Enchanting Montmartre: Unwind in Paris' Hilltop Village

Sights

• The Basilica of Sacre-Coeur - An iconic dazzling white basilica dating from 1875, which overlooks the city of Paris. Visit the interior, with its sparkling mosaics and brilliant stained glass, climb the steps of the dome for a spectacular view (and a work out) or simply admire the city of Paris before you from the steps. You can take a funicular to the top of the hill where the Basilica sits.

• The Moulin de la Galette - Wander up Rue Lepic to see the historic windmill of Montmartre, constructed in 1622!

• Avenue Junot - Stroll along this tranquil, tree-lined street, bordered with beautiful mansions and artists' studios, characterized by architecture that stands out from the Haussmanian buildings in the rest of Paris.

• Montmartre Cemetery (Cimetière de Montmartre) - While this cemetery is not as famous as Père-Lachaise, it is still worth a visit! Meander through the peaceful avenues, and you can find the tombs of writer Alexandre Dumas, painter Edgar Degas, and Adolphe Sax - inventor of the saxophone.

Museums

• National Gustave Moreau Museum (Musée National Gustave Moreau) - This museum is housed in the painter’s family home. It is an enchanting and impressive collection of the symbolist painter’s work.

• Montmartre Museum (Musée de Montmartre) - The building itself was the former home of several artists, including Auguste Renoir. The collection tells the story of the neighborhood’s history, and includes several famous works of art as well as a beautiful garden.

Shopping

• Rue des Martyrs winds charmingly between the 9th & 18th arrondissements. Packed with boutiques, gourmet shops, cafés and restaurants, it's a delightful stroll from Pigalle towards Montmartre. Continue north and across Boulevard de Clichy to discover Rue des Abbesses, another shopping haven!

• Lactem - A cozy coffee shop with excellent lattes, to drink there or for take away.

• Mamiche - A neighborhood bakery (“boulangerie du quartier”) where everything is good. Try the choux (light, airy pastry filled with cream), the pain a suisse and the sandwiches.

• Le Pain Retrouvé - Another excellent neighborhood spot on Rue des Martyrs. Try the soft, pillowy brioche in the mornings, or the airy focaccia with toppings for lunch.

• Bachir - Lebanese-style ice cream - perfect for a sunny afternoon treat! Any flavor is divine, but the achta (cream and orange blossom) rolled in chopped pistachios is my favorite.

• Sankaku - A Japanese spot selling onigiri and tempura for take away or to eat there. Perfect for a quick bite at lunch!

• Caillebotte - A neo-bistro in South Pigalle that features fresh ingredients and twists on familiar classics. The prix-fixe lunch menu is a steal. Reservations are recommended.

• Le Bon Georges - A classic Parisian bistro with market-fresh ingredients in a warm setting. Reservations are recommended.

• Pompette - A fun, innovative spot featuring mouthwatering small plates and excellent list of natural wines by the glass.