Exploring the 18th Arrondissement
A walk through the more hilly streets of Montmartre is like the village for New Yorker or at least, that is what I’ve been told. This part of Paris is where artists used to enjoy a more comfortable part of life and display their works, but the prices have increase. I am sure there are some truth to these thoughts, but this unique part of Pari is definitely well worth a visit just to find what you often won’t see on the usual tourist hot spot. Please let me share some of my photos during my visits to this part of the City of Paris.
Tips For Visiting
I recommend arriving at metro Blanche (Moulin Rouge) or metro Anvers and gradually enter the “village”. This way you will feel like you are gradually approaching the place and can take in the atmosphere of artists and writers. If you are handicapped, please don’t be deterred as you have an option for visiting the Basilica of Sacre-Coeur There is a small white train that drives up the hill winding through the narrow alleys giving you a sense of the neighborhood surrounding the Basilica.
Once you get off the metro, you just may wish to make a bullseye directly to the Basilica that sits atop the famous hill of Montmartre. You could also just treat yourself to an over-priced crepe at the Place de Tertre. Instead, consider taking your time to just explore the area walking through the maze of narrow cobblestone streets as you make your way to the Basilica. Don’t worry! You can’t miss it.
Another option to visit via the metro is to take the Abbesses station and step out into the heart of Montmartre. Because all the great poets have told us the journey is more important than the destination.
Windmills in Montmartre
There are a still a few windmills still standing and found in between homes. The above photo is of the Radet Windmill and it originally stood by the still functioning Bluten-Fin Windmill. The Radey Windmill now houses a restaurant and was moved to its present location at the corner of Rue Girardon and Rue Lepic in 1924.
Cool Finds While Strolling Montmartre
If you are exploring the narrow cobblestone streets of the Montmartre, you may come across the great find of the Le Passe-Muraille (the Passer-Through Walls) statue. This is located in the place named after the writer of the story Marcel Aymé about Dutilleul who discovers that he can (you guessed it) walk through walks.
Located just behind the iconic Basilica of Sacre-Coeur on the edge some steep cobblestone lanes, you will fine La Maison Rose. Another treasure in the Montmartre. This little restaurant sits on a corner of a Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue des Saules. It is said to have been once visited by the likes of Picasso. You can learn more about the history of this little Pink House by visiting SoloSophie
There is more to explore in the 18th arrondissement of one of my favorite cities. These are just some of the more interesting finds during my many visits to this that keeps bringing me back for more to explore. Please do and explore for yourself and see what you can find. Please read my other posts on Paris for other ideas:
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris
Paris’ Flea Markets-A Must See
Opéra Garnier or Paris’ Opera House
Paris’ Eiffel Tower
Christmas in Uneasy Paris
Reminding Us Why Recording of Our History Is Important.
Free Walking Tour Options
Discoverwalks offers free and paid tours of some of the major cities around the world including Paris. I have used them during my visits to Paris and highly recommend them. Please explore Discoverwalks.com for more details.
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