Last Updated on April 18, 2025 by Karis Tavernier-Nicholas
This year, the weather has so far been very disappointing in Europe and especially here in the UK. In fact it has been a total washout! It really feels like we have skipped summer and went straight on to Autumn.
This makes us lust for the sunny weather, blue skies, warm sun on our skin, bees busily humming away, charming little villages by the coast decorated with beautiful colourful flowers, crystal blue waters, straw hats and bags and just being able to wear our cute summer dresses – I really could scream right now!!
If like me you are yearning for some or all of the above, or for our readers in more warmer climes that are planning a trip to Europe this summer, here are some movies that will evoke that nostalgia and excitement of the perfect (or not so perfect) European summer vacation.
European summer movie watchlist
1. French Kiss
This is one of my most favourite feel good summer films, taking in the sights of Paris and the Cote d’Azur. A really good comedy starring Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline.
2. Only You
Another one of my favourite summer films, this one is set in Italy, I love the styling of Marisa Tomei, very chic and very Italian.
3. Eat Pray Love
Il Dolce Far Niente… That’s all I’m saying!
4. Call Me By Your Name
5. La Piscine
6. A Good Year
7. The Talented Mr Ripley
8. A Bigger Splash
Loosely based on La Piscine. This one is set in Italy and stars Tilda Swinton and Matthias Schoenaerts, (it’s worth a watch just for him!).
9. Aftersun
10. Vicky Cristina Barcelona
11. To Rome With Love
12. To Catch A Thief
Classic film starring the lovely Grace Kelly and Cary Gran
13. The Durrells
Although a TV series, it evokes the same nostalgic European summer vibes as the films mentioned above, so I couldn’t not include it.
