Why you should visit Montmartre

For many who visit Paris, Montmartre means two things – a quick picture outside the Moulin Rouge and a hike up to Sacre Coeur to soak in the view. Once these two tasks are complete, they’re usually followed by jumping back on the metro and zooming off to elsewhere in the city. I recently visited Pairs and I don't know if I would have done much more if my hostel (Village hostel) wasn't based in the area. However, this region of Paris offers much, much more, if you know where to look. So read on and let me convince you that Montmartre is worth more than a flying visit.

For those who enjoy fancy idling away a few hours by strolling around, there is probably no region more rewarding than Montmarte. Between the basilica and the Moulin Rouge lies a region just perfect for an afternoon walk. Walk up and down the hill and you can easily lose yourself in the narrow cobbled streets and you’ll see why this area was such a draw for artists and poets alike. Keep an eye out and you’ll easily spot a moulin or two (other than the Moulin Rouge!) If you’re really paying attention you might stumble across the Clos Montmartre vineyard – a fully working vineyard in the capital! If you ever get lost on your walk, just head uphill and you’ll find yourself at the Basilica du Sacre-Coeur, one of the most impressive monuments in Paris. If it’s a nice evening, make sure to get up there around sunset, find a seat and enjoy the atmosphere as you watch night descend upon Paris - something I discovered on my visit there.

For those who enjoy a museum, the Montmartre region caters for you as well. The region boasts the Museum of Montmartre, which is based in the oldest building in the area. The building has previously served as residence to artists such as Renoir and Valadon, the works of whom comprise part of the permanent museum collection. The museum also plays host to the Renoir Gardens, which offer a perfect spot to rest. If you hadn’t found the Clos Montmartre already, these gardens offer views of it along with the rest of Paris. While at the museum, keep an eye out for the cancan room!

That leads us to Boulevard de Clichy, home of the Moulin Rouge and what many call the ‘street of sex’. Cancan, peep shows and sex shops are the order of the day (and night) along this street. Even if it’s not your cup of tea, it’s definitely worth a walk along to take in the surroundings. At sunset, as the neon lights switch on, it becomes all the more impressive. While here you can find the Elysee Montmartre theatre, which some say is the oldest (or at least one of the oldest) cancan theatres in Paris.

So, the next time you’re in Paris you know why you should head over to Montmartre. There are some pretty great hostels from the HipHop group in the region - so you can easily base yourself in Montmartre and have a great time. Either way, it doesn’t matter how long you’re in the city for, this region is worth it and has a little something for everyone.