Montmartre

We spent our first day in Paris in the village of Montmartre. Situated 425 feet above sea level, Montmartre has spectacular views of the city and has inspired artists including Van Gogh, Picasso, and Matisse.

After climbing endless amounts of stairs, my mom and I started our tour through the 18th Arrondissement at the white-domed basilica of the Sacré-Coeur. The views both outside and inside the church were breathtaking.

After the basilica we wandered to Place du Terte, an old square where artists gather to paint and sell their artwork. It was crowded with tourists while we were there, which was overwhelming in the July heat, but was still charming all the same.

We spent the remainder of the afternoon strolling the winding cobblestone streets in Montmartre. The cafes, homes, and greenery were all so beautiful!

We stopped for a refreshing glass of rose at Jeanne B at 61 Rue Lepic and indulged in gelato at Amorino before getting back on the Metro. We also saw the famous red windmill of Moulin Rouge outside the station. Exploring Montmartre was the perfect way to kick off our vacation in Paris!