The 18th arrondissement of Paris, known as Montmartre, is famous as the Artists District. This historic place is one of the most colourful neighbourhoods in Paris, making it a favourite destination amongst tourists. Located in the north of Paris, Montmartre has seen very little development over these years, helping it to retain much of its character and village-like charm till date.
Montmartre has brought together many famous artists of the time such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh and Claude Monet. Hence, it’s easy to understand why so many people from the past, as well as the present, are captivated by this area of Paris.
Here are the things to do in Montmartre list, in this beautiful district:
Attractions to explore
Basilique du Sacré-Coeur: Situated on Montmartre hill, 127 meters above sea level, Basilique Sacré-Cœur is a roman catholic church. The church is designed in a magnificent Roman-Byzantine style, featuring multiple domes and largest mosaics designs. You can get 360° view of the city and iconic Eifel tower from the Basilica’s Dome if you can climb on the top of the church.
Moulin Rouge: A world famous and highly popular cabaret theatre, Moulin Rouge is situated on Boulevard de Clichy. This is the place where cancan dancing was invented. You can watch shows, where showgirls and French Cancan dancers perform world-class cabaret in a grand setting. You can also browse through several interesting bars and nightclubs, located close to this theatre.
Elysees Montmartre Theatre: Elysees Montmartre Theatre is primarily a concert hall located at Boulevard de Rochechouart. Here several popular shows are organised from all genres of music. The theatre encouraged many art movements and young artists to showcase their talent over the years and today, you can see many world-renowned artists performing in this 200-year-old theatre.
Eating in Montmartre
Once a village of artists, Montmartre has managed to retain most of its arty charm over the years and is home to great restaurants, where you can sample typically French cuisine. Enjoy your food in spectacular venues where the dining experience is fulfilling and profoundly cultural one.
Bistro Poulbot: The restaurants specialise in offering traditional fine French cuisine and the meals are spiced up with Mediterranean flavours. Thick sliced salmon with diced bacon, onion, and lentils is one of the most popular dishes to try out. The restaurant is run by chef Lorenzo Torrini.
Le Coq Rico: Excellent poultry restaurant in this area, popular for scrumptious dishes based on chicken, duck, guinea fowl, and other freshly sourced poultry. The dishes served here are perfectly seasoned and meticulously cooked. Le Coq Rico offers the best culinary experience for poultry lovers.
Le Babalou: A great Italian pizza restaurant. It specialises in offering elaborate and seasonal Italian pizzas. Some of the popular names in the menu are pizza with goat cheese, honey, basil and mozzarella and with cherry tomatoes. Other delicacies like fresh pasta, homemade tiramisu are some of the great options to try.
Going out for Shopping
The streets winding around Montmartre is home to many unique shops, boutiques and designer stores to cater your shopping needs. Some popular ready-to-wear stores like Ba&sh, Kookaï, Sandro and Karl Marc John are situated here. If you are looking for jewellery and accessories head to La Petite Maroquinerie and for buying gifts, you can visit the Gift Code, offering excellent fantasy objects and stationery.
If you are searching for arty and craft venues- visit Spree, which houses designer furniture and an art gallery. Chocolate fans can explore the newly opened chocolate museum in rue Steinkerque, where the amazing chocolate creation is the huge Eiffel Tower.
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