On 4th of February, International Relations team organised a guided tour in Paris for our international exchange students of the 2nd semester.
If there is one place in Paris that speaks about famous French charm, it is definitely Montmartre! The “neighbour on top of the hill” is where the history of modern art started, where windmills stood tall and where wine was once made – Montmartre is a definite must see for everyone visiting the French capital.
During this guided tour, our international students discovered the homes of the most important artists such as Picasso and Vincent van Gogh. They have also visited a local vineyard and learn many things about this important part of Paris: from the cabaret shows of the famous Moulin Rouge to the beautiful white church Sacre Coeur with its unique and splendid view of Paris.
Sacre Coeur Basilica and the view of Paris
Perched 130 meters at the top of Montmartre, we couldn’t miss the impressive Basilica du Sacré Coeur at Montmartre. We took the 234 spiralling steps which lead us to the basilica’s dome that rises 83m high with the most spectacular panoramas of Paris. When we arrived on top of the hill, the magical, giant, sprawling view of the French capital spread out magnificently in front of our eyes: La Défense, Montparnasse Tower, the Panthéon, the Bois de Vincennes, the Buttes-Chaumont and the basilica of Saint-Denis, we could see nearly all the monuments of Paris.
This structure clearly contrasts with other religious buildings in the capital. We have visited and admired its interior design which left us speechless. Outside the basilique we enjoyed the splendid view of the capital because after all, we were at the highest point in Paris after, the Eiffel Tower.
While we were there, we have noticed plenty of locals, simply sitting and talking to each other, while enjoying the views. We have also observed street artists and other performances. A calm feeling that we can only get at the Sacré Coeur and nowhere else in the city.
Place du Tertre
The little shaded square of Place du Tertre is situated just a stone’s throw away from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and is the tourist centre of Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement. At an altitude of 130 metres, the Place du Tertre is highest square of Paris.
While we walked into the square, we admired the colourful façades of small buildings such as typical Parisian cafés, restaurants and art galleries.
Discovering the story of Montmartre Museum
Another exceptional place in the heart of Paris is without doubt the Montmartre Museum. A few steps from the Sacré-Coeur and the Place du Tertre, the museum and its gardens offer a haven of peace and greenery in the heart of Paris.
Our guide made a very interesting presentation about the story of this place and while walking around the museum, we relived the area’s history, the lively artistic scene of its studios and the atmosphere of its famous cabarets.
Montmartre vineyard
As we made our way up through the winding streets, just behind the famous La Maison Rose (the bright pink cafe that Picasso used to frequent), we could take a close look the local vineyards, offering an exceptional view of the Vigne Montmartre and, even further, the vast plains to the north of Paris.
Visiting Picasso and Van Gogh houses
Two names considered to be ones of the most important figures in art such as Pablo Picasso and Vicent Van Gogh, once sojourned in the French capital, in Montmartre neighbourhood. We have visited their homes which are now museums and it was very interesting to discover where they once lived and learn more about their life.
Two last windmills in Paris
During our tour we also had the chance to see the Moulin Radet and Moulin de Blute-Fin, the two last surviving windmills of Paris. It was interesting to learn as well that they have inspired many painters for many years such as: Corot, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, Van Gogh and Willette.
Moulin Rouge
The Moulin Rouge cabaret is another famed landmark that we have seen and we’ve learned stories about its significant period in French history. Being so famous and shown in so many movies, we were happy to stand in front of this place where the Can Can dance was birthed during the Belle Époque.
Excellent student experience in EPITECH
During their study exchange in Epitech our international students will get outstanding teaching, excellent spaces for socialising and learning, and wide-ranging support.
To ensure their integration, the International Relations team offers several specific activities for international students throughout the year including city guided tours.
Throughout their study exchange, our international students will have the chance to experience a brand-new country and different cultures with incredible new outlooks, customs, and activities; and that’s because they have the choice between our campuses located in France, Spain, Germany or Belgium.
For more detailed information about the programme click here.