Cinema in the North: Milan and the Lakes

Not only Rome and Sicily: Northern Italy too has a long history of major international film sets, between metropolitan elegance, lakes and countryside.

Milan, between fashion and cinema

The chic Milan of the Brera district and its palaces is the backdrop of House of Gucci by Ridley Scott (2021), with the fashion dynasty at the centre of the scene — while the scenes in the family’s lake villa were filmed at Villa Balbiano, on Lake Como. The city combines design, aperitivo and great cinema.

Crema and Guadagnino’s lowlands

Not far away, the Crema countryside is the heart of Call Me by Your Name, winner of the Oscar for James Ivory’s screenplay: the squares and arcades of Crema offer the suspended atmosphere of an unforgettable summer.

Lake Como, an international star

Villa del Balbianello, in Lenno, is among the most photographed film locations in history: it hosted both James Bond’s recovery in Casino Royale and Anakin and Padmé’s first kiss in Star Wars: Episode II. It’s open to the public from mid-March to November.

What to eat between Milan and the lakes

Northern cuisine is hearty and refined: in Milan, saffron risotto and veal cutlet; on Lake Como, risotto with perch and missoltini; on Lake Garda, pizzoccheri from nearby Valtellina. An itinerary that combines metropolis and nature, without ever giving up good food.

Discover the venues of the North in our directory and filter by city or film. Always check opening hours and availability before you leave.