This Amazing Church Sits Atop Paris’s Most Romantic Hill

High above Paris sits one of my favorite churches in the city.

Sacré-Cœur Basilica looks like something from a fairy tale with its white stone walls and tall domes.

What makes it special, though, it’s its location, right atop a hill, La Butte Montmartre. “La Butte” is the French for hill. The top of this hill is one of the best Paris panoramas.

Why Visit Sacré-Cœur

The church itself is stunning.

Built in the late 1800s, its bright white stone seems to glow against the sky.

Inside, you’ll find colorful mosaics and peaceful spaces for quiet moments.

But the real magic happens outside.

From the steps of Sacré-Cœur, you can see all of Paris spread out below you.

The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Les Invalides, and the winding Seine River all come into view. Many people say this is the best view in the entire city. The sight is especially beautiful at sunset when the whole city turns golden.

The area around the church, called Montmartre, is located in Paris’s 18th arrondissement and feels like a village inside the big city. Street artists paint portraits, musicians play songs, and the narrow cobblestone streets wind past old buildings and tiny cafes.

Are you new to Paris? Read my article about the 20 arrondissements to understand how the city is structured.

Getting There

Sacré-Cœur is located right on top of Montmartre hill, the highest point in Paris. You have several ways to reach it:

By Metro: Take the metro to Pigalle, Abbesses, or Anvers stations. From there, you can walk up the hill or take the funicular (a small train that goes up steep hills).

The Funicular: This is the easiest way up. It runs every few minutes and takes just 90 seconds to reach the top. You can use a regular metro ticket.

Walking: If you don’t mind the climb, walking up gives you great views along the way.

The most popular route starts at Place du Tertre and follows the winding streets up the hill. If you don’t mind a longer walk, you can start by Moulin Rouge, Place Pigalle or Place de Clichy, take Rue Lepic and walk your way up to the top of La Butte Montmartre.

By Car: Driving is not recommended. The streets are narrow and parking is very hard to find. If you’re keen or getting to Sacre Coeur by car, do yourself a favor and take a taxi. You can thank me later for this tip.

Also read the article about using the public transport in Paris. You’ll see how easy it is to get just about anywhere in Ile de France.

What Makes It Romantic

Couples love Sacré-Cœur for many reasons. The stunning views create perfect moments for proposals and romantic photos. Many couples sit on the steps at sunset, watching the city lights come alive below.

You can also sit directly on the grass in front of the basilica. Many people bring food and drinks, as that’s the perfect spot for a picnic with a view.

The quiet streets of Montmartre feel far from the busy city center. You can walk hand in hand down small lanes like Rue de l’Abreuvoir or Rue des Saules, past ivy-covered walls and flower boxes. Beware, though, there will be dozens of other couples seeking for the same experience as you do.

Artists still work in the same spots where famous painters like Picasso and Renoir once lived. You can have your portrait drawn together or simply watch the creative energy that fills the air.

The area has a timeless feel. Gas lamps still light some streets at night, and the old windmills remind you of the area’s history as a country village.

Where to Stay

Hotel des Arts Montmartre: This cozy hotel sits right in the heart of Montmartre. The rooms are small but charming, and some have views of the Sacré-Cœur.

Le Consulat Hotel: A budget-friendly choice on Rue de la Consigne. The building is old but the rooms are clean and the location is perfect for exploring.

Villa Royale Pigalle: A bit down the hill but still close enough to walk. This boutique hotel has more modern rooms and a stylish bar.

Hotel Particulier Montmartre: For a special treat, this hidden hotel feels like a secret garden. It’s more expensive but offers a unique experience.

Where to Eat

There are two options.

Option 1: Traditional French style, touristy spots

Touristy isn’t necessarily bad. You’ll surely love all of the places listed below.

La Maison Rose: This pink cafe has been serving food since 1908. Artists like Picasso used to eat here. The French food is simple but good, and the terrace is lovely.

Le Consulat: Not just a hotel but also a restaurant with outdoor seating on Place du Tertre. Perfect for people-watching while you eat.

L’Homme Tranquille: A cozy wine bar on Rue des Abbesses. Great for a romantic dinner with good French wine and cheese.

Pierre Hermé: For dessert, visit this famous pastry shop. Their macarons are some of the best in Paris.

Le Moulin de la Galette: This restaurant sits in an old windmill. The setting is magical and the food is traditional French.

Option 2: Value for money

Do you want to eat like Parisians do? Try Italian. Try Thai. Try Chinese or Vietnamese.

Here are my top favorites in Montmartre.

Al Caratello: Excellent Italian restaurant run by a very nice family

Sukhothai: Run by a Thai family, this is probably the best Thai restaurant in Paris.

Chez Papa 9: Traditional dishes from the southwest of France.

Streets to Explore

Rue de l’Abreuvoir: Often called the most beautiful street in Paris. Ivy covers the walls and small gardens peek over fences.

Place du Tertre: The main square where artists work and cafes serve coffee. It gets crowded but the atmosphere is fun.

Rue des Abbesses: The main shopping street with bakeries, flower shops, and small boutiques.

Rue Lepic: This winding street leads down the hill and has great food shops and cafes.

Rue des Saules: A quiet street with the last vineyard in Paris. Very peaceful and romantic.

Rue Saint-Rustique: One of the oldest streets in Paris. Very narrow and full of old charm.

Best Times to Visit

Early morning offers the most peaceful experience. You can often have the steps of Sacré-Cœur almost to yourself before 9 AM.

Sunset is the most popular time for good reason. The views are incredible and the romantic atmosphere is strongest.

Late evening brings a different kind of magic. The church is lit up and the city sparkles below.

Avoid midday in summer when it gets very crowded and hot.

Things To Know

– Dress modestly if you plan to go inside the church
– Bring a camera for the amazing views
– Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones
– Keep your belongings safe in crowded areas
– Take time to just sit and enjoy the atmosphere

Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre offer something special that you can’t find anywhere else in Paris.

The combination of stunning views, artistic history, and romantic atmosphere makes it a perfect place for couples and anyone who loves beautiful places. Whether you come for the sunrise, spend the day exploring the winding streets, or return for sunset views, this magical hill will leave you with memories that last forever.