Guide to the locations of The Leopard ("Il Gattopardo") series

The Leopard is a classic of Italian literature, widely regarded as one of the greatest novels of all time. Its powerful influence has inspired the iconic film by Luchino Visconti, numerous stage adaptations, and most recently, a highly acclaimed Netflix series. This new adaptation has reignited interest in the story, set in a Sicily undergoing transformation, and has drawn attention to the breathtaking landscapes that serve as its backdrop. So why not plan your next holiday around discovering the Sicilian locations featured in The Leopard? 

Exploring the places where Netflix's The Leopard was filmed means immersing yourself in the most authentic corners of Sicily, retracing the steps of the Prince of Salina. Let's discover the most fascinating stops on this cinematic itinerary.

The Leopard itinerary: Ortigia, the village of Donnafugata

The journey through The Leopard filming locations naturally begins with the village of Donnafugata, one of the most iconic places in the story. While the village where the Salina family takes refuge – with its historic buildings and cobbled lanes – is fictional, dreamt up by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, the series' scenes set there were actually filmed on Ortigia Island, in Syracuse.

One must-see is Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco, which overlooks Piazza Duomo in Syracuse and served as the backdrop for many key scenes. Originally built by the Arezzo family, the palace has become one of the finest examples of the region's baroque spirit. To visit the interiors of what is considered one of Syracuse's most beautiful palaces, you can contact the venue directly.

You'll also recognise Santa Lucia alla Badia Church from the series – another Ortigia landmark located right on Piazza del Duomo. Its most striking feature is its façade, a fusion of Baroque and Rococo elements, reaching a height of 25 metres.

Hotel in Ortigia

If you want to linger in Ortigia and soak in the unique atmosphere of The Leopard, you'll find an exceptional boutique hotel here that captures the elegance and sophistication of Sicily: the Maniace Boutique Hotel Ortigia | UNA Esperienze. Its 21 rooms and suites are designed with local culture in mind, incorporating touches inspired by Mount Etna, the salt flats, Sicilian puppets, and more.

The hotel has a private garden where you can relax and a terrace overlooking the beach of Calarossa. Plus, its central location allows you to easily visit Ortigia's main attractions, such as Maniace Castle and Syracuse Cathedral.

The Leopard itinerary: Palazzo Biscari in Catania

Catania – one of the most beloved and symbolic cities on Sicily's east coast – also features among the filming locations of The Leopard on Netflix. Among its rich heritage of architecture and monuments stands Palazzo Biscari, used as the setting for several scenes. Built in the 18th century, this grand residence is still inhabited today by the descendants of the prince who commissioned it. 

Palazzo Biscari is a shining example of Sicilian baroque. Its frescoed halls now host exhibitions, concerts, events, and even weddings. Two of the most impressive rooms are the Red Room, lined with portraits of the Biscari family, and the Orchestra Hall, distinguished by its Rococo style and Neapolitan influences.

You can visit this magnificent building by joining one of the many guided tours. The Palazzo is open from Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is closed on Sundays.

If you're travelling by car, just over 40 minutes away lies the spectacular landscape of the Calanchi del Cannizzola, also known as the "Calanchi desert". Located between the Erei Mountains and Mount Etna, this area served as the dramatic backdrop for the Salina family's journey toward Donnafugata.

Hotels in Catania

In the heart of Catania, you'll find the perfect hotel for a short stay in the city: the Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze. Few places capture the spirit and elegance of Sicily quite like it. Its rooms and suites stand out for their attention to detail, from Arab-Norman inspired features to handcrafted Militello ceramics, all set against a crisp white interior. 

The hotel also boasts a renowned rooftop restaurant where guests can enjoy traditional Sicilian and Italian dishes while admiring views of Mount Etna.

The Leopard weekend: the island of Salina

The island of Salina, one of the seven wonders of the Aeolian archipelago, is not actually a location used in the series The Leopard. The main character bears the title the Prince of Salina. 

Salina is the second-largest of the Aeolian Islands and is known for its lush greenery, thanks to the many freshwater springs scattered across the island. Over half of its territory is part of a celebrated Nature Reserve, accessible via scenic hiking trails. Salina is also home to two mountains: Monte Fossa delle Felci (962 metres), named for the beautiful fern forest ("bosco di Felci") within its crater, and Monte Porri (860 metres).

The tourist port at Santa Marina is ideal for beach lovers and shoppers alike. It features a wide pebble beach that's especially popular in summer, along with shops and boutiques for a bit of retail therapy. But Santa Marina isn't the only beach here – you can also visit Scario Beach, Pollara Beach, and Rinella Beach.

Dream hotel in the Aeolian Islands

Nestled in the village of Rinella, Ariana Isole Eolie | UNA Esperienze is a luxury hotel perched on a cliff directly above the sea. Its panoramic glass windows and expansive terraces offer sweeping views of Lipari, Filicudi, Vulcano, the Sicilian coast, and Mount Etna in the distance.

That's not all: just steps from the hotel is a private cove where guests can enjoy a peaceful break in a dreamlike natural setting. The property also offers a range of high-end experiences, including wine tastings featuring local Aeolian labels, private boat tours of the archipelago, and the chance to celebrate a truly unforgettable wedding. Add them to your holiday wishlist!

Following in the footsteps of The Leopard is one of the most captivating ways to explore Sicily's iconic eastern coast – especially in the summer. From the historic streets of Ortigia and Syracuse to the grand palaces of Catania, these incredible settings take on new magic as the backdrop to the adventures of Don Fabrizio Corbera and his family.