Top 10 must-see movies about Italy for kids and families

Are you planning a trip to Italy, or have you just got back and are full of nostalgia for that beautiful country? Well, here's how you and your family can enjoy a little more the authentic Italian atmosphere from the comfort of your sofa: cinema!

We are going to recommend you 10 incredible films set in the "Bel Paese". We will add the rating (MPA film ratings) -so that you know which ones are best suited to your little ones and which ones will be more appreciated by your older children.

1. Luca (2021): this colorful coming-of-age animated movie tells the story of Luca and his best friend, Alberto. The two are both sea monsters pretending to be humans, and their adventure will teach the village children about friendship, acceptance and family. The film portrays the breathtaking and authentic Italian Riviera, thanks to Vespas, cobbled streets, fountains and lots of gelato: the best way to make your children fall in love with Italy! (Rating: G)

2. Nuovo Cinema Paradiso (1988): this iconic Italian movie tells in a flashback the bittersweet story of Salvatore, a little boy who falls in love with cinema in his native Sicilian village. He returns there after decades of absence, having become a prominent film director, and tries to reconnect with his childhood. Immerse yourself in the authentic history of Italy as it unfolds throughout the 20th century. (Rating: PG)

3. Life is Beautiful (1997): this is among the most famous Italian movie of all time, and it’s always worth rewatching. The first part is an idyllic romantic comedy set in Tuscany, which gradually develops into the tragic story of a family confronted with the horrors of fascism and antisemitism. Due to the themes of the film, it's more suitable for older children accompanied by their parents. (Rating: PG-13)

4. The Lizzie McGuire Movie (2003): if your pre-teens are fans of the popular Disney character Lizzie McGuire, this movie will certainly make them fall in love with Italy as well! The movie follows the adventures of the protagonist, who unexpectedly rises to fame as a pop idol as she discovers the beauty of Rome, the Eternal City, on a school trip. (Rating: PG)

5. The Thief Lord (2006): if your trips includes a stop in Venice, then this movie is perfect for your children and pre-teens! It tells the story of two orphaned boys who join a gang of young urchins as they explore the canals of Venice. Your children will be fascinated by the magical elements of the story as they discover the incredible beauty of Venice. (Rating: PG).

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6. Mid-August Lunch (2008): this comedy film tells the story of Gianni, a middle-aged man full of debts who lives with his mother. In order for his debts to be forgiven, he has to take care of various elderly ladies for an entire weekend. This funny story will make you breathe the authentic atmosphere of an Italian home during the holidays.

7. Letters to Juliet (2010): this romantic comedy is set in Verona, where Amanda is vacationing with her fiancé. She finds an old letter written by a now elderly woman and contacts the author to help her find her long lost love. This movie, although simple, will make you fall in love with the city of Verona and its romantic atmosphere.

8. Vacanze Romane (1953): this iconic film tells a romantic story set in the Eternal City. If Rome is on your itinerary, be sure to prepare yourself for the magical atmosphere of this special city thanks to this immortal film.

9. Porco Rosso (1997): this Studio Ghibli animated movie tells the story of an Italian fighter pilot who lives in the form of a pig. It is an action-packed tale of adventure and courage, set against the beauty of the Italian Adriatic coast and the city of Milan. (Rating: PG)

10. Pinocchio: there are many movies based on this world-famous Italian novel written by Carlo Lorenzini in Tuscany in 1887. The most famous film version is the one made by Disney in 1940. Your kids should know about this iconic character before you travel through Italy.