Montmarte is the highest point in Paris with a fabulous view. I have to admit, this is the #1 recommended spot from all my friends who have been to Paris. I took the metro to the closest station – Abbesses and climbed many steps into the heart of the famous artist village. I would recommend first time visitors to use the Avers metro stop for the most dramatic view of Sacre’-Coeur while climbing. Just don’t miss the artists on the left of the Basilica.

More info on Sacre’-Coeur Basilica

Many artists were drawing tourists, but there were also just as many doing their own thing

Local entertainment – the crowd was pleased

I enjoyed sitting on the steps of Sacre’-Coeur Basilica singing along to the american tunes

I had to sneak this photo inside the Basilica

Some of those charming roof tops up close

The Louvre is open evenings on Wednesday and Friday. Seems it’s less crowded after 5 so I waited until then to finally check it out. I took the metro and entered the Louvre from the underground mall – which was great on this rainy day. I had Rick Steeve’s Podcast and was so happy that it was organized in chapters because I wasn’t able to go the route they suggested. I visited the Denon wing first, because that’s where they keep the most popular pieces of art.

The Louvre Official Website

In the emperor room there was an empty pillar that tourists keep posing for photos

At one time this was the king’s palace

A close up of Napoleon

I told myself I would not leave Paris without trying the escargot, so here it is… and they were really quite tasty

Escargot

Here’s a recipe for Confit de Canard, which was delicious

Confit de Canard