Photo by nathalie_wanders.
Let us tell you the story of Montmartre & guide you through the must see spots, with your own pocket guides:
Must-See Montmartre & Where to Eat in Montmartre.
a little history...
The streets of Montmartre are iconic, and those that found the movie Amelie charming, will instantly recognise what was the backdrop of the film with little change.
Walking along its winding and quieter alleyways shows a side of Paris that seems to stand out from a postcard or a forgotten film.
It is a stark contrast to the bustling city around it, and a must when visiting.
Though Montmartre is a sort of shadow of its former self, it is the best companion when wandering around, as you’ll always be able to spot the shining dome of the Sacre-Coeur watching over the city.
Far from the city centre, the hilltop of Montmartre was often considered by the rich of Paris as being of little value, instead becoming famous for the city’s vices and those seeking them. The world renowned Moulin Rouge sits at the hilltop’s feet and not far from there, the once notorious red-light district of Pigalle. Perhaps it should come as no surprise that artists and writers have long called it home.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, it became a place where they could afford to rent and work, and even find the muses for their paintings and novels. Such figures as Van Gogh, Matisse, and Picasso walked many of the same streets and cobblestones during their Parisian stints, capturing those that lived, loved, and worked atop this Parisian butte.
Photo by Jeff Frenette on Unsplash.
Montmartre played host to countless cabarets and dancehalls. Over the decades, it was a sort of home to a musical counterculture that burgeoned and thrived. When jazz made its debut to the world, Montmartre played the humble backdrop to such artists as Django Reinhardt, Edith Piaf, and many traveling American jazz artists, later to become famous, who found better reception amongst the French.
It is adored, and over time has become a symbol of Paris, another of its many beating hearts. Today people the world over come to gather atop its steps and look out over the city as the sun sets. It offers a stunning view of the City of Lights, and though sometimes overgrown with tourists, it remains possible to take some streets less travelled and find a piece of the Paris everyone dreams of.
Want to know more about the introduction of African American Jazz to France? Here’s a great clip about jazz in 1920s France – great link to Black History too!
Boutique Bike Tours Pocket Guide:
Must-see in Montmartre
Simply click on the numbers below to read our descriptions of our favourite locations in Montmartre. Use the Boutique Tours Guide to discover them for yourself next time you visit our beautiful city.
Boutique Bike Tours Pocket Guide:
Where to Eat in Montmartre
After all that glorious adventuring, you will definitely have earned a bite to eat – click on the numbers below for a few of our favourite easy food spots in Montmartre. We have included a short description so that you know what to expect!