Planning a trip to Paris soon ? If so, you should definitely add Montmartre to your itinerary. You cannot fully experience Paris without visiting the most beautiful and charming neighborhood. Sacré Coeur, Sinking house, cute colorful cafés and restaurants are what you should expect from your time there. Walking in Montmartre is like stepping back in time ! You will get all the old Paris vibes. In this article, you will find everything you need to know about Montmartre and what are the best things to do.
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Things to know before visiting Montmartre
Montmartre is located in the 18th arrondissement in Paris. It is known for its lively ambiance and artistic history. The landmark of Montmartre is the Basilica of Sacré Coeur with its white dome which is a true masterpiece. The narrow streets and the amazing panoramic views of Montmartre attract thousands of tourists all year round ! So, it is one of the best photo spots in the City of Love. You should try to visit it as early as possible if you want to enjoy a quiet and romantic stroll through the neighborhood. We would also suggest visiting Montmartre if you are looking for an authentic French cuisine experience. The adorable cafés and restaurants are perfect for a delicious breakfast or lunch.
As you may already know, Paris is one of the most visited and expensive cities in Europe. That’s why we recommend getting a Paris Pass that offers an unlimited access to all the attractions. This way you will be able to visit all the main attractions and museums such as the Sacré Coeur, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre museum etc at a better price and without wasting time in long queues.
How to get to Montmartre ?
Access to Montmartre is very easy. You can take the metro (line 2 and 12) and it will take you about 40 minutes to get there from central Paris. We would not recommend getting to Montmartre by car, as there is a lot of traffic in Paris, especially at rush hour. It is very walkable, so it is perfect for nice long walks around the neighborhood. However, there are many steps to climb to reach the top of Montmartre. So, you will need comfortable shoes and your camera to photograph this unique area of Paris.
How long to spend in Montmartre ?
Montmartre has many things to do and see. That’s why we suggest you spend a whole day there, get lost in its cobbled alleys and admire the unique art and historical structures. But, if you want to take beautiful photos and videos, you probably need more than one day as it gets crowded early, especially on weekends. We visited Montmartre twice on our last trip to Paris and wish we had even more time to fully enjoy it. However, if you are on a day trip to Paris, you can easily spend 2-4 hours in this wonderful neighborhood to experience its unique beauty and vibes !
Where to stay in Montmartre ?
For us, Montmartre is one of the best places to base yourself during your trip to Paris. Everything is adorable and the buildings take you back to another era. However, it is almost impossible to find affordable accommodation in Montmartre. So, it totally depends on your preferences and needs. If you want a romantic stay in Paris, this wonderful neighborhood is the right place for you. Our advice is to book your stay in Montmartre as early as possible for more options available at better prices.
Best things to do in Montmartre
1-Visiting the Sacré-Coeur
The Basilica of Sacré Coeur is the landmark of Montmartre and will leave you speechless with its brilliant architecture. Apart from this masterpiece, the whole surrounding area is something else with stunning panoramic views of Paris. Be aware that the area around Sacré Coeur is a target for many pickpockets. Therefore, you should always keep an eye on your belongings ! Entry to the Basilica is free and open from 6am to 10.30pm. However, if you are interesting in learning more about Sacré Coeur and Montmartre, we recommend booking a guided tour.
2-Photographing the Sinking House
Just a few steps from the Sacré Coeur, you will find the famous Sinking House. From the photos, you get the impression that is a house that is sunken into the ground. But, it is just a visual trick that’s a lot of fun to photograph !
3-Exploring the Montmartre town
We can’t think of a more photogenic place in Paris than Montmartre. Wherever you go, there is something magical. Little streets and old classical buildings make the whole scenery so romantic ! Although Montmartre is in the northern part of Paris, you can even spot the Eiffel Tower. It is really worth wandering around the neighborhood and enjoying its main attractions.
The highlight of our time in Montmartre is when we got lost to discover its gems. The central square called “Place du Tertre” reflects the great artistic influence. Imagine drinking your morning coffee or having a proper French meal overlooking the bustling atmosphere of Montmartre. It is an experience in itself and one of the best things to do in Paris. If you are a foodie, you must take a food tour of Montmartre which is a real treat, especially for cheese and wine lovers !
Final Thoughts
Going to Montmartre is one of the main reasons to visit Paris. This neighborhood is so unique and a magnet for all the art and history lovers out there. The vibrant ambiance and architectural masterpieces make is a must-visit place in France ! We can only recommend it and if you can afford it, staying in Montmartre is a completely different experience.
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