๐ŸŽฌ Where Was Breakfast at Tiffany's Filmed? Complete New York City Location Guide backdrop
ComedyDramaRomance

๐ŸŽฌ Where Was Breakfast at Tiffany's Filmed? Complete New York City Location Guide

1961
Blake Edwards
Added January 15, 2024
5 Locations

Explore iconic NYC filming locations of 'Breakfast at Tiffany's.' Relive cinematic magic where Holly Golightly stole hearts.

About ๐ŸŽฌ Where Was Breakfast at Tiffany's Filmed? Complete New York City Location Guide

๐ŸŽฌ Where Was Breakfast at Tiffany's Filmed? Complete New York City Location Guide

Ever dreamed of having "Breakfast at Tiffany's" like Audrey Hepburn's iconic Holly Golightly? You're not alone! This timeless romantic comedy-drama isn't just a beloved film; it's a love letter to the magical, glittering streets of New York City in the early 1960s.

"Breakfast at Tiffany's" transports you to a world of elegance, eccentricity, and undeniable charm. It follows Holly Golightly, a free-spirited New York socialite who captures the heart of her new neighbor, aspiring writer Paul Varjak. The film beautifully captures their unconventional romance against the backdrop of Manhattan's most famous landmarks.

What makes these locations so special isn't just their beauty, but how they become characters themselves. From bustling Fifth Avenue to the serene beauty of Central Park, each spot adds depth and glamour to Holly's search for a place to truly belong.

So, grab your chicest outfit and your sense of adventure! We're about to take you on a cinematic journey through the very streets and squares where "Breakfast at Tiffany's" came to life. Get ready to explore Hollyโ€™s New York. Let's dive in!

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๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Major Filming Locations

๐ŸŽฌ Tiffany & Co. flagship store - Iconic Mornings ๐Ÿ’Ž

Scenic view of Tiffany & Co. flagship store showing its grand entrance and iconic blue awnings ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

The Tiffany & Co. flagship store on Fifth Avenue is an iconic symbol of luxury, elegance, and timeless beauty. This world-renowned jewelry store has been a beacon of glamour in New York City for decades. Its famous blue boxes are instantly recognizable worldwide.

๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

This is where it all begins! The film opens with Holly Golightly, chic in her Givenchy dress and pearls, gazing into the store's windows while nibbling on a pastry and sipping coffee. It sets the tone for Holly's character and her yearning for a life of glamour and security.

๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: 727 Fifth Avenue, New York City, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Free to enter and browse the store
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: www.tiffany.com
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning, just like Holly, to experience the iconic facade before the city gets too crowded. It's the perfect spot for a photo op! ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: The interior scenes of the store were not filmed at the actual Tiffany & Co. but on a soundstage in Hollywood. The brand only allowed exterior shots due to security concerns.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ 169 East 71st Street - Holly's Brownstone ๐Ÿก

    Stunning architecture of 169 East 71st Street featuring its classic brownstone facade and front entrance ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    Located on Manhattan's Upper East Side, 169 East 71st Street is a picturesque brownstone, embodying the classic New York residential charm. The quiet, tree-lined street adds to the quintessential urban fantasy. This building was the exterior stand-in for Hollyโ€™s apartment.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    This charming brownstone serves as Holly Golightly's apartment building, where much of the film's interpersonal drama unfolds. It's here that Paul Varjak moves in, becoming entangled in Holly's chaotic yet captivating life, and where they have their first interactions.

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: 169 East 71st Street, New York City, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Exterior viewable anytime; private residence
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Free (exterior only)
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: N/A (private residence)
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: This is a private residence, so be respectful of the residents' privacy while taking photos. It's a popular spot for film enthusiasts. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: The brownstone was sold in 2015 for over $8 million, a testament to its cinematic legacy and prime location.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Bethesda Terrace, Central Park - A Romantic Stroll ๐ŸŒณ

    Beautiful view of Bethesda Terrace, Central Park showcasing its grand architecture, fountain, and picturesque surroundings ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    Bethesda Terrace is one of Central Park's most iconic and grand architectural features, leading down to the Bethesda Fountain. With its intricate carvings, grand staircase, and the stunning Angel of the Waters statue, it has long been a beloved spot for both New Yorkers and tourists. It's frequently seen in films.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    Holly and Paul take a leisurely stroll through Central Park, culminating in a reflective moment on Bethesda Terrace. This scene highlights their growing connection and provides a beautiful, picturesque backdrop for their evolving relationship.

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: Mid-Park at 72nd Street, Central Park, New York City, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: 6:00 AM - 1:00 AM daily (Central Park hours)
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Free
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: www.centralparknyc.org
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: Rent a rowboat on the nearby Lake after your visit to Bethesda Terrace for a classic Central Park experience. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: The Bethesda Terrace is famous for its Minton tiles, which are incredibly intricate and designed to prevent slipping.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building - Literary Charms ๐Ÿ“š

    Impressive facade of the New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building displaying its grand columns and famous lion statues ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library, guarded by its famous "Patience" and "Fortitude" lion statues, is a majestic Beaux-Arts building on Fifth Avenue. It's a landmark of learning and architectural grandeur, attracting millions of visitors annually.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    After a wild party, Holly attempts to find a book about Brazil for Paul in the library's impressive reading room. Though a brief sequence, it adds to the whimsical charm and intellectual curiosity that underpins their more serious moments.

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street, New York City, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (check website for specific hours, as they vary)
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: Free
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: www.nypl.org
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: Don't miss exploring the Rose Main Reading Room; it's one of the most stunning public spaces in the city, truly a hidden gem. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: The "Patience" and "Fortitude" lions guarding the library's entrance were originally named Leo Astor and Leo Lenox, after the library's founders.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum - Modern Art & Mismatched Moments ๐ŸŽจ

    Authentic street scene of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum capturing its unique spiral architecture and vibrant street life ๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Location

    The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is an architectural masterpiece on Fifth Avenue, known for its distinctive spiral design. It houses an internationally renowned collection of modern and contemporary art, making it a must-visit for art and architecture lovers.

    ๐ŸŽฅ In the Film

    While the characters don't enter the museum, its striking exterior briefly appears in the film during a montage of Holly and Paul's budding romance, providing a sophisticated and artistic backdrop to their New York adventures.

    ๐Ÿ“ Visitor Info
  • ๐Ÿ“ Address: 1071 Fifth Avenue, New York City, USA
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Hours: Monday, Wednesday-Friday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Saturday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Closed Tuesday
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Admission: General Admission: $25 (tickets often timed, book online)
  • ๐ŸŒ Website: www.guggenheim.org
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip: Take your time walking up the museum's famous spiral ramp; it offers unique perspectives on the artwork and the building itself. ๐ŸŽฌ Fun Fact: Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Guggenheim Museum in 1943, but it wasn't completed until 1959, just two years before "Breakfast at Tiffany's" was filmed.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

    Dive a little deeper into the production magic that brought Holly Golightly's iconic story to the silver screen. "Breakfast at Tiffany's" required clever filmmaking to capture the essence of New York.

    ๐ŸŽญ Director's Vision

  • ๐ŸŽฏ Location Strategy: Blake Edwards aimed to portray New York City as a character itself, blending its opulence with a touch of the bohemian. He meticulously chose locations that reflected Holly's glamorous aspirations while grounding her story in realistic backdrops. The iconic city visuals were as important as the cast.
  • ๐ŸŽจ Visual Style: Edwards, along with cinematographer Franz F. Planer, employed rich colors and romantic lighting to give the film a timeless, dreamlike quality. The locations were framed to emphasize their grandeur and the sense of possibility they offered for Holly's life.
  • ๐ŸŽช Production Highlights

  • ๐ŸŽฌ Early Morning Magic: The opening sequence at Tiffany & Co. was filmed on a Sunday morning at dawn to avoid crowds, giving that ethereal, solitary feeling.
  • ๐ŸŽญ Capote's Disappointment: Author Truman Capote was famously displeased with casting Audrey Hepburn, having envisioned Marilyn Monroe for the part of Holly.
  • ๐ŸŽจ Musical Genius: The unforgettable song "Moon River" was almost cut from the film. Thankfully, Audrey Hepburn passionately argued for its inclusion, securing its place in cinematic history.
  • ๐ŸŽฏ Fashion Impact: Audrey Hepburn's Givenchy black dress became an instant fashion sensation and remains one of the most iconic film costumes ever.
  • ๐ŸŒŸ Cast & Crew Stories

  • ๐Ÿ˜„ Animal Co-Star: The cat in the film, simply named "Cat," was played by Orangey, a famous feline actor who was also in "The Incredible Shrinking Man" and "Rhubarb." He was known for being temperamental but talented!
  • ๐Ÿ˜ฎ Party Chaos: The famous party scene in Holly's apartment was intentionally chaotic and unscripted. Director Blake Edwards encouraged the actors to improvise and create a sense of genuine, lively disorder.
  • ๐ŸŽ‰ Hepburn's Commitment: Audrey Hepburn, despite not being a trained singer, worked diligently with composer Henry Mancini to perfectly perform "Moon River," making it one of her most beloved contributions to the film.
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    ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Plan Your Visit

    Ready to follow in Holly Golightly's footsteps? New York City is waiting! Hereโ€™s how to make your cinematic pilgrimage a breeze.

    ๐Ÿจ Where to Stay

  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Budget: The Pod 39 Hotel - ~$150/night - Offers compact, stylish rooms in a central location, perfect for budget-conscious travelers keen on exploring.
  • ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Mid-Range: The Roosevelt Hotel - ~$250/night - A historic hotel conveniently located near Grand Central, offering classic elegance and easy access to Midtown Manhattan.
  • โœจ Luxury: The St. Regis New York - ~$700+/night - Located on Fifth Avenue, this opulent hotel offers unparalleled luxury, service, and proximity to Tiffany & Co., truly living the Holly Golightly dream.
  • ๐Ÿš— Getting Around

  • ๐Ÿš‡ Metro: New York City's subway system is your best friend. It's efficient, largely 24/7, and connects all the major filming locations. Get a MetroCard for easy tap-and-go access.
  • ๐Ÿš— Car: Driving in Manhattan is not recommended for tourists due to heavy traffic, expensive parking, and complex one-way streets. Stick to public transport or ride-shares.
  • ๐Ÿšถ Walking: Many of the locations, especially in Midtown and the Upper East Side, are easily walkable if you plan your route strategically. Comfortable shoes are a must!
  • ๐Ÿ“ธ Photo Tips

  • ๐ŸŒ… Best Times: Aim for early mornings or late afternoons for better lighting and fewer crowds, especially at popular spots like Tiffany & Co. and Central Park.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Instagram Spots: Recreate Holly's iconic pose outside Tiffany's. Capture the grandeur of Bethesda Terrace or the charming brownstones of the Upper East Side.
  • ๐ŸŽฌ Movie Moments: Wear a little black dress and pop a croissant outside Tiffany's, or find a quiet bench on Bethesda Terrace to reflect on your New York adventure.
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    โ“ Quick Answers

    ๐ŸŽฌ Is this based on a true story?

    No, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" is not based on a true story. It's an adaptation of Truman Capote's 1958 novella of the same name.

    ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Can I visit all locations in one day?

    Yes, with careful planning and efficient use of the subway, you can visit all the main filming locations in one day. Focus on walking between nearby spots on Fifth Avenue.

    ๐Ÿ’ฐ How much should I budget?

    Excluding accommodation, budget around $50-$100 per day for food, public transport (subway fare is $2.90 per ride), and potential museum admissions (like the Guggenheim). Visiting exteriors is free.

    ๐Ÿ“ฑ Are there guided tours?

    While there might not be a specific "Breakfast at Tiffany's" tour, many general New York City sightseeing tours or movie tours include stops at iconic locations like Tiffany & Co. and Central Park.

    ๐ŸŽญ When was this filmed?

    "Breakfast at Tiffany's" was filmed in New York City and Hollywood primarily during late 1960.

    ๐ŸŒ Is New York City safe for tourists?

    Yes, New York City is generally very safe for tourists, especially in well-trafficked areas. As with any major city, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and use common sense.

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    ๐ŸŽฌ Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

    "Breakfast at Tiffany's" isn't just a film; it's an invitation to experience the timeless allure of New York City through the eyes of its most captivating characters. From the iconic storefronts of Fifth Avenue to the serene paths of Central Park, these locations whisper stories of dreams, romance, and self-discovery.

    Strolling through these hallowed grounds, you'll feel the magic of Hollywood come alive, connecting you to the very moments that made Holly Golightly a legend. It's an unforgettable journey that combines cinematic history with the vibrant energy of one of the world's greatest cities.

    So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, put on your favorite outfit, and prepare to embark on your own "Breakfast at Tiffany's" adventure. Share your journey with us and discover more iconic film locations on wherewasitfilmed.co!

    Year Released

    1961

    Director

    Blake Edwards

    Filming Locations

    5 locations

    Behind the Scenes

    Director Blake Edwards brought Truman Capote's beloved novella to life, though not without its changes. His vision for 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' emphasized the romantic fantasy of New York, crafting a glamorous yet gritty portrayal of Holly Golightly's world. This approach transformed the city into an aspirational playground, reflecting the film's charming and slightly melancholic tone.

    • Audrey Hepburn initially hesitated to take the role of Holly Golightly.
    • The opening scene at Tiffany & Co. was filmed early in the morning to avoid crowds.
    • Given the tight space, Fifth Avenue had to be sealed off for filming at Tiffany's.
    • George Peppard's character, Paul Varjak, was originally named Fred in Capote's novel.
    • Moon River, composed by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer, was specifically written for Audrey Hepburn's voice.
    • Audrey Hepburn's little black dress, designed by Hubert de Givenchy, became an instant fashion icon.
    • Director Blake Edwards fought to keep Moon River in the film after studio executives tried to cut it.
    • The party scene in Holly's apartment gathered real socialites and actors, creating a truly chaotic atmosphere.
    • The famous Cat who appears in the movie was actually named Orangey, a prolific animal actor.
    • Truman Capote originally wanted Marilyn Monroe to play Holly Golightly.
    • The role of Holly was a significant departure for Audrey Hepburn, known for more innocent roles.
    • Many interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage in Hollywood to control the environment.

    Location Gallery

    Tiffany & Co The Flagship Store

    Tiffany & Co The Flagship Store

    169 East 71st Street

    169 East 71st Street

    Bethesda Terrace, Central Park

    Bethesda Terrace, Central Park

    New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

    New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

    Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

    Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

    Travel Tips

    • Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.

    • Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.

    • Guided tours are available that cover Tiffany & Co The Flagship Store, 169 East 71st Street, Bethesda Terrace, Central Park in one day.

    Filming Locations

    Discover all 5 locations where ๐ŸŽฌ Where Was Breakfast at Tiffany's Filmed? Complete New York City Location Guide was filmed

    View Locations

    Interactive Location Map

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    Explore all 5 filming locations on the interactive map above. Click on markers for details.

    Filming Locations

    Map of Tiffany & Co The Flagship Store
    1

    Tiffany & Co The Flagship Store

    The iconic Fifth Avenue store where Holly Golightly dreamed.

    LAT 40.76349, LNG -73.97395
    Directions
    Map of 169 East 71st Street
    2

    169 East 71st Street

    Holly Golightly's stylish brownstone apartment building.

    LAT 40.77093, LNG -73.96102
    Directions
    Map of Bethesda Terrace, Central Park
    3

    Bethesda Terrace, Central Park

    Where Holly and Paul Gallico share a quiet moment overlooking the fountain.

    LAT 40.77920, LNG -73.97330
    Directions
    Map of New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
    4

    New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

    The grand library where Holly attempts to find a book for Paul.

    LAT 40.75318, LNG -73.98226
    Directions
    Map of Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
    5

    Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

    Featured in an iconic sequence, showcasing its unique architecture.

    LAT 40.78298, LNG -73.95901
    Directions

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