Paris, the City of Lights, consistently ranks among the most visited cities worldwide. Its enchanting neighborhoods, shaped by centuries of rich history and culture, are a treat for the senses. While iconic landmarks like the Notre-Dame and Eiffel Tower are undoubtedly captivating, this guide takes you on a journey to uncover the lesser-known treasures of the Montmartre district.
Dive into Parisian Charm
Begin your exploration by stepping into the elegant La Verrière, a cafe nestled within the historic InterContinental Paris le Grand Hotel. The cafe’s ambiance is a symphony of light, with a stunning glass roof illuminating plush armchairs adorned with charming pastoral scenes. Indulge in a luxurious “gourmand” tea or coffee, accompanied by a trio of delectable pastries.
Just a stone’s throw away, pause to admire the intricate sculptures that grace the facade of the Palais Garnier, Paris’s grand opera house. Gaze upwards to spot Apollo, the majestic sculpture by Aimé Millet, holding his lyre high for the city to behold.
Delve into Hidden Art Worlds
Paris boasts over 100 museums, many of which offer a more intimate experience than the bustling crowds of the Louvre. Step into the Gustave Moreau Museum, a captivating house-museum south of Montmartre. This space, once the studio and home of the visionary Gustave Moreau, a pioneer of Symbolism, is a treasure trove of artistic wonders. Explore his personal apartment, adorned with his art collection and whimsical knick-knacks, before ascending the winding wrought-iron staircase to the grand studio. There, you’ll discover Moreau’s mysterious depictions of Salomé, the Jewish princess, and breathtaking unfinished masterpieces, including “The Three Magi.”
Seek out the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a hidden gem that transports you to Paris’s Romantic era. Experience the artistic salons of the time, where creativity and intellectualism intertwined.
Find Tranquility Amidst the City Bustle
Nestled beneath a viaduct, the Montmartre Cemetery offers a tranquil escape from the city’s frenetic energy. This historic resting place for renowned French painters, authors, and performers is also home to lesser-known graves, each with its unique story to tell. Seek out the intriguing question-mark-shaped tombstone and pay your respects at the grave of Vaslav Nijinsky, the legendary dancer and choreographer.
Discover the life-size statue of the iconic singer Dalida, the bust of the author Émile Zola, and the raised grave of Alphonsine Duplessis, the courtesan who inspired Alexandre Dumas’s novel “Lady of the Camellias.”
Embrace Montmartre’s Quirky Side
While Montmartre is renowned for its artistic heritage, few visitors venture behind the red windmill of the Moulin Rouge to discover Le Bar à Bulles. This quirky bar, with its separate entrance via a small pedestrian street, offers a refreshing alternative to the area’s tourist traps. Sip on Anaë gin, a locally produced spirit, accompanied by tonic, and relish a cheese plate on the leafy rooftop or in the colorful indoor space, adorned with mismatched furniture and whimsical lampshades.
Discover Montmartre’s Culinary Gems
Bistronomie, a culinary fusion of homely bistro fare and refined gastronomy, is flourishing in Montmartre. Many restaurants are embracing seasonal ingredients, creating innovative dishes while maintaining accessible prices.
Venture north of the Montmartre Cemetery to the newly opened Le 975, where Taiki Tamao, a Japanese-born chef, infuses French cuisine with creative twists.
For a more adventurous dining experience, head to Polissons, a lively restaurant that tantalizes with its six-course mystery menu. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor their delectable oysters with umami lemon, if available.
Experience Montmartre’s Vibrant Nightlife
Madame Arthur, a historic drag cabaret, has recently re-emerged as a beacon of Montmartre’s lively nightlife. This cabaret features a talented troupe of singers and musicians who deliver captivating live performances nightly, contributing to the recent resurgence of drag culture in France.
Skip the main-stage show and immerse yourself in the intimacy of the 11 p.m. “recital,” where performers showcase their vocal talents across a diverse repertoire. Then, dance the night away in the club spaces, where shorter drag performances add to the electrifying atmosphere.
Explore Paris’s Urban Oasis
On the northern edge of Paris lies the expansive Parc de la Villette, a 136-acre urban oasis with gardens, canals, and cultural spaces. This park has gained immense popularity in recent years as the area has undergone gentrification and new venues have brought a vibrant array of events.
Admire the park’s distinctive red structures, designed by the renowned architect Bernard Tschumi, and be mesmerized by the futuristic silver architecture of the Paris Philharmonic, inaugurated in 2015.
Indulge in La Villette’s Culinary Delights
Discover Ventrus, a portable restaurant located at the intersection of the Ourcq and St.-Denis canals. This rotating culinary hub features guest chefs who create short, seasonal menus, offering a unique dining experience. Enjoy a meal on the terrace, overlooking the canal, and people-watch as the city unfolds around you.
For a more relaxed culinary adventure, stroll east along the Ourcq Canal to Jardin 21, a community and cultural space with a large vegetable garden. Sip on a craft beer and mingle with locals, soaking up the laid-back ambiance of this vibrant space.
