If we’re being completely honest, we are always dreaming of a European summer.
That’s not to say that the Australian summer is subpar, far from it, but the sheer fantasy and history that comes with a jaunt through charming Florence or romantic Paris in the warmer months, is quite simply something else. And with nights getting cooler and the days becoming shorter, we certainly wouldn’t say no to escaping for warmer days spent reclining on azure European coastlines with a spritz or gelato in hand.
While a Greek Island getaway isn’t always on the cards, we are forever seeking something to feed our ravenous souls. And that’s precisely where movies come in. The ultimate form of at-home escapism, films, especially chic films with frames full of unbelievable fashion, serve as the perfect distraction—or inspiration—until your next trip.
So, whether you’re planning a future northern sojourn or simply seeking solace in some escapist cinema, the following 12 films are sure to inspire your best European summer yet.
And God Created Woman
It was the film that launched French icon Brigitte Bardot into international superstardom and turned Saint-Tropez into a coveted holiday destination. It also gave us several incredible Brigitte Bardot style moments, many of which we would wear today.
Roman Holiday
No chic film list would be complete without at least one appearance by the inimitable Audrey Hepburn. Set in the titular Rome in Italy, the film follows Audrey as a crown princess out to explore the city on her own after becoming frustrated with restrictive royal life. When a sedative she took from her doctor kicks in, she falls asleep on a park bench, only to be found by American reporter, Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck). Cue: Romance and a romp around Rome.
Boy On A Dolphin
This 1957 film may star Sophia Loren, but one might argue that the true star is Greece itself. Initially set on the Greek Island of Hydra, Loren’s character, Phaedra, discovers an ancient sculpture of a boy on a dolphin while diving one day. The sculpture is said to have magical powers, so she travels to Athens to find the American archaeologist James Calder, and an adventurous love story ensues.
I Am Love
While its love-story narrative is probably what earns this stunning film its title, the imagery in and of itself is essentially a visual representation of the titular, infatuating emotion. Warm Italian landscapes, gastronomical exploration and neo-classical architecture, this film encapsulates all there is to love in Europe.
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Set in, as the name suggests, the Catalan city of Barcelona, this Woody Allen film is perfect for those heading to (or dreaming of) sunny Spain. It pairs perfectly with a temperanillo, all your amigas and generous plates of tapas.
Under The Tuscan Sun
Chalk up another one for Italy! Based on the true story of writer Frances Mayes, this film is escapist storytelling at its finest. From cosy, fixer-upper villas in Tuscany to the colourful coastal cliffs of Positano, you won’t say anything but ‘Sì’.
To Catch A Thief
If old Hollywood is more your cup of thé, look no further than Grace Kelly’s 1955 thriller To Catch A Thief. Set in the glamorous French Riviera, the film serves up plenty of memorable landscapes and of course, several swoon-worthy style moments. It is Grace, after all!
A Room With A View
Set in the stunning Renaissance city of Florence, Italy, the film tells the tale of Lucy Honeychurch (Helena Bonham-Carter), a young English woman touring Italy with her cousin. At a hotel in Firenze, she meets the carefree George Emerson and a story of love begins.
Letters to Juliet
A romantic tale that unfolds in Verona, Italy, Letters To Juliet provides the ideal dose of lush, rolling countryside, rustic streets and eternal love.
Before Sunrise
An utterly dreamy tale of two strangers who meet on a train and decide to spend a night in the charming city of Vienna, watching this film will make you feel like a local. The city’s incredible architecture and hidden streets are on full display, making it the ideal inspiration for your next Austrian jaunt.
The Talented Mr. Ripley
An undoubtedly iconic film, The Talented Mr. Ripley is the perfect dose of ‘la dolce vita’. Set in sun-drenched Italy in the late 1950s, it’s worth it for the sweeping scenes of azure coasts and rustic streets alone.
Midnight In Paris
If Woody Allen films are known for anything, it’s their beautifully shot cinematography. Midnight In Paris is the epitome of this, bringing Allen’s nostalgic lens to France—jazz and all. Guaranteed to make you laugh and provide you with all the excuses you need for a Parisian summer.
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