Montmartre is one of the most visited places in Paris. Tourists come here to experience the unique village in the city, see world famous Basilica of Sacre-Coeur church at the hilltop, and have their portrait sketched by amazingly talented local artists. However, if you are a first timer at Montmartre, you might need a little help to explore the place better, and of course, not to get lost in the steep and paved streets.
It is always better to go for a Montmartre walking tour with a professional guide. Nonetheless, if you are more of a solo traveler, get a map of the area, and start exploring the streets on your own. Here is the famous Montmartre “triangle” you won’t want to miss out on when in Paris.
Boulevard de Clichy – Point no. 1
Lined with top-notch bars, kebab shops, and a string of sex shops, Blvd. de Clichy is your first point of the triangle. This is a place to enjoy the city life, experience mouthwatering cuisines, and have lots of fun (no pun intended). Get down at the Abbesses metro station, and start walking along the base of the hill; you can buy local artifacts from the shops or bargain on some clothing items on the sidewalks while strolling around.
Boulevard de Rochechouart – Point no. 2
This is the street running between the Blanche metro station and the Anvers metro station. Get down at either of the stations, and walk along the sidewalks, slowly entering the village ambiance. Note that the life here is fast, and the crowd is edgier. So don’t feel lost seeing all the neon flash signs, or pimps leaning in doorways when you get off at the station. World famous artists and poets have created masterpieces while living in this area, and you can spot a glimpse of that here as well.
Basilica of Sacré-Cœur – Point no. 3
Translated the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, this big white church on the peak of the hill is the third point in your Montmartre walking tour triangle. This is a Roman Catholic Church, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The church was designed by Paul Abadie in the 18th century, and it took around 40 years to finish its construction. Basilica of Sacré-Cœur was consecrated in 1919, after the end of WWI.
