The cast of White Lotus may have never left their hotel, but there's plenty to see - and eat - in the charming town of Taormina.

Perched on cliffs above the glistening Ionian sea is the town of Taormina, one of Sicily's most popular destinations. It also happens to be the setting for season two of HBO's viral White Lotus, which has decidedly taken over the internet in the past few weeks. Supposedly, the producers of White Lotus visited 70 hotels before they set their hearts on the stunning Four Seasons in Taormina - and apparently, it was love at first sight.

 
The cast of White Lotus may have never left the hotel, but there's plenty to see - and eat - in the charming town of Taormina. We set our sights to an expert with all the local recommendations: our friend Stefania Spampinato, Sicilian actor and director. So, when you plan your next vacation in the southern half of Italy, tack a White Lotus-inspired Taormina day onto your itinerary!

Trattoria Da Nino
"Great seafood restaurant!"

Tischi Toschi
"Classic restaurant with really great pasta."

Bam Bar
"For granita! And they actually shot a scene from White Lotus here..."

Villa Sant'Andrew Hotel
"Great for an aperitivo. A really amazing view!"

Morgana Lounge And Bar
"A very cool space that overlooks all of Taormina."

Interested in more Sicily recs? Check out our guide to Sicily, and our products that hail from there!