The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Locations: Venice, Ischia, Rome, Naples
Anthony Minghella’s stylish thriller is both exciting and beautiful to watch. Starring Matt Damon, Jude Law, and Gwyneth Paltrow, it tells a dark story of lies and stolen identity. The movie earned five Oscar nominations and was highly praised for its stunning visuals and design. The Amalfi Coast shines in breathtaking scenes filmed in Positano and Ischia, while Venice and Rome add a touch of classic city charm. Harbor shots were captured in Atrani and Procida, and the lively jazz club appears in Rome’s Via della Pace. Considered one of the best movies set in Italy, it is a must-see for anyone who loves exploring famous Italian film locations.
Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)
Location: Cortona, Tuscany
Diane Lane stars in this touching film about finding a new life in another country. While it did not win big awards, the movie became a beloved classic and helped make Tuscany a dream destination for travelers. The story is filled with golden sunlight, olive groves, vineyards, and beautiful rolling hills. Most scenes were filmed in Cortona, a charming hilltop town in southern Tuscany. The real villa “Bramasole” can still be seen from Via Santa Margherita. Visitors can also explore Piazza Signorelli and Lake Trasimeno, both shown in the film. As one of the most famous movies set in Tuscany, it continues to inspire movie lovers to travel to Italy.
La Dolce Vita (1960)
Location: Rome
Anthony Minghella’s elegant thriller is both exciting and beautifully filmed. Starring Matt Damon, Jude Law, and Gwyneth Paltrow, it tells a story full of lies and changing identities. The movie received five Oscar nominations and was praised for its amazing camera work and design. The Amalfi Coast shines with stunning shots in Positano and Ischia, while Venice and Rome add glamorous city scenes. Harbor moments were filmed in Atrani and Procida, and the jazz club shown is in Via della Pace, Rome. Ranked as one of the best movies filmed in Italy, it is a must-see for anyone who loves famous Italian film locations
The Godfather (1972)
Location: Sicily (Savoca, Forza d’Agrò, Corleone)
Although the story mostly takes place in New York, Francis Ford Coppola’s classic mafia movie also shows breathtaking scenes in Sicily, showing Michael Corleone’s exile and family roots. The film won three Oscars, including the award for Best Picture. The Sicilian parts were filmed in Savoca, with famous spots like Bar Vitelli and the Church of San Nicolò, and in Forza d’Agrò, which played the role of Corleone. These villages are still well preserved and full of real medieval beauty. A timeless highlight among movies filmed in Italy and a must-see destination for travelers who love Italian cinema.
‘The Tourist’ (2010)
Location: Venice
The Tourist tells the story of Elise Clifton-Ward (Angelina Jolie), the elegant partner of wanted man Alexander Pearce. Following her lover’s instructions, Elise travels to Venice, where she must trick the police by choosing an innocent man and making them believe he is Pearce. Frank Tupelo (Johnny Depp), a heartbroken American tourist visiting Italy, soon finds himself in the middle of this dangerous game.
Eat Pray Love (2010)
Location: Rome, Naples
Julia Roberts stars as Elizabeth Gilbert in this inspiring story, with the “Eat” part filmed in some of Italy’s most delicious places. While the movie got mixed reviews, it became a big push for Italian tourism, especially among food lovers. The famous pizza scene was shot at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Naples, while Rome’s Trastevere district, Piazza Navona, and Campo de’ Fiori are also shown. Viewers see plates of pasta, creamy carbonara, and strong espresso in many scenes. It remains one of the most loved modern films set in Italy and is often included in Italy movie travel guides.
A Room with a View (1985)
Location: Florence
Based on the famous novel by E.M. Forster and directed by James Ivory, this classic movie won three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay. Helena Bonham Carter stars as a young woman who finds love and freedom during her time in Florence. The film shows beautiful places like Piazza della Signoria, Santa Croce, and the Arno River, all filled with Renaissance charm and stunning architecture. In the story, the Pensione Bertolini is shown, but in real life it is the Hotel Degli Orafi, where visitors can still stay today. A must-see for anyone interested in movies filmed in Tuscany and the most iconic Italian film locations.
Roman Holiday (1953)
Location: Rome
This classic romantic comedy by William Wyler features Audrey Hepburn (in her Oscar-winning role) and Gregory Peck as they explore Rome during one magical day of freedom. The movie won three Academy Awards and made many Roman landmarks famous. Their iconic Vespa ride passes by the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Angelo, and the Trevi Fountain. Visitors today can follow their path beginning at Via Margutta 51, the movie home of Gregory Peck’s character. As one of the earliest and most loved films set in Italy, it remains a true highlight of Italy movie tourism.
Life is Beautiful (1997)
Location: Arezzo, Tuscany
This moving mix of comedy and sadness, directed by Roberto Benigni, won three Academy Awards, including Best Actor and Best Foreign Language Film. The first part, filmed in the beautiful Tuscan town of Arezzo, shows lovely streets and warm colors. Important highlights are Piazza Grande and Corso Italia. The story slowly changes from laughter to pain, but it always keeps its strong humanity and visual charm. It is one of the most emotional movies filmed in Italy, and a timeless example of films made in Tuscany.
Inferno (2016)
Location: Florence, Venice
Inspired by Dan Brown’s famous book, this exciting thriller takes Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) on a journey full of puzzles and secrets. Viewers can see stunning scenes in Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio, the Boboli Gardens, and Venice’s Basilica di San Marco. Even though the movie got mixed reviews, it offers a beautiful tour of Italy’s culture, history, and hidden passages. A perfect choice for anyone who loves mystery and adventure films set in Italy.
