Montmartre

I simply love Montmartre (I think I will say that about everywhere in Paris, I can't help it!). There is no disputing that this place is FULL of art and culture. I don't think you can turn the corner without seeing wonderful art or an artistic influence!

Now, starting with accessibility, it is hilly. In fact there is no escaping an incline, so that is something to bear in mind when travelling. The roads and paths are also predominantly cobblestone so, whilst lovely to look at and technically wheelchair accessible, it won't be a comfortable ride and can be troublesome for other mobility aids. However, getting passed that, the main attractions in Montmartre are pretty accessibly friendly (further homework may be necessary though, please don't take my word as gospel). 

Montmartre Streets

There is so much to see in Montmartre and we definitely did not get to see it all. On our first afternoon there we took to the streets and just roamed to take it all in. Now, I am a hobby girl through and through, and one of my loves is sewing which is mity fortunate as Montmartre has a huge fabric district, particularly around Place Saint-Pierre. It felt like there were stores on every corner selling all types of fabric and notions. I was in HEAVAN! The prices were not too extortionate either. Unfortunately, we were travelling with 1 backpack each so I did refrain from purchasing anything however that did not stop me from looking at all that was on offer! If your in the market for fabric or any souvenir - highly recommend! 

Fabric District

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Once I was dragged away from all the fabric goodness we went in search of the Wall of Love or Le Mur des Je t'aime. I was totally ignorant to this place, had no idea it existed and no expectations when it was suggested to me as something we should see but I am so glad we did. It is located in Square Jehan Rictus, within spitting distance of the Sacre-Coeur, The Wall of Love is a blue tiled wall that contains roughly 300 different languages in white fonts all saying "I love you". It is beautiful! Set within a small garden where you can sit and just admire the wall, the people visiting it, and study all the different languages that are spoken all across the world. I really, really loved this; it totally took me by surprise and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Montmartre. (Plus it is totally free!)

Wall of Love

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

I could not stay in Montmartre and not pay a visit, at least once (we went multiple times) to the Sacre-Coeur. The Sacre-Coeur and its grounds are magnificent. Positioned atop a hill, you can see the entire city of Paris from its entrance which provides a breath taking view...the hill itself is also breath-taking but for a totally different reason! I was puffing! There are gradients and off shoots that have been carved into the hill with benches you can detour too if needed to catch your breath or sit down throughout the incline, before you hit the steps right at the top! For people who cannot manage steps, there is disabled access at the back of the Basilica. I have no personal experience with the accommodations so I can't say too much about it however I have taken this from their website:  "Elevator access to the basilica, for people with disabilities or mobility issues, can be found at the back of the basilica (35 rue du Chevalier de la Barre). Open from 8.30am to 6.30pm." 

The 19th Century Basilica was built following the Franco-Prussian war and they did not spare any details! Once you are inside you are totally taken aback by all the small details! Everywhere you look there are carvings and statues and alters and religious artifacts. The stained glass just left me astonished that someone was able to create that! The domed ceiling provides amazing acoustics and when a service is taking place, the atmosphere within the Basilica is so reverent! You could literally spend hours inside without even realising! 

Now, they have added a few tourist elements throughout such as the coin presses (which take card payment - very dangerous! I felt with a few), and there is a small shop included where you can buy souvenirs if you wish. However, in my opinion, this does not take away from the beauty of the landmark or its cultural significance, but I do appreciate that it might annoy some people so just a little PSA.

There is also the option to clime the Dome of the Sacre-Coeur if you have the stomach for it, which I have done in the past and the views were/are stunning! It is not for the faint of heart! That thing is HIGH! But unfortunately I do recommend it, it was amazing, even if it does still haunt me slightly!

Admission is free to the Sacre-Coeur however the Dome tour does have a Fee attached:

Child (up to 15yrs old) : €5

Adult (16yrs+): €8

Groups (20 People +): €6

The Sacre-Coeur

Panorama View of Paris 

View from halfway up the Sacre-Coeur hill

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Both attractions are must see stops on your Paris tour if you are venturing to Montmartre!