Exploring the Real Paris Behind the Screen
Set-jetting to Emily in Paris filming location is more than just a trend — it’s a magical way to explore real-life places from your favorite series. With dreamy cinematography and everyday glamour, Emily in Paris has inspired travelers to see the City of Light with fresh eyes. I recently followed in Emily’s footsteps to discover the real spots behind the screen — and while the city delivered plenty of charm, my adventure came with a few surprising twists. From cinematic bridges and quiet squares to boeuf bourguignon showdowns and hotel misadventures, here’s my honest experience — and how you can plan your own Set-Jetting to Emily in Paris Locations itinerary.Hotel Near Gare du Nord: Location Wins, Comfort Doesn’t
I stayed at Novotel Les Halles, a hotel I’ve booked before for its central location near major metro lines and one stop from Gare du Nord. The area is incredibly convenient, especially for a set-jetting itinerary. However, my stay this time was filled with issues. The hotel had just reopened after renovations, and unfortunately, they weren’t ready. I had to change rooms five times over seven days. Each room had a different issue: toilets that leaked or didn’t flush, missing shower fixtures, no hot water, and a room next to a noisy staff space. One room had constant mechanical noise, which wasn’t resolved until our final night. To make matters worse, construction noise started as early as 7:30 AM, and there were two blaring fire alarms during the stay — one was a real incident, and the other was an unannounced drill. Although the staff remained polite and tried to help, the experience was frustrating. For now, I recommend holding off on staying here until renovations are truly complete. When I travel, I usually book directly with trusted hotel brands like Hilton, IHG, or Marriott — not just because of their consistently good service, but because of their rewards programs. By collecting points, I’ve often been upgraded to suites or even stayed for free. The more you stay, the more perks you unlock — like late checkout, welcome gifts, or room upgrades. If you’re looking for hotels that strike a nice balance between price, comfort, and even luxury, these are a few great places to start: • Hilton • IHG Hotels & Resorts • Marriott BonvoyClassic Parisian Cuisine: Boeuf Bourguignon Hits and Misses
No Paris trip is complete without indulging in traditional French cuisine. I tried boeuf bourguignon at two well-known spots — and the experiences couldn’t have been more different. At L’Escargot Montorgueil, the atmosphere was charming, but the food and service disappointed. The boeuf bourguignon lacked the rich flavor you’d expect from a slow-cooked French classic. Service felt rushed and indifferent, making it more of a tourist stop than a true culinary highlight. In contrast, Chez Fernand was a hidden gem. Their boeuf bourguignon was tender, savory, and full of depth, exactly how the dish should be. Even better, the homemade crème brûlée was silky with a perfectly crisp top. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service made it a true Parisian experience worth repeating. For authentic dining tips, I recommend browsing Paris food guides on Timeout or TheFork.Filming Locations in Paris: Quiet Squares and Grand Bridges
Even if you’re not a fan of Emily in Paris, visiting some of the show’s filming spots adds a charming layer to your Paris itinerary. These aren’t just tourist attractions — they’re genuinely beautiful parts of the city. I visited Place de l’Estrapade, the quiet square where Emily’s apartment is set. Tucked away from crowds, this peaceful area gave me a true sense of everyday Paris. It felt personal, not staged — the kind of place you’d enjoy even without knowing its TV fame. Then there’s Pont Alexandre III — one of the most iconic bridges in Paris. I crossed it just before sunset, when the golden light turned everything into a scene from a movie. The statues, the river, and the soft glow of the city made it feel unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of the show or just love a scenic stroll, this bridge is a must.Planning a Set-Jetting Trip to Paris
If you’re dreaming of your own set-jetting experience in Paris, here are a few travel tips to help you plan a smoother, more rewarding journey:- Choose hotels carefully: If a property has recently reopened, read current guest reviews before booking.
- Reserve restaurants in advance: Especially if you’re targeting popular or traditional spots like Chez Fernand.
- Use practical shoes: Emily may rock heels, but cobblestones demand comfort.
- Build in flexibility: Even in a city like Paris, some of the best moments come from unexpected detours.
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, consider joining Flying Blue — the rewards program of Air France and KLM. You can earn miles, enjoy travel perks, and book award flights to Paris and beyond. Click here to explore Flying Blue.
Check out Chipmunk On The Hunt blog for inspiration and ideas.