Exploring Paris's Belleville: A Cinematic Walking Tour Through Film History
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the walk is mostly flat with occasional inclines.
Overview
Walk through the streets of Belleville and uncover the cinematic history that shaped French film. Discover iconic filming locations and hidden gems in Paris’s northeastern villages on this immersive cultural tour.
Belleville au cinéma
2h30
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Explore the cinematic history of Paris's charming northeastern villages, including Jourdain, Belleville, and Ménilmontant. Discover iconic filming locations, from the legendary Gaumont studios to picturesque squares, while tracing the evolution of French cinema through classic films and contemporary masterpieces. A unique journey through art and culture awaits!
Villages parisiens à l’assaut du cinéma !
Durée
2 heures et 30 minutes
À propos
Jourdain, Belleville, Ménilmontant : villages parisiens à l’assaut du cinéma… Berceau du cinéma grâce aux anciens studios Gaumont, un temps les plus grands au monde, les quartiers nord-est de la capitale ont toujours su inspirer le 7e art. Des grandes œuvres classiques, films noirs en tête, au cinéma d’aujourd’hui, teinté de la fantaisie de Michel Gondry, du réalisme de Laurent Cantet et des prouesses de Jason Bourne, les différents lieux traversés sont les témoins du rayonnement du cinéma français mais aussi de l’évolution d’un quartier surprenant et plein de charme.
Quelques étapes à partir du métro Buttes-Chaumont :
Les anciens studios Elgé avec Gaumont et Alice Guy, première réalisatrice de l’histoire. Le joli square Bolivar comme lieu de tournage. Le Ballon Rouge dans les hauts de Belleville. L’éternel Casque d’Or. L’Ecume des jours et La Mémoire dans la peau dans les rues de Ménilmontant.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers cobbled streets and gentle slopes, so sturdy footwear is recommended for comfort.
Bring a portable charger
Capture photos and stream supplementary materials without worrying about battery life.
Check weather forecast
This is an outdoor walking tour, so prepare for rain or shine with appropriate clothing.
Arrive early to secure your spot
Tours can fill quickly, especially on weekends; early arrival guarantees participation.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban pigeons commonly roam the squares and parks.
- Occasionally, small bats can be spotted at dusk near tree-lined avenues.
History
Belleville was annexed by Paris in 1860, transitioning from a standalone village to a diverse neighborhood key in Parisian cultural development.
Conservation
Local initiatives work to preserve the unique street art and historic buildings, maintaining Belleville’s rich urban character amid ongoing urban development.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Paris
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating Paris’s cobbled streets and varied terrain.
Light rain jacket
Spring weather can be unpredictable; a rain jacket keeps you dry.
spring specific
Sun hat or sunglasses
Protect yourself from the summer sun during the outdoor portions of the tour.
summer specific
Compact umbrella
Autumn rains in Paris can come suddenly, so an umbrella is recommended.
fall specific