Neighboring Pigalle and Montmartre extend across the 9th and 18th arrondissements in one of the most picturesque parts of Paris. Pigalle was once known mostly for its red-light district and rowdy nightlife, but more recently, it’s cleaned up its act and now draws a younger, more fashionable local crowd to eateries like Frenchie Pigalle and craft cocktail bars like Sister Midnight, which hosts regular drag, burlesque, and cabaret shows. 

Start your morning with pastries from Rose Bakery or linger over coffee at Café Pigalle. For something traditional, take a seat at Bouillon Pigalle, a brasserie inspired by working-class bouillon restaurants that features classic fare like beef bourguignon and terrine. The area has a more residential—and slightly more upscale feel—than Montmartre, which can be seen in coworking options like the recently opened Soho House Paris, set inside the former Cocteau family home. And while Pigalle has become something of a hipster hotspot for its drinking and dining scene, it still very much feels livable and slightly removed from some of the hustle and bustle of tourist-heavy Montmartre.

Montmartre has long been associated with the artist lifestyle, and this little hilltop village still exudes this charm today. Crowned by the 19th-century Romano-Byzantine-style Sacré-Cœur basilica, where you can admire panoramic views over Paris, the area is a tourist favorite—particularly for the Moulin Rouge cabaret. Winding streets open up to windmills, vineyards, and cafes made famous by French films like Amélie. In terms of dining, the area isn’t as culinary-driven as Pigalle, but you can still find a few gems like Georgian eatery Colchide and fine dining Sarté Restaurant. Near the basilica, Hardware Société serves up one of the city’s best brunch menus, and for coworking, Paris Wellio Montmartre is your best bet.