Paris Guide - A unique perspective on Montmartre
The most unique things to do Montmarte - the perspective of a photographer in Paris!
There is truly nowhere else in the world quite like Paris. If you're anything like me, as much as you want to see the most notable sights in Paris, you also love avoiding the crowds and seeing the less-touristy parts of the city. In this blog I’ll share all the hidden gems of Montmartre I found!
This charming neighborhood is known for the windmill of the Moulin Rouge, as well as the Basilique du Sacre Coeur that sits on top of the hill, but there are so many more wonderful spots here that aren’t swarming with tourists!
Carousel and Basilique du Sacre Coeur in Montmartre.
Where to eat and shop in Montmartre
I highly recommend having lunch at Le Coq & Fils, as they have the best chicken I have ever had! Not only that, but they have exquisite service. This is also a good place to wander from in search of small shops. I found a few pieces of clothing I love at Chinemachine and LDB. If you’re a fan of the movie Amelie, you visit one of the spots they shot at Epicerie Cremerie.
The best coffee in Montmartre
If you’re looking for a good place to grab a cup of coffee, I would suggest The Beans On Fire. This is a cozy little cafe with a bright red front. We enjoyed a cup of coffee here, as well as a local kombucha!
A corner near Rue de l’Abreuvoir
Rue de l’Abreuvoir
This is one of the oldest streets in Paris. A historic cobblestone lane, perfect for wandering down. You will find the Insta-famous La Maison Rose sitting on the corner of this street. If you’re not trying to join the masses in getting a picture in front of the pretty pink building, I recommend strolling this street at dusk, listening to Edith Piaf.
A view of Notre Dame from Montmartre
The best view in Montmartre
While sunset (pictured above) in Montmartre is absolute lovely, it was swarming with tourists. If you are wanting an even more beautiful and peaceful experience, plan to get up early to watch the sunrise over the city! The base of Sacre Coeur is the perfect place for this, and you’re guaranteed to have much fewer people there as well.
The famous windmill of the Moulin Rouge in Montmartre Paris
What to avoid in Montmartre
As famous as the spinning red windmill is, this was one of my least favorite areas of the neighborhood, and Paris as a whole. It was lined with sex shops, full of tourists, and had a heaviness to it. I learned not long before our trip that this street was the red light district of Paris back in the day. If you want to keep Montmartre a romantic and memorable adventure to look back on, avoid Boulevard de Clichy.