When walking around near Louvre (be aware of black and strange looking people, they always try to sell you something, and also women in Arabic coats since they press to your conscience by showing you a card which suggests that you should pay them something), you don’t actually feel safe although it’s a large area with a wide open space and loads of tourists alongside with the fact that it’s in the centre of the city. On the contrary, you shouldn’t feel yourself safe in a surrounding area, well, at least a suburb Montmartre. It’s just not that close to the centre and has it’s perhaps a notorious past (Jesuits, bohemian people etc). The hill has been occupied for almost two thousand years and many things have stayed there, with one of them being the aura of many famous artists.

Montmartre like the name suggests is situated on a hill (almost 130 m high). Going to there by metro (Abbesses) means that you have to climb like seven stories but don’t be afraid, because your journey up the stairs is rewarding – you get to see many wall-paintings. We took the stairs all those three or four times we went there and never regretted. Going down is from a different staircase and different pictures.

When first going to Montmartre I suggest that you move always upwards (for as long as possible at least) because you’ll see a most spectacular view (yes, Eiffel is there too) to Paris. Night time view is the best in my opinion. Unfortunately you are not the only one doing it so be prepared to either ignore or embrace the hordes of people.

Montmartre has small shops and café’s open till late so it’s the place to spend your money on fine artwork. The streets are busy in their own unique way, it’s almost as you were in a different world. It’s something that cannot put into words, one has to feel it.

You also have the opportunity to find quiet and lovely streets with beautiful small houses. Some streets have stairs at the end so by car you’ll have some difficulties.

Montmartre also has the world famous Moulin Rouge (in French “red windmill”), which honestly looks prettier and more effective in the dark.  We really wanted to go and see a show in there, but as it turns out, you have to book like six months in advance.

If you are spending more than one day in Paris, it’s the place to visit. Strongly encouraged.