1. Rome and Naples in the Movie, Eat Pray Love
Fact checked by
Erin Medlicott
Eat Pray Love, the movie based on the book by Elizabeth Gilbert, features breathtaking scenes set in Rome and Naples, Italy. In the film, Elizabeth Gilbert, portrayed by Julia Roberts, immerses herself in the beauty and culinary delights of Rome during the first section titled Eat. Below are notable Rome locations highlighted in the film, many of which are elaborated in the book.
Roman Colosseum
Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Phone: +39 06 2111 5843
In the movie, the Roman Colosseum, Rome’s most iconic tourist attraction, takes center stage. If you’re planning to visit, it’s advisable to learn how to purchase Colosseum tickets in advance to skip potentially long lines.
Piazza Navona
Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Piazza Navona boasts some of Rome’s most famous fountains, including Bernini’s Fontana Dei Fiumi. Retaining its elliptical shape from Roman times, the square is surrounded by elegant churches, high-end restaurants, and charming cafes. Be sure to indulge in the iconic tartufo dessert while exploring the area.
Pantheon
Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Phone: +39 06 6830 0230
The Pantheon stands as the best-preserved structure from ancient Rome, featuring a stunning dome and offering free admission. Originally a temple for all the gods, it was converted into a church in the 7th century. After your visit, consider dining at Armando al Pantheon located at Salita de’ Crescenzi, 31, and enjoy a drink in Piazza di Rotonda, an enchanting square to visit at night.
Trevi Fountain
Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Phone: +39 06 0608
Visitors to Rome are compelled to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, one of the city’s most renowned sites, to ensure their return. Other films featuring the Trevi Fountain include Three Coins in the Fountain and La Dolce Vita. The exquisite Baroque fountain was completed in 1762, marking the conclusion of a historic Roman aqueduct.
San Crispino Gelato
Address: Via della Panetteria, 42, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Phone: +39 06 8911 5101
San Crispino is often hailed as the premier gelateria in Rome. Elizabeth Gilbert’s vivid descriptions of their gelato are sure to whet your appetite. Here, you’ll savor gelato without the distraction of cones, allowing the flavors to truly shine. There are reportedly three San Crispino locations, with this one conveniently situated near the Trevi Fountain.
Jewish Ghetto
Address: Lungotevere de’ Cenci, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Phone: +39 06 6840 0661
Rome’s Jewish Ghetto is home to a rich culinary heritage featuring iconic Roman Jewish dishes, notably the renowned fried artichokes, Carciofi alla Giudia. This area became a Jewish ghetto in the 16th century, and visitors can explore the historic Synagogue, Jewish Museum, and numerous delightful bakeries, restaurants, and shops.
Borghese Gardens
Address: 00197 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy
Phone: +39 06 0608
The picturesque Borghese Gardens provide a serene escape from the busy city atmosphere. Within the gardens lies the Villa Borghese, which now serves as an art museum, offering visitors a chance to appreciate beautiful artwork amidst lush greenery.
Shopping in Rome
Address: Via dei Condotti, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Witness the stylish shopping streets of Rome, including the famous Via Condotti, captured beautifully in the film.
Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Naples
Address: Via Cesare Sersale, 1, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy
Phone: +39 081 1761 9996
During her adventures in Rome, Elizabeth Gilbert travels to Naples, recognized as the birthplace of pizza. Many consider da Michele, in operation since 1870, to serve the finest pizza globally, offering only two traditional varieties: Margherita (reportedly the original pizza created for Queen Margarita) and Marinara (which features no mozzarella but abundant garlic and oregano) at an affordable price.
