Ah, la dolce vita. Italy envelops the mind and always leaves you craving for more. Fortunately, we can simply turn on our televisions and imagine ourselves there! It’s got 10 of the best movies shot in Italy.
These films offer a unique glimpse into Italian culture and history, transporting viewers to some of the most beautiful locations in the country. Whether you’re looking for an entertaining getaway or a more informative look at Italy, these movies are sure to satisfy. I wrote the best books found in Italy, right here!
No wonder Italy is one of the most popular locations for filming a movie. The background alone is charming. Whether you want to escape to the Amalfi Coast, luxuriate in the Tuscan countryside, or go on an adventure in Rome, there is something for everyone. Here’s a look at the list:
Every pray love
Rome, Naples
Eat, Pray, Love is a romantic drama based on the best-selling memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert. The film tells the story of Gilbert’s journey to Italy, India and Bali in search of self-discovery.
Gilbert spends his time in Italy enjoying the food, culture, and wine of Rome and Florence. She also befriends an Italian man, who helps her find love and acceptance.
under the scorching sun
Tuscany, Positano
Based on the best-selling book by Frances Mayes, Under the Tuscan Sun follows American author Mayes as she impulsively purchases a villa in Tuscany. Mayes moves to Italy with the goal of restoring her home to its former glory. Along the way, she falls in love with the country and its people, and learns to live a simpler, more fulfilling life.
Life is beautiful
Tuscany
Life is Beautiful is a heart-warming Italian film that tells the story of a Jewish man and his family during the Holocaust. While in a concentration camp, a man does everything he can to keep his wife and son safe and happy. He uses his wit and humor to shield them from the harsh reality of their situation and instill hope in them.
The Godfather
Sicily
The Godfather is an American film based on the best-selling novel by Mario Puzo. The film follows the Corleone crime family in New York City during the 1940s and 1950s. Although the movie isn’t entirely set in Italy, there are several scenes that take place in the country, including the opening sequence set on the fictional island of Corleone.
One of the most popular films in Italy is The Godfather Part II. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, the film explores the dramatic story of Vito Corleone, patriarch of the Corleone crime family, and his rise to power in early 20th century New York City. Much of the film takes place in Sicily, Italy, where Vito seeks refuge after fleeing an assassination attempt. The film’s picturesque landscapes and rich cultural traditions captured the attention of viewers around the world, making it a classic in cinema history.
white lotus
The White Lotus is a modern American television series partially set in Sicily, Italy. The show follows the lives of the guests and staff of a luxury hotel called The White Lotus, where tensions run high as secrets are revealed and disagreements escalate.
In the second episode, titled “A New Day”, the character of Tanya McQuaid, played by Jennifer Coolidge, takes a day trip to the town of Corleone located in the province of Palermo, Sicily. You visit the Mafia Museum, which presents the history and culture of the notorious Sicilian criminal organization. Tanya is also seen enjoying local delicacies and getting lost in the winding streets of the city.
The show captures the beauty and charm of Sicily with its stunning landscapes, colorful buildings and vibrant culture. Scenes shot in Corleone show the city’s rich history and the influence of the Mafia on its residents.
The White Lotus is a great addition to the list of movies and TV shows set in Italy. It highlights the country’s diverse regions and cultures while exploring themes of privilege, power, and morality. The exhibition’s depiction of Sicily reminds us of the island’s complex past and present, and its unique role in Italian and world history.
Roman holiday
Rome
Roman Holiday is a classic American romantic comedy starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. The film tells the story of a young princess who, tired of her royal duties, runs away from her handlers and spends a day exploring Rome in disguise. During her adventure, she meets an American reporter who is also seeking an escape for his life. The two quickly fall in love and must find a way to stay together despite their different worlds.
italian job
Venice
The Italian Job is a crime drama set in Venice that follows the exploits of Mark Wahlberg’s character as he plans an elaborate heist with his accomplices. It passes through St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal and the Church of Santa Maria della Salute – one of the most recognizable sights of the city.
The talented Mr. Ripley
Amalfi coast
The Talented Mr. Ripley is a psychological thriller starring Matt Damon as Tom Ripley, a man who is sent to Italy to bring back the son of a wealthy friend. Ripley becomes infatuated with his friend’s (Jude Law) lifestyle and begins impersonating him. He soon found himself in over his head, leading to a dangerous game of cat and mouse.
wrestler
Rome
Gladiator is a historical drama starring Russell Crowe as Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general who is betrayed and sold into slavery. Maximus becomes a gladiator in hopes that one day he will be able to return to his family. He quickly becomes one of the most successful fighters in the arena, leading to a battle with the Emperor’s Corrupt Son.
La dolce vita
Rome
La Dolce Vita is a classic Italian film that follows a week in the life of journalist Marcello Rubini (Marcello Mastroianni). Rubini wanders around Rome, encountering various characters and immersing himself in the city’s nightlife. The film offers a glimpse into the decadent lifestyle of the rich and famous in Italy in the 1960s.
when in Rome
Rome
When in Rome is a romantic comedy starring Kristen Bell as a woman who, while on a business trip to Rome, steals coins from a fountain said to grant the wishes of those who toss them. Returning home, she finds that the coins worked and she is now being pursued by five men who all want to marry her. You must choose between the life you know and the life you could have with one of these men. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that there is a 2002 movie called When in Rome with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olson. So take your pick!
Letters to Juliet
Verona
Letters to Juliet is a romantic drama starring Amanda Seyfried as an American woman who travels to Verona, Italy, on vacation. While there, she encounters a group of women who are answering letters written by Shakespeare to Juliet Capulet. She begins to help them in their quest to find lost lovers, all while searching for her lover.
Ocean 12
Rome, Lake Como
Ocean’s 12 is a heist comedy that follows the crew of Ocean’s 11 as they attempt a series of daring heists in Europe. While the majority of the film takes place in Amsterdam, there are also scenes in Rome and Lake Como. The film stars an all-star cast, including George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon.
Wonder Woman
Matera
Wonder Woman is a superhero movie based on the DC Comics character of the same name. The film follows Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) as she leaves her idyllic island home to enter the human world during World War I. While a large portion of the film takes place in London, there is also a large portion that takes place in Italy, where Diana goes to find and stop the villain Ares.
Men in Black: International
Naples
Men in Black: International is a science fiction action movie that follows the Men in Black as they try to stop an alien threat. The film features several locations across Italy, including Rome, Florence, and Pisa. It also stars Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson as the new members of Men in Black.
Call me by your name
Northern Italy
Call Me by Your Name is a modern drama about Elio Perlman (Timothee Chalamet), a 17-year-old boy who falls in love with his father’s graduate student, Oliver (Armie Hammer). The film is set in the 1980s and takes place in the Italian countryside.
A room with a view
Florence
A Room with a View is a period drama about Lucy Honeychurch (Helena Bonham Carter), a young woman who travels to Florence, Italy with her chaperone. There, she meets and falls in love with a man named George Emerson (Julian Sands). However, their relationship is complicated by the fact that George is from a lower social class than Lucy.
popes
Rome
The Two Popes is a historical drama that follows the story of Pope Benedict XVI (Anthony Hopkins) and Pope Francis (Jonathan Pryce). In the film, the two men meet in the Vatican to discuss their differing views on the Catholic Church. However, their meeting ends up with far greater consequences than either of them could have anticipated.
the tourist
Venice
The Tourist is a thriller that follows an American woman named Elise Clifton Ward (Angelina Jolie) who is pursued by the police. She ends up taking refuge with a man named Frank Tupelo (Johnny Depp), who is also being pursued by the police. They end up running together and end up in Venice, Italy. The best part of the movie is definitely the beautiful landscape of Venice.
To Rome with love
Rome
To Rome with Love is a comedy-drama directed by Woody Allen that follows the lives of several characters in Rome. The film includes stories about a man who is mistaken for a movie star, an architect who reconnects with an old flame, and a young couple who run away to Rome. The film offers a unique and humorous look at the city of Rome and its inhabitants.
Tea with Mussolini
Florence
Tea With Mussolini is a historical drama that follows the story of a group of English women living in Italy during World War II. The film follows their lives as they try to maintain their way of life despite the growing threat of war. The film stars Cher, Judi Dench, and Maggie Smith.
Cinque Terre
Luca
Cinque Terre, Italy is the amazing setting for Pixar’s animated film, Luca. The film tells the story of a young sea monster, Luca, who dreams of exploring the world above water. He meets another sea monster, Alberto, who is already an expert in the human world and convinces Luca to join him on his adventures.
The film is a coming-of-age story that follows two sea monsters as they explore the small seaside town of Portoroso. They meet new friends, participate in a triathlon, and discover the joys of gelato. However, they must also hide their true identities from humans who fear and hunt sea monsters.
One of the highlights of the movie is the stunning visuals of Cinque Terre. The brightly colored buildings, rocky coastline and crystal clear waters are all beautifully designed. The filmmakers paid close attention to detail, accurately portraying the small details of the city, such as street vendors selling fish and elderly locals sitting outside their homes.
Lucca also celebrates Italian culture and traditions. The film highlights the importance of family, food and friendship in Italian life. The characters speak Italian throughout the movie, which adds an authentic touch. The movie also features a lively soundtrack that includes classic Italian songs and modern pop songs.
Overall, Luca is an uplifting and visually stunning film that captures the beauty of Cinque Terre and the spirit of Italian culture. A must watch for everyone who loves animation and a heart-warming story.
Italy has appeared in countless films over the years, as its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture make it an ideal location for filmmakers. From romantic comedies to historical dramas, Italy has been used as a backdrop for many types of films. Here is a list of some of the best films shot in Italy.
See the best things to do in Cinque Terre here!
The best films set in Italy offer a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and history. From classics like Roman Holiday to modern thrillers like The Talented Mr. Ripley, there’s something for everyone on this list. Do you have a favorite movie set in Italy?!
See all my guides to Italy here!
