Place du Tertre: The Street Painters' Stage

A short climb further up brings you to Place du Tertre, the highest point in Montmartre. It is famous as a spot where many painters still gather to work, though it was originally used for executions, and it once had a dark, bloodstained history.

On one side stands the Church of Saint-Pierre, said to be the third-oldest church in Paris. Cafés and restaurants line the square, and on another side is the Dalí museum. In the middle of the square, you'll see artists selling paintings and drawing portraits.

They may be unknown street painters, but only artists approved by the City of Paris are allowed to paint and sell here, so you can find portraits and paintings of surprisingly high quality. That makes it a great place to pick up a painting as a souvenir. Famous artists such as Maurice Utrillo and Picasso are said to have worked here in the past, so today's unknown painter could well become tomorrow's famous one. If a piece catches your eye, don't hesitate to take it home.

The Dalí museum on the edge of the square showcases the work of Surrealist Salvador Dalí. About 300 pieces are on display, including his famous melting clocks as well as furniture and photographs. If you're interested in Dalí, it's worth a visit.