Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)
Perhaps one of the most famous movies associated with Tuscany, Under the Tuscan Sun tells the story of Frances, a writer who moves to Tuscany to start a new chapter in her life after a difficult divorce. Filmed primarily in Cortona, a small hill town with medieval architecture and breathtaking views, the movie beautifully captures the Tuscan lifestyle. Frances’ journey of self-discovery amid the rolling vineyards and olive groves encapsulates the magic of Tuscany and has inspired many to dream of a Tuscan escape.
Notable Locations: Cortona, Montepulciano, Positano
Gladiator (2000)
Though Gladiator is largely set in ancient Rome, several key scenes were filmed in the Tuscan countryside. In particular, the unforgettable scenes featuring Maximus (played by Russell Crowe) envisioning his return home to his farm were shot in the Val d’Orcia, an idyllic region known for its sweeping landscapes and cypress trees. The area’s unspoiled beauty provided the perfect setting for these emotional scenes, offering viewers a glimpse into Tuscany’s timeless landscapes.
Notable Locations: Val d’Orcia, Siena Province
The English Patient (1996)
The Oscar-winning film The English Patient is set during World War II and tells the tale of a disfigured pilot recounting his tragic romance. While the story spans various global locations, the Italian scenes were filmed in Tuscany, including at a monastery in Pienza. The picturesque scenery and old-world architecture perfectly fit the film’s emotional depth and period setting, with Tuscany’s historical landmarks enhancing the story’s melancholic beauty.
Notable Locations: Pienza, Montepulciano, and Val d’Orcia
Life Is Beautiful (La Vita è Bella) (1997)
Roberto Benigni’s Life is Beautiful, which won three Academy Awards, is set primarily in Arezzo, a charming town in eastern Tuscany. The film follows the story of Guido, a Jewish man using humor and imagination to shield his son from the horrors of the Holocaust. Many scenes take place on Arezzo’s Piazza Grande, which provides a captivating backdrop with its Renaissance-era architecture. The film’s blend of tragedy and humor combined with the beauty of Tuscany creates a moving cinematic experience.
Notable Locations: Arezzo, Piazza Grande
A Room with a View (1985)
Based on E.M. Forster’s novel, A Room with a View is a romantic period drama set in both Florence and the English countryside. The film follows a young woman named Lucy who is torn between societal expectations and her personal desires. The early scenes set in Florence showcase iconic locations like the Arno River, Piazza della Signoria, and the Basilica of Santa Croce. With stunning shots of Florence’s art and architecture, the film beautifully captures the city’s romantic ambiance.
Notable Locations: Florence, Arno River, Piazza della Signoria, Basilica of Santa Croce
Quantum of Solace (2008)
The James Bond movie Quantum of Solace opens with an adrenaline-pumping car chase filmed along Tuscany’s winding roads near Lake Garda and the Carrara marble quarries. While Bond travels to various global locations throughout the film, Tuscany’s rugged terrain and dramatic roads add excitement to the opening scene, making it one of the most memorable chase sequences in the Bond franchise. Tuscany’s marble mountains and scenic routes provide an impressive start to Bond’s high-stakes adventure.
Notable Locations: Carrara marble quarries, Lake Garda area
Stealing Beauty (1996)
Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, Stealing Beauty follows the story of a young American woman, Lucy (played by Liv Tyler), who travels to Tuscany in search of love and self-discovery. Filmed in a beautiful villa surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills, the movie provides a deep exploration of Tuscany’s serene countryside. This visually stunning film paints Tuscany as a place of artistic inspiration, healing, and self-reflection, showing the region’s tranquil landscapes in all their glory.
Filming Locations: Villa and countryside near Siena.
