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best things to do in montmartre

10 Best Things to Do in Montmartre, Paris

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Montmartre otherwise known as The Mountain Of Martyrs should be one of the places in your Itinerary to go to in France. Why? Because top things to do or must-see places to visit in this popular district of Paris are endless.

From dining in the best places to eat in Montmartre, to walking in the footsteps of famous celebrities such as Vincent Van Gogh and Pablo Picasso, breathing the same air and inspiration, to being surrounded by beautiful, picturesque bohemian architecture.

Each brick that paves the way in this charming quarter is bound to carry a story! Just ask any of the locals living in Montmartre when you sit down for a cup of coffee or whilst roaming the streets.

Being an area filled with endless amounts of opportunities for adventure, our guide will set you in the right direction to ensure that you cover all the MUST SEE and MUST GO places.

1. Abbesses

First up- getting to Montmartre! Take this opportunity to travel to Montmartre by The Metropolitan (known affectionately to locals as the Metro), it is both cheap and fast!

The nearest stop is Abbesses, which is the deepest train station in Paris because Montmartre is known to be a huge hill in itself. Exploring the neighbourhood of Montmarte alone can be quite a daunting feat.

Not-to-miss: Located only a few minutes from Abbesses, home-chef Mesny’s widely popular Macaron Making Class offers an opportunity to learn to make the most Famous French dessert.

macaron making class

2. The Basilica of Sacre-Coeur

The Basilica of Sacre-Coeur is the white-domed church, located near the Abbesses metro station, which cannot be missed because it is the most iconic attraction when reaching Montmartre as it towers over the city. Even just googling about Montmartre itself will unearth hundreds of tourist photos of the monument.

Being steeped in important French history, this first location will be able to satisfy all art and history fans out there. For the Basilica of Sacre-Coeur signified the defeat of France in the 1871 and acts as a tribute to the 58,000 lives lost.

(note: if you’re into dining in history, feel free to check out Typical Parisian dinner in classic 19th century setting.)

To find out more, there are audio tours readily available for you in different languages that are FREE OF CHARGE. The Sacre-Coeur is not just a tourist attraction, it is also still a church and for those of you interested, the mass timings are from Monday to friday, 7am, 11.15am, 3pm (friday only), 6.30pm and 10pm.

 

3. The Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is known as a cabaret that was founded and built in 1889 and ever since then it has been coined the modern birthplace of can-can, which is a seductive dance that later turned into a form of entertainment.

Today, it still retains its antiquity and atmosphere as a place of entertainment for guest all over the world. This is an absolute must-see and must-go…Do not miss out on this opportunity, for there are line-ups for shows which you can go and book a reservation for and be blown off your feet.

The above mentionedHome-chef Mesny’s widely popular Macaron Making Class is only a few hundred meters away from Moulin Rouge.

Rue de SteinKerque

4. Rue de Steinkerque – A Destination for Smart Shopping

The streets of Rue de Steinkerque are filled with little shops with T-shirts and trinket peddlers, where you could easily bargain and snatch up some cheap deals. Every Saturday in the wee hours of the morning there will be trucks that drive up next to these little shops, followed by a line of workers jumping out of the truck carrying huge boxes of clothing and ‘’one, two, three’’ they swing and dump the clothes infront of the store baskets and then in a similar manner jump back onto the truck and off they go. Now, you will witness a crowd of eager shoppers trying to secure the best deals. If you are in Montmartre, Paris on a Saturday morning you can head over and join the buzz.

Apart from the countless shopping opportunities, there are also many cafes! Some of the highlights include La Cure Gourmande and Maison George Larnicol Chocolaterie. Time spent here in Rue de Steinkerque will never be a waste of time!

Musee de Montmartre

5. Musée de Montmartre

To really say that you have been to Montmartre you have to visit the Musée de Montmartre as the pieces displayed are symbols of the charming architecture that surrounds the whole city. Furthermore, this museum is set in a home that was a common meeting place for many artist and writers.

In 2011 the new owner redesigned the place in hope to further recreate the idea of homeliness, as well as still retaining its former importance of a meeting ground and hence included an extended venue, Renoir gardens, opened only in 2014, this place was the spark of inspiration for many past resident artistes and together with the new 3-storey exhibition showcasing Suzanne Valadon’s art studio, it has become a must-see highlight of all travellers who come to Montmartre.

6. The Bateau-Lavoir

Located in a very homely and charming place called Emile Goudeu, the Bateau-Lavoir’s wooden structure used to be residence to a piano factory. The place was poorly heated, so other studios would all come together to warm one another up, this led it to being a forum for artists from all over the world, creating a melting pot of Modern Art. This place was paid homage to by lots of artist and writers such as Apollinaire, Max Jacob, Mac Orlan, Modigliani, Van Dongen and Juan Gris and not forgetting Pablo Picasso. 

Though the place seemed miserable – glacial in winter and scorching hot during summer, Picasso once wrote: “I know we will make it through the Bateau Lavoir. There we were truly happy, we were considered as painters and not as curious animals”.

Musee de Romantique

Musee de la vie Romantique

7. Musée de la Vie Romantiqe

Paris is given the name as the City of Love for a reason. In Paris, Romanticism was an artistic movement and fed inspiration to countless hordes of artists and writers from Europe. In the early 1830s, Dutch painter Ary Scheffer transformed his beautiful home, Hôtel Scheffer-Renan, into a salon. Which was later visited by many artists such as George Sand, Frederic Chopin, Eugène Delacroix, Franz Liszt whose artwork is hung up in the museum.

The museum actually organizes temporary exhibitions, concerts, book readings and children activities. And for those of you who are planning your trip from March through October, the museum opens up its tearoom in the garden’s greenhouse. A beautiful sight indeed, sipping tea and crunching on local snacks on a patio with friends both old and new. Definitely something to look forward to.

Musee de Art Max forny

8. Musée d’Art Naïf Max Fourny

To all the art lovers out there, Musée d’Art Naïf Max Fourny is a must-visit attraction as it provides a much more modern perspective of the Montmartre Art Scene. Originally built to act as a marketplace, the museum acts as an exhibition centre and a venue for cultural events. Max Fourny is known for his naïve (folk) art, also called “art brut” (“raw art”). The collection includes more than 500 paintings and 80 sculptures.

 

9. Place du Tertre

Another place not to be missed is Place du Tertre Montmartre, the whole street is packed with colourful artist stalls, bringing inspiration to many for its vibrancy and liveliness. Located within a picturesque cobblestone square that acts as an open-air art gallery bustling with locals and tourists, the square is also lined with 18th-century buildings featuring busy restaurants, cafes and crepe stands.

Centuries back before Montmartre became a part of Paris, this square bustling with life was the main square of a medieval village. If you are travelling with family or just want to sit by the side there are many places with outdoor seating for you to bask in the life created by the locals at Place du Tertre. Being a place of interest for many, it gets packed with tourists however fear not for Place du Tertre retains its charm. The narrow lanes invites visitors like you to explore them!

Museum Erotica

10. Last but not least, Musée de l’Erotisme

This last destination is ideal for couples 😉 This is a great museum if you are looking for something to spice up the romance on your Parisian holiday with your significant other. 7 floors of erotic arts and artefacts await!!

Have you been to Montmartre and have a favourite go to place that we did not mention here? Do tell us in the comments below and share your expert tips!

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March Guide: Festivals in Paris

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March Guide: Festivals in Paris

St. Patricks Day – March 17th 

St. Patricks Day is a global celebration of Irish culture on March 17th. This international holiday commemorates one of Ireland's patron saints, who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century. On this day you will witness Parisians dressed in green together with the streets! Join in and wear something green as well! A day midweek where you will have the perfect excuse to grab a pint and start drinking! What is there to lose?

However if you are not up to drinking at a pub as St. Patricks this year falls on a thursday so you would have to report back to work, book a cosy dinner with locals through a social dinning platform where you can join Local home chefs in their home for a meal and celebrate St. Patricks Day together.

 La Verticale de la Tour Effiel – March 18th 

An event not to be missed! How often do you witness athletes scaling to the top of the Eiffel Tower on foot? Never? This is your chance! This is an ascent race of 1,665 steps of the Eiffel tower and unlike similar events that take place in enclosed stairwells, the stars of the eiffel tower are completely open to the outside. In 2016, there will a total of 100 seasoned sportsperson taking part in this event! 

Salon du Livre – March 18th to the 27th

Book lovers out there, this is a festival for you! A festival founded in 1981 dedicated to books and writing. Large and small publishers and representatives of book businesses as well as the general public will be there and signing sessions, thematic debates will be held as such becoming an event of great culture in Paris. 

Le Printemps Du Cinema – March 20th to 21st 

Le Printemps Du Cinema is a nation wide festival where films are being featured for a very cheap price of 4 euros for a period of 3 days! Some of the movies that they are screening include Grammy nominated films such as the revenant and others such as Booklyn, Divergent 3, Zoolander, Zootopia, How to be single and also other French films. An event not to be missed especially if they are screening your favourite movie or even a just released movie you have not watched! Head down to their website to find out more. 

Foire du Trone – March 25th to 22nd May 

Foire du Trone is an Annual Fun fair that showcases an open air market! There will be over 350 attractions and rides for you to go and try out! For those of you travelling with kids this is the perfect attraction for you to visit and fear not parents as there are lockers available around and restaurants for you to take a breather and get a snack in between the fun rides! 

Easter Sunday – March 27th

If you are travelling to paris during Easter sunday, here is your chance to experience it the way Parisians do. Book a meal with local parisian chefs and enjoy the authenticity of their homes and their special Easter dishes. Sitting at the table surrounded by laughs and good food, there is absolutely no better way to celebrate this festival. 

Drawing Now Paris 2016 – 30th March to 3rd April

An annual contemporary drawing fair at Carreau du Temple will showcase works from over 80 international galleries and 400 artists will be hand-selected and be put on display for five days for collectors, professionals and the general public to enjoy. In 2016, the organisers are introducing a panoramic look at the last 50 years of drawings showcased at their events of using on German traditions in the graphic arts and contemporary scene. There will also be a two-day international symposium in the Carreau’s auditorium space, aiming to ‘take stock’ of the evolution of drawing since the fair’s beginnings ten years ago.

Art Paris, Art Fair 2016 – March 13 to April 3rd

Art Paris, Art Fair is one of the most up and coming modern and contemporary art events held in the spring which includes a total of 143 galleries from 22 countries, a concept of ‘cosmopolitian regionalism’ introduced only 4 years ago. Held at the Grand Palais, Avenue Winston churchill where light comes flooding in during the day, the art exhibition showcases works such as Antique Jewelry, Antique Furniture, Antique clocks, Art Glass, Art Works, Hand Woven Carpets and Rugs. In the year 2016, the gallery will seek to showcase parts such as Europe, Colombia, Iran and Korean who this years guest of honour.

Enjoyed this article? Tell us in the comments if you have been to any of these articles or any other festivals to recommend! Also stay tuned for our summer guide to festivals in Paris. 

Image Credits: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 

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Must Try Restaurants in Paris

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Must Try Restaurants in Paris

1. Chez L'ami Jean

Location: 27 Rue Malar, Left Bank

Located on a quiet street near the Eiffel Tower, Chez L'ami Jean is not for the dieters or vegetarians. With gut-bursting portions and authentic parisian dishes, they are worth your every penny. They have a lively ambience as the restaurant is always filled with people and Chef Stephane Jego is always shouting across the restaurant for waiters to serve the newly cooked dishes. Their menu are made with seasonal ingredients such as crabs, oyster, fish to pigeons, beef and deer. 

[PARIS-DESSERTS https://www.bonappetour.com/mesny/learn-how-to-make-macaroons]
 

2. Le Bistrot Paul Bert

Location: 18 Rue Paul Bert

This bistro offers the classic French selections. They have fixed priced menus of 19Euros of 38Euros which consits of an appetizer, a main course, cheese or dessert for 19Euros. One recommended dish is the Paris-Brest Puff pastry that is stuffed with hazelnut cream. It is absolute heaven. One tip is to make a reservation as early as possible as this place can be packed to the brim.

3. L'Office

Location: 3 Rue Richer

With a new chef, Kosta Miloevic, joining their highly capable team, you can expect the food to be made with the best ingredients and skills. Their food has the finess, elegance and healthyness to attract the stomachs of not only locals but people from all around the world. Try their entre of a shrimp raviolu with green peas and one asparagus, served in a light veggie broth. The serving may be small but the taste is definitely fantastic.

4. L'As Du Fallafel

Location: 34 Rue de Rosiers

It has the reputation of having the best fallafels in the world. Need I say more. If you are in Paris, you definitely need to give this kosher Middle Eastern restaurant a go. You can see it's popularity from the long snaking queue. Their fallafels are crispy, golden but still light. If you are hungry, you can give their fallafel wrap a go. Rememer they are always closed on Shabbat (Saturday).

5. Authentic Parisian dinner in classic 18th century apartment in Champs-Elysees

In the center of Champs Elysees, there is a magical 18th Century home, filled with tasteful ancient tapestries, woodworks and furniture, that is bound to leave you spellbound in its beauty. And then you will realise that it is actually a home, owned by an amazing chef, who will be serving you a 4 course French meal, complete with the entree, mains, cheese, wines and desserts. Her son, a tour guide, will show you around the house, and tell you interesting things about Paris. Reservations in advance only, so make your booking beforehand. 

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Foodies Alert! MUST Eat Food in Paris

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Foodies Alert! MUST Eat Food in Paris

The French take their food seriously. Some of the food are so popular that they have become the signature of French cuisines or even national dishes. A typical French meal consists of a hors d'oeuvre (entree), a plat principal (main course), a fromage (cheese) or dessert. Therefore, it is not uncommon for a meal to last anything up to two hours. 

Hors d'oeuvres – The Entree

1 Basil Salmon Terrine

A terrine is made with grounded meat emulsified with fats shaped into a loaf. In this case, the choice of meat is salmon and basils are added. Usually eated chilled, the perfect combination of salmon, fats with a hint of basil makes it a great entree for dinner parties or other special occasions.

[PARIS-DESSERTS https://www.bonappetour.com/mesny/learn-how-to-make-macaroons]​
 

2. Bisque

Bisques are creamy, thick and flavour soups. Some of the most popular bisques of the French origin are made with lobster, crayfish, shrimps or other kinds of seafood. Vegetable bisques such as tomato or pumpkin are also popular choices. This dish will not disappoint you as it warms your stomach with its rich creaminess and opens up your appetite for the main course.

3. French Onion Soup

This dish is as popular as the Eiffel Tower. The flavour beef stock is balanced perfectly with the lightly brown caramelized onions. Gratineed with coutons or cheese, this soup is the epitome of French comfort food. Try it at Ann's home restaurant!

4. Foie Gras

Foie Gras is the signature of French luxury cuisines. It is rich, buttery, delicate and has a unique flavour. It is even listed under the French law as the protected cultural and gastronomical heritage of France. Often served whole or in a mousse, parfait or pate form, it is a delicacy that few could afford but many would want to try.

Plat Principals – The main course

1. Pot-au-feu

Pot-au-feu is essentially a one pot beef stew. It is the most celebrated family dish in France. This one pot stew consists of beef, which is the main ingredient, and vegetables such as potatoes, celery, carrots and onion. Not only does it tastes good, it also gives you a taste of french family cuisine.

2. Duck a l'orange

If you are lucky enough to be invited by a French family for dinner, you are very likely to get this dish. This duck in orange sauce is typical of french family cuisines. The flavour of the roasted duck is enhance by the tangy citrousy orangy sauce that make it so very refreshing.

3. Bouillabaisse

Bouillabaisse is a fish stew that originates from Marseille. This is different from other fish stews from it's ingredients. It uses a variety of Provencal herbs and spices in the soup and the fish used are from the local Mediterranean sea. Also, when served, the fish and soup are served separately. This is often eaten with slices of bread.

Fromage – Cheese

1. Brie De Meaux

It originates from the Brie region. It is very versatile and has a soft, creamy texture.

2. Roquefort

 

It is one of the most well known blue cheese in the world. It is white in colour and has a crumbly texture with distinctive green mold. When you take a bite of it, it will first have a slightly mild sensation and then sweet then becomes salty and smoky. 

Dessert

1. Creme Brulee

When you are in Paris, this is the one dessert that you cannot miss. Popular throughout the world, the balance between the rich soft custard and hard caramel is a perfect way to end your meal.

2. Macaroons

What's a Paris trip without some macaroons. I think this picture is pretty self explanatory. Who can resist these cute little colourful pastries? It is heaven in a bite. Try your hands at making these tiny pieces of heaven in Paris, and showcase what you've learnt to your friends back home. 

Are you tempted by all the classic French cuisines? Check out our Bonappetour hosts in Paris, they have all the right skills and ingredients to whip up your favourite French dish.

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