Paris in films: iconic movie locations to visit

Lights, Camera, Paris: How the City of Light Became a Star

Paris has long been a muse for filmmakers around the globe. Its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and rich atmosphere have provided the perfect backdrop for countless cinematic moments. For movie buffs and tourists alike, visiting these famous locations isn’t just a stroll down Parisian streets—it’s stepping onto the sets of cultural classics. Ready to explore Paris through the lens of iconic films?

Montmartre: A Walk Through Amélie’s World

Do you remember the whimsical world of Amélie (2001)? Montmartre, with its cobblestone streets and captivating charm, plays a starring role in the movie. Start your journey at Café des Deux Moulins, where Amélie worked as a waitress. You’ll find the café nestled on Rue Lepic, still radiating its quirky, nostalgic vibe.

Take a short walk to La Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. Even though it’s not heavily featured in the film, it’s quintessentially Montmartre and offers breathtaking views of the city. Don’t forget to stop by the photo booth in the Métro Lamarck-Caulaincourt station; it’s the one Amélie uses to discover the mysterious torn-up photos!

The Louvre: A Thrilling Stop Inspired by The Da Vinci Code

Dan Brown’s bestseller The Da Vinci Code (2006) brought the Louvre Museum into the international spotlight once again. Whether you’re a fan of the film or the book, standing before the glass Pyramid where Robert Langdon and Sophie Neveu unraveled clues is a must. As you walk around the museum, imagine the suspense-filled chase through its labyrinth of galleries.

Bonus tip: If you’re already at the Louvre, why not step inside? It houses some of the most acclaimed artworks in the world, including the Mona Lisa. While you marvel at these pieces, you might just fancy yourself part of an art heist!

Elle Woods’ Stylish Parisian Adventure in Legally Blonde 2

While the film Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde (2003) wasn’t primarily shot in Paris, some key scenes showcase Elle Woods’ visit to the French capital. The Eiffel Tower makes an appearance as Elle struts her stuff in her pink fabulousness.

Why not do your own stylish photoshoot around the Eiffel Tower? Head to Place du Trocadéro for picture-perfect views, or if you’re feeling adventurous, walk along Champ de Mars for a different perspective. Fun fact: Did you know the Eiffel Tower sparkles for five minutes at the start of every hour after sundown? It’s cinematic magic in real life.

Notre-Dame de Paris: The Hunchback’s Domain

Victor Hugo’s tale of the hunchback Quasimodo gained renewed attention with Disney’s animated classic The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996). While the movie is animated, the inspiration is very real. Standing before the Notre-Dame Cathedral, you can almost hear bells ringing in your imagination.

After taking in the towering Gothic architecture, make time to climb to the top of Notre-Dame (though access may be limited following restoration efforts post-2019). The view from above gives you that « Quasimodo’s perspective » over Paris. It’s also a great spot to spot the gargoyles that look down protectively over the city.

Shakespeare and Company: Midnight in Paris

Fans of romantic nostalgia will love visiting Shakespeare and Company, the iconic English-language bookstore featured in Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris (2011). Situated on the Left Bank of the Seine, near the Notre-Dame Cathedral, this quaint bookstore is a hub for literary lovers and dreamers alike.

Inside, you’ll find creaky wooden floors, shelves stacked with books, and cozy nooks for reading. Just outside, the picturesque views of the Seine riverbank lend themselves to plenty of « movie moment » opportunities. Snap a photo here and step into your very own Parisian reverie.

Place de la Concorde: Devilishly Glamorous in The Devil Wears Prada

Remember that dreamy scene in The Devil Wears Prada (2006) when Anne Hathaway’s character tosses her phone into the fountain, marking her break from the pressure-filled fashion world? It was shot in none other than Place de la Concorde. The setting, with the Eiffel Tower in the background, screams elegance.

Beyond its connection to the film, Place de la Concorde is a dazzling part of Parisian history. Take a moment to admire the famous Obelisk of Luxor standing tall amidst the bustling square. Bonus: From here, you can capture views of the Tuileries Garden and the Champs-Élysées.

Pont de Bir-Hakeim: The Parisian Dream in Inception

If you’ve seen Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending blockbuster Inception (2010), the bridge featured in Ariadne’s (Elliot Page) dream-training sequence might look familiar—it’s Pont de Bir-Hakeim. The symmetrical columns and sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower make this location a modern cinematic favorite.

Perfect for photographers, this spot offers captivating angles. If architecture and symmetry are your thing, this is a must-see stop. You might even spot a few professional photographers snapping wedding shoots or fashion spreads!

The Streets of La La Land’s Parisian Daydream

For fans of La La Land (2016), Paris is more of a daydream than a real-life setting. However, the film’s closing montage depicts Mia and Sebastian in Parisian locations such as Montmartre and the Seine River during their « dream life. » It’s all romanticized, of course, but why not recreate your own version?

Take a leisurely evening walk along the Seine, perhaps near Île de la Cité, to soak in the romantic atmosphere. Who knows? The sights and sounds may feel just as magical as the musical’s dreamy sequences.

Helpful Tips for Visiting Film Locations in Paris

• Plan ahead: Some locations, like Notre-Dame, may have restricted access depending on restoration or event schedules.
• Transportation: A Paris Métro pass will take you to most of these spots. Walking is also one of the best ways to explore and soak in the scenery.
• Timing: Early mornings or late afternoons often offer the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
• Bring the movie magic: Why not rewatch some of these films before your trip to get into the spirit?

Paris isn’t just a city—it’s a star that has inspired and dazzled audiences for decades. By visiting these iconic film locations, you’ll not only walk through cinematic history but create movie-worthy moments of your own.