Italy has inspired filmmakers for decades, but the best movies set in Italy do more than simply use the country as a backdrop. From the romance of Rome and the rolling hills of Tuscany to the colourful villages of the Italian Riviera and the dramatic coastline of Sicily, these films weave Italy’s landscapes, culture and way of life into the very heart of the story. Whether you’re planning your next holiday or simply dreaming of la dolce vita, these are the best movies set in Italy that are sure to fuel your wanderlust.
1. Roman Holiday (1953)
Few films have showcased Rome quite like Roman Holiday. Audrey Hepburn stars as Princess Ann, who escapes her royal responsibilities for a day exploring the Eternal City with an American journalist played by Gregory Peck. Their whirlwind adventure takes in some of Rome’s most famous landmarks, making the city every bit as memorable as the romance itself.
Visit: Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Mouth of Truth and Piazza Venezia.
2. Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)
If one film has convinced thousands of people to dream about buying an Italian villa, it’s Under the Tuscan Sun. Diane Lane plays a recently divorced writer who impulsively purchases a rundown farmhouse in Tuscany, where she slowly rebuilds her life among vineyards, cypress trees and medieval hill towns.
Visit: Cortona and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
3. Eat Pray Love (2010)
Italy forms the opening chapter of Elizabeth Gilbert’s journey of self-discovery. Spending several months in Rome and Naples, she embraces the country’s love of food, friendship and slowing down, making Italy one of the film’s most memorable destinations.
Visit: Rome and Naples.
4. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Set against the glamour of 1950s Italy, The Talented Mr. Ripley follows Tom Ripley as he becomes dangerously obsessed with the luxurious lifestyle of wealthy American expatriates. Sun-drenched beaches, elegant piazzas and coastal villages are woven into every scene.
Visit: Ischia, Venice, Rome and the Amalfi Coast.
5. Letters to Juliet (2010)
Inspired by Verona’s famous Juliet Club, this romantic drama follows Sophie as she discovers a decades-old love letter and embarks on a journey across Italy to reunite two former lovers. Verona’s romantic streets and Tuscany’s countryside are central to the story.
Visit: Verona, Siena and Tuscany.
6. La Dolce Vita (1960)
Federico Fellini’s masterpiece remains one of cinema’s greatest love letters to Rome. Following journalist Marcello Rubini through the city’s glamorous nightlife, the film helped define Italy’s image around the world.
Visit: Via Veneto, Trevi Fountain and Rome’s historic centre.
7. Cinema Paradiso (1988)
Set in a small Sicilian village after World War II, Cinema Paradiso tells the touching story of a young boy whose love of films is nurtured by the local cinema projectionist. Sicily’s close-knit community forms the emotional heart of this Oscar-winning classic.
Visit: Cefalù and Palazzo Adriano, Sicily.
8. Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Set during one unforgettable summer in northern Italy, Luca Guadagnino’s coming-of-age romance unfolds among elegant villas, sleepy villages and idyllic countryside. The Lombardy setting is inseparable from the film’s nostalgic atmosphere.
Visit: Crema and the Lombardy countryside.
9. A Room with a View (1985)
Based on E.M. Forster’s novel, this classic romance follows Lucy Honeychurch as a holiday to Florence changes the course of her life. The city’s Renaissance beauty provides the perfect backdrop for one of Britain’s most beloved period dramas.
Visit: Florence and Fiesole.
10. The Great Beauty (2013)
Paolo Sorrentino’s Oscar-winning film offers a visually stunning portrait of modern Rome through the eyes of aging journalist Jep Gambardella. From lavish rooftop parties to centuries-old landmarks, the city is the film’s true star.
Visit: Rome’s historic centre.
11. Luca (2021)
Although Portorosso is fictional, Pixar’s Luca draws heavy inspiration from the colourful fishing villages of Italy’s Ligurian coast. Director Enrico Casarosa has spoken about drawing on his own childhood memories growing up in the region, giving the film an unmistakably Italian atmosphere.
Visit: Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera.
12. Enchanted April (1991)
Four women escape grey English weather by renting a medieval castle on the Italian Riviera for a month. Surrounded by sunshine, flowers and spectacular coastal views, Italy gradually transforms each of their lives.
Visit: Portofino and the Ligurian coast.
13. Only You (1994)
Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr. star in this romantic comedy about destiny, following a woman who travels across Italy searching for the man she believes she’s meant to marry. Along the way, Italy’s cities and coastline provide an unforgettable backdrop.
Visit: Rome, Venice and Positano.
14. The Leopard (1963)
Luchino Visconti’s historical epic explores the decline of Sicily’s aristocracy during the Italian unification. Grand palaces, sweeping landscapes, and Sicilian traditions are central to every frame.
Visit: Palermo and western Sicily.
15. Malèna (2000)
Set in a small Sicilian town during World War II, Malèna follows a young boy who becomes captivated by the beautiful widow Malèna. Sicily’s streets, traditions and close-knit community are essential to the film’s story.
Visit: Syracuse and surrounding Sicilian towns.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s wandering through Rome’s ancient streets, enjoying long lunches in Tuscany or discovering the colourful villages of the Italian Riviera, these movies set in Italy prove the country is far more than a beautiful backdrop. Each film captures a different side of Italy’s culture, history and landscapes, making them the perfect inspiration for your next cinematic adventure- or your next holiday.
What are your favourite movies set in Italy? Let us know!