Pop Passport: Women Led Italy Sojourn via Under the Tuscan Sun, Eat Pray Love, Stealing Beauty

Travel through pop culture with Pop Passport, Women Led Italy Sojourn Edition. Photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures

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Now that summer is officially here, I am seeing social edits of films that inspire people every year to go to Italy. And in particular, independent women taking a sojourn around the beautiful country, from “Eat Pray Love” to “Under The Tuscan Sun” to “Stealing Beauty”.

Italy has long been a cinematic muse—its sun-drenched piazzas, rolling hills, and romantic ruins are practically made for the screen. But beyond postcard perfection, Italy is also the backdrop to some of the most iconic films that celebrate female independence, self-discovery, and reinvention.

Take Eat Pray Love (2010), where Julia Roberts’ character begins her soul-searching journey in Rome, indulging in pasta, pleasure, and the art of doing nothing—il dolce far niente. Or Under The Tuscan Sun (2003), where Diane Lane’s character impulsively buys a villa in Tuscany after a painful divorce and slowly rebuilds her life brick by sun-soaked brick. And before both of those, Stealing Beauty (1996) offered a dreamy, sensual portrait of a young woman (played by Liv Tyler) coming of age in the poetic landscapes of rural Italy.

These films have inspired countless women to take their own sojourns to Italy—not just for the food and scenery, but for the inner shift that travel often stirs. There’s something about Italy that invites you to slow down, savor life, and step into your next chapter with a little more courage (and a lot more gelato). Whether you’re walking the cobbled streets of Florence, sipping wine in the Tuscan countryside, or journaling in a seaside café along the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a cinematic backdrop to your own story of independence and transformation. So, pack your bags—not just for vacation, but for reinvention. After all, some of the best travel companions are the characters who remind us it’s never too late to begin again. Now let’s explore the films…

I. Eat Pray Love (2010) in Rome & Naples

Julia Roberts plays Elizabeth Gilbert, a woman on a quest to find herself post-divorce. She begins her journey in Rome, seeking pleasure, food, and connection. Key Locations include:

Via dei Portoghesi, Rome – Elizabeth’s charming apartment is tucked in this classic Roman neighborhood.
Santa Lucia Restaurant, Rome – Where she eats with newfound friends.
Piazza Navona & Campo de’ Fiori – Bustling with cafes, fountains, and Roman life.
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Naples – The exact spot where she blissfully devours a whole pizza.

Travel Tips:

Order the Margherita pizza at da Michele—it’s world-famous for good reason.
Slow down: do as Liz does and let yourself wander the streets without a plan.
Learn a few Italian phrases—it adds charm to interactions and enriches your stay

II. Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) in Cortona & Positano

After her life falls apart, Frances (Diane Lane) impulsively buys a crumbling villa in Tuscany and slowly rebuilds her life, home, and happiness. Key Locations include:

Cortona, Tuscany – The real-life town where Frances finds her villa, Bramasole.
Villa Laura, just outside Cortona – Used for filming; you can actually stay there!
Piazza Signorelli, Cortona – Perfect for people-watching and enjoying an espresso.
Positano, Amalfi Coast – A brief romantic detour, full of sun-drenched cliffs and sea views.

Travel Tips:

Rent a car to explore Tuscany’s hill towns—trains don’t reach the countryside.
Visit Cortona’s Saturday market for local cheese, wine, and olive oil.
Book a stay at a Tuscan agriturismo for the full local immersion

III. Stealing Beauty (1996) in Tuscany

Liv Tyler plays Lucy, a young American who visits her late mother’s friends in Tuscany, hoping to discover more about herself, her art, and her identity. Key Locations include:

Castello di Brolio, Chianti – A stunning castle and vineyard setting for many scenes.
Gaiole in Chianti – A picturesque town surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills.
Villa di Catignano, near Siena – The rustic Tuscan villa where much of the film takes place.

Travel Tips:

Book a wine tasting at a Chianti vineyard—Castello di Brolio still operates tours.
Visit Siena for a medieval town experience filled with art, history, and charm.
Capture the spirit of the film: bring a sketchpad, a journal, and lean into introspection

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