Top Spots to Stay and Explore for the Ultimate ‘Emily in Paris’ Experience

Emily in Paris is officially back with the first half of its fourth season now available on Netflix as of August 15. Being a former American in Paris myself, I can’t help but feel a renewed desire to revisit the City of Light to indulge in its historical sites and delicious pains au chocolat. If you feel the same, you’re in the right place. I’ve compiled a list of tips for a truly stylish Parisian getaway, including ideal places to stay if you plan to visit spots featured in the show—from Gabriel’s restaurant to Jardin du Luxembourg. Here’s the ultimate Paris travel guide from an Emily in Paris fan who lived in the city for nine months.

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Having lived in the 6th arrondissement myself, I believe there’s no better place to stay in Paris than Saint Germain des Prés. This area is steeped in history and is home to the oldest café in Paris, Polidor, just a short walk from an apartment I once rented. Saint Germain also boasts the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg, a great spot for a leisurely picnic or reading session. If you’re looking for iconic photo ops, the Pont des Arts offers a fantastic view of the Seine. The Musée D’Orsay, where characters Camille and Gabriel had an artsy date, is also nearby.

When hunger strikes, Ralph’s Restaurant on Boulevard Saint-Germain is a must-visit. Emily met with Judith Robertson from The American Friends of the Louvre here. But if you prefer a place with historical significance, check out Les Deux Magots, a café frequented by literary giants like Ernest Hemingway. For a sweet treat, don’t miss Debauve et Gallais, a chocolatier that once made chocolate for Marie Antoinette herself. Their pistoles, used to make medicine taste better, are absolutely delicious.

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The 5th arrondissement has plenty of Emily in Paris filming spots. Terra Nera, the real-life Italian restaurant posing as Gabriel’s L’Espirit de Gigi, serves up delightful pasta. Next door, Boulangerie Modern is worth a stop for its pastries. The Bombardier pub is where Emily and Alfie grabbed drinks before French class and sometimes shows sports events and serves British food. Shakespeare and Co., situated across the river from Notre Dame, offers a wide selection of books (in English) and a charming café. It’s close to Fontaine Saint-Michel, where Mindy took up busking.

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Le Marais should definitely be on your list if you’re hunting for unique art experiences. The Atelier des Lumières, where Emily, Camille, and Gabriel attended a mesmerizing Van Gogh exhibit, offers an immersive experience worth the visit. For shopping, starting around Rue des Rosiers will lead you to some fabulous French stores. When hunger strikes, head to Île Saint-Louis and dine at Le Flore en L’Ile, a spot seen in season one. The pasta, made with fresh tomatoes, basil, and parmesan, is highly recommended, and a glass of champagne is a perfect accompaniment.

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Le Madeleine is a neighborhood worth the splurge. It’s home to luxurious fashion stores on Rue de Rivoli and Rue Saint-Honoré. The beautiful Jardin des Tuileries, which transforms into a magical Christmas market in winter, is within walking distance. Inside the garden, you’ll find the Musée de l’Orangerie, where Monet’s water lilies are displayed. The Louvre is also close by, so exploring iconic art pieces like the Mona Lisa is convenient.

Another nearby gem is the rose-filled Jardin du Palais Royal, where Emily and Mindy first met. Palais Garnier, the stunning opera house where Emily saw Swan Lake, is also in this vicinity.

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Montmartre, home to the famous Moulin Rouge and Café des Deux Moulins from Amélie, shouldn’t be missed even if you don’t stay there. To avoid the crowd, visit La Maison Rose, frequented by Emily and Mindy, between 3 and 6 p.m. when the main restaurant is closed but drinks and snacks are still available.

Getting around Paris is made easy via the Batobus, which stops along the Seine at major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre. The scenic views make for Insta-worthy moments Emily would approve of.

Source: PureWow