Venice is a stunning city that has fascinated filmmakers from all over the world. The city's enchanting canals and beautiful historic buildings make Venice a terrific location to shoot movies. It's no wonder that there are plenty of films shot in Venice!  

Many people travelling to Venice in Italy examine the city's streets, looking for famous movie locations. To make it easier, we've created a selection of movies set in Venice. Let's dive into the captivating realm where cinema meets the Floating City!

A list of films shot in Venice

"Don't Look Now" (1973)

"Don't Look Now" is a psychological thriller directed by Nicolas Roeg, based on a short story by Daphne du Maurier. The film takes place in Venice and follows a couple, played by Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie, who experience mysterious events after the death of their daughter. Venice's maze-like streets, Gothic architecture, and eerie atmosphere are crucial in this haunting masterpiece.

"The Tourist" (2010)

Directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, "The Tourist" is a stylish romantic thriller. It brilliantly showcases the charm of Venice. Starring Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie, the film tells the story of a mysterious woman who draws an American tourist into a web of intrigue and danger. As the plot unfolds, viewers can enjoy the breathtaking visuals of Venice's famous landmarks, including St Mark's Square, the Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge. The Tourist is one of the most thrilling movies set in Venice.  

"Summertime" (1955)

Directed by David Lean, "Summertime" is a heartwarming romantic drama starring Katharine Hepburn. Against the backdrop of Venice's picturesque canals and bridges, the film portrays the journey of an American woman who falls in love while vacationing in the city. Like few other films shot in Venice, "Summertime" beautifully captures the city's timeless charm, showcasing its stunning vistas and intimate corners, evoking a sense of wanderlust in its viewers.

"Casino Royale" (2006)

The 21st James Bond film, "Casino Royale," directed by Martin Campbell, features Daniel Craig as the iconic secret agent. While the film takes viewers on a global adventure, Venice plays a significant role in the thrilling climax. 

The city's palaces, canals, and the breathtaking Palazzo Pisani are part of an exciting chase scene that culminates in a high-stakes confrontation on a sinking building. Thanks to "Casino Royale" and other movies set in Venice, the city has gained a reputation as a trendy destination.

"The Italian Job" (1969)

"The Italian Job," a classic heist film directed by Peter Collinson, combines action, comedy, and iconic Mini Cooper car chases. Venice provides the backdrop for one of the film's most memorable scenes, where the protagonist, Charlie Croker (played by Michael Caine), is released from prison. 

The scene shows him leaving the prison and going through the canals of Venice on a boat. The picturesque cityscape and the best Venice attractions, like the Rialto Bridge and St Mark's Square, are prominently featured in these scenes. Remember that you can easily find these locations on our website's Venice map. 

"The Talented Mr. Ripley" (1999)

Based on Patricia Highsmith's novel, "The Talented Mr. Ripley" takes audiences on a psychological journey through the glamorous and sinister side of Venice. This gripping thriller showcases the city's opulent palazzos, vibrant nightlife, and labyrinthine canals, providing a stunning backdrop for the film's intricate plot. It is one of those movies set in Venice that show Venice from different sides. 

"Dangerous Beauty" (1998)

Directed by Marshall Herskovitz, "Dangerous Beauty" is a period drama based on the true story of Veronica Franco, a Venetian courtesan and poet. Set in 16th-century Venice, the film delves into the world of courtesans, political intrigue, and forbidden love. 

Venice's stunning palaces and canals serve as a sumptuous backdrop to the story, immersing viewers in the opulence and grandeur of the city's past.

"Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" (1989)

"Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" is an action-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg. The legendary archaeologist Indiana Jones (played by Harrison Ford) is on a quest to find the Holy Grail. Venice is one of the breathtaking locations where Indiana Jones embarks on a thrilling chase through the canals in search of his father. 

The movie shows some of the city's iconic landmarks, including Venice churches such as Saint Barnabas and Santa Maria della Salute. Places like Palazzo Barbaro in San Marco add an extra layer of excitement and intrigue to the film. "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" is definitely one of the best-known films shot in Venice. 

"The English Patient" (1996)

In 1996, "The English Patient" took the film industry by storm, capturing nine Oscars. There were several filming locations in Italy, including Venice. Directed by Anthony Minghella, "The English Patient" is a romantic war drama set during World War II. 

Starring Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche,x the film tells the story of a burned and bandaged man who recounts his past love affair while being cared for by a nurse. Venice provides a stunning backdrop for the film's most memorable scenes, including a captivating boat ride along the canals and an emotionally charged encounter at the historic La Fenice Theater.

"The Merchant of Venice" (2004)

Based on William Shakespeare's renowned play, "The Merchant of Venice," is a film adaptation directed by Michael Radford. Starring Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, and Joseph Fiennes, the movie tells the tale of a Venice merchant who borrows money from a Jewish moneylender, leading to dramatic consequences. Venice's architectural marvels, like the Rialto Bridge and the Venetian Ghetto, provide a rich and evocative backdrop for this timeless story of love, betrayal, and justice. An insider's tip - when exploring the Venetian Ghetto, check out the Jewish Museum, one of the most engaging Venice museums. 

The appeal of Venice as a cinematic destination is undeniable. Films shot in Venice have a distinctive charm. The city's romantic canals, magnificent palaces, and intricate architecture have inspired filmmakers to create unforgettable pictures. From thrilling adventures and war dramas to poetic romances and Shakespearean tales, Venice has provided the magic for filmmakers to bring the city to life, inviting audiences on captivating journeys.

Explore film locations on a guided tour

Are you a movie enthusiast? Would you like to explore all the famous movie locations in Venice? If so, don't hesitate to book your ticket for a guided movie location tour in Venice. If you'd like to see Venice on your own, use our Venice map to find all the attractions mentioned above.