Montmartre

For a scenic view of Paris head over to Montmartre. Montmartre is a district and one of the highest points in Paris, standing 130 metres high it provides lovely views of the French capital below. Located in the north of Paris, the picturesque Basilica of the Sacré Coeur stands impressively at its summit which makes it worth the trip itself. You’ll find a lovely range of shops and boutiques on the streets on the way up, perfect for picking up a unique souvenir, or if the walk seems too much there is the Montmartre Funicular. The Montmartre Funicular is an automatic railway which carries passengers to the summit of the hill allowing you to avoid the 300 steps to the top. The Funicular has been in operation since 1900 although it has been modified over the years it still remains a popular way to climb the hill and carries around two million passengers a year.

Once at the top or the Montmartre, as well as the stunning Sacré Coeur and views of Paris, you will find the Place du Tertre. Place du Tertre is a charming square surrounded by cafes and coffee shops perfect for relaxing and watching the many street artists which set up in the square. Montmartre has long been associated with art and at the beginning of the 20th century Picasso, Utrillo, Van Gogh and Salvador Dali all spent time here.

Montmartre is little further out than some of Paris’s other sights but a short trip on the Metro number 12 will get you to Abesses Metro Station at the base of the hill.