Sicily: Godfather Movie Villages Tour & Bar Vitelli Stop

Summary

Walk Sicilian streets where The Godfather came alive and pause at Bar Vitelli

You’ll stroll through Savoca and Forza d’Agrò—the real Sicilian villages from The Godfather trilogy—with a local guide who shares stories only locals know. Sip granita at Bar Vitelli, step inside Michael and Apollonia’s wedding church, and let yourself get caught up in movie memories and Sicilian sunlight along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is our driver, Salvo, grinning as he pointed out the window—“That’s where Coppola had his espresso every morning.” We’d barely left Catania and already the landscape felt like something out of an old film reel. The van was quiet except for the hum of the air conditioning (thank god for that—Sicilian sun is no joke), and I kept catching glimpses of olive trees whipping past. When we pulled up in Savoca, it looked almost too familiar. Bar Vitelli was just sitting there on the corner, faded sign and all. I ordered a granita because Salvo said it was “the real way,” but honestly? It gave me brain freeze. Worth it though.

I didn’t expect to feel anything walking up to the church where Michael married Apollonia, but there was this hush inside—even with a couple of other tourists snapping photos. Our guide, Maria, told us how locals still talk about seeing Al Pacino wandering around during filming. She laughed when I tried to say “Corleone” in my best Italian accent (I failed). The stones outside were warm from the sun; you could smell lemons somewhere nearby—maybe someone’s garden? There’s something about these villages that makes you slow down without realizing it.

We wandered through Forza d’Agrò next—narrow streets, laundry flapping over balconies, an old man nodding as we passed (he might’ve been part of the set for all I know). Maria pointed out spots from all three movies; she seemed to know every story behind every doorway. There was an option to visit this big mansion where some scenes were shot, but it wasn’t included so we skipped it this time—maybe next trip. On the drive back to Catania I kept thinking about those quiet corners and how strange it felt recognizing places from a movie I’d watched with my dad years ago. Funny how travel does that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Godfather movie locations

• Visit Bar Vitelli and church
• Explore village from Sicilian scenes
• Optional visit to mansion

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in the Godfather Movie Tour from Catania?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in this tour.

What villages do you visit on the Godfather Movie Tour?

The tour visits Savoca and Forza d’Agrò, both featured in The Godfather films.

Can you go inside Bar Vitelli during the tour?

Yes, there is time to stop at Bar Vitelli in Savoca during your visit.

Is entry to the mansion used in filming included?

No, visiting the mansion is optional and not included; admission fees apply if available.

How long is the drive from Catania to Savoca?

The drive takes about 1 hour each way depending on traffic.

Are guides multilingual on this tour?

The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide.

Is lunch provided on this day trip?

No lunch is included; you can purchase food during stops like Bar Vitelli.

What should I wear for this tour?

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a wind jacket, hat, and sun protection—especially in summer.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Catania, round-trip transport by air-conditioned minivan with all taxes and handling fees covered. A local guide leads you through Savoca and Forza d’Agrò with plenty of time for coffee or granita at Bar Vitelli before heading back home again.