From Brussels To Paris: A Trail Around The World With Audrey Hepburn

Waquar Habib

Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn was an iconic actress and humanitarian. She epitomized elegance in Hollywood's Golden Age and starred in timeless films like "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "Roman Holiday". She was also a dedicated advocate for children's rights. Her legacy endures worldwide.

A portrait of Audrey Hepburn in black and white | Jonkidd98/reddit

Rome, Italy

Hepburn won her first Oscar for "Roman Holiday" (1953), her debut Hollywood film shot in Rome. The movie highlights the city's beauty, including the Spanish Steps, where Hepburn's character meets Joe Bradley. Though sitting on the steps is now prohibited, visitors can still enjoy other iconic locations like Palazzo Colonna and Castel Sant'Angelo for a Hepburn-inspired Roman adventure.

A morning shot of the Colosseum, Rome | Shutterstock

Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps in Rome are a beautiful Baroque staircase of 135 steps that ascend from Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church, offering stunning city views.

The iconic Spanish Steps of Rome | Shutterstock

Castel Sant'Angelo

Castel Sant'Angelo, a historic fortress in Rome, was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. Over centuries, it served as a papal residence and a prison. Today, it offers panoramic views of Rome and houses a museum showcasing its rich history.

A view of Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome | Shutterstock

Paris, France

The actress and Paris had a special bond that embodied style and grace. She starred in six Paris-based films, including "Funny Face" (1957), which showcases Paris's landmarks. Follow Hepburn's elegant path through these famous spots for your own chic Parisian experience.

Seine river cityscape in summer colors with birds flying over Paris | Shutterstock

Jardin des Champs-Élysées

Paris has appeared in films like "Funny Face" and "Charade." The latter features Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant near the Jardin des Champs-Élysées, a beautiful public garden with tree-lined walkways, fountains, and flowerbeds. It's a peaceful escape in the city, perfect for strolling and enjoying the Parisian ambience.

View of the Arc de Triomphe, one of the most famous monuments in Paris, standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées | Shutterstock

Eiffel Tower

In "Funny Face," the Eiffel Tower is the climax of "Bonjour Paris." The iconic wrought-iron lattice tower stands over 1,000 feet tall, symbolising romance and architectural prowess. The observation decks offer breathtaking views of Paris, attracting millions of annual visitors.

The Eiffel Tower of Paris | Shutterstock

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hepburn was born in Brussels, Belgium, but spent part of her childhood in the Netherlands during World War II. You can explore her early life and connections by visiting her birthplace and the Anne Frank House, which can provide insights into the historical context of her early years.

A view of the Amstel river, Amsterdam, Netherlands | Shutterstock

Huis Zijpendaal

Audrey Hepburn was born in Brussels but later moved to the Netherlands. Her home in Oosterbeek, near Arnhem, is where she lived during WWII. The house is located in the Sonsbeek area, a little outside the city center.

A front view of Huis Zijpendaal, the house where Hepburn grew up | Wikimedia Commons

Anne Frank House

Audrey Hepburn spoke often about the impact of the war on her early years. Visiting the Anne Frank House can provide historical context about the kind of environment Hepbrun grew up in.

Statue of Anne Frank by Mari Andreissen at the Anne Frank House | Shutterstock

Brussels, Belgium

Audrey Hepburn's childhood in Brussels inspired her love for dance and performance. She spent her childhood across Belgium, England and the Netherlands, studying ballet in Amsterdam and London. You can visit her family's former neighbourhoods in Brussels and the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, where she honed her skills.

Notre Dame du Sablon's Cathedral in Brussels | Shutterstock

Audrey Hepburn's Childhood Home

Audrey grew up in various parts of Brussels, offering opportunities to explore her childhood neighbourhoods. The house where Audrey Hepburn was born is located at 48 Rue Keyenveld in Ixelles. Now, it is a private residence, but a golden plaque on the wall commemorates her birthplace.

The plaque at Audrey Hepburn's Childhood Home | Official website: erasmusu

Royal Academy of Fine Arts

The Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels, established in 1711, offers programs in visual arts, architecture, and design. Audrey Hepburn and other notable artists studied here, leaving a lasting cultural legacy.

A view of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts | Shutterstock

New York City, United States

Hepburn starred in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany's. You can visit Holly Golightly's apartment, Tiffany & Co. store, New York Public Library and Central Park to follow in her footsteps. You can also honour her contributions to the film industry by visiting her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame or taking a studio tour at Paramount Pictures.

Delmonico's restaurant with yellow taxi in front, New York City | Shutterstock

Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany & Co. is a luxury jeweller established in 1837, famous for its exquisite diamonds and blue boxes. It has flagship stores worldwide, including Fifth Avenue in NYC. The brand represents timeless elegance in fine jewellery and is associated with Audrey Hepburn's "Breakfast at Tiffany's."

The front view of Tiffany & Co., Manhattan | Shutterstock

Audrey Hepburn's Star

Audrey Hepburn's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is at 1652 Vine Street. It commemorates her contributions to film and humanitarian efforts, forever enshrining her legacy in the heart of Hollywood.

Audrey Hepburn's Star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame | Wikimedia Commons

Top 10 Places To Visit In Bangkok