After a whirlwind trip back to the U.S. to see family and friends, I’ve returned to France—excited and ready for new adventures. And what better way to begin than to visit Montmartre, the hilltop neighborhood that has inspired generations of artists, writers, and dreamers?
This will be my first time actually staying in Montmartre, rather than just passing through. On past Paris visits, I’ve climbed the steps to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, admired the sweeping view of the city, and strolled the Place du Tertre on Sundays when artists display their work. But this time, when I visit Montmartre, it’s not just a stop—it’s home base.
Why Visit Montmartre
Montmartre is unlike any other part of Paris. Once a rural village dotted with windmills and vineyards, it became a magnet for artists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec, Modigliani, and Van Gogh all found inspiration here. The steep cobblestone streets, ivy-covered façades, and buzzing cafés still carry the energy of those bohemian days.
For travelers, visiting Montmartre offers the best of both worlds: the charm of an old Paris village and the excitement of discovering where art, music, and café life still thrive.
Staying in a Boutique Hotel in Montmartre
For this visit, I chose a boutique hotel tucked into Montmartre’s winding streets. From here, I can walk to neighborhood cafés, browse local shops, and feel part of the rhythm of daily life. Best of all, the hotel is just steps away from Cook’n With Class Paris, a cooking school where I’ll be spending my Sunday morning.
Cooking on Sunday in Montmartre
Yes, my Sunday in Montmartre will start with a culinary adventure. Cook’n With Class is known for its hands-on classes that begin in the market, where chefs guide students through the stalls to select seasonal produce, fresh meats, and fish. After shopping, the group heads to the school’s kitchen to prepare a multi-course meal.
For me, this is the perfect way to blend two favorite Paris pastimes: wandering through a neighborhood market and learning from a French chef.
Beyond the Sacré-Cœur
Of course, no visit to Montmartre is complete without seeing the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. But Montmartre offers more than the famous basilica. There are quiet corners where you stumble upon street art and secret gardens. The cafés along Rue Lepic and Rue des Abbesses buzz with locals. The Moulin Rouge, just at the base of Montmartre, reminds you that this neighborhood has long been at the center of Parisian nightlife. Walking these streets, I can almost imagine crossing paths with artists who once lived here—Degas sketching dancers, or Toulouse-Lautrec capturing the energy of the cabaret.
Next Stop: Royal Footsteps in the Chevreuse Valley
On Monday, I’m off by train to Gif-sur-Yvette in the Chevreuse Valley, southwest of Paris. I’m staying and playing at Le Moulin de la Tuileries, the country retreat of the former Duke of Windsor and Wallace Simpson.
Yes, the Barefoot Blogger will be walking in the footsteps of royalty! It will be quite a leap from bohemian Montmartre. This journey promises contrasts as rich as France itself.
Before I give away too many secrets, I hope you’ll stay tuned. It promises to be another great adventure!
