Walking to Montmartre, Paris

On our second day in Paris, Ellie and I woke rested and excited to explore Montmartre—one of Paris’s most charming and quirky places to wander. And I must say, our visit to Montmartre was equally, if not better, than our visit to the Eiffel Tower.

Although Paris has a great transit system, we opted to walk most of the way so that we could get a feel for the city.  Montmartre was quite a long walk from our apartment, so we took multiple pit stops.

Jardin Villemin Park in Paris

We made our first stop at Jardin Villemin, a nice little gem near Gare de l’est and canal Saint Martin. 

You can get to Jardin Villemin Park by using the Paris Metro to get to Gare-de-l’Est station. Once you’re at the station, exit and head toward Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin. Take a right onto Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin, walk about 10 meters, and then take a left on left onto Rue des Récolletstil. Walk a few more meters and you’ll arrive in Jardin Villemin Park.

Although the park isn’t large or glamarous it does feature a community garden, beautiful landscaped grass fields, and a gorgeous fountain. It’s the perfect escape from the busyness of the city and a great way to experience local life.

Street Performers in Paris

After resting for a bit, we continued our journey to Montmartre, stopping to watch street performers along the way.

While on the outskirts of Montmartre we also saw Moulin Rouge Paris—a legendary cabaret, famed for its French Cancan, beautiful dancers, and elaborate costumes!

Arriving in Montmartre Paris

Once we arrived in Montmartre, we aimlessly strolled around the area which is dotted with vintage-inspired cafés, restaurants, bakeries, and bars. Feeling a little snackish, we found a small bakery and purchased two delectable treats to eat in a nearby plaza.

Rue Paul Favel and Rue Mont-Cenis in Montmartre

Afterward, we visited the Basilica du Sacre-Coeur, a Roman Catholic church perched atop the hill of Montmartre, Paris. There are multiple ways to reach the Sacré-Cœur, including use of a funicular. But, we decided to climb the steep and charming stone staircases of Rue Paul Favel and Rue Mont-Cenis. These staircases offer spectacular views of the neighborhood and of the city.

The Basilica du Sacre-Coeur in Montmartre

When we reached the Sacré-Cœur—which towers above the rest of Paris—we enjoyed astonishing views of the city and outstanding entertainment by various street performers.

Sacre-Coeur Fountain In Montmartre

From the Basilica, we walked back through the mazed cobblestone streets of Montmartre. There we found a cute vintage café to have a cup of coffee and peacefully observed local street artists creating, exhibiting, and selling their fine artwork.