The Godfather Filming Locations in Sicily: Ultimate Guide to Parts I, II & III
Looking for the most iconic Godfather filming locations in Sicily? Whether you're a die-hard fan of Francis Ford Coppola's legendary saga or planning your next Sicilian adventure, this guide reveals all the real-life spots that brought The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, and Part III to life. Although the Corleone family is at the center of the story, most scenes were not filmed in the actual town of Corleone. Instead, Coppola chose lesser-known but incredibly photogenic Sicilian villages not far from Taormina and Giardini Naxos, that still preserve the authentic charm of mid-20th century Italy. Discover where to walk in Michael Corleone's footsteps, explore Godfather movie locations in Sicily, and get insider tips for planning your visit.
1. Savoca, Messina – Bar Vitelli and Michael’s Wedding Church
Savoca is the most famous filming location from The Godfather Part I. It's where Michael Corleone begins his exile in Sicily and meets Apollonia.
- Bar Vitelli: This is where Michael asks Apollonia’s father for her hand. The bar still operates today, decorated with original film memorabilia and Godfather photos.
- Church of San Nicolò: Located just above Bar Vitelli, it served as the setting for Michael and Apollonia's wedding. San Nicolò church is opened every day the ticket cost €1.
Fun fact: Locals were cast as extras, and many still remember the production days of 1971. Coppola chose Savoca for its untouched medieval character after finding Corleone too modernized. If you are lucky enough and have the right guide you might encounter the lady that played the part of Apollonia mother, she leaves a shot away from the Bar Vitelli.
How to get there:
Savoca is a short drive from Taormina or Messina. Guided Godfather tours are available from major Sicilian cruise ports.
The Original Tour
Visit the best Godfather Movie Locations
The only tour that goes to the Corleone Palace!
2. Forza d'Agrò – The Face of Old Corleone
This hilltop town was used to represent the streets of Corleone. Its narrow alleys and historic architecture make it a perfect backdrop for Michael's life in hiding.
- Church of Santissima Annunziata: Featured in scenes where Michael walks through the village.
- Panoramic viewpoints: Overlook the Ionian coast and nearby villages that appear in background shots.
Insider tip: Visit at sunset for stunning photos and the same light Coppola loved during location scouting.
3. Castello degli Schiavi, Fiumefreddo di Sicilia – Apollonia’s Fate
This baroque villa is one of the most iconic Godfather movie locations in Sicily. This is the pinnacle of the tour, you will meet Barone Platania that worked along side F.F. Coppola, Al Pacino , Robert De Niro and Andy Garcia. The Barone Platania, now in his early eighties has so many tales to tell about the making of the Godfather Saga. The Castello degli Schiavi It served as:
- The hideout where Michael and Apollonia stayed
- The tragic car explosion scene that ends Apollonia's life
- Is the place where Michael Corleone draws its last breath
The Castello degli Schiavi also appeared in The Godfather Part III, symbolizing Michael’s enduring emotional connection to Sicily.
Note: It is privately owned but offers limited guided tours by appointment.
Note Important!!!!! Most of the tour operators and guides do not include the castello degli Schiavi in their itinerary. Some lies saying that the estate is in Palermo, others will tell you that is no longer open. This is because the Barone Platania does not let anyone inside the estate, more over he charges to visit the movie locations and some operator prefer to make more profit rather than deliver the full experience to the guests.
ALWAYS ASK IF THE CASTELLO DEGLI SCHIAVI IS PART OF THE TOUR!
We know for sure that Sicily Active a tour operator from Taormina visit the Castello degli schiavi and still has the best price.
4. Motta Camastra – Arrival in Corleone
This lesser-known village was used to film scenes depicting Michael’s arrival in Corleone. Its rugged, rural atmosphere remains almost unchanged.
Perfect for:
- Film photography
- Off-the-beaten-path cultural tourism
5. Palermo – Teatro Massimo (Godfather III)
The emotional climax of The Godfather Part III was filmed at the Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s grandest opera houses.
- Scene: The opera assassination of Mary Corleone
- Architecture: Neoclassical, with stunning interiors and a monumental staircase
Traveler tip: You can join public tours or attend an opera for the full immersive experience.
6. Taormina-Giardini Naxos Train Station – Michael's Arrival
Though portrayed as being in Corleone, this picturesque station was used for Michael’s arrival in Sicily.
- Still operational
- Great for period-style travel photography
FAQs: Visiting Godfather Movie Locations in Sicily
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn offer the best light, mild temperatures, and fewer tourists.
Can I visit all these locations in one trip?
No! With a guided tour, you can cover all major Godfather filming spots in a single day. The major location are:
- Taormina train station
- Corleone Palace
- Savoca
- Forza D'Agro
Are there official Godfather tours?
Yes, several tour companies offer themed excursions from Taormina, Catania, and Messina ports.
Is the real town of Corleone used in the movie?
No. It was deemed too modern, so Coppola filmed in Savoca and Forza d'Agrò instead.More over Corleone is outside the tourist circuit and had not enough accommodation for the crews, and traveling from Palermo on a daily base would have been a nightmare
