Alt title: Most Instagrammable Places in the Monmartre
When it comes to the neighborhood of Monmartre, it is a must when visiting Paris (especially for the first time). However, I do have a love-hate relationship with this beautiful spot. While it holds an array of history, and is quite “Instagrammable,” it is also incredibly unsafe. Not to freak you out, but if you’re going to get attacked or pickpocketed in Paris, it’ll likely be in Monmartre.(We’ll get to that later)
4 Monmartre spots you need to visit
Sacre-Coeur
“La Basilique du Sacré Coeur” (The Sacred Heart Basilica) sits atop the neighborhood of Monmartre. Not only is it know for its Romanesque-Byzantine architecture, but the views from the dome. There are multiple view points from which to photograph the basilica. If you start at the bottom of the hill and walk towards it, there is also a breathtaking hill.
Basilica Hours: everyday 6 AM – 10:30 PM
Visiting the Dome: May-Sept Everyday 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM ,Oct through April 9 AM – to 5 PM
Fee: Entering the basilica itself is free, but there is a fee to visit the dome. It is a little misleading as prices aren’t mentioned on their website and can change at any time.
Pro Tip: Head to Sacré Coeur early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best photographs!
Monmartre Museum & Renoir Garden
I stumbled upon the Monmartre Museum & Renoir Garden by accident as looking for things to do in the neighborhood. All the locals I asked hadn’t heard of it, but it was such a quaint way to spend a couple of hours. Not only does the museum have a garden, but a cute cafe (in the garden), exhibits on the history of Monmarte, and some temporary exhibits.
Hours: open every day from 10 AM – 6 PM, April -September 10 AM – 7 PM
Entrance Fee: Adults 9.5 – 12 Euros, Students 7.5 Euros – 9 Euros, Kids under 10 are Free.
Tip: Visit the museum in the early afternoon after lunch for a pastry and coffee before exploring the exhibits.
La Maison Rose
You’ve probably seen La Maison Rose all over Instagram (I mean it is pretty photogenic). Surprise surprise, it also happens to be a restaurant. If you’re ready for lunch, this would be a good place to stop. You can read the Trip Advisor comments and suggestions here.
Hours: 11 AM – 11 PM daily
Price: $$ – $$$
Le Consulat
Another Instagram-worthy restaurant is right in the heart of Monmartre – Le Consulat. It is on the main street in Monmartre and serves a variety of food and drinks. We stopped for a crepe and coffee (both of which were good but a bit overpriced). It is a great spot to people watch from.
Also take some time to pop into the little shops along the main road, and watch the painters set up with their easels.
Le Moulin Rouge Cabaret
Visitors to Monmartre also tend to stop by the historic Moulin Rouge. This blog post discusses the pro’s and con’s. Even if you decide not to see a show, it’s worth a quick stop by to see it from the outside.
Safety
Of all the neighborhoods in Paris, Monmartre is where you are most likely to get pickpocketed. You’ll see a lot of street peddlers and shady characters in general. Be vigilant, have your bags zipped and only take out your cameras/ phones when necessary.
