Rue de l’Abreuvoir, a cobblestone slope in a city replete with spectacular views, is a singularly evocative experience. It’s easy to be taken back to Paris’s past while looking past the bus station and whirling influencers—a wisteria-filled wonder that slopes up toward Sacré-Coeur.
After being a separate municipality, Montmartre became a part of Paris in 1860. Despite this, the hilltop community, known for its artistic, religious, and occasionally shady past, has managed to preserve its unique character. Over the years, famous painters such as Picasso and Renoir and ardent Francophiles have been drawn to the area by its distinctive lampposts, steep steps, and panoramic vistas.
Wandering and Exploration: For over ten years, I have ventured off the primary tourist paths and found hedonistic hotels, romantic museums, secret gardens, and vintage picture booths. This is a carefully chosen tour to Montmartre, the timeless town of Paris and a home for artists.
Top 5 Must-See: Hôtel Particulier Montmartre is the perfect place to stay in Montmartre for an opulent and extravagant getaway. Formerly the Hermès family house, this quaint three-story property has five opulent apartments. See the spectacle of Moulin Rouge, savor the Michelin-starred L’Esquisse, discover vintage Levi’s at Numéro Deux, and take in the panoramic vistas of Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica tour is a great way to learn about the area’s history. The basilica’s striking white facade dubbed the “wedding cake,” is composed of travertine quarried nearby. Although the dome, which offers panoramic views, opens at 10 a.m., it opens at 6:30 a.m. Investigate institutions such as Dalí Paris, Musée de Montmartre, and Musée de la Vie Romantique. With its stunning architecture, Halle Saint Pierre, located in a former covered market, is a must-see. Draw your image at Place du Tertre, celebrate the artistic spirit of creators, and follow the renowned sites from the movie Amélie. Take pictures at FotoAutomat to make amusing mementos.
Best Restaurants: The Michelin Guide recommends L’Esquisse, which serves sophisticated, creative cuisine in a cozy environment. At the base of the basilica is the well-known brunch destination in Montmartre, Hardware Société. Try the highly recommended Bouillon Pigalle, a traditional French brasserie, and Pink Mamma, an Instagram-famous Italian restaurant. A Michelin-starred dining experience can be had at L’Arcane, and Mokko creates exquisite dishes with a minimalist style.
Best Hotels: Former Hermès house now housing five distinctive rooms, Hôtel Particulier Montmartre is a delightful place to stay. Near Moulin Rouge, Maison Souquet offers an opulent, sensual haven. Nina Koltchitskaia’s murals, which evoke the creative atmosphere of Montmartre, adorn the Hôtel Arvor. The eco-friendly terrazzo floor and antique furnishings of Hôtel Monsieur Aristide provide a window into the area’s bohemian vibe.
The best place to shop: La Butte Fromagère’s handcrafted cheeses entice. A gourmet’s paradise, La Cave des Abbesses is a combination wine bar and bottle store. Look through vintage shops like Vintage Inspiration Paris for luxury finds, Numéro Deux for carefully chosen denim, and Chinemachine for designer options. For natural wine enthusiasts, Rock Bottles is a modest but substantial cellar that is a sanctuary.
Best Nightlife: The renowned cabaret show Moulin Rouge pays an enchanting homage to the history of Paris. Even though the “Féerie” concert has expensive tickets, seeing a true French cancan is an uncommon and valuable experience.
