What better way to discover the glamour of Paris than by joining one of the many Emily in Paris tours and following in the footsteps of the American expat Emily from the popular Netflix series?
Discover the cafés and restaurants where Emily and her friends choose to hang out and the gorgeous landmarks of Paris that pop up in the series. Experience the romance and beauty of Paris through the eyes of Emily and fall under the spell of the city that has been coined as the ‘City of Love’.
Visit some of the top selfie locations as promoted by the character Emily herself in the series and have fun learning about these iconic and stunning locations!
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What are the most popular Emily in Paris filming locations?
1 – Place de l’Estrapade
In the 5th arrondissement also known as the ‘Latin Quarter’ we can find Emily’s classically Parisian Apartment. Emily and her friend Mindy live on the top floor in apartment 501 directly above the charming French chef Gabriel.
Outside Emily’s apartment is a beautiful leafy square with a fountain, perfect for taking some peaceful shade during the summer. The name of the square ‘Estrapade’ has a slightly darker historical connotation because it refers to the form of punishment inflicted on prisoners that was banned under King Louis VIII.
Nearby it is possible to find the gorgeous TRAM Cafe with some tables outside on the pavement for breakfast. It is here that Emily meets up with Mindy to gossip over a café au lait and some freshly baked croissants.
2 – Bistro Terra Nera
In the series Gabriel’s Restaurant is called ‘Les Deux Compères’ but in real-life it actually exists as a very dapper Italian bistro. The exquisitely Parisian magenta-red stained glass windows make the place extremely photogenic and stylish. Why not pop in here for a quick Aperol spritz or a typical carbonara?
It is easy to conjure up images of the handsome chef Gabriel sitting out on the terrace preparing his menu for the evening service or memories of Emily attending to tables as a waitress when she temporarily attempts her best efforts at french hospitality in Season 3 Episode 4.
3 – La Boulangerie Moderne
All Emily in Paris fans must pay a visit to Emily’s local 19th-century artisanal bakery where she goes in the mornings to pick up a recently baked baguette.
Emily experienced her first French pain-au-chocolat on the premises, a huge moment of revelation for any foreigner when visiting France (the ultimate paradise for pastries!).
It is here that Emily takes a selfie with the owner of the bakery to share with her Instagram followers.
4 – Pantheon
The majestic Pantheon building features as a backdrop when Emily chats on the phone with her boyfriend back in the States and they decide to break up. The Pantheon is very nearby to Emily’s apartment so an excellent place for Emily to take a stroll when reflecting upon her love life or issues at work.
The construction of the Pantheon was completed in 1790 and it was built in a Neo-Classical style. The Pantheon is actually a mausoleum for some the most celebrated and distinguished French citizens. During a visit into the crypts of the Pantheon we can find the tombs of Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola and Marie Curie.
In addition to being a place of rest for illustrious historical figures, the Pantheon is also a symbol of French national identity and values. It is well worth a visit inside to marvel at the impressive architectural dome structure inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. It is also possible to climb to the top of the dome to enjoy some spectacular panoramic views of the Latin Quarter, so make sure you don’t miss one of the greatest things to do in Paris.
The Pantheon has also been used for some important historical moments for example the 1851 Pendulum experiment. Léon Foucault famously suspended a pendulum from the Pantheon dome to demonstrate the Earth’s rotation.
5 – Domaine National du Palais-Royal
A pivotal moment in the series occurs in the Palais-Royal Garden, where Mindy and Emily meet for the very first time. The benches in the spacious gardens of the Royal Palace are a perfect place to relax or have a picnic away from the fast-paced bustle of city life.
Near Emily’s office in the 1st arrondissement, the tranquil gardens of the Royal Palace are a convenient place for Emily to take a break from the heated office politics.
The grandiose Domaine National du Palais-Royal provides a beautiful backdrop to the gardens. The palace itself was built in the 17th century and was originally the home of Cardinal Richelieu. Later the Palace was the childhood home of Louis XIV before he moved to Versailles.
6 – Montmartre
Montmartre is a famous historical neighborhood in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. When one thinks of Montmartre one thinks of bohemian artists and intellectuals. Previous inhabitants who spent time living in Montmartre include creative legends such as Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec and Dalí.
Montmartre is full of winding colorful narrow streets, cobbled pavements, boutique corner shops and small cafés. It is hard not to fall in love with this district full of buzzing energy where it is not unusual to see artists setting up their easels for some sketching of street scenes.
In Season 1 Episode 5 Emily and Mindy enjoy an evening drink at the gorgeously pink La Maison Rose restaurant. The green shutters and the attractive leafy creepers growing over the building above make this an idyllic place to soak up the Montmartre atmosphere.
At the top of Montmartre which is on a hill, Emily in Paris fans will marvel at the basilica of Sacré-Coeur, the large white 83-meter-high dome towering over the city. Imagine yourself in the shoes of Emily and Mindy sitting on the steps of the basilica gazing nostalgically over the mesmerizing city views below.
The Basilica is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and blends a mixture of Byzantine and Romanesque architectural styles. Inside the Basilica it is possible to contemplate impressive mosaics and a prestigious pipe organ.
The iconic Moulin Rouge or ‘Red Windmill’ is also a huge feature of Montmartre and Emily and Mindy pose for some selfies outside the cabaret. Parisians have been coming here to watch extravagant dancing shows and dazzling can-can performances since the 19th century.
7 – Pont des Arts
In Season 2 Episode 5 Mindy’s band sets up and performs on this gorgeously romantic pedestrian bridge over the Seine River.
The bridge often receives the nickname ‘love lock bridge’ due to the tradition of couples leaving a signed padlock as a sign of their eternal devotion, one of the most romantic things to do in Paris for couples. In 2015 many padlocks were actually removed from the bridge because of damages inflicted due to their weight
The Pont des Arts is definitely worth crossing over if heading to the Louvre on the right bank. Enjoy pausing on the bridge for great views down the river and perhaps you are lucky enough to enjoy the gentle melodies of some street musicians.
It is definitely recommended to cross over this bridge at sunset for the ultimate warm glow reflected in the river waters and silhouettes outlined against the fading sun.
8 – Eiffel Tower
It is difficult to think about this city without thinking of its ultimate symbol – the Eiffel Tower – one of the best tourist attractions in Paris. In Season 1 Episode 5 Emily and Mindy take a ride on a carousel very near the base of the tower.
Le Café de l’Homme is a rooftop brasserie visited by Emily with extraordinary views of the Eiffel Tower. It is here that Emily manages to impress the smooth-talking and flirtatious Antoine Lambert with marketing ideas for his perfume brand Maison Lavaux.
What a chic location for a glamorous work event involving champagne and the glittering illuminated Eiffel Tower in the background.
A trip to Paris wouldn’t quite feel complete without some classic shots of the Eiffel Tower. The tower was built in 1889 for the World Fair and until 1930 it held the title of the tallest building in the world (this title was overtaken by the opening of the Chrysler building in New York).
9 – Pont Alexandre III
In Season 1 Episode 3 Emily and her colleagues head to the Pont Alexandre III to shoot a perfume advert consisting of a naked model crossing over the bridge surrounded by a group of men in suits.
This attractive bridge is decorated with elaborate Art Nouveau-style lamp posts and on the center of the bridge visitors can take a look at the lavish golden statue entitled ‘Fame of the Sciences’ which represents the triumph of the arts and sciences.
The bridge was named after Tsar Alexander III of Russia to symbolize the alliance between France and Russia and was built around the same time as the Eiffel Tower for the World Fair.
10 – Palais Garnier
During Season 1 Episode 6 Emily tries one of the most exciting things to do in Paris at night and goes to the Palais Garnier Opera house to see a performance of the ballet Swan Lake with Thomas.
Although slightly disappointed with the pretentious attitude of Thomas, during the opera visit Emily manages to chat with the designer Pierre Cadault. The Opera Garnier is an opulent piece of architecture full of intricate decorations, mythological figures and sculptures.
The building was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III and after taking 14 years to construct, was finally opened in 1875. When visiting make sure to appreciate the sumptuous Grand Staircase made out of marble and gilded bronze.
In the auditorium don’t forget to look up to enjoy the awe-inspiring ceiling painted by the famous Marc Chagall and the dazzling chandeliers.
11 – Café de Flore
The Café de Flore is located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood and has been serving food and beverages since 1887.
Over the years the Café de Flore has gained a reputation for being an intellectual honeypot where during the 20th-century writers (such as Ernest Hemingway and Albert Camus, Jean Paul Sartre) would meet to reflect and exchange ideas on the terraces.
Visitors can enjoy its lively atmosphere both inside and outside on the pavement terrace. Take in the sophisticated decor of wood-paneled walls, red velvet seating banquettes, classy mirrors and marble top tables! The Café de Flore features in Season 1 Episode 6 where Emily meets Professor Thomas.
Thomas even tells Emily, ‘You’re sitting at the coolest café in all of Paris’ confirming that this is a must-see stop off on all Emily in Paris Tours!
12 – Place de Valois
This is where we find Emily’s work place, the office of the company ‘Savoir’. Opposite her office space is the Bistrot Valois where often Emily’s colleagues come to share a spot of lunch.
The courtyard square is very elegant and excellently situated very close to the Palais Royal. The Place de Valois is the perfect fancy and up-market location for Emily’s company headquarters which specializes in the marketing of exclusive luxury brands!
In this square, we can also find the modern art gallery ‘Galerie Patrick Fourtin’ which specializes in the sale of Art Deco furniture.
13 – Atelier des Lumières
Located inside a former steel foundry that dates back to 1835, this space offers breathtaking digital art immersive light shows. Watch the vibrant colors dance around the wall surfaces and get up close to the projected artworks.
In Season One Episode 5 Emily, Gabriel and Camille enjoy a show based on the artist Van Gogh watching his iconic sunflowers and scenes of Starry Night magnified across the space.
The immersive digital light shows are constantly changing so make sure to look ahead and check which experiences are currently available! Recent digital exhibitions have included artists like Marc Chagall and Paul Klee.
14 – Place de Vosges
The Place de Vosges is a 17th-century square with charming fountains located in the four corners and an impressive manicured lawn. It is considered one of the oldest planned squares in the whole of Paris!
The square is surrounded by symmetrical buildings with attractive arcade arches on the ground floor. The famous writer Victor Hugo even lived in an apartment on the square!
The Place de Vosges is situated in the Marais district, in between the 3rd and the 4th arrondissement. Emily in Paris fans may recognize the square from Season 2 Episode 7 where Mindy and the musician Benoit romantically kiss for the first time!
15 – Jardin du Luxembourg
In Season 1 Episode 1 Emily goes for a morning jog in these delightful gardens in central Paris in the 6th arrondissement. The spacious gardens contain 106 statues, blooming flower-beds, tree-lined promenades and various fountains.
The gardens were originally created on the orders of Queen Marie de Medici in the early 17th century. Nowadays the Luxembourg palace itself is used as the French Senate and the Gardens are open freely to the public.
At the Eastern part of the garden, visitors can find the ‘Medici Fountain’, a lovely shaded enclave to take a rest on a bench and ponder over the sculpted mythical features. It is said that the Gardens of Luxembourg were originally inspired by the remarkable Boboli Gardens in Florence in Italy!
How should I explore the Emily in Paris filming locations?
On Foot
Walking tours allow Emily in Paris fans to have a really immersive experience and the possibility to discover the hidden gems and smaller details that would perhaps be missed when using other means of transport.
Get up close to the architecture and see the city from the perspective of a real Parisian! Absorb the smells of bakeries, the perfumes from local florists and the sounds of Parisian chit-chat coming from the terraces!
By Vintage Citroen DS
This is the ultimate classy and cute method of transport to cruise around Paris also known as ‘the City of Style and Fashion.’ The convertible roof allows visitors to breathe in the city atmosphere and cover all the main areas in comfort!
By Bus
Some tours for example ‘The Emily in Paris Journey Tour’ offer an included bus ride. A bus ride can provide a great viewpoint for getting a fantastic overview of the main sites.
Don’t forget that a bus can allow you to admire the landmarks in a conveniently elevated position plus its definitely a safer option weather wise if you are worried about a potential risk of rain! Sit back, put your feet up and enjoy the ride in comfort!
How long does an Emily in Paris tour last?
There are many different companies offering Emily in Paris walking tours that typically range from about 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours in duration.
A private tour in an air-conditioned vehicle with an included pick-up from the hotel lasts approximately 3 hours. Similarly the Emily in Paris private tour in a Vintage Citroen DS takes 3 hours.
What is included in an Emily in Paris tour?
What is included ranges from which experience you decide to select. More detailed information can be found on TourScanner to compare the different options available.
The Emily in Paris walking tours will include a knowledgeable guide who will highlight many of the places mentioned in the article and provide more anecdotes and opinions from the perspective of real-life Parisians regarding the life of expats in Paris.
Some tours such as the ‘Emily in Paris Journey Tour’ even include a Parisian snack and a cocktail planned in a surprise location!
The private Vintage open-top Citroen DS tour includes a private guide and pick up from a central location. Expect to visit many of the filming locations listed in this article and perhaps some additional spots will be thrown in!
How much does an Emily in Paris tour cost? How to book a tour?
Check out the TourScanner website to compare the many tours available and easily book them online.
Prices for Emily in Paris Walking Tours range from around 30 euros to 90 euros per person. There is also a free Emily in Paris tour guided by an extra from the series provided by ‘Guru: Paris Magic Tours’ which works on the basis of donations.
For those seeking to cruise around in style in the Vintage Citroen DS open-top prices start from around 379 euros for a group of four people.
When is the best time for an Emily in Paris tour?
A Emily in Paris tour can be enjoyed all year round so when is the best time to visit really depends on personal preferences.
Spring is usually quite pleasant so visitors can often sit out on the terraces and sidewalk cafés. Summer can sometimes be quite warm but can provide a perfect opportunity for visiting outdoor Parisian parks and gardens.
Autumn is less crowded than the summer so the queues are often shorter to enter attractions. September is also the month when Paris Fashion Week takes place, attracting fashion enthusiasts from around the world and providing great opportunities for people watching!
Winter can bring cold weather so therefore requires heavy coats and lots of layers. Paris in winter can be a very magical experience with festive Christmas lights and small winter markets creating a cozy and atmospheric ambiance! Sometimes it is also possible to see outdoor ice-rinks popping up around the city. Warm up with a ‘chocolat chaud’ in an inviting café or try some heart-warming classically French onion soup!
Travel tips
- Come with comfortable and sturdy footwear for the Emily in Paris walking tours (save your heels for after the tour!)
- Ensure you come with lots of mobile battery to take lots of Instagrammable shots to share with other Emily in Paris enthusiasts, friends and family!
- Pack an umbrella in the event of rain showers!
- If on a walking tour always keep an eye on personal belongings. Whilst the center of Paris is usually very safe, it is always a good idea to be extra vigilant.
- Book ahead to ensure that you secure your place for your Emily in Paris tours. Due to the series’ overwhelming success and the release of Season 4 demand is high (especially during high season!)