Movies & TV Shows That Will Inspire You to Visit Paris
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Paris is a city that evokes strong emotions (both good and bad) so it’s no surprise that countless creatives, writers, directors, actors, etc. have created works aimed at capturing the essence of this magical city and sharing it with the masses. Whether you’ve always dreamed of visiting, are preparing for an upcoming trip or simply want to be whisked away to a beautiful city for a few short hours - here’s a list of some of my favorite movies and TV shows that will take you on a journey through Paris.
MOVIES SET IN PARIS:
Moulin Rouge - 2001
The glitz, the glam, the music! This film is set in the Bohemian district (Montmartre) where you’ll actually find the real Moulin Rouge (not as grand and glam IRL). But if you’re into musicals and just feel like seeing Nicole Kidman strut her stuff - HIGHLY recommend!
Midnight in Paris - 2011
A perfectly quirky rom-com that really gives you a feel for 1920’s Paris and the writers who found inspiration here. Plus I love that it shows how this magical city can be enjoyed at any time of day or during any type of weather.
The Da Vinci Code - 2006
The history, the fast action, the sites, I love this movie so much and for anyone joining us on our Gals Abroad Getaways trip to the Loire Valley, I think it would be fun to watch because we will be visiting Da Vinci’s former home.
Sabrina - 1954
Add this classic Audrey Hepburn film to your list. The film showcases a lot of classic Paris sights and is just the feel-good movie to get you ready for your trip.
Paris je t’aime - 2019
(French Language film with subtitles)
This is a collection of vignettes made by multiple filmmakers. It stars Natalie Portman, Elijah Wood, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Willem Dafoe, and Steve Buscemi and is based on an array of classical literary works that show Paris through the eyes of lovers - plus you can watch it on YouTube for free!
La Vie en Rose - 2007
(French language film with subtitles)
This film is a must-see when looking for inspiration or history before visiting Paris. This Oscar-winning biopic tells the tragic story of famed French singer Edith Piaf and her rise to fame. Marion Cotillard's portrayal of Edith Piaf is so prolific, she became the first person to win an Oscar for a French-language role.
A Little Chaos - 2015
The perfect movie to watch before a trip to Versailles.
This romantic historical drama stars Kate Winslet opposite Matthias Schoenaerts, who plays the famous gardener Andre Le Notre, the man who not only designed the gardens of Versailles, but also the gardens for various other royal residences and palaces throughout France. There’s love and beauty and lots of dramaaaaa. This film also stars Alan Rickman (who directed the movie), Stanley Tucci, Helen McCrory, Adrian Scarborough, and Jennifer Ehle.
Marie Antoinette - 2006
A biopic depicting the life of the infamous Queen of France, Marie Antoinette, who ultimately lost her head with the fall of France. I love how colorful and extravagant this film is. And while historically speaking, the movie is really only a loose portrayal of her life, it does acknowledge some of the famous rumors about the controversial queen.
Les Miserables - 2012
The critically acclaimed film adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic book.
Just make sure you have plenty of tissues when you watch.
Passport to Paris - 1999
I mean….if for no other reason than a bit of Mary Kate and Ashley nostalgia lol…
Amelie - 2001
French film with English subtitles
This French romantic-comedy has become a staple in cinematic history. I have no doubt that someone at some point has recommended this film to you when you say you’re visiting Paris.
The movie is about the shy and quirky Amélie, who leaves home at 18 to live in Paris and winds up settling in Montmartre, where she works at a little bistro. The movie introduces you to a whole cast of interesting characters as you follow Amelie on her path to discover herself.
TV SHOWS SET IN PARIS:
Emily in Paris
Okay, I know it’s totally basic, and the French hate it but I adore this series and the over-the-top fashion. Plus it really highlights some beautiful locations you’ll most likely be visiting while in Paris. So I say, if you haven’t already, binge away!
Versailles
While not exactly all that historically accurate, if you’re looking for a good drama to binge before visiting Versailles that will transport you to the golden age, this would be it.
This mini-series, which lasts 3 seasons, centers on King, Louis XIV, and his infamous decision to move his court from Paris to a chateau outside the city and had it built to honor his reign - you now know it as Versailles.
The show has it all: history, politics, romance, epic costumes and sets and a whole lot of drama.
Gossip Girl (Season 4 episodes 1 & 2)
Linda is going to kill me for including this hahaha. But for any Gossip Girl fans, if you’ve already seen the series, it might be fun to go back and watch these two episodes.
Sex and the City (season 6)
I love a good Sex and the City binge and recently I just rewatched the whole series and I remembered how fun the Paris episodes were.
In the final two episodes of season 6, Carrie moves to Paris to be with her older Russian artist lover Aleksandr Petrovsky (ew he was the worst). But the Paris parts are fun and totally dreamy!
IF YOU NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP TO PARIS OR ANY DESTINATION FOR THAT MATTER - DON’T HESITATE TO REACH OUT TO LINDA’S AGENCY SCORBY TRAVEL AND CRUISE FOR CUSTOM TRAVEL PLANNING.
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