The show “Emily in Paris” has provoked many debates since its release, captivating the viewers with its idyllic and romanticized view of Parisian life. However, it has portrayed many clichés and exaggerations that paint a picture that is often far removed from the day-to-day reality of Parisian life.
1. Everyone is a fluent English speaker
In “Emily in Paris” it seems like every single Parisian speaks perfect English, making the language barrier inexistent for Emily.
In reality, even though many Parisians have a good understanding of English, it’s not common to meet as many native speakers as this on every street corner.
This cliche significantly simplifies the challenges that an expatriate can face.
2. The flats in Paris are very big
In Emily in Paris, Emily’s flat is spacious, bright, and charming—almost like something out of a magazine.
In reality, Paris flats are often much smaller, especially in older buildings.
High ceilings and large windows can make them feel bigger, but most people live in compact spaces with tiny kitchens and limited storage.
Finding an affordable, roomy flat in the city center is rare, and many Parisians have to make do with very little space.
The show makes Parisian living look far more luxurious than it actually is!
3. The Parisians are always nice and welcoming
The series portrays Parisians as warm and always ready to help Emily, despite her cultural awkwardness.
In truth, Parisians can be just as varied in their behavior as the inhabitants of any big city, with some friendly and others less so.
This cliché romanticizes the welcome given to foreigners.
4. Emily never uses the metro
Emily seems unaware of the Paris metro’s existence, preferring to get around by cab or on foot.
This cliché overlooks the fact that the metro is one of the most convenient means of transport, commonly used by Parisians to get around the city.
While the city is walkable, many places are too far to reach on foot, and taxis can be expensive.
The show completely skips the reality of packed metro cars during rush hour, navigating transfers, or figuring out the right exit—which are all part of the real Parisian experience!
5. Work comes after wine glasses and parties
The series gives the impression that working in Paris is all about drinking wine and attending glamorous parties.
Yes, after-work parties do exist, but this cliché exaggerates the festive dimension of Parisian life, minimizing the effort and seriousness that professionals put into their daily work.
6. Parisian bridges are never too busy
In Emily in Paris, Emily strolls across the city’s bridges with barely anyone around, enjoying peaceful views of the Seine.
In reality, Parisian bridges—especially famous ones like Pont Alexandre III (the photo) and Pont des Arts—are almost always packed with tourists, street musicians, and sometimes even vendors.
During peak hours, they can get so crowded that taking a quiet photo without people in the background is nearly impossible.
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7. All Parisians are fashionistas
In Emily in Paris, every Parisian looks like they just stepped off a runway, always wearing stylish outfits and designer accessories.
While Paris is a fashion capital, not everyone is dressed in high-end couture all the time.
Many locals prefer simple, chic, and practical outfits—especially for everyday life.
You’ll see plenty of jeans, sneakers, and neutral colors.
8. There are no chain stores
In Emily in Paris, it seems like every shop, bakery, and café is a charming little independent boutique.
While Paris is full of unique spots, big chain stores absolutely exist!
You’ll find Starbucks, McDonald’s, Zara, and H&M in many areas, especially on busy streets like the Champs-Élysées or Rue de Rivoli. Supermarkets like Monoprix and Carrefour are everywhere, and many Parisians do their grocery shopping there—not just at cute open-air markets.
The city has plenty of charm, but it’s still a modern capital with global brands!
9. Living in Paris is affordable
Emily seems to live a dream life—eating out every day, renting a spacious apartment, and constantly shopping for designer clothes, all while working an entry-level job.
In reality, Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Rent is sky-high, groceries and dining out add up quickly, and many Parisians are careful with their spending.
Most people live in smaller apartments, cook at home often, and wouldn’t casually afford Emily’s lifestyle.
10. You never have to wait for a cab
Emily never has trouble finding a cab immediately, no matter the time or place.
In reality, waiting for a cab can sometimes be a struggle, especially during rush hour or in bad weather.
11. The streets are always clean
In the series, the streets of the capital are always impeccably clean, without a single piece of garbage or dog waste in sight. This idyllic image contrasts sharply with reality.
Indeed, it’s common to see litter and dog droppings on Parisian streets, unfortunately left behind by negligent owners.
This representation embellishes urban reality. As in any large metropolis, Paris has its share of dirt and requires frequent clean-ups. City services work tirelessly to maintain cleanliness, but it’s impossible to keep every street spotless at all times.
12. Cars never honk
In Emily in Paris, the streets are calm, and traffic seems almost silent.
In reality, Paris is a busy city, and honking is just part of the daily soundtrack.
Drivers honk for many reasons—impatient motorists, tight intersections, or just to warn pedestrians.
Traffic can be chaotic, especially during rush hour, near big roundabouts like the Arc de Triomphe, or on narrow streets.
13. Offices are always stylishly decorated
The workplaces in “Emily in Paris” are always elegant and at the cutting edge of design.
In Paris, not all offices resemble design studios, and some are more functional than stylish.
14. Emily doesn’t come across any tourists
In Emily in Paris, she strolls through famous spots like Montmartre, the Louvre, and the Seine banks without ever bumping into crowds.
In real life, these places are packed with tourists almost year-round!
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, and popular landmarks can get incredibly busy, especially in peak seasons.
15. Emily always finds a free table in restaurants, even during peak periods
Emily never has a problem finding a table in the most popular restaurants, even without a reservation, in the middle of rush hour.
In fact, getting a table in a popular Parisian restaurant (like the café Marly in the photo) often requires a reservation in advance, especially during peak times.
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