Discover the Iconic Filming Locations of Lupin in Paris

Paris has long mesmerized audiences with its cinematic allure. Traditionally, this city of romance has found its charm primarily on film; however, television has recently caught up. Detective series Spiral achieved cult status during its run on the BBC, and a notable rise in French-made television dramas is evident, especially on streaming platforms. Homegrown favorites like Call My Agent! and The Bureau have paved the way for international success, and now Lupin has undoubtedly placed the French capital in the spotlight as a must-visit location.

The Louvre

The Louvre serves as a prominent backdrop in Episode 1 of Lupin. We watch as Assane stages a daring heist to steal a historic necklace once owned by Marie-Antoinette. The allure of this iconic museum comes alive as viewers are treated to stunning visuals of Delacroix’s La Liberté guidant le peuple and the famous Mona Lisa. While the heist builds dramatic tension, it’s interesting to note that the thrilling climax—featuring a getaway car crashing through the Pyramid—was not filmed on location at the Louvre.

The Pellegrini Mansion

Another striking location is the Pellegrini Mansion, portrayed by the Musée Nissim de Camondo located on rue de Monceau in the 8th arrondissement. This museum, built in 1911 with a design inspired by Versailles’ Petit Trianon, showcases a fascinating art collection. Viewers can appreciate the beauty of its lobby, gardens, and rooftops, although most interior scenes were filmed in a studio. Nearby, Parc Monceau features in Episode 3’s poignant flashback, where we see Assane confronted by school bullies.

Assane’s Home

Many references point to Barbès and Goutte d’Or as Assane’s home turf in the 18th arrondissement. However, the actual filming locations are slightly further south. In Episode 4, viewers spot Assane in Square d’Anvers and at the entrance to Lycée Jacques Decour on avenue Trudaine. A thrilling rooftop escape from a parking structure on rue d’Abbeville adds excitement. Additionally, the café where he reconnects with his wife Claire is L’Appartement Saint-Martin, boasting views of the 17th-century Porte Saint Martin.

Benjamin’s Shop

Assane frequently visits his old school friend’s shop, run by Benjamin in the Marché Biron, a vibrant part of the Saint-Ouen flea market. Known for being a hub for collectors and bargain hunters alike, this lively market can be found on rue des Rosiers.

Jardin du Luxembourg

One of Assane’s most clever schemes unfolds in this picturesque park. He encounters Juliette Pellegrini (Clotilde Hesme) here while disguised as a food delivery cyclist. The series also provides a nostalgic flashback, showcasing a touching moment between Assane and his father, just before they assist Madame Pellegrini in the rain.

Pont des Arts

A celebrated location for filmmakers, Pont des Arts appears at the end of Episode 1, symbolically passing the torch as Assane hands his son Raoul (Etan Simon) the same Arsène Lupin novel that his father gifted him.

The Prison

In a memorable plot twist of Episode 2, Assane trades places with a prisoner to uncover details about his past. Filming for these jail scenes took place at Maison d’Arrêt de Bois-d’Arcy, also known as ‘Le Beaubourg Pénitentiaire’ due to its modern design echoing the Centre Pompidou. Nearby, the college in Andrésy hosts flashback scenes of Assane’s school days. Furthermore, viewers are treated to a glimpse of contemporary architecture as Assane assembles his crew for the Louvre heist, highlighted by the intriguing design of the Conservatoire de Montreuil, a music school established in the 1960s.

Étretat

In Episode 5, Assane and Claire venture to Étretat, a picturesque town on the Normandy coast closely linked to the legend of Arsène Lupin. The inspiring rock formation, L’Aiguille creuse, seen at the beach’s end, served as inspiration for the series’ source material, the works of Maurice Leblanc. Given the cliffhanger ending, fans eagerly anticipate a return to this stunning location when the next five episodes premiere later this year.

Lupin is available for streaming now.