses of wine, reocmmended by the waiter.
During our time here, we not onlt enjoyed people watching on Montartre, but were amazed by how many people frequented the shop to grab a bottle - with a baguette in tow.
Around 5€ for a small glass of wine, La Cave des Abbesses is the place to go if you want to try a charcuterie platter, try a few wines or even pick up a bottle.
We paid €27 for two glasses of wine and the Grand Platter - worth every penny!
5. Grab a Picnic, like the Montmartre Locals
On the same street as Les Cave de Absesses, you'll find shops selling local produce such as cheese, fruit, bread and a bakery. And with the wine from the wine shop, you've got all the makings for a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower.
6. Step Back in Time at Le Moulin de la Galette, Montmartre
If you're an art buff you'll recognise the outdoor area as the famous 1876 scene - Bal du moulin de la Galette - by French artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
If not, just be content knowing that a very famous painter painted a (at the time) controversial piece at this very establishment. In fact you can see parts of the painting on the exterior walls.
Moulin is translated as windmill, and Le Moulin de la Galette is one of two original windmills remaining in Montmartre.
7. Grab a Macaron Gelato Rose in Montmartre
Just a little further up the road from La Cave des Abbesses is where you'll find the Artisinal Gelato Makers - Amorino. The perfect sweet to your savoury previously enjoyed, Amorino serves up Gelato Flowers with Macaron centres.
8. Catch the Show at La Moulin Rouge, Montmartre
Voulez-vous coucher avec moi ce soir? Probably the only French some of us will remember from the 2001 hit film. But without Christina Aguilera's vocals, the Moulin Rouge has been in the spotlight for a number of years. Opening in 1889, the show was a huge success and even worked to coin the can-can dance.
In fact the word 'Moulin' translates to Windmill, so La Moulin Rouge is really just 'the Red Windmill' since it was once home to - you guessed it - a red windmill, but the one you see today is not the original.
Moulin Rouge isn't the only Burlesque show worth watching, as you'll find out from reading more of the best things to do in Paris!
