The Oscar-nominated and Bafta Award-winning film Amélie tells the story of Amélie Poulain, a shy and imaginative young Parisian waitress. After returning a sentimental treasure to the former occupant of her apartment, an act that awakens her to the beauty of helping others, she undergoes a personal journey while dedicating herself to improving the lives of the people who surround her.
But of course, the charismatic Amélie is not the only star of Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s quirky picture. Amélie’s whimsical Paris, owes much to Montmartre – the real, charming, atmospheric and magical neighbourhood in which the film is primarily set.
Though it is perhaps best known for its gorgeous white hilltop cathedral, the Sacré Coeur, the nightclub district of Montmartre also has a rich creative history, having been the home of, and inspiration to, legendary artists such as Dali, Monet, Mondrian and Picasso.
There’s no better way to discover this village within a city than on foot. Grab a map and introduce yourself to its cobbled streets and iconic spots by walking in Amélie’s footsteps. You never know, in entering her world you might discover some of life’s inescapable truths too.
Café des 2 Moulins The art deco café where Amélie worked (above)
Rue Saint Vincent The charming cobbled street from the film’s opening scene
Rue des Trois Freres Amélie’s apartment
Au Marche de la Butte, Passage des Abbesses The grocery store
Métro Lamarck-Caulaincourt The pretty Metro station with the double staircase where Amélie describes bustling rue Lamarck market to a blind man
Sacré Coeur The setting for Amélie’s complex assignation
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Images: Café des 2 Moulins – Michal Sänger, Au Marche de la Butte – flatiron32, Sacré Coeur – trixnbooze)
