If you're a movie enthusiast who wants to immerse yourself in famous film
locations, France is the ultimate destination. With its stunning
architecture, charming streets, and picturesque bridges, this country has
captivated countless directors for their cinematic creations. From
historical sites that transport you to different eras to wide roads
perfect for thrilling car chases France offers a diverse range of
settings. We've seen a lot of movies that take place in France, but here
we want to focus not so much on the films, but on the locations
themselves.
#1 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris
You can explore Avenue des Champs-Élysées, an iconic boulevard nestled in
the heart of Paris. Constructed in the 17th century, this wide, tree-lined
avenue connects renowned Parisian landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, the
Élysée Palace, and the Place de la Concorde. It sets the stage for grand
parades, vibrant parties, and momentous celebrations, making it a
quintessential Parisian backdrop for any film.
On the Champs-Élysées, Liam Neeson's character engages in a covert
rendezvous with an old CIA contact in the thrilling movie Taken (2008).
Additionally, in Charade (1963), the Champs-Élysées Gardens provide the
perfect setting for Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant to meet at a delightful
marionette show.
#2 The Luberon, Provence
Experience the heartwarming story of a London banker who transforms into
a vineyard owner, inspired by Peter Mayle's novel A Year in Provence. When
filming this movie, they captured the essence of romantic southern France.
You will be enticed to visit Château la Canorgue near Bonnieux, which
served as the heavenly main setting. It is open to visitors, so make sure
to book ahead. Additionally, picture-perfect Gordes is where Max (Crowe)
encounters Fanny (Cotillard) at the main restaurant, 'Le Renaissance', in
the town square.
#3 Col de Peyresourde, French Pyrenees
You should make sure to include a scene shot in France in every Bond
film. In the opening teaser of the 1997 hit, Brosnan blitzes a terrorist
arms bazaar 'on the Russian border' all by himself. The location of this
intense and remote act is the Col de Peyresourde, which is located to the
west of Bagnères-de-Luchon near the Spanish border.
This climb has a long history, being featured in the Tour de France since
1910, and it's a must-visit for enthusiastic cyclists. By the way, if you
want to watch the Tour de France or another movie next time, but encounter
regional restrictions, make sure to
install a VPN on your Firestick
for seamless access. Do you know how to use a VPN with Firestick to access
geo-restricted content? In order not to be distracted for a long time,
just use VeePN, where you will also find instructions.
#4 The Louvre, Paris
You'll find the Louvre mentioned twice in the Davinci Code. First, the
curator's murder occurs inside the museum. Towards the end, you'll see it
again. The supposed hiding place of Mary Magdalene's tomb is here, beneath
a stone reproduction. Many famous French movies are not only filmed in the
Louvre, but this is such a popular place that you don’t need to talk much
about it, you already know everything.
#5 Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, Burgundy
You won't find any satisfaction in this quaint French village until
Vianne Rocher (played by Binoche) comes and opens her charming
chocolaterie. Chocolat (2000) does just that. This village is a real place
- located northwest of Dijon in the beautiful Burgundian countryside - and
interestingly, it's known for its own delightful treat: the Anis de
Flavigny, a delicious aniseed bonbon that was originally created by monks
and is still produced at the abbey to this day.
#6 Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, Occitanie region
If you consider yourself a fan of The Hundred-Foot Journey, which stars
Helen Mirren, then you should definitely visit the charming town where the
film takes place. This town, called Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, is located in
southern
France
near the beautiful Gorges de l'Aveyron. It is a well-preserved old-world
village that begins to be explored. Wander through the picturesque streets
lined with old houses, and make sure not to miss the covered market that
takes place every Sunday morning.
#7 Gourdon, Côte d’Azur
Valjean (Jackman) escapes strict parole and embarks on a journey to
freedom through the mountains. In those moments, you are transported to
France. The rugged landscape that surrounds the hilltop Plus Beau Village
of Gourdon, situated a few miles northeast of Grasse, seems unreachable
from below, even for someone with Valjean's stamina. However, once you
reach the top, the breathtaking views extend all the way to the
Mediterranean, leaving you in awe. Singing might even escape your lips at
that moment.
#8 Versailles, Île-de-France
Don't let the title mislead you: this romantic gem doesn't just showcase
Paris' Pont Alexandre III, Hotel Bristol, and Sacré-Coeur. The movie
starts with writer Gil (Wilson) professing his love for the romantic charm
of old Paris in Monet's Garden at Giverny. And in the grand gardens at
Versailles, Gil's nostalgia gets dismissed as mere "Golden Age Thinking."
You can easily reach both places from central Paris in under an
hour.
Conclusion
France and film share an enduring love, with the former hosting a film
repertoire regarded as one of the world's most esteemed. Countless iconic
movies have been inspired by this country. Experience the magic of these 8
famous movie places when you travel to France!