The White Lotus Sicily film locations
Last updated on May 29th, 2026.
I’ve personally visited these locations in Sicily to verify their accessibility and current status. Unlike generic guides, these tips come from my real-time experience on the ground.
Explore the real-life Sicily filming locations from The White Lotus Season 2. They include the San Domenico Palace in Taormina and the iconic beach in Cefalù.
We were on a trip to New York the first time I'd heard about the TV show The White Lotus.
The HBO Max TV series was airing its second season at this point, which happened to take place in Sicily. It was the turning point that made me want to look more into it.
As part-time residents in Sicily, I was keen to see all the places featured in the show.
And after completing the season, it only made sense that I write about all The White Lotus Sicily film locations.
To be clear, these locations only relate to the second series that was filmed in Sicily.
Season one of The White Lotus was filmed in Hawaii. A destination I’d love to visit one day, it’s not yet one that I’ve had the chance to see.
A fun idea for your Italy bucket list, use this post to help plan your trip to Italy.
Warning: this post may contain spoilers to the show so be mindful of this when reading.
Sicily vs. TV: the real logistics of The White Lotus
| Show location (the setting) | Real filming location | Travel time from Taormina | The TV magic reality |
| The White Lotus Resort | San Domenico Palace (Four Seasons) | 0 mins | The heart of the show, it’s really located in Taormina |
| The hotel beach | Cefalù (Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio) | Around 2hrs 45mins' drive | The show makes it look like a 2-minute walk but it’s actually on the other side of the island! |
| Noto villa (Daphne and Harper’s trip) | Villa Tasca, Palermo | Average 2hrs 50mins' drive | While they visit Noto in the show, the famous villa they stay in is actually in Palermo |
| The Palermo Opera House | Teatro Massimo Bellini, Catania | Around 50mins' drive | The plot places them in Palermo, but the interior was filmed in the opera house of Catania |
| Quentin’s Palermo Villa | Villa Elena (near Noto) | Around 1hr 38mins' drive | Quentin's ‘Palermo’ base is actually located in the hills outside of Noto |
| Di Grasso ancestral village | Testa dell'Acqua | Average 1hr 20mins' drive | A real village in the Noto valley, though the family treats it like a quick drive |
| Wine tasting (Etna) | Planeta Sciaranuova | Around 50mins' drive | Filmed on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, a manageable day trip from the hotel |
Interactive White Lotus Sicily map
I created this custom map to take the guesswork out of your Sicily trip.
It features every filming site, categorized by region, along with my personal tips on transit and parking.
Save this to your Google Maps app for easy navigating while you're on the island.
Real-life planning: what the show doesn't tell you
📌 Lisa’s tip: don’t let the TV editing fool you. In the show, characters seem to stroll from Taormina to the beach in minutes.
In reality, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, and the filming locations are spread across three distinct coastlines.
- The Taormina bubble: while the hotel and the Greek Theater are in Taormina, the White Lotus Beach is in Cefalù. This is nearly 3-hour drive away. If you book a hotel in Taormina expecting that sandy bay view outside your window, you’ll be disappointed!
- Palermo Paradox: most of the 'Palermo' scenes were filmed in Noto and Catania. If you’re a die-hard fan, you should spend your 'Palermo' day in the southeast of Sicily.
- Driving in Sicily: I recommend renting a car for day 2 and day 3 of the itinerary. While Sicily has trains, reaching the Planeta winery or the remote villas near Noto is nearly impossible without your own wheels.
The White Lotus Sicily 3-day itinerary
This itinerary is for fans who want to see the most iconic spots without spending 8 hours a day in a car.
It splits the island into the East Coast (Taormina and Etna), the South East (Noto Valley), and the North Coast (Cefalù).
Day 1: Taormina (east coast)
The home base of Season 2
- Morning: start at the San Domenico Palace (Four Seasons). Even if you aren't staying there, have a cocktail at the Bar & Chiostro where Daphne and Harper sparred.
- Afternoon: walk to the Teatro Antico di Taormina. this is where the couples took their tense cultural stroll.
- Late afternoon: take the cable car down to Isola Bella. While the show's beach club was filmed elsewhere, the drone shots of this bay are the show's visual signature.
- Dinner: wander Corso Umberto to browse/buy the ceramic Testa di Moro heads that watched the characters from every balcony.
Day 2: Volcanos and Sicilian Baroque (south east)
The girls' trip and the Di Grasso heritage
- Morning: go to the northern slopes of Mount Etna for a tasting at Planeta Sciaranuova. This is the winery where Harper suspected Ethan of cheating.
- Afternoon: drive south to Noto. Walk Corso Vittorio Emanuele to see the Cathedral where Daphne and Harper wandered.
- Golden hour: visit Villa Elena (Quentin’s ‘Palermo’ estate), which is located just outside Noto. Even viewing the exterior from the gates gives you a taste of what the characters experienced.
Day 3: Cefalù (north coast)
Iconic beach and finale
- Morning: drive north to Cefalù.
- Location: go straight to Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio. It’s the Sicily beach where the show filmed the White Lotus beach scenes. You’ll instantly recognize the stone pier and the picturesque crescent of sand.
- Lunch: dine at a seafront trattoria overlooking the water. Keep an eye out for any 'unidentified objects' in the bay (hopefully not Jennifer Coolidge!).
- Afternoon: visit Cefalù Cathedral, a UNESCO site that provided the backdrop for many of the town's sweeping shots.
Traveler planning table
| Day | Primary base | Travel intensity | Highlights |
| Day 1 | Taormina | Low (walkable) | San Domenico Palace, the Greek Theatre |
| Day 2 | Etna and Noto | Moderate (2 hours driving) | Planeta winery, Noto Cathedral |
| Day 3 | Cefalù | High (2hrs 45mins drive) | The White Lotus Beach, Cefalù Cathedral |
The Godfather and The White Lotus
While the plot for The Godfather and The White Lotus couldn't be anymore different, they share a connection through Sicily.
My post on The Godfather movie locations in Sicily pinpoints all of the places where they filmed the franchise.
And in season two of The White Lotus, the characters make several references to the classic movie franchise throughout the show.
What is The White Lotus?
The White Lotus is a black comedy TV series that’s based on a fictional resort chain (The White Lotus) and its guests/workers.
While on the outside the show paints a carefree picture of the guests and employees, the truth is anything but. The show has had 3 seasons so far, (the third was filmed in Thailand and premiered in February 2025).
Some of the main characters in The White Lotus season 2 are:
- Tanya McQuoid-Hunt
- Bert Di Grasso
- Albie Di Grasso
- Daphne Sullivan
- Camerona Sullivan
- Quentin
- Harper Spiller
- Ethan Spiller
- Lucia
- Mia
Jump to:
The White Lotus Sicily film locations: episode by episode
Now that you've seen the layout on the map, let’s see where Tanya, Portia and the Di Grassos spent their time.
Episode 1 — start in Cefalù
Season 2 of The White Lotus begins with a shot of the beach in the coastal town of Cefalù.
It’s a dark start to the season when Daphne is swimming and finds a body floating in the water. However, it’s not the only dead body they find that day as we soon find out.
Cefalù is located on the northern coast of Sicily, around 43mi (70km) east of Sicily’s capital city of Palermo. One of the most beautiful places in Sicily, Cefalù’s beach is hands down one of the town’s main attractions.
One thing to note is that Cefalù is quite a distance from 'The White Lotus' resort location of Taormina.
Cefalù beach (spiaggia di Cefalù)
Cefalù is in the province of Palermo while Taormina is in Messina. By car, the journey takes around 2hr and 30mins.
Other sights to see in Cefalù
A historic center characterized by narrow, winding streets, Cefalù makes a great Sicily day trip. Stroll through the town, take in the medieval architecture and stop by one of the many bars or restaurants.
Another reason why visitors come to Cefalù is to see its 12th century cathedral. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cathedral reflects a blend of Norman, Arab, and Byzantine architectural styles.
Cefalù Cathedral (Cattedrale di Cefalù), Piazza del Duomo, Cefalù
The White Lotus resort in Sicily
The hotel that plays the principal role of The White Lotus resort in Sicily is San Domenico Palace. A Four Seasons 5-star hotel, the luxury hotel perfectly blends Sicilian elements with modern design.
One example of this is in the first episode. Ethan is walking through the hotel with the manager Rocco. He sees a traditional 'Testa di Moro' and asks, 'what is with these head things?'
Another scene is in the hotel’s courtyard where Tanya greets her husband. The background is filled with several Sicilian orange trees, a perfect reference to one of Sicily’s best exports.
Suffice it to say you should consider booking San Domenico Palace if you love The White Lotus. One of the best Sicily hotels with a view, it’s in a prime location in Taormina.
Just note that its luxury tag doesn’t make it the best choice for budget travelers.
San Domenico Palace, Piazza S. Domenico de Guzman, 5, Taormina
Episode 2 — explore Taormina
Cefalù beach makes another appearance in episode 2 where Ethan, Harper, Daphne and Cameron are talking.
In episode 2, we’re also introduced to one of Taormina’s most popular landmarks (read 5 things to know about visiting Taormina).
Three members of the Di Grasso family are visiting the Ancient Greek Theater of Taormina (Teatro Antico di Taormina).
While the show makes it look like the Di Grassos walked from the hotel to the Greek Theater, the reality is different. The street leading to the theater (Via Teatro Greco) includes an uphill trek that can be challenging in summer. Make sure to wear comfortable, and breathable, shoes.
The Greek Theater dates to the 3rd century BC. It’s open to the public and hosts year-round events and concerts.
Unlike the episode, one thing you won’t find on your visit is no other visitors. The theater’s always busy and the lines can build very quickly. It’s why I always recommend getting a skip-the-line ticket so you can beat the crowds and the daytime heat.
Ancient Greek Theater of Taormina (Teatro Antico di Taormina), Via Teatro Greco, 1, Taormina
Episode 3 — off to Noto
One of my favorite cities in Sicily, Noto and its Sicilian Baroque architecture makes an appearance in episode 3.
Two of the characters, Daphne and Harper, walk the main street of Corso Vittorio Emanuele in the historic center. You see them on the grand stairs of Noto Cathedral after which they stop for an aperitivo nearby.
Other landmarks they pass include the impressive Ducezio Palace (Palazzo Ducezio) and Landolina Palace (Palazzo Landolina). Noto is also one of several places that makes an ideal destination for any East Sicily itinerary.
In the same episode, Daphne surprises Harper by telling her she’s booked them into a hotel overnight.
The incredible hotel in question is the sublime Villa Tasca. But while the audience is led to believe it’s in Noto, it’s in fact around 3 hours away in Palermo.
Noto Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Nicolò), Piazza del Municipio, Noto
Ducezio Palace (Palazzo Ducezio), Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Noto
Villa Tasca, Viale Regione Siciliana Sud Est, 399, Palermo
Episode 4 — stay in Palermo
In the fourth episode of The White Lotus season 2, we’re introduced to the pretty island of Isola Bella. Though small, Isola Bella is one island where Italians come to vacation in summer.
Isola Bella sits in the background when Tanya and Portia come to meet Quentin and Jack at the beach club.
The 'beach club' is in fact Le Grand Bleu by 'UNA Cucina' restaurant at UNAHOTELS Capotaormina. A waterfront hotel, its private sandy beach also features in this episode.
Later in the scene, Quentin tells Tanya what happened to the owner of the house on Isola Bella. Thankfully, Quentin’s version of the story is just as fictitious as the show.
The house was bought from its owner, Englishwoman Florence Trevelyan, by the Region of Sicily in 1990. Today it’s a nature reserve and a favorite visitor destination.
UNAHOTELS Capotaormina, Via Nazionale, Taormina
Episode 5 — wine time
The producers of one of my favorite Sicilian wines features in episode 5 of The White Lotus season 2.
Planeta Sciaranuova winery sets the backdrop of a visit by Harper, Ethan, Daphne and Cameron. The winery’s open to the public and makes for a fun Sicily day trip. It's also one of the prettiest The White Lotus Sicily film locations in season 2.
Check the website or call beforehand first to confirm the opening hours.
We made this mistake on our road trip from Agrigento to Palermo and it had already closed when we arrived.
Planeta Sciaranuova, Contrada Sciara Nuova, Castiglione di Sicilia
The magical Villa Elena
A real showstopper in episode 5 is Quentin’s villa also known as Villa Elena. Tanya, Portia and Jack have also come to spend a few nights at the glorious property.
The 17th century villa’s official name (on Google Maps) is Jacques Garcia Noto.
It’s named after the interior designer who bought and transformed the former monastery. Filled with chandeliers, marble furnishings, statues and busts, Villa Elena is the dreamiest setting.
If you’d like to follow in the characters’ footsteps, Villa Elena is available to rent (price on request). But, be prepared to pay a pretty penny as this kind of setting doesn’t come cheap.
Jacques Garcia Noto is around a 17-minute drive from Noto’s historic center.
Jacques Garcia Noto, SS115, Noto
Night at the theater
Later in the episode, Quentin takes Tanya to watch Madama Butterfly in Teatro Massimo in Palermo.
A beautiful theater inside and out, the 19th century building also featured in The Godfather Part III.
We booked a guided tour of Teatro Massimo during our 2 days in Palermo and it was highly enjoyable.
It’s also in episode 5 where Jack and Portia try traditional Sicilian arancini but leave without paying.
I couldn’t tell where the restaurant was from the scene. Arancini is Sicilian street food and something you’d order from a rosticceria or bar rather than a restaurant.
Teatro Massimo, Piazza Giuseppe Verdi, Palermo
Episode 6 — back to your roots
The story surrounding Quentin and Tanya continues into episode 6, taking place once again in Villa Elena.
Also in this episode, the members of the Di Grasso family visit their ancestral village. The grandfather attempts to reconnect with his blood relatives but the women angrily turn him away.
The scene of the 'village' is also vague, it’s difficult to pinpoint where it was filmed. If I’d to guess, I’d say it was still in Noto but in a remote location.
Episode 7 — say arrivederci
In the final episode of The White Lotus season 2, we see several repeat The White Lotus Sicily film locations. Villa Elena and its opulent interiors feature again as does Cefalù’s sandy beach.
In a scene with Portia and Jack, their talk takes place in Noto’s historic center. Tanya meets her end on a Sicily boat trip and we see Lucia and Mia gleefully stroll through Taormina’s town center.
Finally, in episode 7, we see one of Sicily’s main airports, Catania Fontanarossa. It's here that scenes with several of the main characters take place inside and outside the terminal building.
FAQ: planning your White Lotus tour: Sicily vs. Thailand
Absolutely. While season 3 explores the luxury of Koh Samui and Phuket, the Sicily locations offer a completely different experience. Gothic cathedrals, ancient Greek ruins and the dramatic backdrop of Mount Etna. If you loved the old world mystery of season 2, Taormina and Noto remain the ultimate bucket-list destinations.
Sicily’s locations are more geographically spread out (3+ hours between some spots). Compare this to the Thailand season which is centered around specific resort bubbles. If you’re visiting Sicily, you’ll need a car and a bit more planning to see everything. It’s why I created the 3-day itinerary above.
1. Spiaggia di Cefalù (Cefalù beach)
2. Taormina
3. Teatro Antico di Taormina (Ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina)
4. Villa Elena
5. Teatro Massimo, Palermo
6. Noto
And that’s it. All The White Lotus Sicily film locations in one detailed post.
What did you think of the show? Did you enjoy the second season, or did you much prefer the first? Let me know in the comments below.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
Written by Lisa Rivera: Italy traveler and resident for 10+ years. First-hand researched for 2026.
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I have not heard of this show before but the locations just look amazing!
It's a great show, very dark comedy and in a beautiful location 🙂
I think I have to watch White Lotus so I can connect to these places. But everyone will agree that these places are beautiful. The side street of Taormina's town center is very beautiful.
It is as beautiful as the photos
Hi there!
I wanted to thank you for compiling this comprehensive list of film locations from "The White Lotus" in Sicily. It's fascinating to see the stunning places featured in the series and learn more about the beautiful settings. Your efforts are much appreciated!
Thank you, I'm really glad you enjoyed it, it's a fun show 🙂
It is one more amazing fact that Italy is an amazing and magical country in many ways. The photos are super, stunning, Lisa.
Thank you Laura 🙂
It seems we may be following the White Lotus sites. We visited Maui after season 1 and will be in Sicily after season 2. The White Lotus hotel was a bit out of my price gulp range. Maybe a visit for lunch and a view! But it would be fun to visit some of the other spots featured in the show. We will have to see if we can add Isola Bella to our plans.
That is so fun Linda! Isola Bella should be much quieter so you may be luckier when you visit 🙂
We started watching this show but haven't made it through the whole season. So many great locations! It is fun to see where it is filmed.
It is and a fun way to see Sicily too 🙂
I haven't heard of it. It'd be fun to follow in the characters' footsteps though.
It's a great show and a good comedy to watch.
All your pictures are stunning! I would love to visit the area one day!
Thank you, I hope you visit one day
Sicily is absolutely stunning. I would love to visit it one day....my maternal grandmother was Sicilian so it would be really exciting to experience it in person.
You really must visit one day!
I watched that movie. And I want to see that place in person. Sicily was many beautiful places to go.
I hope you consider visiting one day
I dont even watch the show but I would love to visit these filming locations!
They are very beautiful in person
I have seen The White Lotus but never watched it, had no idea it was a comedy so will look out for iit
It's a dark comedy and very well written 🙂
I have never heard of this comedy series before. I do love a good comedy though so must look it up. It must have been great to go see the various locations it was filmed. Isola Bella does sound lovely for a stay!!!
It's a pretty island but it gets so busy in summer!
I hadn't actually hard of the White Lotus series before. It looks like there are some awesome locations to look out for!
There are and they're all beautiful
It's so neat to see places from film or tv in real life, and be able to explore it! It's good to know that this is specifically season 2 - thank you for sharing these locations.
You're welcome! It's a fun way to visit the country and also cool for fans of the show
Awesome post Lisa. The Cefalu Beach is captivating and looks relaxing. Haven's heard of The White Lotus comedy series until I came across your blog. Thanks for sharing a bit of Sicily with us.
Thank you Kevin, I was a late starter to the show too 🙂 I hope you consider visiting
What amazing inspiration for a trip in Sicily...though it's already on my list next time we get to Italy
Thank you for reading, I hope you do visit soon 🙂
I had no idea Sicily is that gorgeous, I am speechless!!! I would love to visit all these amazing locations and more.
You will see some of the best places by following this tour 🙂
This is a great post for those who have seen White Lotus which I haven't yet - but after reading this, I'll look into it. There are quite a few guided tours to movie and series locations around the world, but my favorite shows were filmed in studios, so.... 😀
The dullest location I've seen is the house and small square from Emily in Paris. It's probably the city's least alluring building and I truly pity the tenants for all those 'influencers' hanging around the door. In contrast, the locations you are introducing are looking beautiful and worth the visit even without having seen White Lotus 😉
That is so funny Renata! I have not seen Emily in Paris so I will take your word for it 😀 I can confirm that The White Lotus season 2 locations are so much better!
Wow, I'm going to watch that show.
That's good to know.
oh that was SO cool. I have never seen The White Lotus, but seriously your blog had me wanting to visit those locations anyway. and I am sure anyone who is a fan of that series would use your blog as the perfect Sicily road trip!
Thanks Mike I'm glad you enjoyed it! We really enjoyed the show especially we recognise the places 🙂