Montmartre

Historic district that captures the quintessential bohemian spirit of Paris. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, it offers a vibrant mix of artistic heritage, cobblestone charm, and breathtaking views that make it an essential destination.

An Unforgettable Montmartre Experience with the Amazing Silvia! My partner and I had the absolute best time on our walking tour of Montmartre, and it was all thanks to our incredible local guide, Silvia, from GetYourGuide. She was absolutely fantastic! Montmartre is a beautiful and historic neighborhood, but Silvia's passion and deep knowledge brought its streets to life. She was a wonderful storyteller, sharing fascinating anecdotes about the artists and history that we would have never discovered on our own. She led us through charming hidden courtyards and down secret alleyways, showing us the true soul of the neighborhood beyond the usual tourist spots. Silvia was warm, engaging, and funny, and she made sure everyone in the group felt included. If you are considering a tour of Montmartre, I cannot recommend this one enough. And if you are lucky enough to have Silvia as your guide, you are in for an absolutely memorable experience! Five stars!

The only thing still worth visiting in this place, is the view. Otherwise it has lost its charm. It is packed by crwods and crowds of tourists. Better avoid.

A must see when in Paris Especially the panoramic view towards paris I couldn’t enter the basilique Sacré coeur because of the very loong waiting queue

beautiful place. unfortunately we were not lucky with the weather so views were not very impressive but you have to go and feel the place yourself. absolutely gorgeous

Montmartre, perched above Paris like a quiet dream, captivates with its timeless artistic soul 😊

Montmartre has a magic all its own. It feels like a little world tucked just outside of Paris — even though it’s right in the heart of it. The vibe is effortlessly cool, with that artsy, bohemian energy that makes you feel like the cool kids live here, create here, and hang out in the cafés here. There’s art everywhere — in the streets, on the walls, in the air. It’s creative and a little rustic, full of history and charm. Even though it was swarming with tourists, it didn’t feel like a tourist trap. It felt special. Authentic. Like you’re part of something, even just for a moment. I found the best souvenirs here — unique, personal, not the mass-produced kind — and the people in the shops were honestly some of the friendliest I encountered in Paris. Genuinely charming and warm in a way that surprised me. The parks and gardens add to the magic, and the views from the hill? Unreal. If I come back to Paris (and I will), this is definitely the neighborhood I’d want to stay in. Montmartre is 100% my vibe.

We went at night the cathedral is probably more beautiful if you go on daylight ,but the vibe of night was absolutely amazing. There was music ,people gathering and singing, while you have a fascinating view of Paris.

Montmartre is a large hill (130m/430ft high) in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. Known for the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Moulin Rouge, there is plenty to see and do in the Montmartre area, as well as numerous restaurants. It's a nice neighbourhood to walk around, and if you want some exercise, there are plenty of stairs and elevation. There is also the Montmartre funicular, which runs along the Rue Foyatier up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, to save people from walking up the 222 stairs. Our hotel was in Montmartre, and we loved the area -- I would definitely stay in Montmartre again. We spent our last day in Paris (April 8) walking around Montmartre, and it was one of my favourite days on my three week trip to Europe. While we didn't go into the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, we walked past it. We also stopped in to take a look at the Église Saint-Pierre de Montmartre and the Dali Museum, which were nearby. But the highlights of the day was the Montmartre Cemetery and the busker playing the accordion, with his cat. [Yelp collections: Europe 2024; Paris, France]

Montemartre is a historic area in which you will need to explore to get to the Basilique du Sacre-Coeur. We took the RER E to Magenta and walked to the Gare du Nord to get on the M4 and exited at Chateau Rouge to get to the Montematre. When we arrived to the area, there were many souvenir shops and snack vendors on our way up the mountain. It was quite a treat. There is also a cute merry-go-round at the foot of the Basilique du Sacre-Couer. And don't stop at the Basilique du Sacre-Coeur. There are more hidden gems to be found. We explored into this hidden area with artists of all types: chalk, paint, pens, etc and painting, caricature, impressionism, portrait, drawings... and many works of premade art on display. The air was so lively and fascinating. If I didn't have to worry about a few more flights and trainings to be on and worried about damage, I would have purchased a custom piece of art. There are also a lot of cute boutiques, cafes, and other stairways of magnificent views from the peak. I recommend setting aside ample time to wonder the area at your own leisure.

Amazing part of Paris. Definitely come here. The Arts, history, food, great souvenirs. We came to visit Sacre Coeur and stayed for a while after visiting Pere Lachaise. The views from Sacre Coeur are breathtaking. We didn't go inside because it was misting rain and the line was well past the beginning of the steps to get to Sacre Coeur......that's a whole lot of steps. So we walked around Montmarte. Since we were very close to other major historical and cultural places of interest, there were cafés and bars all over. So we snacked and drank, and bought souvenirs before heading to dinner. We loved Montmarte! Will definitely come back on our next visit.

I personally never heard of Montmartre, but it's yet another must-see aspect of Paris! Amongst other things, it's a vibrant and popular section of town that sits atop a 430' hill offering great views of Paris. For another, it's home to the scenic and historic Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur of Montmartre. And finally, it's known for its artistic history and is the night club and red light district of Paris and the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret is not far away. There are a ton of restaurants, cafes, and shops at the top of the hill and the streets were packed during our mid-day walking tour. The area is filled with tourists and locals alike and it's pick-pocket heaven here, so beware. There's also a funicular available for making the trip both up and down the hill but it's a relatively easy hike if you're at 100% normal health. Don't miss a visit to Montmartre!

Montmarte is absolutely one of my favorite is a hill in Paris's northern 18th arrondissement. It is 130 m (430 ft) high and gives its name to the surrounding district, part of the Right Bank. Montmartre is primarily known for its artistic history, for the white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur on its summit, and as a nightclub district. I've been to Paris with my daughter on my most recent visit. I'm going to post some photos. It's a great place to spend at least one day during your Paris visit. I'm highly recommending.

The incubation neighborhood of world famous artists ~ Picasso, Renoir and Van Gogh to name a few. Stroll along the cobblestone streets because the sidewalks are amassed with art vendors and crafty goods. Find the street musician playing the romantic accordion with his cat lazily perched on his shoulder. Restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating surround the block to soak in the Montmatre moment. Highly recommended to include in your itinerary!

Love this neighborhood. It can be really crowded in summer time, but the view is priceless. You can see the pink house, Dali exhibition and lots of art galleries. The vibe of outdoors cafés and nice houses makes feel happy. This place should be on your list for sure.

A MUST MUST MUST SEE, one of my favorite places in Paris!! Montmartre is one of the highest elevated areas in Paris, and at its hilltop sits the magnificent and iconic Sacre Coeur, which is again a must-visit attraction. The panoramic view of the entire of Paris from there is just spectacular, but there's more. The street is packed with lively artists, shops, bistros, restaurants, and fast food outlets. It's a great place to wander, enjoying the cobbled streets and beautiful architecture that hasn't lost its old-style French village charm. On the streets, you will see many street artists exhibiting their artwork and drawing portraits of visitors, which reminds us of the time when Montmartre used to be the art hub with legends back then. And the fact that artists like Claude Monet, Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh(to name a few) embraced these streets makes it much more fascinating! Exploring more, you could immerse in the charm of vintage cafes like "Le Consulat" and "La Maison Rose" that these artists preferred visiting frequently. But beware that not all street artists do well, I got my portrait done, and it looked nothing like me. However, I was fine, since I did that just for an experience! Our last stop here was the world-famous Moulin Rouge, the birthplace of French Cancan. They say, "If you don't watch a show here, you haven't been to Montmartre." A not to miss Parisian show showcasing the glamorous and extravagant experience of French Cancan!!

A must see when in Paris. The lines were pretty insane though so we skipped inside and just walked around the outside. A beautiful view of the city from the steps.

Montmartre itself is very interesting! It's at the top of a hill, so be prepared for a hike. I personally purchased an audio tour, which was enjoyable, but a ton of walking! In the area there is also a vineyard, which is the only vineyard in Paris proper. There is a tour, but I do not recommend joining, unless you speak French as there is no English option.

This area of Paris is worth a special trip and is one of the top destinations when in Paris as you have awesome views and are able to browse and purchase some local artists, which are some of the best in the world.

This is a part of the city where one definitely gets a taste of the local flavor, through the eyes of a tourist. Very touristy. There are a crowd of local artists here, waiting for tourists to buy their paintings of Paris. It's the street art on the way up here that is most interesting.

Do take my words- come here (Square of Tertre) and spend a few hours. It's worth spending time exploring Montmartre. Cute cafes and bistro, Souvenirs shops, Artist there to paint you, the history associated with this area, all make it magnificent. It is just blocks away from the famous Sacre Coeur. I was a little disappointed about the last day but after visiting here, I was like this is the Paris I came for. I was happy # Pharrell Williams Once a little medieval village in the country, Montmartre blends old-fashioned charm with an avant-garde edge. Winding cobblestone streets and pedestrian staircases lead to quaint boutiques, hidden art galleries, Book stores and quiet squares filled with outdoor cafés. Don't forget to taste Gelato. it's awesome and some souvenirs shops have really good collections. Many artists are setting up their easels to paint tourists or exhibit their work. Place du Tertre is a reminder of the time when Montmartre was the hub of modern art in the early 20th century; many artists such as Amedeo Modigliani, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh worked there. The Espace Salvador Dalí, a museum dedicated primarily to sculpture and drawings of the Spanish painter, can be found a few steps from the Square of Tertre. Also, the famous cabaret Moulin Rouge is located in this area. Here you can google and find Van Gogh's home (for 2 years he stayed there with his brother) Note: you would have to climb lots of stairs to reach here. Better take toy train, it's running between the metro station and basilica.

Stayed in Pigalle nearby to Montmarte. Decided to explored up Montmarte and was glad that I did. Some cute/interesting streets and a very cool vibe with all the people, street performers, etc. Would definitely recommend exploring this area.

"That is love, to give away everything, to sacrifice everything, without the slightest desire to get anything in return." Paris 1942... La Résistance! La Résistance aka the French Résistance. C'est cela l'amour, tout donner, tout sacrifier sans espoir de retour. True essence of Parisian! Everyone talks about the quaint cafes and art culture in this wonderful French neighborhood. I get it! Yet I can't help to delve into the history of Montmartre. Montmartre is bordered via rue Caulaincourt and rue Custine on the north, rue de Clignancourt on the east, and boulevard de Clichy and boulevard de Rochechouart to the south. It is well known for its art culture and historic landmarks such as Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur; Moulin Rouge; Musée de Montmartre; The Place Dalida; and the Wall of Love in the Jehan Rictus garden square. You can get history lessons just by walking the centuries old cobble stone alleyway's, which of course I did. If you know me, you know how much I'm a history romantic and just love wanderlusting lol. I really enjoyed browsing the streets of Montmartre. In fact, one of my favorite hidden cafes is in this neighborhood: Le Grenier à Pain. That's if you're into fabulous croissants and café done right! You're welcome! The French cafés, the theatres, the boutiques, the Parisian lifestyle. Yet, I couldn't help reflect how this was one of the centers of the French Résistance when Nazi Germany stormed France and occupied Paris. Some critics say the French were weak by falling so fast to a more dominant Nazi blitzkrieg. I beg to differ. I look at the Parisian people as fighters, yet realist. To me, after decades of history lessons and walking these historic streets, I have my own theory. Today, we can walk the streets of Paris and see so many historic sights. We can see so much art culture. And we can see those Parisian citizens that survived WWII by not being weak, but by being strong. As the Nazis would find out by the war within the war that the French Résistance would bring to them in neighborhoods like Montmartre! In the end, I highly recommend a stroll in Montmartre. Discover the cafés, window shop the boutiques, smile at the Parisians. A historic neighborhood that once Renoir, Monet, and Picasso called home. Home to icon Dalida, where she also tragically died. A Parisian love story that had a tragic ending. Film Noir? Hey, I'm in Paris... and it doesn't get any better than the Montmartre. Je t'aime!

To get here you can pay to get up the hill by tram or you can walk-up like I did, it was tiring but fun. At the end, you feel accomplished. First you will find the Sacre Coeur with a fantastic view of Paris, you can even see the Eifel Tower from here, just go by the dog park which is right in front of the cathedral. After you take some pictures by the stairs or/and in front of the cathedral you can go right to the back and walk Montmartre, the streets of the Saint Denis whose statue you will find by Dalida's house passing Picasso's first studio. The pink cute houses were my favorites. It is an artsy and cute town with lots of shops for souvenirs and restaurants. You will also see people painting and selling their artworks at a high price, reminded me of the movie An American in Paris. Drink some expresso, eat a croissant and wear a beret and take some fantastic pictures in this picturesque town, it is as beautiful and as cute as can be.

Montmartre is at the heart of bohemian Paris, right out of La Boheme. The mos imposing and celebrated landmark is the Sacré-Coeur Basilique. A Catholic Church full of religious pageantry during their services. The experience is Godly. The view from its steps of Paris at her feet are spectacular. One can climb the steps to the top of the hill or take a funicular. I chose the latter. Right next to the Basilica is the Place du Tertre, a square where artist paint your portraits, sell their paints. Every inch is taken. This square is surrounded by bars, restaurants, shops. Museums, shops, eateries abound in the surrounding streets full of tourists. Even on a beautiful sunny, cold January morning Ona can fully enjoy the picturesque and unique place that is Montmartre. Imagine the artistic core that once was. A must when in Paris.

Montmartre was one of my favorite areas in all of Paris. It's atop a big hill known mostly for Basilica of the Sacré Cœur and artsy folk. Our favorite area was the Place du Tertre which is filled with artists painting (no pictures are supposed to be taken of their paintings - they want your moneys)! And people coming up to you willing to draw your pictures. There are souvenir shops galore with pretty cheap prices for kitschy items. It's super chill, super fun to take some time and walk around in this little area of cobblestone paths.

Adorable old village like neighborhood behind Sacre Coeur. You better have some strong legs when you start you ascent up....it's all about the hill action, people! Great for the calves. The local artisans and sketch artists will approach you - they are persuasive, but as an artist the last thing I need is a portrait of myself. Still, support the locals in your own way. Walk all the way around and check out the cobblestone charm. Souvenirs galore - enjoy the culture. Ooo la la.

Montmartre is located in Paris not too far from the central area. Words can't describe how breath taking the castle and the view of the city from the top side is. Located inside the castle or the "chateau" as they say in French, is a church which was holding a ceremony during my visit. Near the stairway with the view of the city is some small fences with have a bunch of locks left from travelers and lovers across the globe and the city. I love how there is also a village like area that has plenty of shops selling foods, coffee, desserts, souvenirs, painters selling their beautiful artwork, and plenty of nice streets. I also like how it was not too crowded or busy as compared to the Eiffel Tower. If you do visit Paris this place is a must.

The surrounding area of Montmartre is simply stunning. Skyline, Lights, artictecturhe, fountains & flowers. Basilica of Sacre-Coeur (the big white church) sits on the crest of the hill while Boulevard de Clichy sits at the bust street level. I highly suggest you Uber to the area and get dropped off on Clichy. Avoid riding up as you will definitely want to capture all the wonderful things on the hike up hill. Once you've climbed the hundreds of stairs the very top of the hill offers a breathtaking view of the city. Perfect for photo ops. On the hike up you will be inundated with artists, art works, souvenir shops, Parisians, peddlers and picturesque views! Take your time to take it all in. You'll likely work up an appetite so take advantage of the time up top. Take a tour of the Basilica. Have a lovely dinner at one of the many great restaurants. Enjoy a crepe for dessert and grab a few souvenirs on your way back down. I caution you not to allow peddlers or street performers to touch you by taking your hand or demonstrating tricks. As they will not unhand you until you give them a monetary tip. Nothing aggressive however this is how they make their living. Remember: *Uber to street level *Wear walking shoes *Bring a camera *Keep belongings close to your person *Hands in pocket on the walk up S'Muser, ~Christy

The highest natural point in Paris, the views here are amazing. While the church isn't that old it's very nice and worth a look. Down the street are great restaurants. To get here you can use a metro ticket to take the funicular up the hill, or climb the steps if you're up to it.

The must-see neighborhood of Paris France. located near the Basilica Sacre Coeur. Here you will find Street musicians artists in Accra restaurants where you can sit under the trees and smell the air and watch the artist sell their trade. There is always and abundance of people here having fun singing people watching sitting at a cafe and having a glass of wine watching the world go by. In the evening most of the clubs that surround this tiny Square play a variety of different types of music well worth the trip to go and see and when you're done you walk over to the Basilica and see Paris at night. It's a little square but it is so popular and so loved but has become very very tasty in the last 30 years. So make sure you take the time to look deeper into this unique little gem in the city this area that is loved by all.

This is off the beaten bath of the "dirty district" but worth it. where all the locals are and where toy can find hidden gems like "The man in the wall".

Take a "Paris Walks" tour of this area. You will see areas you would never see or know about on your own & learn a lot about the area & its history. There are designer co-op shops that have affordable one of a kind garments all handmade! Hats, jewelry & clothing. The tour guides give awesome recommendations for places to explore more and places that are great to eat in or take out.

So what, it's touristy and there are allot of steps...You've got to do it! When you make it to the main square you will find artists painting all around the square...now these just aren't any artists, these artists have been approved by Paris to paint for your pleasure. That means these guys are talented and have been allowed to paint for tourists because of their talent, buy something from them, it's art from Paris! Also the view is outstanding, take a few pictures, buy souvenirs, explore and have lunch. We needed more time at Montmartre, I would suggest taking a cab or Uber to the top if you don't want to walk the steps from the Metro.

So we came here on a long subway ride, hoping we will get a panorama view of Paris but to my disappointment, we didn't. We couldn't even see Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triumphe from the Church. There are a lot of people just hanging around the church and on the lawn nearby. The nearby area is full of souvenir shops and coffee shops so it has turned quite touristy already. You can get off at the Absess Stop and take a short lift to go to the top and just walk down so you are not exhausted from climbing. Another thing to be aware of is there will be locals trying to force a bracelet on you. Do not let them do it because you will have to pay for it.

Montmartre was the heart of artistic Paris in the late 1800's and early 1900's. The artists have all died or moved away, but the charm of Montmartre still exists. Sure there are plenty of tourists and tourist traps, but you can still find that old Parisian charm here. This area is a must visit for your stay in Paris. Tip: Begin your journey at the Anvers metro stop.

Montmarte is my favorite district in Paris. It has a lot of character. Although a bit seedy, there are so many interesting stores and restaurants. Stores actually had reasonably priced souvenirs here. It is also home to the infamous Moulin Rouge.

While walking up the steps to the church a group of African Parisians (or dark skin men) stood in front of us, blocking us, holding up a string bracelet. I said no thank you and the man tried grabbing my arm and I told him not to touch me while my girlfriend tried walking around them when another man continued to block her and grabbed her arm. She said "don't touch me" and so did I, and we walked away up to the church. About an hour or 2 later, my girlfriend noticed her burberry sunglasses case was missing. Fortunately, her sunglasses were not in the case. We believe it was the aggressive bracelet men that grabbed us, who took her case. This happened on the steps walking up, and my hope is that by reading this review, it will help others avoid being pickpocketed, and help catch the pickpocketers. I wish there was more police presence there, as I wouldn't think these men would grab tourists if the police were there. Other than this incident, it was a fun experience, but beware.

From reading all the reviews about the 'bracelet guys' and beggars in Montmartre, I was a little nervous during out excursion out there. However it seems my fears were all for nothing as the city was delightful and we never felt threatened or nervous at all :) Note: We visited in September 2016

I don't know what scary French looks like. I was told it was scary and dangerous and lurky and pickpockety, and I totally could see the lurkiness and pickpocketry angles, but scary? dangerous? Non non, mon amie, non non. (And I know that's wrong. I don't know how to write it, and I don't care! So there.) The hill dominates everything, and the church is spectacular. I love dark old churches, and so should you. Take some time off from taking pictures and just enjoy yourself or try to be scared. I tried really really really hard to be scared, but besides protecting my wallet, there wasn't much I needed to do. Steps and I have a strange, longstanding relationship. They used to give me asthma; now, they just exhaust me. They reminded me of those random steps in Larkspur for some reason, even though they're nothing alike. This was the first place in Paris I heard stereotypical Frenchy music wafting from a cafe. There was a guy with a little accordion in there, and he was wearing a striped shirt. Not a normal striped shirt--a stereotypical Frenchy striped shirt. Big wide white and red horizontal stripes. No beret, but all the dude needed was white face paint, and he would have been a Frenchy mime.

What an amazing area of Paris that is not explored enough. Tons to do and see in this area, many paths, walkways and gardens just waiting to be discovered. You can get excellent views of Paris (without eiffel tower) at the Sacre Coure and some excercise walking to the top, where you can sit and chat or even having a picnic. Once you get off the metro at abbsses you can walk along the side streets with souvenior shops galore, head into a nearby starbucks for a coffee, gurrisol thrift shop for a quick cheap shopping experience or the moulin rouge for pictures. This arwais however mostly filled with tourists so beware of pickpockets and clueless people that dont speak any english.

A Unique Vibe As many have mentioned, there is a feeling to Montmartre that doesn't exist anywhere else in Paris. It is worth spending a morning, an afternoon, a day, or even a few days getting familiar with this area.

Im shocked by how people seem to adore this area. Its a tourist trap if I've ever seen one. Nothing but gift shops, overpriced artists, mediocre restaurants, and globs of shady street vendors. People watching is the only highlight of this environment. You are better off going somewhere else.

This neighborhood in the 18th has a little of everything. The basilica is obviously the central point, but Montmartre was known back in the day as an artists commune. Much like such neighborhoods in NYC, it was allegedly better back in the day. One can see how this would be true - most of the artist obvious activity here is street pointers and portrait sketchers mugging for tourists. Still, between the artwork, shopping, Basilica, seedier panhandling elements, and the sex district of Pigalle right below, Montmartre has something for everyone. Although close, it's a little off the path of the Seine. Spending a half a day or more if you have it available.

A pleasure to walk around. We had a great time strolling through this neighborhood in November 2012 and looking at all sorts of different art, postcards, music boxes, caricatures, etc. It's a great place to go eye shopping or buy a few souvenirs or two.

This is a great area to walk around to window shop and enjoy the sights. There is a fantastic overview of the city from in front of Sacre Coeur. There are little streets lines with interesting shops, accentuated by hills and some steep climbs. We spent about half a day walking around and could have done more. Although busy with tourists, it has an entirely different feel than the rest of the city. We took the metro and it worked out great. There is a market square with tons of artists who will draw your picture. Just a great area to relax and take in a different element of Paris.

Amazing place for people watching and spending an afternoon, complete with plenty of dining options. There are a plethora of artists offering their services here, ranging from caricatures to photo-realistic portraits, all for under 100 Euros (that I know of).

We were super disappointed by this area in Paris. Multiple people recommended we go so on our last day we thought we're walk over and stroll around for a more casual day....what we found was a VERY touristy area with so many people you could hardly walk. Very dirty streets and men on the streets trying to trick tourists with bets. The view at the very top was beautiful but definitely not worth the long walk and crowds. Oh and the moulin rouge area is also so trashy. I'm all about culture and almost got tickets to see the show but the area is just gross. It's just a strip of sex shops..which again is all fine but there's no real appeal to the area. There's sex shops in the US...you've seen one you've seen them all. We must have missed something from this area or it's changed.

Montmartre district is on a hill and is known mostly for the Basilica of the Sacré Cœur on its summit. Many artists had studios here - Dalí, Monet, Picasso, and van Gogh. The cafés, the cabarets, the architecture, the steps, and the funiculaire - this is a place full of charm - but what part of Paris isn't?

One of my favorite sections of Paris. Beautiful shops, restaurants, Sacre' Coeur for sightseeing and you must buy a piece of art in the center square. Great art for a very reasonable price. Area right near the Moulin Rouge seems a little seedy.

Montmartre's most famous landmark, Sacre Coeur, sits high above Paris and is visible from much of the city. However, in contrast to its grandeur, much of Montmartre retains a village-like feel. Before climbing the hill, it's worth having a look at the area round the metro station of Abbesses: you come out onto an attractive square with the unusual brick-and-mosaic church of St Jean. There are small, interesting bars and shops which range from antiques to modern design. To climb up to Sacre Coeur, you have a range of choices: take the relatively leisurely route up rue Lepic which can be steep but isn't precipitous; if you're feeling really fit, take the flight of stairs straight up; or for a lazier alternative, there's the funicular. At the top, the Place Dutertre is crammed with artists and tourists; the constant offers of portraits can get irritating. Early morning is probably the best time to look around here, before most tourists arrive. A few steps, though, takes you into the quieter village heart of Montmartre where its history of artists, musicians and cabaret is still to the fore. Look for Montmartre's last vineyard, the painted sign on the Lapin Agile cabaret, and memorial plaques, signs and pieces of art all around. To really get a feel for the area and its history, wander around the Musee de Montmartre. This museum will take you back to a time when the area was full of windmills and vines, introduce you to the famous artists and writers who lived here, and explain just why the building of Sacre Coeur was very controversial.

It's just how you imagine Paris! We had a day, all too short, and spent 3 hours wandering around this lovely place. A beautiful, bright blue, cloudless sky just made it even more fantastic. The only downside were the aggressive, persitent, slightly scary touts and beggars around the base of the Sacre Coeur. I remember my last trip to Paris a few years back had the same problem; maybe they need to look at this. However, as we ony had a day, the rest of it was spent in relative comfort on a tour bus. Love the city.xx

I have mixed feelings about this icon Parisian landmark. Like many historical masterpieces, it is only a faded-out copy of how grand it once was. Due to the inability of Europeans to truly tap into the amazing historical beauties: time, pollution, uncivilized behavior are truly starting to affect places such as Montmartre. Tourist traps (aka "typical" stores/restaurants) are slowly ruining the magic atmosphere that once was the core of this vibrant neighborhood. Many painters, poets, musicians lived their "damned" lives in this promiscuous part of "la ville lumière". Though it may NOT be as vibrantly amazing as it once was, one can still venture up and down those many stairs and slightly unfamiliar tiny maze of streets and still find a painter attentively working on their latest "masterpiece". So, up to you to just surf around the "touristy feel" and go hunt for those hidden gems this neighborhood is still capable to jealously hide from the inattentive eye.

Ok so it smacks of tourist trap, but we pick up some lovely paintings, visited the church, and had a nice lunch at cafe cousines. If you only have a couple days in Paris I would skip it. We saved this for our last day since we wanted a relaxing day before leaving Paris the next day.

Monmartre is the artist hill in Paris and one of my favorite stops in the city! The hilltop provides incredible views of the city with an artsy, relaxing feel. Take the metro to Anvers M (line 2) then up Rue de Steinkerque which is a steep short street to either climb the many stairs up the hill or ride the Funiculaire Monmartre- Station Superierure cable car to the top if you prefer. We chose to walk the narrow, steep stairs and found it fun, if work, to get to the top. However, if you need a break there are many little rest stops along the way in the form of bars and restaurants with a couple of funny guiding remarks carved into the step fronts on the way up. At the top is Sacre Couer/Sacred Heart Basilica and if you follow the path around and slightly uphill, the artist's village. There is a square of sorts with painters and artwork displayed throughout as well as a few meandering cobble stone streets to explore. This is a great area to take a sidewalk table to peoplewatch while you eat. We chose a restaurant in the midst of the square. While touristy in pricing, the awnings and atmosphere were great and we enjoyed a late afternoon lunch in the shade before shopping the artist's displays. Once you have enjoyed the atmosphere and character of the artist's venue, move to the front of the Basilica down the front steps to enjoy the view with a pleasant plaza, park and path meandering down the hill you climbed earlier in the day. There are many natives and tourists enjoying pleasant afternoons in this plaza area so take a moment, sit on the steps and enjoy the view and good weather!

A beautiful part of the city, Montmartre is definitely an area that deserves a visit, even if you only go through it to get to Sacre Coeur. The Montmartre area feels slightly as if it were not part of the busy cosmopolitan of Paris, the way how you still get small stores open, the layout and the total lack of large brands appearing on every corner, it feels like it is a detached town. Hidden along the streets of Montmartre are many stores selling all sorts of items, from basic decorative pieces to one or two wine yards and antique stores. Not an expert on these myself, but I simply found the variety added to the atmosphere. Enjoy the walk up to Sacre Coeur, since once you get neay the basilica, you will be surrounded by artists (con or not I have no idea) of all sorts trying to help you take photos, draw pictures or simply sell you souvenirs. This slightly kills the atmosphere in the area, commercializing it all of a sudden. Nevertheless, Montmartre is still worth a visit.

artist quarter every bit what i imagined it to be you can get a charicature of yourself done or buy original art cash or credit card ~*~ don't forget to buy some snacks along the way as you troll around the square for a souvenir~