If there’s one neighborhood in this ever-changing capital city I can’t get enough of, it’s Montmartre. Montmartre was never a well-beaten place in Paris, but it soon transformed into one of Paris’ most visited destinations from a once-independent village. Ironically, you can still feel pretty much its old and artsy vibe when walking down the winding roads and cobbled streets.
It’s a place where the vine-covered houses are nestled by quaint eateries and cafes, where the controversial yet symbolic Moulin Rouge still stands the test of time.
It seems as if all the cobblestone alleys and little eateries pop out at the same time to deliver a real vintage vibe that we all have seen in typical European postcards. At the end of the day, the real question here is: why is this part of Paris’s 18th arrondissement so special? What are the must-see spots? And how to plan the best itinerary? Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Montmartre at least once in your life.
Check out the Nostalgic Yet Controversial Moulin Rouge (Dinner Show Recommended)
Once leaving the Blanche station behind, the iconic Moulin Rouge building splashed in a shocking deep red color is not far away, wearing a big windmill on top of the roof. This symbolic attraction sits at the foot of Montmartre Hill, in the middle of the Red Light District of Paris.
The Red Light District surrounding District 18 came to life following the end of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870. Today, most of the people you see standing outside the gate are largely tourists, clicking away with their cameras.
Watching the world-renowned show was not part of my bucket list. As of today, tourists are hypnotized by what’s going on in Las Vegas with many of its shows catered toward visitors as opposed to residents. But if you’re looking for the best tickets to include on your list, check out this dinner ‘Féerie Show’ (vegan courses are available).
Snap Some Shots at Cafe des Deux Moulins
Walk uphill along a path next to the Moulin Rouge building, it soon leads you to Café des Deux Moulins, a typical cafe set up at the west end of Montmartre hill. While the reviews online are not very forgiving about the service and quality of the place, I do not hold any negative comments against it.
Culture-wise, Cafe des Deux Moulins still offers a unique experience and reminds us of the long-standing TV show debut back in 2002: “Amélie”. To live up to the vibe, you can pop by having a look through the window and snag some shots outside. But that being said, I will not stop you from checking out the drinks yourself.
Eat till you Drop at Gontran Cherrier Artisan Boulanger
It’s a huge mistake if you skip on the heart-warming bread while in Paris. Leaving Cafe des Deux Moulins behind, I decided to pop into this well-received bakery and get my hands on some warm, crunchy pastry to get me through the day. The whimsical store is located at a busy corner, offering everything a hungry stomach is looking for: a wide series of everything pastry-related, from artisan to signature.
You will be spoiled by a huge range of bread of different flavors. They offer both takeaways and dine-in. I got myself a flavorful treat of galette des rois, and of course – a pain au chocolat.
Sneak Out to the Find the ‘Witch’ of Passage de la Sorcière
Midway from Gontran Cherrier Artisan Boulanger to Le Moulin de la Galette, I passed by a turquoise townhouse complex next to a staircase. Legend has it that an old lady was living behind the staircase as a witch in disguise. For that reason, the name ‘Passage de la Sorcière’ is loosely translated into ‘the passage of the witch’.
Check out the 17th-Century Old Mill of Le Moulin de la Galette
Coming to life in 1622 under the name of the Moulin du Palais (Palais Mill), Le Moulin de la Galette is a historical flour manufacturer with a big wooden mill on top of the roof. In 1870, Moulin du Palais transformed into an outdoor dancehall and tavern to team up with the neighboring Radet Mill. Shortly after, Moulin du Palais received a new name from the Debray family, which is now known as Le Moulin de la Galette.
Along with the Radet Mill, Le Moulin de la Galette is one of the last survivors of the thirty mills of Montmartre hill.
Pose with the Passe-Muraille Statue
Depicted Léon, a famous character from the nostalgic novel “The Man Who Could Walk Through Walls” by Marcel Ayme with an ability to walk through walls wherever he likes, the Passe-Muraille statue is now located in a private car park in rue Norvins in Montmartre.
Pay Tribute at Place Dalida
On the way from the Passe-Muraille statue to the Vigne du Clos Montmartre vineyard, I passed by a small, secluded square featuring a half-body statue of Dalida, a French music icon with her breast glittered in gold. As a twist of fate, she committed suicide after dedicating her whole life to the music industry with numerous awards. She is now resting in peace at the ‘Tomb of Dalida’ in Montmartre Cemetery.
Visit the Vigne du Clos Montmartre
Despite sitting in a busy part of Paris, there lies the oldest vineyard in the capital city called Vigne du Clos Montmartre. Back in the 17th century, the village of Montmartre hill was full of vineyards as wine was the primary occupation of the local residents.
Following rapid urbanization, most of the vineyards were shut down. However, in an effort of bringing the lost culture back to life, the municipal government replanted more than 2000 grapes in this area, most of which are Gamay and Pinot Noir. However, access to Vigne du Clos Montmartre is off-limit unless you have an appointment or when there is a festival.
Kick Back at Cabaret Au Lapin Agile
End your day on a high note with a visit to Cabaret Au Lapin Agile, a get-together venue of Parisian elites and musicians for a fabulous evening. The bar now sets foot in an old 19th-century stone house.
Walk to Sacré Coeur
At the end of the trip, I made my way to visit one of the most talked-about cultural icons of Paris, the Sacré Coeur. Sitting on the very top of Montmartre hill, Sacré Coeur is accessible via a short hike uphill. Alternatively, you can take a sightseeing train in red and white to get there in 35 minutes.
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If you visit Sacré Coeur for the first time, it’s worth checking out my review and travel guide right here to avoid unwanted scams, how to get there, and what to see along the way.
If you’re wondering how to make the most of your trip around Montmartre, sign up for a walking city tour. No more getting lost, explore the best-hidden gems, and learn as much as you can from all the iconic spots.
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