Paris - Musee de Montmartre

Montmartre is a great blend of the old and the new, the simple and the bizarre, the sacred and the seedy. In this part of Paris, known to be the 18^th arrondissement (a laid out district in Paris, clockwise, with the 1^st one by the center of the clock face), this area has a lot of attractions, from the Moulin Rouge to the Sacré Coeur Basilica. You can also find some art shops, a winery, and even the Dali museum.

There you can also find some steep hills, especially on the way up to the Basilica. There are also streets covered with cobblestone, antique shops, and ‘bistros’.

‘Bistro’ is a Russian word which means ‘quick’. This was first coined by Cossack occupiers in 19^th century, as they wanted to be served with food right away. By visiting the 1793 bistro called Place du Tertre, you can have anything from frog legs to Tarte Tatin.

To have a unique art experience, check out Musée de Montmartre. This is a 17^th century old house that has an apartment, which was previously occupied by Utrillo, and Renoir, as well as other famous people. This is where Renoir finished Galette, which was sold in a 1990 auction for $78 million. Other works, like the Toulouse-Lautrec posters, can also be found here.

Since you’re still thinking of Lautrec, drop by Moulin Rouge. It is costly since tickets are $100 or more. The show has already received different reviews. Don’t forget to have a photo-op by the windmill on the exterior.

Around 20 minutes by foot from Sacré Coeur Basilica, you’ll find a couple of nightclubs. Just be cautious in going to the Pigalle neighborhood, since it is one of the seedier places in town.

On the contrary, the Montmartre Cemetery, located at the eastern portion of the district, is a beautiful park. The place is lined with trees and flowers, benches, and mausoleums and tombs galore.

By coming here at the middle of October, you’ll be able to witness the Grape Festival. Clos Montmartre at 12 Rue Cortot is the only vineyard located in Paris. It was planted around 1933 and already has 2,000 vines presently. Most grape varieties are grown in France and, surely, disappointment will not be an issue for the wine lover.

For people who love hiking, you can begin at Abbesses Metro. Also take some time to visit Art Nouveau, plus the mosaics found at the door of Eglise St Jean l'Evangéliste.

While you are still around that area, check out the crypt in Chappelle du Martyre. It is by the 9 Rue Yvonne-Le-Tac. This is where St. Denys, the Bishop of Paris, was laid to rest. This is also where the founder of Jesuits, Loyala, took his vows. This place is open only on Fridays.

Most people want to have their last stop at Sacré Coeur Basilica, which can be found by top of the hill. The view is absolutely amazing, whether you are standing at the white steps or viewing by the dome. Just go there during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds, as well as the heat.

Montmartre can be reached by a couple of metro or subway lines. You can take the M4 Sacré Coeur Basilica at the top of the hill Blanche station, the M12 (Lamarck-Caulaincourt) or any line that will bring you to the 18^th arrondissement.