There’s something otherwordly beautiful about summer in Greece—the light, the sea, the warmth of the people, and the timeless beauty of its landscapes. But beyond the travel brochures and Instagram reels lies another layer of allure: the Greece we’ve fallen in love with through cinema.
Over the years, filmmakers from around the world have chosen Greece as the backdrop for unforgettable scenes—turning real locations into cultural touchstones and cinematic daydreams. Whether you’re planning your next getaway or simply daydreaming from afar, here’s a look at some iconic films set in Greece that just might inspire your summer in a new way.
Mamma Mia! (2008) – Skopelos & Skiathos
No list would be complete without this feel-good musical. Set on the fictional island of Kalokairi, the real filming locations were the lush Sporades islands of Skopelos and Skiathos. Think whitewashed chapels perched on dramatic cliffs (remember the wedding scene?), sun-drenched beaches, and winding cobblestone paths that invite spontaneous singing. Even if ABBA isn’t your thing, the scenery alone is enough to book a ferry.
@loucosporviagem
The Big Blue (1988) – Amorgos
This cult classic by Luc Besson isn't just a story about free diving—it's a deep, meditative ode to the Aegean Sea. Filmed in Amorgos, especially around the iconic Monastery of Hozoviotissa, the film captures the surreal tranquility and mysticism of the Greek islands like no other. The island’s raw, untouched beauty and azure waters have gained a loyal following thanks to the film.
@turigaltravels
Before Midnight (2013) – Messinia, Peloponnese
The third film in Richard Linklater’s beloved trilogy brings Jesse and Celine to the sun-drenched olive groves and ancient stone houses of Messinia, in the southern Peloponnese. It's a quieter, more grounded look at Greece—one steeped in history, conversation, and golden hour light. If you're craving a trip that’s more about connection and less about crowds, this one's your aesthetic.
@nikos.tsiak
The Two Faces of January (2014) – Athens, Crete
A psychological thriller set in 1960s Greece, this film takes you from the majestic ruins of the Acropolis to the sun-bleached alleys of Chania, Crete. If you're fascinated by old-world intrigue and neoclassical elegance, this film paints a rich visual portrait of Greece beyond the islands.
@simytravelphotos
Mediterraneo (1991) – Kastellorizo
This Italian Oscar-winning film is a hidden gem set on the tiny Dodecanese island of Kastellorizo (also known as Megisti). It tells the story of a group of Italian soldiers stranded on a Greek island during WWII, where they slowly fall under the island’s peaceful spell. The film beautifully captures the laid-back pace of Greek island life, with pastel-colored houses, quiet harbors, and a sense of suspended time. A perfect watch if you're looking for something slow, sun-soaked, and soulful.
@nikospar1969
Films do more than entertain—they shape the way we dream about places. They give us moodboards for our own adventures. Whether you're hopping on a ferry to Skopelos, sipping wine in the Peloponnese, or simply rewatching these classics from your sofa, each of these films offers a unique lens on Greece in summer.
This season, let cinema inspire your compass for exploration!
