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Paris Travel Guide

Cafés and Cabarets: A Traveler’s Guide to Montmartre

By Fred Edward on October 9, 2023

Montmartre, a historic neighborhood located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, has managed to maintain its bohemian, village-like atmosphere despite being in the heart of the city. The winding, cobblestone streets, artistic spirit, and historic charm make it a unique and enchanting place to explore. Here is our list of the top 5 things to do in Montmartre:

Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Start your Montmartre adventure by exploring the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. This stunning white-domed church not only offers impressive architecture but also provides panoramic views of Paris from its hilltop location. You can climb the 300 steps to the top of the dome for an even more breathtaking view.
Explore Place du Tertre: Wander through the charming Place du Tertre, often referred to as the "Artist's Square." Here, you can watch talented street artists at work, have your portrait painted, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of this artistic hub.
Discover the Moulin Rouge: Experience the world-famous Moulin Rouge cabaret, located in the Pigalle district of Montmartre. While attending a show may be the highlight, even passing by this historic venue is an experience.
Stroll through Montmartre's Streets: Navigating through Montmartre's winding, cobblestone streets are a fun way to explore. Take leisurely walks, stopping at boutiques and bistros along the way. You'll encounter the district's bohemian charm and artistic spirit at every turn.
Embrace the Café Culture: Montmartre has a rich and vibrant café culture that has played a significant role in the artistic and intellectual life of the city. It has been a focal point for artists, writers, and musicians for over a century. Today, Montmartre’s cafés are still a great place to savor a coffee or a glass of wine while people-watching and soaking in the ambiance.

Montmartre's blend of history, art, culture, and stunning views of Paris make it a favorite district for many visitors and locals alike. Whether you're interested in art, history, or simply the charm of Parisian life, Montmartre has something to offer everyone.

The Best of Montmartre

Boucherie: Boucherie Jacky Gaudin. Address: 50 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, France

Chocolate & Macarons: Chocolat Illèné. Address: 2-4 Rue Tholozé, 75018 Paris, France

Creperie: La Crêperie Mon Ami. Address: 7 Rue Joseph de Maistre, 75018 Paris, France

Fromagerie: La Butte Fromagère. Address: 32 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, France

Patisserie: Les Choupettes de Chou Chou. Address: 27 Rue Durantin, 75018 Paris, France

Wine Bar: Le Petit Moulin. Address: 17 Rue Tholozé, 75018 Paris, France

Best Hotels in Paris

Paris Travel Tips: Navigating the City of Light

Paris, often referred to as the "City of Light," is a timeless destination that captures the hearts of travelers from around the world. With its iconic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, Paris is a city that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime. To help you make the most of your trip, we've put together some essential Paris travel tips that will guide you in your journey.

Getting to Paris:

By Plane: The most common way to reach Paris from international destinations is by flying into Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Orly Airport (ORY). Both airports are well-connected to major cities worldwide and have efficient transportation options to the city center.

From Charles de Gaulle Airport, you can take the RER B train, which connects directly to central Paris, including popular stations like Gare du Nord and Saint-Michel Notre-Dame. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.

Orly Airport is also accessible by public transportation. You can take the Orlyval light rail to the Antony station and transfer to the RER B train, which will take you to various central Paris locations. This journey takes around 30-35 minutes.

By Train: If you're traveling within Europe, taking the train to Paris can be an excellent choice. The city is a major hub for high-speed rail networks, and the Paris Gare du Nord station is one of the busiest train stations in Europe. The Eurostar and TGV trains connect Paris to cities like London, Brussels, Amsterdam, and many others.

The Eurostar, for example, connects London to Paris in just over two hours, making it a convenient option for travelers coming from the UK. Once you arrive at Gare du Nord, you'll be in the heart of Paris and ready to explore.

Navigating Paris:

1. Paris Metro: The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around the city. It's well-connected, with numerous lines covering virtually every corner of Paris. Consider purchasing a Navigo card or a Paris Visite card for unlimited rides during your stay.

2. Walking: Paris is a highly walkable city, and many of its famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, are within a reasonable walking distance to each other. Exploring Paris on foot allows you to immerse yourself in its charming streets and discover hidden gems along the way.

3. Museum Pass: If you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions, consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass. It provides skip-the-line access to many popular sites, including the Louvre, the Palace of Versailles, and the Musée d'Orsay.

4. Try Local Cuisine: Indulge in Parisian culinary delights by dining at local cafes and bistros. Don't miss out on classic dishes like escargot, confit de canard, and, of course, French pastries. Be sure to explore local markets and try some delicious street food as well.

5. Learn Basic French Phrases: While many Parisians speak English, making an effort to speak a few basic French phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals. Politeness goes a long way in any foreign city, so don't forget to say "Bonjour" (good morning) and "Merci" (thank you).

6. Safety Tips: Paris is generally a safe city, but like any other major destination, it's essential to stay vigilant and take precautions. Be mindful of pickpockets, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious when using public transportation, especially during crowded periods.

Visiting Paris is a dream come true for many travelers, and with these travel tips, you'll be well-prepared to explore the City of Light. Whether you're strolling along the Seine River, admiring the art at the Louvre, or savoring a croissant at a sidewalk café, Paris promises unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever. Bon voyage! (Safe travels!)