The Rise of Set-Jetting: JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa Unveils Venice’s Hidden Gem Locations from Film and TV in Celebration of the 80th Anniversary of the Venice Film Festival (30 Aug-9 Sept)

The phenomenon of “set-jetting” has captivated travel enthusiasts and entertainment aficionados alike, with TV shows such as White Lotus and Emily in Paris enticing viewers to visit the filming locations for themselves. Forbes reported that films and TV shows are responsible for 96 per cent of travel decisions, and recent research from Expedia puts streamed films and TV shows in the top position for travel inspiration – even more so than the influence of social media. Whilst many popular films and TV shows choose to include famous and recognisable landmarks as settings, there are many hidden gem locations more off the beaten track. 

 The floating city of Venice in Italy – with its mesmerising canals, architectural wonders, and timeless allure – has always been a magnet for filmmakers in search of visually stunning movie locations. Iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge are world-renowned and unmistakable on our screens. 

In celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Venice Film Festival which will take place from 30 August until 9 September 2023, five-star hotel, JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa (which has been known to host a Hollywood celebrity or two during Film Festivals), has unveiled some of the city’s hidden gems that have graced our screens over the years. Lesser-known means lesser crowds, too.

Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Venice 

1. Fondaco dei Tedeschi 

One hidden gem awaiting set-jetters is the Fondaco dei Tedeschi from the hit historical drama The Merchant of Venice. The historic building is situated near Rialto Bridge along Venice’s Grand Canal. Originally a trading post for German merchants in the 13th century, it now houses a luxury department store – its architectural grandeur and rich history make it a captivating choice for film productions.  
 

2. Palazzo Pisani Moretta 

Featured in the 2006 James Bond film, Casino Royale, the Palazzo Pisani Moretta is an elegant and historic 15th-century palace which exudes grandeur and opulence, perfectly embodying the setting of a high-stakes casino. As well as the exterior, the film showcased various areas within the palazzo, including the grand entrance hall, the lavishly decorated gambling rooms, and the sweeping staircase. 

3. Campo San Barnaba 

In the iconic action-adventure film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, the Campo San Barnaba square served as the backdrop for Harrison Ford’s character embarking on a search for clues leading to the Holy Grail. In the film, Campo San Barnaba is transformed into a bustling marketplace – featuring locals and visitors – to create a lively and authentic atmosphere, immersing viewers in the vibrant culture of Venice.

4. Church of San Nicolò dei Mendicoli 

This centuries-old church, located in the Dorsoduro district of Venice, featured prominently in the 1970s psychological thriller, Don’t Look Now. Throughout the film, the Church of San Nicolò dei Mendicoli is utilised as a key setting for various pivotal scenes, with its Gothic architecture and candle-lit chapels adding to the haunting and suspenseful nature of the movie.

5. Sant’ Agnese Church 

Also located in the Dorsoduro district, the Sant’ Agnese Church was used as a location in the 2010 romantic thriller, The Tourist. Whilst the film featured many famous Venetian landmarks, it also included a number of lesser-known spots – the interior of Sant’ Agnese Church was transformed into a lavish setting for a masquerade ball scene. The church’s beautiful architecture, adorned with intricate details and religious iconography, served as a stunning backdrop. 

 Looking to embark on a Venetian set-jetting adventure? Embrace the opulent movie star life by staying at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa located on the private island of Isola delle Rose, just a fifteen-minute boat ride from St. Mark’s Square. Rates start from €600 per room per night on a bed and breakfast basis.