The Magic of Montmartre

Leave the city streets behind and go high on the hill that overlooks the entire city. It is there you will find Montmartre, which is a representative of everything that you love about Paris.

Montmartre was depicted in the musical La Bohème, and in some ways it is a totally different life than that you see in other sections of Paris. Many say it has gotten to be just a tourist destination, but if you look closely you will see that it continues its original premise of being a hideaway for talent.

Montmartre is all about art. In the center of town you will see the artists around the great circle. Painters, sketchers and caricature drawers spend their days sitting and creating their own masterpieces. Some of these works are done to their own desires and others will be created for yours. When you pick up a painting in Montmartre it truly can become a masterpiece. You never know who sitting in that circle will be the next Picasso, Van Gough, Salvador Dali or Renoir — all legends who lived and painted here.

If you’d like to see art in a gallery instead of the cobblestone street, you can also do that in Montmartre. This is the home of the Paul Frèches Gallery and the Dali Museum, among others. There’s also the Sacre Coeur Basilica to bring even more culture into this area.

The view from Montmartre

After you have browsed through the art in Montmartre, it’s time to enjoy the scenery. Take a look down at the Moulin Rouge, the original cabaret, while enjoying the views of Paris. Most of the stores in this area these days are aimed at the tourist, but it’s worth a look, because you can often find work of local artists in these shops at great bargains.

Montmartre may not be the place for a big dinner, but don’t leave without enjoying a walking crepe. Whether it’s sweet (Nutella) or savory (filled with chicken, ham or cheese), you will find an assortment to choose from the stands and cafes in Montmartre.

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