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The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

The rediscovery of Akragas began towards the end of the 18th century, when the first European travellers arrived and ventured into Sicily, discovering an unexpected and immense artistic and archaeological heritage.

In an enchanted valley with flowering almond trees, there stands the most impressive monumental ensemble of Hellenic architecture in Sicily . In this mixture of man-made cultural environment and natural landscape lies all the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Valle dei Templi – the Valley of the Temples – is undoubtedly the most important vestige of ancient classical culture in Sicily. It comprises the temples of the gods, as well as the necropolis area and the extra-moenia sanctuaries.

The Temple of the Dioscuri (Castor and Pollux), the legendary twins born from the union of the queen of Sparta with Jupiter, now has only four columns and has become the symbol of the city of Agrigento.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus (Jupiter) was built to thank the god Zeus for the 480 BC victory of the Agrigentines over the Carthaginians. Here are the Telamones, gigantic statues with human features.

The Temple of Concordia , also built around the 5th century, is located along the Via Sacra and is the best preserved. In the 6th century, it was transformed into a sacred building. The name Concordia comes from a Latin inscription found in the vicinity of the temple.

In front of the temple, we can admire the Statue of Icarus , donated by the Polish sculptor Igor Mitoraj. The statue represents the fall of Icarus, who disobeyed his father Daedalus, flew too close to the sun, burnt his wax wings and fell into the Mediterranean.

The Temple of Heracles (Hercules) is the oldest. It housed a bronze statue of the hero Hercules himself, who was particularly venerated by the Akragantines. The temple, destroyed by war and probably by an earthquake, today retains only eight columns of the original 38.

The Temple of Aesculapius The temple of Aesculapius was built well outside the ancient city walls, a place of pilgrimage for the sick who sought healing. The walls of the temple bore the inscriptions of the sick who were cured.

La Tomb of Theron , near the Porta Aurea – The Golden Gate , is an imposing pyramid-shaped tufa stone monument. It was erected to commemorate those who died in the Second Punic War.

The Temple of Vulcan , whose ruins suggest an imposing construction, dates back to the 5th century.

The Temple of Juno , spectacularly located on the eastern summit of the magical hill, housed the cult of the goddess of fertility. Its name, like that of the nearby Temple of Concord, is conventional, the result of a misinterpretation of a Latin inscription that confuses it with the Temple of Hera in Crotone. The traces of fire, still clearly visible on the walls of the cella, are a reminder of the terrible year 406 BC, when this magnificent temple, almost identical to that of Concordia, was also destroyed by the Carthaginians. Nearby, a large altar for sacrifices (to the east) and a stretch of road deeply furrowed by chariot wheels, coming from Gate III of the city, are still clearly visible.

Follow the Valley of the Temples Archaeological and Landscape Park itinerary.

Find out more about the Valley of the Temples on izi.TRAVEL! And for young explorers, here is the audio tour of the Valley of the Temples for the little ones .

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Running through Agrigento's medieval core is Via Atenea, an attractive strip lined with smart shops, trattorias and bars. Narrow alleyways wind upwards off the main street, past tightly packed palazzi (mansions) interspersed with historic churches. A good range of restaurants, cafes and accommodation make the town an excellent base to explore the nearby Valley of the Temples and good beaches further west along the coast.

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Experience the real Agrigento. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Valley of the Temples

Sicily's most enthralling archaeological site encompasses the ruined ancient city of Akragas, highlighted by the stunningly well-preserved Tempio della…

Tempio della Concordia

One of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in existence, the Temple of Concordia has survived almost entirely intact since it was constructed in 430…

Museo Archeologico

North of the temples, this wheelchair-accessible museum is one of Sicily's finest, with a huge collection of clearly labelled artefacts from the excavated…

Giardino della Kolymbetra

In a natural cleft between walls of soft tuff (volcanic rock), the Giardino della Kolymbetra is a lush garden of olive and citrus trees interspersed with…

Tempio di Giove

The main feature of the western zone is the crumbled ruin of the Tempio di Giove. Covering an area of 112m by 56m with columns 20m high, this would have…

Tempio di Hera

The 5th-century-BC Temple of Hera is also known as the Tempio di Giunone (Temple of Juno). Though partly destroyed by an earthquake in the Middle Ages,…

Casa Natale di Pirandello

Fans of Luigi Pirandello (1867–1936) will appreciate this small museum 5km southwest of Agrigento, set in the family villa where the author was born. One…

Monastero di Santo Spirito

At the top of a set of steps off Via Atenea, this convent was founded by Cistercian nuns around 1290. A handsome Gothic portal leads inside, where the…

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Guide To Sicily’s Valley Of The Temples In Agrigento: What To See + Tips

Here’s my guide to visiting the majestic Valley of the Temples in Agrigento Sicily, with must know tips for visiting.

The Valley of the Temples is the world’s largest archaeological site and Sicily’s star attraction. Lying on the island’s southern coast, the complex is chock full of spectacular Greek ruins.

In 1997, the Valley of the Temples became a designated UNESCO site. It’s an ancient wonder that has attracted travelers throughout history. Indeed, some say the best preserved Greek ruins are found, not in Greece, but in Sicily.

The temples were once shiny and new, showcasing the power of the Greek culture and ancient Agrigento. Today, some lie in romantic ruins among olive groves while others are in pristine condition.

Pure in line and logic, these honey-colored Doric temples boast a stunning setting in a rolling valley ridge. The lyric poet Pindar called this part of Sicily “the most beautiful city of mortals” and Cicero claimed the valley “does not know a sunless day.”

You can’t help but be transported back to the 6th century B.C. You can scamper over their steps, sit amid the ruins, and gaze out onto the sea.

History Of The Valley Of The Temples

The town of Agrigento was founded by Greeks in 580 B.C. and named Akragas . The region was reputedly home to the goddess Persephone, whose job was to protect Akragas .

At the time, it was a wealthy city of almost 200,000 people. Akragas lasted until the Carthiginians conquered the city in 406 B.C.

The valley once held 15 temples built by Carthaginian slaves. Each temple was dedicated to a god performing different tasks. The temples were made of sandstone, which was then covered with white plaster to help prevent erosion.

The Greeks chose Akragas for its great rolling plains and dramatic heights, which contrasted with the craggy narrow valleys of Greece.

The dramatic temples weren’t intended for public use. The ordinary citizen could only observe them from afar.

How were the temples built? From a technical point of view, they were planned in advance with the architect providing precise drawings and measurements.

The temples were built with sandstone from a nearby quarry. Each stone was cut to a specific dimension. They were rolled on a ramp over logs to the construction site. The stone slabs were then raised and put in place using cranes and pulley systems powered by slaves.

The columns were built with drums, held in place by pegs. Once stacked up, they were “fluted” with vertical grooves. The entire temple was then coated with plaster and painted in vivid colors.

Archaeologist Domenico Antonio Lo Faso Piestrasanta discovered and unearthed the temples in the 19th century. Today, the archaeological complex includes the ruins of seven ancient Greek temples.

Excavations continue to this day. The city, or polis , is mostly still buried and only now being unearthed. The most recent find is a small theater near the museum.

In August 2023, archaeologists also discovered a huge cache of votive objects near the Temple of Juno. Those are offerings made to deity or other revered figure as an expression of devotion or supplication.

The find consisted of 60 terracotta statuettes, busts, and fragments of bronze. They may have been placed there after the Carthaginians pillaged the city.

Tickets & Tours For The Valley Of The Temples

In high season, you should pre-book a skip the line ticket to avoid lines. I also advise booking a guided tour because, apart from the Archaeological Museum, there’s not much informational signage at the site itself.

You can book a guided tour from Catania or a guided tour from Palermo . You can also book a longer full day tour from Catania or from Palermo that includes a visit to the nearby Villa Romana del Casale.

I thought the villa was one of the most spectacular ancient sites I saw in Sicily. So, if you don’t mind a long day, this is an excellent option.

It will be a long haul, but you can also visit the temples on a tour from Taormina .

If you are driving or taking public transport to Agrigento, you can also book a 2 hour guided tour that meets at the Via Panoramica Valle dei Templi in the valley. Or a 3 hour private tour with an expert local guide.

Guide To The Valley Of The Temples : What To See

Here are the main sites to see when visiting the Valley of the Temples.

1. Pietro Griffo Regional Archaeological Museum

It’s best to start your visit to the Valley of the Temples at the extremely well-curated Archaeological Museum . It’s one of Europe’s best archaeological museums and set within a 14th century Cistercian monastery.

The museum provides a good introduction to the valley, with a brilliant collection of artifacts recovered from excavations in the area. The exhibits span over 2,000 years and are presented in 18 rooms.

The key highlights include relics from the prehistoric age, Mycenaean age, ancient Greece, and ancient Rome. The exhibits are labeled in Italian and English (until the last rooms). It’s hard to take photos because the museum is dimly lit and everything is displayed in glass cases with small spotlights installed inside.

Among the highlights are a stunning collection of well-preserved Greek vases from the 7th century B.C., urns, statues, kraters, mosaics, coins, weapons, and paintings. The Greek vases are rendered in both the “black figure” and (more sophisticated) “red figure” techniques.

One must see is the Triskeles Bowl. It’s the first known representation of the three legged symbol of Sicily, the Trinacria . Another is a white krater depicting Perseus and Andromeda. It’s an extremely rare krater bowl made from white clay used to make porcelain today.

On the lower level, in the main hall, you’ll see the museum’s centerpiece — the awe-inspiring reconstructed Telamon , or stone giant, from the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

The telamon represented Atlas, the son of Jupiter and Asia. He was condemned to support the world on his shoulders as a punishment for helping the Titan.

The telamon was discovered and rebuilt by R. Politi in 1825. It’s displayed upright in a huge hall, quite spectacularly. 

There’s also a model of the temple where the telamon once stood. The telamon was just one of 38 sculptures that decorated the sides of the temple. To the left, you’ll see three large heads from other telamon .

Another museum highlight is the Kourus , a Greek sculpture of a young boy. It was once on display at the Getty Villa in Los Angeles and was returned with an earthquake proof podium.

There’s a section with three Roman busts. You can see that Hadrian’s bust doesn’t really match the body it’s set on.

The Romans were practical and swapped heads instead of making new sculptures from scratch, a method my guide called “ancient photoshopping.”

The viewing terrace outside serves up panoramic views across the valley to the temples themselves — wonderful.

2. Ekklesiasterion and Oratory of Phalaris

The first thing you’ll see on a visit is the Ekklesiasterion, which looks like a miniaturized amphitheater.

Built in the 4th century B.C., it was a pubic space where citizens met to discuss affairs of state every nine days. The space seated up to 3,000 people on 22 horizontal rows of seats. Every session was opened with a sacrifice of a calf or pig to Zeus.

Connected to the theater is the so-called Oratory of Phalaris, dating from the 1st century B.C. It’s a small religious monument dedicated to a tyrant. The cella, or inner chamber, is all that survives.

Phalaris was famous for commissioning a bronze bull from the Athenian sculptor Perillo. He would place his enemies inside the bull and roast them alive. The shrieks from inside mimicked the roars of a bull. Not surprisingly, in 554 B.C., Phalaris was stoned to death by the inhabitants.

3. Temple Of Juno

Built in 450-40 B.C., the Temple of Juno (or Hera) was erected on the eastern end of the hill of temples. It was a Doric style temple with 6 columns across the front and back and 13 on the sides.

Though it’s named for Juno, it’s just a guess which god was worshipped here.

It’s believed that the temple was a sanctuary for both newlywed couples and for married women whose husbands had been unfaithful.

The temple was 135 feet long. The interior was divided into 3 rooms: the porch, the central cella , and a room at the rear called an opisthodomus . On the side walls of the cella were stairs leading to the roof.

At the center of the cella was a raised altar used for sacrifices to the god and a statue of Juno on a four step pedestal.

The temple stood until 1500, then crumbled from the impact of an earthquake. In the late 18th century, a local aristocrat reassembled the temple.

30 columns are standing and 16 have there original capitals.

4. Temple of Concordia

Erected in 430 B.C., the Temple of Concordia is the world’s best preserved Doric style Greek temple. Ironically, when built, it was the least important temple in the Valley of Temples. Like all other Greek temples, it faces east.

Concordia is the only temple in Sicily that never collapsed. The temple was dedicated to an unknown deity. Its name comes from a (probably unrelated) inscription discovered nearby by historian Tommaso Fazello.

One explanation for the temple’s longevity is that it was converted into a Christian church during Byzantine times and remained that way for 2,000 years until 1788. Inside, you can see three naves, characteristic of a church.

The temple has a double dedication. Originally, it was likely dedicated to Castor and Pollux. As a church, it was dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul.

The temple was once a dazzling blue and red with polychrome decorations, though there were no decorative relief sculptures on the pediment.

Like the Temple of Juno, Concordia once had 6 columns in the front and back and 13 on the sides. The interior was divided into 3 rooms.

Concordia is a perfectly-built temple, the epitome of Hellenistic genius. It was constructed with perfect ratios, tapering columns, sublime harmony, and optical refinements.

One such refinement was that the columns have a slight bulge and lean inward slightly. That innovation make them look straight from afar.

The builders also solved the unsightly “ corner problem ” most temples had at the time as a result of being built with stone instead of wood. To fix this, architects alternated triglyphs and metopes and centered the triglyphs above the column below.

A contemporary statue of Icarus , by Polish artist Igor Mitoraj, lays to the right side of the temple. It was part of a 2011 exhibition and is the only remnant left in place.

5. Temple Of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was once one of the world’s largest Greek temples. Dedicated to Zeus, it was the most important one in the valley. The temple is now in ruins, so it’s hard to get a sense of its once majestic presence.

The temple was built after a Greek victory over the Carthaginians in 480 BC. It’s Doric in style, but is known as a heptastyle temple. There are 7 columns along the front and 14 on the sides. It was 107 feet high.

Unlike most temples, the Temple of Zeus had a series of half columns and a solid outer curtain wall, instead of the more typical free standing columns. 38 foot tall statues of giant telamons stood on recessed ledges within the column niches.

Today, only 5% of the temple’s original stones remain. It collapsed in 1401 and was recycled into other buildings.

You can still see three telamon giants (like the one in the museum) being assembled onsite. The goal is to create a steel frame to enclose them for viewing.

Discoveries suggest that, on the front of the temple, female caryatids may have stood in place of columns holding up the entablature. The relief work on the east pediment depicted a traditional battle scene among gods and giants. The west pediment showed stories from the Trojan War.

The temple was never fully finished. The historian Fazello claims that the last columns standing fell in 1401.

6. Temple of Hercules

The Temple of Hercules is the oldest structure in the valley, dating back to the late 6th century B.C. It received its attribution based on testimony by Cicero.

Once one of the most beautiful temples of antiquity, it’s now reduced to a few standing and partially ruined columns. Even so, the temple is imposing and evocative.

The temple was dedicated to Hercules, the national hero of Sicily. The locals would invoke Hercules against nightmares and deceptive dreams.

Among other things, Hercules was famous for freeing the world from the Nemean lion, killing the Lernaean hydra, taming the wild bull of Crete, and rescuing Theseus from Hades’ underworld.

Only 9 columns of the temple are left today. Englishman Alexander Hardcastle was responsible for reconstructing them.

In its heyday, the temple was decorated in red, pale blue, and deep blue. The pediment was decorated with sculptural friezes.

A marble sculpture of Hercules once stood inside. The torso was recovered and is in the cloisters of the Archaeological Museum. According to Cicero, the sculpture was so beautiful that part of its face was worn from the kisses of devotees.

You can walk around the temple and see the scattered ruins and some capitals. In places, you can see traces of white plaster.

7. Temple of Hephaestus (Vulcan)

Today, the Temple of Vulcan consists of only 2 columns and a ruined base. It was built around 430 B.C. and, like all the temples, faced east.

However, the footprint of the temple, built on the foundations of an even older one, suggests it was once one of the most important in the valley.

Hephaestus, known as Vulcan in Roman mythology, was the god of industry and work. Frightful to look at, he nonetheless married Venus.

According to legend, Hephaestus had his workshop at the base of Mount Etna, where he made thunderbolts for Zeus with the help of the cyclops.

8. Temple of Castor and Pollux

The final temple you’ll see on your walk through the park is the Temple of Castor and Pollux. The original was completely destroyed. What you see in its place is not the real deal.

The temple is a whimsical folly created in the early 19th century to impress travelers on the “grand tour” of Europe. It looks like something out of the Roman Forum , but it’s an inaccurate historical representation.

9. City Walls and Burial Holes

Dating from 500 B.C., the city walls of ancient Akragas were cut out from the natural outcrop. There were once 7 miles of walls, 9 gates, and some secret passages. Frescos once adorned the arches.

Over time, part of the walls were turned into an early Christian necropolis. Tombs were built into the natural cavities of the walls. Called arcosolia , they look like burial holes.

They were constructed between the 4th and 7th centuries B.C. Today, they are effectively windows to the sea.

The Carthaginians and other invaders destroyed the walls. A series of earthquakes further devastated the entire valley.

10. Hardcastle Villa

Villa Aurea was the home of the late English captain and patron of the arts Alexander Hardcastle. He developed a passion for architecture after visiting the temples in 1921.

Hardcastle moved to the site and spent his considerable personal fortune reconstructing the temples. Thanks to his efforts, the Temple of Hercules was re-erected and many ancient monuments were discovered.

Hardcastle became a local personality. Upon his death, he was buried in a tomb in the Bonamorone cemetery of Agrigento.

Today, the villa hosts art exhibitions. If it’s open, you can head in and admire the gardens.

Practical Guide & Tips The Valley Of The Temples In Agrigento

No guide to the Valley of the Temples would be complete without some must know tips for visiting.

1. How To Get To The Valley Of The Temples

The Valley of the Temples is near the southwestern coast of Sicily. It’s 80 miles by car from Palermo, 108 miles from Trapani, and 100 miles from Catania.

It’s reachable by car via regional highways connecting to Agrigento. There are parking lots next to both entrances that look like dirt fields. It costs 2 euros to park.

Trains run from both Palermo and Catania. Palermo Centrale station has several trains a day and the journey takes 2 hours. From Catania Centrale, it’s a minimum 5 hours with at least two train changes.

From the station in central Agrigento, it’s a 2 mile walk to the park entrance. You can also take the #2 bus and disembark at the Temple of Juno (eastern) entrance.

2. How To Get Around The Valley Of The Temples

There are two entrances to the Valley of the Temples. The eastern entrance is outside the Temple of Juno. (That’s the entrance I used.) The western entrance is Porta Quinta.

The park is split into two zones, east and west. Your ticket covers both zones and you can visit them in either order.

If you are coming from the museum, you’ll start in the eastern zone. It’s about a 15-20 minute walk or 5 minutes by car or bus.

In this zone, you’ll find the “superstar” ruins — the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Concordia. There’s also a cafe and free public rest rooms.

In the western zone, you’ll find the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, and a Sanctuary dedicated to the goddesses Demeter and Persephone. There are also some indigenous goats.

To get around the valley, it’s easiest to just walk. But there is quite a bit of walking involved.

A main path, the Strada Panoramica , takes you across the valley. But you’ll have to walk over uneven ground to get a closer look at the temples.

To explore all the sights in the park, you will need to walk approximately 3 miles. For 3 euros, an electric shuttle bus takes you from one entrance of the park to the other and makes 4 stops. You can also take a guided electric scooter tour to zip around quickly.

On a visit, you should budget 3 hours to see everything.

3. Tickets For The Valley Of The Temples

Tickets can be purchased at either the western or eastern entrance with cash or card. You can also pick up a map from the ticket office.

Ticket prices for the Archaeological Museum are:

• Price  € 8 per person
• Concession  € 4 per person
• Audio guides are € 5

You’ll definitely want to pick up an audio guide if you’re not on a tour. You’ll need to leave an ID as a “deposit.”

Ticket prices for the Valley of the Temples are:

• Price : € 10 per person
• Concession : € 5 per person
• Free admission:  the first Sunday of the month until 7:00 pm

A combined ticket for both attractions is:

• Price : € 13.50 per person
• Concession : € 7 per person

You can also book a skip the line ticket online in advance, which is advisable in high season.

4. Opening Hours

The park is open every day from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm. During high season in the summer, the hours extend to 11:00 pm on week days and until midnight on Saturdays and Sundays.

Prepare for the heat. Sicily is hot and there is no shade in the park (except perhaps under an olive tree). You should plan to wear a hat and bring water. There are vendors at the entrance selling both.

If you are staying in Agrigento in high season, I suggest you visit in the evening. At night, it cools down and the site is illuminated with lights. The downside is that it might be a bit more difficult to see the uneven surfaces in the park.

You can book a 2 hour evening tour on the valley’s website for 6:30 pm or 8:00 pm.

5. The Town of Agrigento

While you’re at the archaeological site, why not visit the historic center of Agrigento itself? Agrigento itself is nothing special, but it has a lovely medieval core.

The main drag is is Via Atenea, which is lined with boutiques, eateries, and bars. You’ll get some hiking in too. Narrow alleyways wind upwards off the main street, past tightly packed  palazzi and historic churches.

You can check out the cathedral. Or, you can hit the beach and relax after visiting the temples. The most spectacular beaches are Scala dei Turchi and Eraclea Minoa.

6. Where To Stay In Agrigento

If you have sore soles from trekking around the valley, there are plenty of good places to overnight in Agrigento. From many of them, you’ll have great views of the valley, which is illuminated at night.

Hotel Villa Athena is definitely the best place to stay. It’s a luxurious hotel with a prime location just a few steps from the temples. You’ll find 28 marbled rooms with terrific views in a serene setting.

If you’d like an agriturismo retreat, check out Casa Balata . It’s a countryside retreat about a 20 minute drive from the temples. You can relax and enjoy a pool, manicured gardens, and great meals.

Hotel Della Valle and the Doric Boutique Hotel are also good options.

7. Attractions Near The Valley of the Temples

If you are staying in Agrigento, there are two amazing sites to explore that are close to the Valley of the Temples: the Turkish Steps and the Villa Romano del Casale.

The Turkish Steps are a natural wonder and just a short drive from Agrigento. They are a sloping terraced white rock formation that drops into the ocean. The steps resemble a staircase (though you can’t walk on them).

Villa Romano del Casale is another UNESCO-listed wonder just an hour from Agrigento. It’s a luxurious 4th century Roman villa with the world’s largest and best preserved collection of mosaics. I promise, the mosaics will blow your mind.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 10 Day Itinerary for Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany
• 2 Weeks in Sicily Itinerary
• 1 Week In Umbria Itinerary
• 35+ Historic Landmarks in Italy
• Tips for Visiting Italy
• 5 Day Itinerary for Rome
• 3 Day Itinerary for Rome
• 3 Day Itinerary for Florence
• 2 Day Itinerary for Venice
• 2 Day Itinerary for Palermo
• 1 Day itinerary for Milan

If you need a guide to Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on August 14, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

SALT SICILY

Exploring the Wonders of Agrigento and the Scala dei Turchi

Welcome to the enchanting land of Agrigento , a jewel nestled in the stunning landscape of Sicily. This guide will take you through the historic streets of Agrigento and lead you along the natural paths of the Scala dei Turchi , one of Italy’s most fascinating natural wonders. You’ll discover not just the must-see sites but also practical tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Agrigento , known in ancient times as Akragas, boasts a history that spans over 2,500 years. This city was one of the most significant centers of the Greek world and still preserves magnificent temples that bear witness to its glorious past. The famed “Valley of the Temples,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to Doric temples like the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved in the Greek world. Beyond this, Agrigento’s archaeological richness includes the Temple of Hera Lacinia, which offers a glimpse into ancient religious practices, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once one of the largest Doric structures known but now lying in ruins, yet still echoing the grandeur of the past. The city’s archaeological museum further enriches visitors’ understanding, showcasing artifacts that tell the story of ancient Akragas , from everyday life to grandiose artistry, providing a comprehensive view of its historical and cultural importance in the Mediterranean basin.

The Scala dei Turchi , with its white marl cliffs, looks like a work of art carved by the sea and wind. This stunning geological formation, with its natural staircase-like appearance, offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean, making it an ideal spot for photography and nature enthusiasts. Over time, the Scala dei Turchi has become a symbol of natural beauty and geological wonder, drawing visitors from all over the world . Its unique landscape not only offers spectacular sunset views but also provides a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation. The Scala dei Turchi is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a testament to the timeless allure of nature’s craftsmanship.

Main Attractions and Hidden Gems

• Valley of the Temples : Explore the ancient temples under the sunset light for a magical experience .
• Kolymbetra Garden : A green oasis, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
• Agrigento Regional Archaeological Museum : To delve deeper into the city’s history and Greek civilization.
• Hidden Gem : Visit the birthplace of Luigi Pirandello, the famous playwright, for a dive into Italian literature.

Getting There and Around

Agrigento is easily accessible by car, train, or bus from major Sicilian cities. For the Scala dei Turchi, renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended, as public transport is limited in this area.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the ideal times to visit Agrigento and the Scala dei Turchi, thanks to the mild climate and fewer tourists.

Practical Tips

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes for exploring archaeological sites. ☀️ Carry water and sunscreen, especially in the summer months. 👩‍🍳 Try the local cuisine, rich in Mediterranean flavors and Greek influences.

Agrigento and the Scala dei Turchi offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This guide hopes to have increased your curiosity and enthusiasm to discover the wonders of this extraordinary part of Sicily.

Have a great trip!

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Agrigento

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Agrigento sits in hilly countryside very close to the southern coast of Sicily, and because of its superb temple ruins, it's one of the most rewarding places to visit in Sicily . The numerous ancient buildings stand in vivid contrast to the modern high-rise blocks that predominate, especially in the southern part of the old town.

Besides these testimonies of antiquity, there are also buildings from both the medieval and Baroque periods that are well worth seeing. Beaches are only a short distance away at Lido San Leone and Porto Empédocle.

Agrigento's main tourist attractions from the Christian era are in the present town center, between the railroad station and the cathedral. The ones dating from ancient times are southeast and south of town, extending to the Valley of the Temples and beyond. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Agrigento.

See also: Where to Stay in Agrigento

1. Tempio di Concordia

2. tempio di juno lacinia, 3. tempio di giove olimpico (temple of the olympian zeus), 4. tempio di castore e polluce (temple of castor and pollux), 5. tempio di heracles (temple of hercules), 6. museo archeologico regionale, 7. climb the scala dei turchi (stairs of the turks), 8. cathedral, 9. san biagio, 10. santo spirito, 11. san lorenzo, 12. kolymbetra garden, 13. day trip to sciacca, 14. favara's farm cultural park, where to stay in agrigento for sightseeing.

The Valley of the Temples , listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates back to 500 BC and consists of a series of temples, cemeteries, and tombs. Three of the temples in the eastern group stand together in a row and are illuminated in the evenings.

The best preserved of these, the Temple of Concordia, ranks with the Hephaisteion in Athens and the classical Temple of Hera in Paestum as the most perfect temples in the Greek world; it is the best preserved Doric temple in Sicily and conveys the scale of these ancient, sacred buildings.

The temple was built around 425 BC in classical proportions, with six columns on each of two parallel sides and 13 on the other two. Even its interior follows the style that was the norm in Greece, without the adytum, which was usually to be found in Sicily behind the cella.

Staircases to the left and right of the cella entrance lead to the roof truss, and the building is preserved right up to the roof. This is because in the sixth century it was turned into a Christian church with the cella as a central aisle, and the columns were walled up. The church was abandoned in 1748, and the building has been restored to its original temple appearance.

Address: Valle dei Templi, Agrigento

The Temple of Juno (in Greek Hera) Lacinia, sits at the upper end of the eastern row of temples and has a circular hall of six by 13 columns. Of its columns, 25 are still upright. The cella was a room without inner columns. It was given its marble floor later, probably in Roman times.

Its religious symbolism is no longer evident, so it is not known which deity was worshipped here. The temple was destroyed by the Carthaginians and, on being rebuilt by the Romans, was given a ramp leading up to the eastern entrance side. In front of this, you can see the remains of a large sacrificial altar.

One of the western temples, the one dedicated to Zeus is today an enormous mass of shattered stone blocks and pillars that an earthquake has scattered over an area of 6,000 square meters. It is difficult to form a picture of the building in its original state without plans or the suggested reconstruction supplied by the Archeological Museum, but it was clearly the largest of the temples.

Built in 480 BC to commemorate Theron's victory over Carthage, it is the largest of all known Doric temples and occupied an area of 56.3 meters by 113.45 meters, with seven columns on each of the narrow sides and 14 on the longer sides. These were about 18.2 meters high and 4.05 meters in diameter at the base.

Architecturally, it was unlike any other known Greek temple, with the spaces between the columns walled in to about halfway up the height of the columns. Above the wall in niches were 38 gigantic figures 7.65 meters tall, one of which is in the Archeological Museum, and a copy is at the temple site. They supported the entablature with pediments decorated by reliefs six meters high, bringing the estimated height of the temple to about 40 meters.

To the west of the Olympieion extends a vast area dating back to the Sicans and extended by the Greeks in the sixth and fifth centuries BC. The Temple of Castor and Pollux at the northwest corner has four columns and a fragment of entablature and pediment standing, rebuilt between 1836 and 1871.

It had colonnades of six by 13 pillars and belonged to the final phase of building when the Greeks wanted to put their stamp on the area with something more impressive than the small older religious buildings.

This circular Doric temple was built about 500 BC, with an extensive ground plan and dimensions of six by 15 pillars. The temple was destroyed by the Carthaginians in 406 BC, rebuilt by the Romans, and subsequently destroyed once more by an earthquake.

Even in the ruins, it is still possible to see that behind the entrance to the cella, there were staircases on both sides, which gave access to the roof story. That eight pillars of the south ambulatory are still standing is due to the Englishman Alexander Herdenstel, who in 1923 directed restoration work at his own expense. The original dedicatee of the temple is not known, but in Roman times it was dedicated to Hercules.

The regional Archaeological Museum is one of the most modern museums in Sicily and contains important archeological finds from the provinces of Agrigento and Caltanissetta dating from prehistoric to Roman times. Among the collections are finds from the Neolithic, Bronze, and Iron Ages and ancient finds from Gela and the necropolis at Montelusa, the oldest known graves in the area.

Highlights to look for include a fifth-century-BC red-figured Greek crater from Gela showing an Amazon battle, black-and red-figured pottery from Athens and Italy dating from the sixth to third centuries BC, capitals and gargoyles with lion's heads from various temples, and the marble statue of an ephebe from about 480 BC.

An entire two-story room is devoted to the buildings of the enormous temple of the Olympian Zeus, with a model and reconstruction drawings and one of the original 38 Atlas figures, the head of another Atlas, and other fragments.

Address: Contrada St. Nicola, I-92100 Agrigento

This white rock cliff on the coast, near Porto Empedocle, is formed by marl, a sedimentary rock similar to limestone, whose layered composition causes it to erode in regular step-like layers. It gets its name, Stairs of the Turks, from the frequent raids by Turkish pirates, who found the steps an easy way to climb ashore.

These striking white cliffs lie between two beaches, which combined with their mention in Andrea Camilleri's Commissario Montalbano series, have made them a popular attraction for tourists. The marl sand is also a favorite mud bath, reputed to benefit the skin. The cliffs change color at various times of day, from stark white in the midday sun to golden and luminous at sunset.

Location: Realmonte Agrigento

The cathedral in Agrigento was built in the 11th century by the Normans on the highest point of the site of the ancient Acropolis, where the Temple of Zeus Atabyrios once stood. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the cathedral was extended, and in the 17th century, it was altered in the Baroque style. Next to the massive bell-tower (be sure to notice its ornate balcony), a grand flight of steps leads up to the main doorway.

The interior of the three-aisled basilica was restored after earthquake damage in 1966, and in the process, an attempt was made to recreate the original medieval atmosphere in the nave, retaining from the later changes only the magnificent 1518 wooden ceiling–the highlight of the church–and some of the opulent Baroque decorations in the choir.

Look in the Gothic chapel in the right-hand side aisle, for the silver shrine of the canonized Bishop Gerlando, which dates from 1639. To the west of the cathedral stands the bishop's seminary, a 14th-century palace, which was rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Address: Via Duomo, Agrigento

At the eastern end of the 351-meter Rock of Athene (Rupe Atenea), this small church was built in the 12th century under Norman rule using materials salvaged from earlier buildings. It stands on the site of the Temple of Demeter, which would have been erected about 480-460 BC.

You can still see the foundations and parts of the north wall of this temple behind the church's apse. Also look for two round altars to the north of the building, which possibly served as sacrificial sites. Ritual vessels have been found inside these altars, making it possible to identify the shrine.

Follow a stairway down to the rock shrine of Demeter and Persephone, carved into the steep slope of the Rupe Atenea. The oldest known place of worship in Agrigento, it is thought to date back to pre-Greek times in the seventh century BC. Behind a narrow chamber in the rocks are two caves containing springs whose waters are directed through several basins into the courtyard.

Address: Viale della Vittoria, Agrigento

The façade of the former Cistercian monastery of Santo Spirito, dating from about 1260, still has the original Gothic ogival doorway and a rose window, the top of which ends in a Baroque gable. Inside, the walls are decorated with Baroque high reliefs in stucco, attributed to Giacomo Serpotta and completed in the 17th century.

To the right of the church is a doorway leading to the remains of the cloister and to the beautiful doorway of the chapter house, a pointed arch with decorative Arabo-Norman windows. In the adjoining convent, you can buy biscotti and shell-shaped cookies called conchiglia from the nuns, who make them from local pistachios using the old methods and recipes.

Address: Via Santo Spirito, Agrigento

Also known as Chiesa del Purgatorio, Purgatory Church, San Lorenzo was completed in 1761 by a wealthy bourgeois neighborhood. Its splendid façade is in reddish-golden tufa with a white doorway framed in twisted columns. Inside are deep-relief stuccoes done in the late 1600s by Giacomo Serpotta, one of the masters of the Sicilian Baroque style.

Be sure to see the two 17th-century confessionals with carved skulls, the marble statue of the Madonna della Melograna, and the exquisite Chapel of the Crucifix, awash in gold.

Address: Piazza del Purgatorio, Agrigento

For a shady afternoon respite in the Valley of the Temples, stroll through this working historic garden. The restored groves form an open-air archaeological and agricultural museum showing how citrus trees and other food plants were cultivated more than 2,000 years ago.

Bordering the paths through the garden are orange, lemon, almond, mulberry, and other fruit trees, but bear in mind that this is not a show garden of flower beds. It is a working historical site, where you can see the unique system of underground aqueducts used to bring in water for irrigation.

This small fishing port on the southwest coast rises on a hillside above its harbor and has been a popular spa town since Roman times. Apart from the charms of its old streets, its highlights are three churches. The Chiesa del Carmine , which stands next to the 16th-century Baroque town gate, is a triple-aisled Gothic basilica with its original rose window and a later Baroque portal.

The 12th-century cathedral has a 16th-century façade and inside, a multi-sectioned marble tabernacle ascribed to Renaissance sculptor Antonino Gaggini portraying the passion of Christ. West of the cathedral, the deconsecrated Chiesa Santa Margherita was endowed in 1342 and preserves the main door of the original Gothic building. It was rebuilt in 1595, when the rich stucco decoration was added.

Not far from the town gate of Porta San Calägero, you'll find the outer walls and a tower of the 14th-century Castello dei Luna . Sciacca's most unusual attraction, however, is about two kilometers east of town on Via E. Ghezzi. The Castello Incantato was created by Filippo Bentivegna, who carved thousands of heads–devils, knights, gods, and historical figures–from the rocks behind his house in the early 1900s.

An unusual tourist attraction has sprung up in the past decade in the town of Favara, about five miles from Agrigento. Once almost abandoned, the town center has been transformed into an outdoor art gallery of street murals, sculptures, and installations . It is the largest and most important open-air exhibition of contemporary art in Sicily.

Saving the deteriorating old center and bringing new life to a depressed area, the Farm Cultural Park not only provides a venue for artists, but a center for cultural events, film screenings, and workshops. Much of the street art is politically motivated or fantastical, and along with the painted murals are works in ceramic tile, wood, and other mediums. In addition to the winding art-lined streets, visitors will find shops and a garden café.

Several highly rated hotels in Agrigento are close to the main attractions in the Valley of the temples, but there are some good choices in the center of town, close to a selection of local restaurants, as well as another cluster of hotels closer to the sea in the Leone neighborhood. It is easy to visit the Valley of the Temples from any of these highly rated hotels:

Luxury Hotels :

• The most luxurious upscale hotel in Agrigento is the Hotel Villa Athena , set in spacious park-like grounds with a swimming pool and spa. Most of its 27 elegantly decorated rooms and suites overlook the Tempio della Concordia in the Valley of the Temples.
• All 21 of the luxury guest rooms at the Doric Boutique Hotel overlook the temple of Juno; the panoramic queen room has a Turkish bath and Jacuzzi on its large terrace. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool overlooking temples with a swim-up bar, a gym, and a restaurant serving dishes using organic and local products from the hotel's farm and herb garden. The entrance to the Valley of the Temples is only 1.5 kilometers away.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Overlooking the sea, with its own in-house archaeological museum, Hotel Costazzurra Museum & SPA has a resort ambience, and a large swimming pool with a lounge terrace. The in-house spa features a Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, massages, and beauty treatments, as well as a pool with a whirlpool, geysers, and water jets.
• Set in a medieval coastal watch tower built in the 1300s, Foresteria Baglio Della Luna overlooks panoramic views of the Valley of the Temples. Guests love the courtyard and gardens, as well as the restaurant serving local specialties.
• A short walk from the ancient sites and the Archeological Museum, Colleverde Park Hotel sits in a lush park overlooking the Valley of the Temples. The gardens are beautiful.

Budget Hotels :

• The historical center of Agrigento is only a five-minute walk from La Passeggiata di Girgenti . The small bed and breakfast has well-decorated contemporary rooms with balconies, and a well-stocked refrigerator for guests' use.
• Also in the town center, on the main street opposite Saint Gerlando Cathedral, B&B Liola offers comfortable rooms and warm hospitality at very accessible rates.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Ancient Sites in Sicily : Although Agrigento contains a phenomenal concentration of temples, you'll find Greek and Roman theaters and ancient quarries among the tourist attractions of Syracuse , and at Enna is the Villa Romana with its spectacular mosaic floors. Selinunte's acropolis and eight Greek temples are an easy day trip from Trapani .

More Places to See in Sicily: Many of the attractions of Sicily are found in its capital, and you can discover the highlights with the help of our pages on the top tourist attractions of Palermo , and nearby Monreale Cathedral .

More on Italy

• 1.1 Tourist information
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By train
• 2.3 By boat
• 3.1 On foot
• 4.1 Valle dei Templi
• 4.2 Historical centre
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge

Agrigento (Sicilian: Girgenti or Giurgenti ) is the capital of the eponymous province on the Italian island of Sicily .

Understand [ edit ]

Agrigento is primarily famous for the Valley of Temples , impressive remains of Greek Doric temples. Since 1997 the Valley of Temples and the other ancient sites in the area have been included in the UNESCO's World Heritage List .

During the golden age of Ancient Greece , it was known as Akragas (Ἀκράγας). One of the leading cities of Magna Graecia, it was the hometown of philosopher Empedocles. Later on, it became Agrigentum in Latin, and Kirkent or Jirjent in Arabic.

Agrigento is the birthplace of the novelist, poet and playwright Luigi Pirandello who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1934.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• 37.309855 13.584788 1 Ufficio Informazioni , Via Cesare Battisti, 15 , ☏ +39 0922 20454 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2017 )

Climate [ edit ]

Similarly to nearby Gela , Agrigento has a semi-arid climate, with just enough precipitation to avoid being classified as a desert climate. It features hot summers and mild winters. The winter months usually present mild to warm daytime temperatures and the weather is mostly sunny. Summer presents a pronounced aridity in which sunny conditions are virtually assured every day.

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ]

Frequent trains run from the station near the centre of town to Palermo and Caltanissetta , less frequently to Enna (but not that useful - the station in Enna is about 5 km below the town). The journey to/from Palermo takes 2 hours and costs €10.90 (as of March 2023). Connecting with the east of Sicily by train is not easy, and takes a long time. The train station is at Piazza Marconi, on the southeast corner of the old town.

By bus [ edit ]

Frequent buses run to Palermo (Down the street from Stazione Centrale), Caltanissetta, Catania , Sciacca and close(ish) to Eraclea Minoa . A few also run to Gela and Trapani via Mazara del Vallo , Marsala in 2 hr 20 min (Salvatore Lumia Bus) [dead link] and Castelvetrano (for Selinunte ).

• 37.311753 13.58681 3 Stazione bus , Piazzale Fratelli Rosselli . ( updated Feb 2017 )

By boat [ edit ]

There are daily boats and hydrofoils in summer (fewer boats and no hydrofoils in winter) from Agrigento's port 3 km away - Porto Empedocle to the islands of Lampedusa and Linosa. See SIREMAR and Ustica Lines . There are frequent local buses from Porto Empedocle into Agrigento.

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ].

The town centre and its medieval streets can easily be reached on foot from the train station.

Frequent city buses run from outside the train station, stopping at the Archeological Museum and slightly further downhill, the main entrance of the Valle dei Templi. Take buses 1, 2 or 3 for the Archeological Museum and slightly further downhill, the main entrance of the Valle dei Templi.

• TUA ( Trasporti Urbani Agrigento ). Tickets should be bought before boarding from a bar or tabacchi and validated on board the bus. Single €1.20 ; Single onboard €1.70 ; Day pass €3.40 . ( updated Feb 2017 )

See [ edit ]

Valle dei templi [ edit ].

The Valley of Temples is a string of five Greek temples stretching along a ridge to the south of the city. It is a sight worthy of comparison to the Acropolis in Athens . The temples are usually divided into two zones: the Eastern Zone and Western Zone each side of the main entrance and the road from the city centre. It can get punishingly hot in summer and there is little shade other than some olive trees along the ridge. There is a shuttle bus that runs through the site (€3 for one stop, Nov 2019). Parking costs €1 for 30 min to a maximum of €5 (Nov 2019).

An audio tour is available at the entrance to the temples. (Some ID is required as security for these, which means walking back the entire length of the site just to give the guide back).

To put all these sights in context, it is well worth visiting the Archeological Museum (half way back into the city centre) and the adjacent Roman Quarter (with a few nice mosaics).

• 37.297493 13.591762 9 Quartiere Ellenistico - Romano ( Hellenistic-Roman Quarter ) ( across the road from the museum ). The remains of the ancient city of "Akragas". ( updated Feb 2017 )

Historical centre [ edit ]

The old centre of Agrigento is also worth a visit.

Do [ edit ]

• 37.311864 13.579702 1 Via Atenea . Stroll along small shops and throngs with locals during the evening passeggiata . ( updated Feb 2017 )

Events [ edit ]

• Festa del Mandorlo in Fiore (almond Blossom Festival) towards the end of February is to be commended.

Eat [ edit ]

Sample the Greek-influenced cuisine, especially eggplant (aubergine) and olive oil-based dishes.

• Passo dei Briganti ( Farmhouse ), Highway N° 1 Villaseta-Agrigento , ☏ +39 393 12 41 080 , +39 328 62 57 587 , [email protected] .  
• La Terrazza degli Dei , Via Passeggiata Archeologica, 33 ( inside the 5-star Hotel Villa Athena ), ☏ +39 0922 596288 , [email protected] . Open every day for lunch and dinner 12:30-18:30, 20:00-22:30 . Gourmet cuisine with local products and fresh fish. ( updated Jan 2019 )

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ], budget [ edit ].

• B&B Le Cinque Novelle ( B&B Le Cinque Novelle ), Via Amendola 24 ( city center ), ☏ +39 0922 20232 , +39 320 3146111 , fax : +39 0922 080325 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 10:30 . Free parking, 2 km from the Valley of the Temples min €50 , max €80 for room .  
• B&B Night and Day , Via Romano 9 ( Close to the main street via Atenea ), [email protected] . Quiet and good value accommodation with clean rooms, central located and priced reasonably. Impressive view from the common terrace. Rooms from €50 .  
• Belvedere ( Via San Vito 20 ), ☏ +39 0922 20051 . Up some steps around the corner from the station. Large & plain, but cheap and friendly.  
• Oceano&Mare ( Bed and Breakfast Oceano&Mare ), Via Caterina D'Altavilla 35 ( In San Leone, 200 m from the sea ), ☏ +39 0922 413041 , fax : +39 0922 413041 , [email protected] . €30 per person .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Hotel Baglio della Luna , C.da Maddalusa S.S. 640, Km 4, 150, ph ( near the Valley of the Temples ), ☏ +39 0922 511061 , fax : +39 0922 598802 . Rural hotel.  
• Camere a Sud . in the old town centre off Via Athena. Very small, tidy, stylish and modern B&B with nice breakfast served on the roof terrace.  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Hotel Costa Azzurra ( Saint Leone ).  
• Hotel Dioscuri bay Palace , Set in a very nice bay, on the promenade of San Leone. The hotel has 102 rooms, all with balcony over the sea or the hinterland. Bedrooms are decorated uniformly in soft colors. All rooms offer modern amenities such as hairdryer, frigo-bar, telephone, TV color and balcony. Bathrooms are provided either with bathtub or shower.
• Hotel Villa Athena , Via Passeggiata Archeologica 33 ( inside the Valley of Temples ), ☏ +39 0922596288 , [email protected] . Beautiful rooms and suites overlooking the Concordia Temple, a brand new spa, a garden with private pool and the restaurant La Terrazza degli Dei, in a panoramic terrace in front of the Valley. ( updated Dec 2018 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Porto Empedocle – a port town very close by which forms a conurbation with Agrigento; also famous rocks of Scala dei Turchi and Villa Romana next to it
• Heraclea Minoa – on the coast 25 km to the north-west
• Caltanissetta – inland to the north-east
• Gela – on the coast 64 km to the south-east

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Visiting Agrigento And The Valley Of Temples, Sicily

by Sarah Wilson | Jan 19, 2022 | Europe , Italy | 7 comments

Last Updated on: 2nd April 2024, 10:03 am

Most visitors to Agrigento in southern Sicily come to visit the impressive Valley of the Temples on a day trip and then move on. But honestly, it’s really worth staying in Agrigento old town for at least one night. I stayed two because that’s just how I roll.

Actually, by the time I had taken the ferry from my home in Malta and then battled with busses across Sicily, I wasn’t ready to do much else on that first day. Just a gentle stroll through Agrigento’s old town, enjoy a fabulous meal at a local restaurant and eat gelato. Tough life, eh? 

After a good night’s sleep, I woke up early the next day, excited I had the whole day ahead to explore. I spent the morning exploring the narrow alleys and churches of the old town. Then in the afternoon, I set off to explore the temples. I returned around 7:30 pm to the historic centre. I stuffed my face with a massive pizza, guzzled a couple of glasses of vino, and then bed. 

But let me start by telling you about the temples first, as not everyone has as much time as me, and also, the temples are probably why you will find yourself in Agrigento in the first place. 

Valley of Temples – A UNESCO World Heritage Site 

Why are there greek temples in sicily .

Many coastal areas in southern Italy were once colonies of ancient Greece. These cities were known as Magna Graecia    (Great Greece). 

Ortigia , one of our favourite towns in Sicily, was also an important Greek site. 

A Little History 

Founded as a Greek colony in 580 B.C., Agrigento soon became one of the leading cities in the Mediterranean world. Its wealth came from the nearby sulphur mines, saltpans, wheat plantations and olive groves. 

At that time, the Greek city was known as Akragas. The famous Greek Doric temples that still remain today were all built around this time. 

At its peak, it is believed that Akragas may have had as many as 300,000 inhabitants. 

Unfortunately, as is the way of the world, many cities and cultures were envious of the success of this Greek colony. In 406 BC, the Carthaginians attacked the Akragas. The siege lasted seven to eight months. The Carthaginians won. The Greek city of Akragas was left in ruins. 

Centuries later, the Romans rebuilt the city and named it Agrigentum. Again the town prospered until the fall of the Roman Empire. In 1997, the site was recognised by UNESCO with  World Heritage status . 

Interested in reading a far more detailed history of Agrigento? Then take a look here .

What Is There To See In The Valley Of Temples?

You will see eight temples and various remains during your visit, all built between 510 and 430 BC. The better-preserved temples are located near the Temple of Giunone entrance. 

Temple of Concordia 

The Temple of Concordia ,   the best-preserved temple in the valley, is still amazingly intact. It was converted in 597 AD into a Christian church dedicated to St Peter and St Paul. The area surrounding the temple was used by early Christians as a catacomb, with the tombs carved out of the rocky cliffs. 

In front of the temple is a statue of Icarus by Polish sculptor Igor Mitoraj. The figure represents the Fall of Icarus, who ignored his father’s warnings and flew too close to the sun, burned his wings and fell into the Mediterranean. Men just never listen, do they?

Temple of Hera Lacinia (Juno Lavinia) 

The Temple of Hera Lacinia  was built around 450 BC during the Archaic Doric period. The temple was damaged by fire during the Siege of Akragas but later restored when the city was under Roman rule. 

Temple of Hercules

The Temple of Hercules is the oldest of all the temples in the archaeological park, and only eight of its columns remain. 

The Sanctuary of Olympian Jupiter 

Not much remains of the Sanctuary of Olympian Jupiter believed to be the largest Doric temple ever built. It was never actually completed, and construction was abandoned after the Carthaginian invasion. Until the early 15th century, the temple and the giant telamon (huge male figures 7.63 metres long) were still intact. But during the 19th century, the temple stones were used to build the dock at nearby Porto Emperdocle. 

Temple of the Dioscuri – Sons of Zeus – Cassar and Pollux

The temple of Castor and Pollux (Dioscuri), the twin brothers, born from the union of Jupiter and the Queen of Sparta, is the symbol of Agrigento.

The other temples within the park are more fragmentary. Many of them have collapsed from earthquakes or been quarried for their stones.

How Much Time Should I Allow To Visit The Valley of the Temples?

The archaeological site is quite large, so allow at least a half-day. On average, people spend two to three hours there – I spent four.

Don’t forget that if you get tired from walking or don’t have much time, you can always take the tourist train shuttle (3€ one way) that goes from one entrance to another.

How To Get To The Valley Of Temples, Sicily, From Agrigento  

Local buses (1, 1/, 2, 2/, 3, 3/) leave Piazzale Rosselli bus station and pass by the Valley of the Temples. 

The number 1 bus departs every 30 minutes from Agrigento. It stops at the archaeological museum (15 minutes) and the Porta V Western entrance (20 minutes).

Bus number 2/ runs less frequently than number 1 and stops at the eastern Tempio di Hera / Temple of Giunone / Juno entrance (15 minutes). 

I suggest taking Bus 2/ and getting off at the Temple of Giunone entrance. That way, you walk downhill through the archaeological park and then can take bus 1 from the lower exit bus stop to return to town. Tickets for the bus (Euro 1,20) can be bought at any of the kiosks in Piazzale Rosselli. You can also pay onboard, but tickets cost a little more then.

I took the number 2/ bus to the Temple of Giunone entrance as I liked the idea of walking downhill to the next exit. The best-preserved temples are found near this entrance. Some people prefer to enter through the other end and see the ruins improve as they climb. It’s a personal choice; I’m more of a walk downhill kind of girl, especially in the heat.

By the time I had finished exploring the park, I had just missed a bus, and at that time of the evening, there would be an hour’s wait for the next bus. As the town is just three kilometres away, I decided to walk back. It took me around 50 minutes to get back to Agrigento’s old town. 

Yes, it may only be three kilometres from Agrigento to the eastern entrance, but remember walking in the Sicilian summer heat with very little shade; it will feel a lot longer. So definitely avoid this option in the middle of the day. 

You will be exploring the archaeological site on foot, but remember, if you get tired or cannot walk far, a tourist train shuttle service runs from one entrance to another. 

Taxis are available and will cost around 12 euros for the short ride.

If you have a car , it’s just a short drive from Agrigento to the Valley of Temples. Paid parking is available.

Join a Local Tour or Visit the Valley of the Temples As A Day Trip From Palermo or Catania

If you don’t have time to overnight in Agrigento, it’s also possible to visit the Valley of the Temples as an organised day trip from Palermo   or Catania .

Top Tips For Visiting Agrigento And The Valley Of The Temples, Sicily 

Wear comfy shoes.

Bring water with you or at least a bottle. There are water fountains where you can refill.

Bring snacks – there are places to eat in the park. Paninis are only €5, so not too overpriced, but they are not made with love, if you know what I mean.

Avoid the middle of the day – Sicilian heat is brutal, and there’s very little shade. 

How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Valley Of The Temples Sicily  

For up-to-date information on opening hours and tickets for visiting the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, see here .

What To See In Agrigento 

Lose yourself in the streets and alleys of the old town.

The old town, with its cobblestone streets, is a lovely place to wander. But be warned, there are many stairs and steep roads to climb. You could pretty much cover the old town in around an hour; it’s not that large. But allow at least half a day to visit the churches and admire the old buildings. 

As you explore the streets and alleys of Agrigento’s old town, also known as Girgenti, you will discover clues to the town’s multi-cultural past – from the Arab maze of streets and courtyards, the Norman churches and palaces and gorgeous Baroque architecture.

Start your journey on Atenea Street, the historical centre’s Main Street and shopping street, and simply follow the signposts to the various points of interest around town. 

It’s worth noting that many sites and businesses close between 12-4. They take their afternoon naps very seriously in this part of Sicily, and who can blame them?

Cathedral of San Gerlando 

If you only pop into one church, I suggest visiting the Cathedral of San Gerlando, located at the highest point in Agrigento. There’s a small fee to enter, but your ticket includes the two towers – one for a view of the city and one for a closer look at the incredible wooden ceiling, plus the Cathedral Museum and garden. The cathedral is often overlooked by visitors keen to visit the Valley of the Temples, but it’s well worth a visit. 

Monastery of the Holy Spirit

I visited here for the famous almond cakes made by the nuns, and it was closed. Devastated, I consoled myself with gelato instead. 

And keep an eye out for the weird and wonderful street art. 

Where To Eat In Agrigento 

These two restaurants in the old town were recommended to me by my guesthouse.

La Scala   – recommended for its speciality pasta dish served with red prawns. Delicious, although the staff seemed convinced I was dining with the invisible man as they kept pouring two glasses of wine. Weirdly enough, the invisible man drank all of his wine! 

Opera  -excellent prices. Had a veggie pizza. Very good, but not as good as the one I had in the Dolomites .

If you’re interested in knowing more about Sicilian food, you must read this . 

Where To Stay In Agrigento 

I can’t really give you a list of places to stay because I only stayed in one, but I would happily recommend that.

I stayed at the I Tetti di Girgent i. Spotlessly clean, great location, very reasonable, and served an excellent breakfast on the terrace. Some may feel uncomfortable that the staff don’t speak any English, but Google Translate works for those moments. When looking for accommodation, I usually use  Booking.com .

I really enjoyed my mini-break in Agrigento. However, I’m not ashamed to admit I had a ‘major sad moment’ as I know my partner Jonathan would have absolutely loved it here and taken far superior photographs.  But it was time to move on. Next stop – Trapani on Sicily’s west coast.

If you want to know more about places to visit in Sicily, you might be interested in these posts from previous visits to this great island. 

• Sicily Itinerary
• Three Days in Ragusa, Sicily: A Guide
• Ortigia Island and Siracusa, Sicily Guide
• Why We Fell For Catania, Sicily
• Visiting Taormina Sicily
• Kapuhala Farm Stay (Agriturismo) in Sicily
• Best Things To Do In Cefalu
• Linguaglossa, the Circumetnea train and Mount Etna 
• Kapuhala Farmstay 
• Sicilian Food and Wine
• Most Beautiful Cities and Towns in Sicily

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Solo traveller, exploring the world one adventure at a time. Enthusiastic about trying new cuisines and uncovering hidden gems. Animal lover, often found house-sitting and making furry friends. Based in Malta, but always daydreaming about moving to Italy. Join me as I wander and discover the beauty of our world.

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Agrigento looks like such an incredible place to visit! The old town looks so charming, and the cathedral looks stunning! And I can see why so many people are drawn to the Valley of Temples – what a fascinating place rich with history! I’d love to visit one day! Thanks for the great guide!

I’ve never been to Agrigento or southern Sicily but I would like to visit one day and see these temples for myself. I’ll have to try the famous almond cakes while I am visiting!

Wow- never imagined this to be a part of Sicily– so many amazing places to visit- we can only hope to get to a fraction of them! Thanks for sharing

Probably everyone who comes to the Valley of the Temples in Sicily hesitates whether its Greece or Italy. The history of the Mediterranean countries is so connected anyway! And I completely agree with you that it is worth spending more than one day in Agrigento in order not to rush.

So much beauty and history in one place. I enjoy visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites as I learn so much but there so much beauty in the world that can be added to that list!

Any info on the Bikini Girls? I’m staying in Ortigia Syracuse and can’t seem to pick up a tour from there. The local tourist office has said they all leave from Catania. I can’t image that there is no tour from Syracuse. Any tips much appreciated. I will be there in September 2023.

You mean the bikini girls at the villa Romana? Not been to there yet, it was closed when I was there. It looks like at the moment, tours are only on offer from Catania or Palermo. I’m surprised there’s nothing from Ortigia. So you would either have to get to Catania which is about an hour and 15 mins from Syracuse or rent a car. But to get to Villa Romana, you pass through Catania so it would be a long day but possible to join a tour from there. By September, there may be a tour 🙂

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The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Agrigento Sicily: Things To Do + Ultimate Travel Guide For 2024

Last Updated on December 8, 2023 by Soumya

Agrigento in Sicily is one of the best places to visit in Italy. There are many wonderful things to do in Agrigento like visiting the iconic Valley of Temples . But that’s not all. More attractions including some hidden gems await you in Agrigento.

When I last visited Sicily for 5 days , my main aim was to focus on the pretty Baroque towns of Ragusa and Modica and see the Greek ruins at Agrigento . However, when I arrived in Agrigento, I realized that there was so much more to the town than the famous Greek temples. I walked through its historic center and spotted beautiful palazzos, stepped into impressive churches, dined at amazing restaurants, and tasted some unique desserts. The beach with its gorgeous white Stair of the Turks was not very far away, either.

I agree that Sicily’s Agrigento is an absolute gem for all history lovers. But honestly, if you dive in a little, it is a destination for all kinds of travelers. Would you believe if I told you that you could go ATV off-roading near Agrigento ? Well, you’ll have to read through this ultimate Agrigento travel guide to find out.

So, let’s get started with my travel blog which answers all your burning questions on what to do in Agrigento apart from the temples, where to stay, what to eat, and so on.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Planning your Agrigento, Sicily trip last minute?

If you are booking your trip to Agrigento last minute, don’t worry. We have you covered. Here are some of the best tours and hotels in Agrigento.

Top Experiences and Tours in Agrigento

• Valley of Temples Entrance Ticket (Bestseller!)
• Guided Tour of Valley of Temples + Skip the Line Entrance (Highly recommended!)
• Stair of the Turks Cliffs Boat Tour & Swim Stops
• Agrigento Off-Road ATV Tour (Highly recommended!)

Top Hotels in Agrigento

• Hotel Villa Athena (Temple view rooms!)
• B&B Villa San Marco (Rustic stay amidst nature)
• Casa Tita (Quaint stay in the historic center)

Table of Contents

About Agrigento, Sicily

• Agrigento is the capital of the Agrigento province, located on the southern coast of Sicily. Long ago, the city was a prosperous Greek town called the Akragas after which it came under the Romans and the Turks among others. With centuries of history behind it, Agrigento is one of the best places to visit in Sicily .
• Agrigento is home to the famous UNESCO world heritage site – Valley of the Temples . The Valley consists of several 6th-century-BC, Greek temples that are terrific examples of ancient Greek architecture. You’ll also find a well-curated museum that has over 5500 historical artefacts depicting the history of the city.
• The old town of Agrigento is an unexplored gem . Wander through its historic lanes to find charming Baroque palazzos, medieval cathedrals, and hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
• A lesser-known fact about Agrigento is that it is the birthplace of the Original Pistachio Couscous that is still prepared by the nuns of the Holy Spirit Monastery. You can still taste this couscous at the abbey but the recipe is a closely-guarded secret.
• Near Agrigento, you’ll find the spectacular Stair of the Turks – a calcite white cliff that makes for an amazing day trip.

Best things to do in Agrigento, Sicily

Agrigento valley of the temples.

One of the best things to do in Agrigento (and the reason why most people visit here) is to see the Valley of the Temples . Well, that’s the reason why I also visited this Sicilian town. But I was pleasantly surprised by the number of other attractions that Agrigento had to offer. Though I would agree that the Valley of the Temples is, hands down, the highlight.

Valley of Temples is an ancient complex of Greek temples (ruins) that dates back to the 6th century BC. Agrigento was called Akragas then and it was a powerful center of trade and politics for the Greek Empire. Today, the highlights of the archaeological park include the temples of Concordia, Hercules, Juno, and Dioscuri. I have a detailed travel guide for Agrigento here that you should definitely check out before your visit.

The archaeological park is open from 8:30am – 10:00pm on weekdays and 8:30am – 11:00pm on weekends and public holidays. It is magical to watch the sunset at the historic site and then wait for the temples to be lit up.

Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month till 7:00pm. But remember that this is also the time when the site is the most crowded.

Archaeological Museum

When traveling to Agrigento, do not miss the regional archaeological museum that is a treasure house of all kinds of artefacts unearthed from the historic site nearby.

There are more than 5500 artefacts in the museum, displayed in 18 rooms. You’ll see pottery, sculptures, votives, masks, coins, and inscriptions. I found their vase and waterspout collection to be amazing. These artefacts depict the history of Agrigento right from the prehistoric times to the Greco-Roman era.

The museum is open from 9:00am – 7:00pm every day. Check for updated hours on the official website here . You can buy a museum only ticket or a combined ticket (recommended) for museum and the Valley of Temples.

Paleo-Christian necropolises

In the middle of the archaeological site, you’ll find an interesting collection of tombs that belonged to the early Christian period, between the 3rd – 6th centuries CE. These are located between the temples of Heracles and Juno & are called the Paleo-Christian necropolises of Agrigento .

There are three types of necropolises here. First, tombs that are cut into early Greek fortifications. Second, a large communal catacomb. Third, 130+ burial pits in an open cemetery. The tombs are organized around a central axis that is called the “avenue of the dead”. Now, that reminds me of the “avenue of the dead” at the ancient city of Teotihuacan in Mexico. Have you heard of that?

Visiting the necropolises is fascinating because it gives us a fair idea about the burial practices and funerary cults of early Christians in Southern Italy .

Garden of Kolymbetra

Located within the Valley of Temples, the Garden of Kolymbetra is often a missed attraction in Agrigento.

Locals call this beautiful Sicilian garden Giardino della Kolymbethra and often refer to it as the “Pool of Gods”. Since most landscape around the temples is dry and arid, it is nice to find a green patch inside. It is one of Sicily’s famous citrus gardens and is full of citrus groves and almond & olive orchards. You’ll also find some ancient cave churches in the garden.

Kolymbetra Garden holds great historical and cultural significance for the people of Agrigento. It is not only a historical remnant from the olden times but also provides gainful employment to its people even today. Further, it is very different from the classical Italian gardens that you would see elsewhere. No manicured lawns, trimmed hedges, and marble statues – only pure nature.

Within the gardens, there’s a hypogeum – a 5th-century BC underground chamber filled with caverns and tunnels. Find more about the hypogeum on the website of Agrigento Sotterranea here . You can book hypogeum tours on the Sotteranea website or check out this Tiqets guided tour . I always prefer booking my tours through Get Your Guide and Tiqets because of their flexible cancellation policies and competitive rates.

Here’s a highly-recommended, small group tour that includes access to Kolymbetra Gardens and the hypogeum within the gardens. Remember that you’ll need to buy an entry ticket for the Valley of Temples in order to access the Kolymbetra Gardens.

Stroll through Via Atenea

When back in the main town of Agrigento, I had a blast strolling through the atmospheric lanes of the old town, especially along Via Atenea. Via Atenea is the main street of Agrigento town and is the most happening place in the city. Come here for a free stroll through the city, shopping, exciting nightlife, and mansion spotting.

Via Atenea is lined with boutique shops and alfresco restaurants as well as beautiful palazzos that date back to the 18th and the 19th centuries. Notable families of Agrigento built their homes here. These mansions feature decorative friezes and ornate balconies. Some of the most remarkable palazzos are the Borsellino, Carbonaro, Noto-Biondi, and Granet. Access directions in the interactive map below .

Agrigento Cathedral

The Roman Catholic cathedral in Agrigento, Sicily dates back to the 11th century. Built in the Norman-Gothic style, the cathedral is dedicated to Saint Gerland and is now the seat of the Archbishop of Agrigento.

The interior of the cathedral is remarkable and deserves a detailed tour. Its richly adorned wooden ceiling and brilliantly painted dome take you straight back to the medieval times. The Treasury is fascinating with lots impressive of art works including the ancient Agrigento Sarcophagus from the 3rd century CE.

The Agrigento Cathedral or the Cathedral of San Gerlando is open to visitors from 10:00am – 1:00pm, Tuesday – Sunday. It is closed during Mass, weddings, and funerals. Check for updated times on the cathedral’s official website here .

Visit the Monastery of the Holy Spirit

Visiting the Church and the Monastery of the Holy Spirit is one of the most interesting things to do in Agrigento . The monastery dates back to the 13th century but the church is more recent (early 18th century) when it was built in a unique Gothic style called the Chiaramonte. The stucco work inside the church is brilliant.

An interesting fact about the monastery is that the Cistercian nuns who reside here specialize in making delicious desserts with pistachios and almonds. Some famous examples are the Original Pistachio Couscous , stuffed pastry shells, and Easter lamb sweets.

The best part is that the recipes of these age old desserts are well-guarded secrets. Legend has it that some African women who came from Tunisia in the 13th century taught the nuns how to prepare sweet couscous. The recipe has since passed on orally. Even if you cannot learn how to make it, you can always buy some pistachio couscous and other sweetmeats here.

The monastery also offers rooms where you can stay for a night or two. The Monastic Guest House is located in the historic center and offers single and double rooms at affordable rates. They have private bathrooms, AC/heating, lift, and kitchenettes. Breakfast is local and delicious, prepared by the nuns of the monastery, and includes almond and pistachio pastries. If you are looking for a unique experience in Agrigento , stay at the Monastic Guest House . Check out reviews on Tripadvisor here .

Stay in a hotel with a temple view

How about staying in a hotel with views of the temples of Agrigento ? Wouldn’t that be wonderful? Well, Hotel Villa Athena is just the perfect place for you.

Located in the heart of the archaeological park, Hotel Villa Athena is a highly-rated 5-star hotel that features rooms with temple views. It is located within walking distance of the Temple of Concordia, the views of which from your room and terrace will make your Agrigento trip absolutely memorable. Further, the rooms are tastefully furnished and spotlessly clean. And Hotel Villa Athena has some of the friendliest staff in the world.

Enjoy alfresco dining

Agrigento is full of wonderful restaurants and some great alfresco dining options in spring and summer. The entire stretch of Via Atenea as well as of other streets is dotted with restaurants that have outdoor seating.

La Scala Ristorante on Via Atenea is a popular place that serves some great seafood and pasta. Naif is known for its octopus salad and eggplant pasta. Sal8 Ristorante Bar on Via Cesare Battisti is famous for its pistachio crusted swordfish and great selection of wines.

Visit the famous Stair of the Turks

Do you know that Sicily has a white cliff by the sea that is just 20 mins away from the Agrigento city center? The cliffs are called Scala dei Turchi or the Stair of the Turks.

Made of calcium walls that glisten in the Sicilian sun, the Stair of the Turks are a spectacular sight. They look like a giant white staircase that leads to the sea. The stairs are so beautiful that they remind me of Pamukkale travertines in Turkey and the White Cliffs of Dover in England (only a short getaway from London ).

Join this highly-rated boat tour and enjoy the beauty of Agrigento’s coast on the trip. You’ll see the Stair of the Turks, take a refreshing dip in the sea, and unearth some beautiful but lesser-known Sicilian beaches. → Click here to book your Stair of the Turk boat tour now.

Even though I could not visit the Stair of the Turks on my last Agrigento trip, I plan to include them on my next Sicily itinerary . Be sure to think of the white stairs when planning your visit to Agrigento because they are different and less crowded.

Go off-roading in Agrigento

I had no idea that one could go off-roading in Agrigento. Well, technically not in the Agrigento town but in the Agrigento province between the communes of Ribera and Sciacca.

Yes, you can go off-roading in Agrigento on this adventurous ATV tour where you’ll experience the beauty of both the sea and the mountains. This ATV tour takes you through the Sicilian coast, woodlands, and riversides. You’ll see stunning canyons, spot wild horses, and admire breathtaking views. No doubt, the tour has all 5-star ratings. Check out all reviews here .

Interactive map for Agrigento attractions

Where to stay in Agrigento?

If you are looking for the best hotel in Agrigento and budget is not a constraint, then check out Hotel Villa Athena – a 5-star hotel that offers amazing views of the Greek temples from its terrace and rooms. Located within the Valley of the Temples, the hotel is housed in an 18th-century villa and features an outdoor pool and a wellness center. Guests love Villa Athena for its mind-blowing location. Couples absolutely love it.   → Check out reviews of Hotel Villa Athena here .

Looking for a comfortable stay at half the price? Have a look at this quaint guesthouse located in the heart of Agrigento city. The rooms at Casa Tita are neat and comfortable and the breakfast is a treat. The best part is that Casa Tita is at walking distance from all Agrigento attractions and you can always take the bus to the Valley of Temples.

B&B Villa San Marco is a rustic stay that is close to the temples. It offers stunning temple views plus an immersion into the region’s biodiversity in the B&B’s own garden.

If you are looking for a quirky, unusual stay in Agrigento, try the Monastic Guest House in the historic center. Like we talked earlier, you’ll be treated to breakfast prepared by nuns which will include pistachio and almond sweets, the recipes of which are still a closely guarded secret.

Practical information for visiting Agrigento

Best time to visit agrigento, sicily.

Spring is my favorite time to visit anywhere in Sicily and that holds true for Agrigento as well. Sicily in spring is pretty warm and not cold unlike the northern parts of Italy. So, spring makes for the best time to be exploring open archaeological sites like the one at Agrigento.

Summer, on the other hand, can be hot and tiring. July – August are the warmest and the driest months but they are also the most crowded ones. If you wish to avoid the crowd while exploring the ruins in comfortable temperatures, opt for March – May. Even June should be okay.

How to get to Agrigento, Sicily?

Getting to Agrigento in Sicily does not have to be very difficult. You can fly to the airports at Catania or Palermo and then drive down to Agrigento after renting a car . Catania Airport is closer of the two. You can also hire a private car to pick you up from Palermo or Catania and drop you in Agrigento.

If you want to use public transport, then you can take the train or ride a bus to get to Agrigento from any of the bigger cities in Sicily . Check for train and bus tickets on OMIO website here .

My husband and I traveled to Agrigento from Ragusa . We took the bus from Ragusa to Gela ( AST bus ) and then another bus from Gela to Agrigento ( Licata bus ). Both bus journeys lasted between 90 – 120 minutes. There are Trenitalia trains between Ragusa and Gela too. Check for train options on OMIO here . In case you are traveling to Agrigento from Val di Noto, then this is what you should be doing.

OMIO is my favorite journey planner in Europe because it has all the information I need to book trains, buses, and ferries within Europe. Plus, all the information is available in English which makes planning a breeze.

How to get around Agrigento, Sicily?

My favorite way of getting around the old town of Agrigento was by walking. There are a lot of stairs to climb up and down, so walking is the best and sometimes the only way to sightsee. However, this turns out to be a bit of a problem if your hotel is up the stairs and you have a lot of luggage.

In order to get to the Valley of Temples from Agrigento city center, you can take a city bus (Bus 1, 2, or 3) from Piazzale Rosselli . All of them pass by the Temple Valley. However, the best option is to take Bus 2/ and get off at the entrance of Temple of Juno (Giunone), explore the archaeological park while walking downhill, and take Bus 1 from the lower exit. Check out bus routes and schedules here .

You can buy bus tickets from the kiosks at Piazzale Rosselli or on the bus. Be sure to get them validated once you board the bus. Getting a full-day ticket turns out to be the cheaper if you are planning for at least 3 bus trips during the day.

Agrigento Travel FAQ

Yes, Agrigento in Sicily is absolutely worth visiting. It is home to the UNESCO-listed Valley of Temples – an ancient city full of Hellenistic shrines dating back to the 6th century BC. Additionally, Agrigento also has an atmospheric old town, unique culinary delights, and easy access to the sea and the Stair of the Turks.

Agrigento Sicily is known for its impressive Doric temples from the 6th century BC that are part of the UNESCO site called the Valley of the Temples. It is special because the original monuments from Hellenistic times are well-preserved without being damaged/modified by subsequent civilizations, which isn’t usually the case elsewhere.

You need at least one day in Agrigento to see the Valley of Temples, check out the Archaeological Museum, and spend some time at the beach. If you wish to do more such as explore the old town and do some adventure activities, plan to spend a couple of days in Agrigento.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Agrigento

Imagine being transported into the past where towering Doric pillars support the structures of temples from ancient Greece on top of a cliff, to a backdrop of the azure Mediterranean Sea and endless blue skies. This place does truly exist and you can find this and more in a town on Sicily’s coastline called Agrigento.

The archaeological site of the “Valley of the Temples” is one of the most well-preserved Greek archaeological sites in Italy. Agrigento is also a city which has a rich history, it dates back to 581 BC, when it was originally established as the city of “Akragas” by early colonists from Gela.

Since then it has endured numerous conquests and sackings and its diverse Carthaginian, Arabic, Greek and Roman roots are reflected in all aspects of the city and surroundings.

Though the silent and majestic ruins on the top of the cliff appear peaceful, it was first ravaged several times by the Carthaginians a until it was captured and conquered by Romans in 210 BC.

Agrigento is a paradise for history buffs who can explore seven Doric temples including the Temple of Zeus and Hera as well as the stunning Sanctuaries of Demeter and Persephone.

There is plenty to do in Agrigento and a full day is recommended to explore the city and surrounding areas properly. Aside from the Greek ruins, the city of Agrigento boasts buildings from different periods of its rich history, a cathedral, gothic monastery and church from more recent history.

You will be doing plenty of walking around ancient ruins and historic streets in Agrigento, but you can also find a lot of adventure sports and activities that include surfing, canoeing, windsurfing, snorkelling and sailing around the coast.

There are some delightful towns in the region that can be reached by car. The nearby town of Sciacca is the perfect place to take in the atmosphere of a typical Italian coastal fishing village or even have a spa treatment and relax in the natural thermal baths.

Another place that you can visit from Agrigento is Palermo whose narrow winding alleyways echoes of another time, from a distant Arabian past.

History that you can breathe, a rich culinary cuisine based on the harvests from the sea and stunning agricultural landscapes. What more can you ask for? Find out more in our ultimate guide to Agrigento.

This ultimate travel guide to Agrigento will show you all the most beautiful places in Agrigento, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Agrigento and things to do in Agrigento which will help you in planning a trip to Agrigento.

Plan your trip?

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Table of Contents

How to get to Agrigento

By air: Palermo is the airport which is closest to Agrigento. You can fly into the Palermo Falcone and Borsellino Airport or alternatively to Trapani Vincenzo Florio Airport. Catania is another access point for Agrigento and there are internal flights to Catania Fontanarossa Airport from various cities in Italy.

From Palermo Airport you can catch a bus connecting the main towns and cities of the region and Agrigento city is one of the stops.

The buses are run by the company  called Autolinee Sal Licata Spa, ticket costs around €13.40 one-way per person, while return tickets cost €22. The bus is only operational on weekdays and doesn’t run on weekends.

Alternatively, Cuffaro Tours srl has a bus that directly links Palermo with Agrigento, the ticket costs either €9 for a one-way ticket or €14.20 for a return ticket to Palermo. Advance booking is not required and tickets can be purchased on the bus.

By bus: If you are on a budget there are even buses run by Sais Trasporti SPA that on routes from Naples, Rome and Salerno to Agrigento city.

By train: From Palermo and Catania you can take a train to Agrigento city, from there you can take a bus to explore the archaeological site of the “Valley of the Temples” as well as nearby beaches and towns.

By ferry:  Cagliari, Genova, Naples and Livorno all offer daily ferry services to Sicily, after which you can travel to Agrigento by bus, train or car.

What to expect in Agrigento

Agrigento is a small city that is not the most picturesque in Italy but is a gateway to visit one of the most well-preserved historic sites in the country.

The main attraction of this area is the Valley of the Temples, so a day and a night is usually sufficient for a visit to Agrigento. A tour of the archaeological site and museum will take around 4 hours in total.

Agrigento is an ideal base from which you can continue exploring Palermo, or even visit in an organised day trip, surrounding attractions and beaches like the Scala dei Turchi or Sant’Angelo Muxaro, then allocate two nights.

From Agrigento you can also set off to explore various nearby points of interest by car such as Erice, Segesta, Egadi, Marsala or visit more ruins at Seliununte, Mazzara del Vallo and Sciacca.

The language spoken in Agrigento is Italian and the currency is the Euro. The city is generally quite safe despite appearing a bit run-down due to this area of Italy being one of the poorest. It is advisable to keep an eye on your personal belongings as pickpockets are quite active in cities and marketplaces.

How to get around Agrigento

Sicily is not one of the easiest regions in Italy to get around and it is advisable to rent a car to allow you to explore the area at your own pace.

Agrigento is located 140 km from Palermo and just 200 km to Syracuse and Catania. There is plenty of parking around Agrigento and most of the historic centre and the sites are easily accessed on foot. Bring some excellent walking shoes as you will be walking a lot!

Perfect for active travellers who want to stay in shape after eating all the delicious food on offer.

The best time to visit Agrigento

The Valley of the Temples is quite an exposed site, buffeted by winds and under the unrelenting sun, the best time to visit is during March or April or in October or November when the sun is not so strong.

Even in Autumn the heat can be quite intense and it is advisable to wear sunscreen and bring water with you when visiting the site, there are some cafes nearby but they charge tourist prices.

Things to do in Agrigento

Visit the valley of the temples.

Agrigento’s star attraction is the UNESCO heritage site of the Valley of the Temples, this series of Greek Doric temples sit astride the clifftop and is a paradise for history buffs.

Most visitors spend around 3 to 4 hours in the Valley, to avoid the crowds during the visit the Temples it is advisable to go either early in the morning or at sunset, this will allow you to escape the hottest hours of the day.

The Eastern and Western valleys are connected by a pedestrian bridge that starts from behind the Temple of Hercules. The site is easily traversed on foot but for those who have mobility issues or are too tired to walk, there is a shuttle service between the Temple of Juno and Hercules that costs only €3 per person one-way.

Tickets for the Valley of the Temples can be purchased at Porta Quinta, at the ticket office located in Contrada Sant’Anna or you can purchase tickets at the ticket office at Temple of Giunone situated near the Temple of Juno.

A parking lot is available on site for €5. The price for a combined ticket to the archaeological park and museum is €13,50 per person. From mid-July to mid-September there are night-time tours of the beautifully illuminated temples which is a magical time to see the Temples.

Discover the artifacts at the Agrigento Archaeological Museum

The combined ticket to the Valley of the Temples is worth buying as it includes entrance into the museum which is situated in the centre of the archaeological site, on top of a hill.

The museum boasts an extensive collection of artefacts discovered onsite and you will some impressive and well-preserved stone and marble statues, the most famous statues being the Agrigento Ephebe or the Telamon.

Explore the cliffs of Scala Dei Turchi

The Stair of the Turks is a dramatic limestone cliff-face situated on the Realmonte Coast. A natural stairway has been carved into the cliff by the forces of nature, blasted by centuries of the wind and sea.

It is a popular destination for travellers visiting Agrigento and the best time to visit is at sunset where you can catch dramatic sea views from the clifftops, it will also allow you to avoid the crowds. Parking is available onsite for around €7 for two hours.

At the Scala di Turchi, the bravest travellers can descend the steps to get even more stunning sea views and amazing photographs, afterwards you can descend a staircase to visit the beach at the base of the cliff and perhaps even have a swim!

Visit the beach of Capo Rosso, Realmonte

After the Stair of the Turks you can visit Capo Rosso, a sandy beach and small port with gorgeous natural rock formations, this nearby beach is much quieter than the beach at Scala di Turchi and you can enjoy a quiet swim in the warm turquoise waters without hordes of tourists.

Escape the crowds at the Nature Reserve of Torre Salsa

Situated just 15 minutes’ drive from Realmonte is the gorgeous stretch of beach at Torre Salsa. It might seem a bit of a trek to get there but if you want a beautiful isolated beach this is it! Head to Siculiana Marina by car, the entrance point to the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve.

The route is sign-posted and the rough dirt path is not the smoothest of drives, especially if there have been recent rains and the path turns to mud, in this case it is not advisable to continue.

It takes approximately 20 minutes by car to reach a plot of land where you can leave your car and from there walk the three minutes it takes to reach Torre Salsa Beach.

It is advisable not to leave any valuables in your car and to bring food and drink with you as there are no cafes or restaurants in the nature reserve.

Wander around Agrigento’s historic centre

The historic centre of the city is full of delightful cobbled streets and stone churches, as well as plenty of steps!

There is a route to follow around the historic centre with signboards indicating where you can find the numerous palaces, churches and points of interest.

One of the places you must visit is the Monastero de Santo Spirito which is renowned for its delicious almond cakes, freshly baked by the silent nuns of the renowned San Gerlando Cathedral, these make the perfect snack to keep you going on your wanders around the city.

You can also visit the Episcopal Palace and several beautiful rustic churches during this one-hour route around the centre.

Watch the world go by in Piazza Cavour

The main piazza of the city is always the hub of all the action, here people meet, sip coffee, watch the world go by and this grand palace is the perfect place to stop and enjoy the ambience and activity of Agrigento.

The Liberty-style buildings that flank the Piazza convey a feeling of being in the heart of Italy, far away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds.

What to eat in Agrigento (traditional dishes)

Hand molded rice balls filled with gooey mozzarella or meat ragú or prosciutto are deep fried in hot oil, this indulgent treat is named after it’s orange colour and its round form.

This dish was said to have been created by Eastern Sicilians who lived in the 10 th century under Arab rule. Arancine is the perfect snack and street food.

Pasta with fennel and sardines

This typical Sicilian dish is called Pasta con le Sarde e Finocchietto Selvatico and hails from neighbouring Palermo.

This is another dish that was born from the Arabian influence of this southern Sicilian city, the sardines are freshly caught on the coast and tossed with pasta with hints of the liquorice flavour of wild fennel.

Another dish that comes from the nearby city of Palermo, this thick focaccia is a type of Sicilian folded pizza, stuffed with spinach and ricotta or meat and baked with a crumbly breadcrumb topping. This delicious calorie bomb is definitely one to try.

Cous Cous with fish

Another dish that harks back to the Arab influence in Sicilian cooking is the traditional dish of cous cous served with snapper, mullet, shrimps or bream and sometimes shellfish as well as a selection of local vegetables and topped with crunchy ground almonds.

The cous cous is a fusion of the best of modern Italian flavours and its Arabian roots.

Timballo di Maccheroni del Gattopardo

This dish was made legend for its inclusion in a famous novel. This French influenced dish is sometimes called the pie of Monsù and its name resonates with its aristocratic past, when French cuisine was hailed as the epitome of gourmet and French chefs were brought in to cook for the ruling classes.

The macaroni is cooked in ragu, tomato sauce and includes mushrooms, chicken, peas and herbs such as sage, rosemary and cinnamon. The abundance of different meats in the dish was an indulgence that exhibited the wealth of the diners who would enjoy this dish in Sicily.

Gelato and Granita

No trip to Italy is complete without trying the gelato. The delicious whipped peaks of gelato in Sicily are flavoured with local ingredients such as the bright, acidic lemons that come from the region.

Another favourite is fresh granite, or crushed ice which is served in most bars in Agrigento, the local specialty is Gelsi, which is made from mulberries.

Agrigento Wines

The ancient Greeks and Romans were great lovers of wine and the climate on the coast of Sicily has long been used for growing grapes for a variety of wines.

Some native grapes such as the Grillo variety are hardy and can withstand the sweltering heat and its bold and full-bodied flavours are used in the manufacturing of Marsala wine.

The Grillo wine, known as Contea di Sclafani, obtained a DOC status and is produced around Agrigento, making it the perfect wine to accompany your meals whilst enjoying your stay in Southern Italy.

Where to stay in Agrigento

There are many different options of places to stay in Agrigento, from modest to palatial, depending on your budget. Agrigento is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for a rural rustic hotel or even agrotourism and Airbnbs.

Due Ganèe – This rustic farmhouse is the perfect getaway, it is nestled amongst a grove of olive trees and vineyards and close enough to the Valley of the Temples and Agrigento City.

This ecological farm creates its own olive oil and grows their own vegetables which are served up in delicious meals that taste of authentic Italy.

The hotel is just a short distance from San Leone and you can easily reach Eraclea Minoa, Siculiana Marina, Torre Salsa and Punto Blanca by car.

Agriturismo Passo dei Briganti – This hotel is part of a farm and you can stay in an authentic 19 th century farmhouse just minutes’ drive from the sea, is surrounded by olive groves, fruit trees and vegetable gardens.

The rooms are fully-furnished with air conditioning, LCD TVs and showers and there is an onsite restaurant which serves traditional dishes of Sicily. This rustic place is perfect for unwinding and the owners are sure to give you a warm family welcome.

Agriturismo Baglio Lauria  – If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a Franciscan hermitage upon a plateau in the midst of vineyards and olive groves, this is THE place! This hermitage was once called “The Crucifix” and was once inhabited by Franciscan monks.

The onsite restaurant makes spectacular traditional Sicilian dishes from the produce harvested on the 50-acre farm.

The site also features a swimming pool and lounge area where you can disconnect and take in the views. The rustic hermitage is only a few minutes from the sea.

Hotel Exclusive – This hotel is in the bustling centre of Agrigento yet still has wonderful sea views and the distant shadows of the Valley of the Temples in the distance.

This modern hotel is right opposite Agrigento train station and rooms have air-conditioning, satellite TV and breakfast. The hotel also offers free parking which is ideal if you are renting a car during your stay.

B&B Sorahnia – This stylish B&B is tucked away in a quieter part of Agrigento but offers great value for money. The location is excellent, just a short drive from the Valley of the Temples and Scala del Turchi.

Each room is equipped with air-conditioning, flat screen television, minibar, luggage storage space and a buffet breakfast which you can start your day with on their gorgeous veranda.

Tours to do in Agrigento

Agrigento is the home to amazing food and wine, being surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. There are a few amazing culinary tours to do in Agrigento.

Cooking Class at the Modern Art Museum

Enjoy cooking with some of the best local ingredients in the setting of the Contemporary Art Centre near Agrigento.

The three-hour cooking course will be paired with local wines and you will learn how to make three traditional Sicilian dishes under the guidance of a local chef.

Cooking class and olive farm tour

If you want to enjoy a cooking class and explore the processes involved in making Sicilian olive oil, this experience will allow you a combination of cultural activities.

This four-hour course includes a tour of an olive oi estate followed by a cooking class hosted by the owner. An olive oil tasting is also included.

In this course, you can learn to make pasta with sardines, Italian meatloaf and some desserts using deliciously sweet ricotta and almonds.

Explore the countryside on an ATV

Are you an adventure junkie? Go off-road on a four-hour adventure to explore Agrigento’s natural landscapes and Sciacca. The trip departs from Ribera, taking you cross-country through forests, coastal routes and along a river.

Day trips from Agrigento

This city in Sicily is famed for its thermal baths and beautiful ceramics. Sciacca is a city that is rich in history and you can discover Mount Cronio, a grotto where local people have been coming for centuries to enjoy the healing properties of the mountain and also to visit the nearby 5 th century Hermitage Saint Calogero.

Sciaccia takes around four hours to explore and there are a few beautiful castles such as Castle di la Luna, Castle Nuovo and the Baroque Duomo which can be accessed on foot.

Sciacca is also home to some beautiful churches such as the San Domenico Church and Santa Margherita Church. Here in the city you will also find the San Salvatore Gate and various palaces. It is recommended to spend at least half a day here to really take in the wealth of history and beauty of the architecture.

There is plenty to do in Palermo and a full day or overnight stay is recommended. One of the most interesting ways to delve into the local culture is to explore the markets to soak in the bustling atmosphere, the best markets to visit are Mercato Della Vucciria, Mercato Capo and Mercato Ballarò.

You can spend the day wandering through the narrow alleyways that are reminiscent of the region’s Arabian influence. Though the city appears a bit neglected and poor and has a reputation for being home of the Sicilian mafia, the city is relatively safe but you need to be aware of pickpockets.

For cinema buffs, the famous Teatro Massimo served as the backdrop for the finale of the Godfather III and is one of the most photographed sites in the city.

Amongst the attractions of Palermo which can be explored on foot during a day trip are the various churches and cathedrals of the city, the Cappella Palatina or Palentine Chapel.

The magnificent Palazzo dei Normanni, and even descend into some gloomy catacombs at the Catacombe Dei Cappuccini, where over 8,000 people including Cappuchin friars from the 17 th century buried here.

No trip to Palermo would be complete without visiting the different squares, the stunning fountain in the centre of Piazza Pretoria, before heading down to the piazza Marina and taking in the sights of the oldest port in the city, Cala di Palermo.

Recommend budget tours in Agrigento

• 2-hour Private Valley of the Temples Tour in Agrigento
• Private Tour – Piazza Armerina and Agrigento – with Local Guide
• Cooking Class at a Modern Art Museum in Agrigento
• Valley of the Temples Archaeological Area Entrance Ticket
• Soap and Olive Oil Experience
• Tour of the House Museum of Soap in Sciacca
• Agrigento Countryside Off-Road Quad Bike Trip from Ribera
• Private tour: Valley of the Temples and Archaeological Museum of Sicily

Get your guide is a Great company, that often offers heavily discounted tours! Check out a few options below:

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Guide to Valley of the Temples

Sicily's Valley of the Temples: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

• What to See & Do

How to Get There

Where to stay.

• Tips for Visiting & General Information
• Frequently Asked Questions

Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, Sicily, routinely tops every list of must-see places in Sicily. One of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, the Valley of the Temples is remarkable for its long history, its importance in the ancient world, and its testament to the influence and breadth of ancient Greece. The Valley of the Temples has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and first-time visitors to Sicily should absolutely try to make a stop here. Here's everything you need to know about visiting this incredible archaeological site, now operating as the Parco Valle dei Templi Agrigento.

History of the Valley of the Temples & Agrigento

Agrigento (Akragas in Greek) was founded by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C.. What started as a minor outpost soon grew to be one of the most important cities in the Mediterranean. For centuries, Agrigento and other Greek cities in Sicily were in the crossfire of the frequent regional wars between Syracuse, Corinth, and Carthage. During the Punic Wars of the 3rd and 2nd centuries B.C., Agrigento was a prize sought by both the Carthaginians and the Romans. By the 1st century A.D. and the rise of the Roman Empire, it once again became a prosperous trade center. Byzantine, Arab, and Norman conquests followed over the centuries as the city of Agrigento was frequently sacked.

The modern city of Agrigento contains a mixture of medieval, Byzantine, and more recent architecture, with most of the remains of the old city buried underneath. But the real attraction at Agrigento lies just outside the old city. The Valley of the Temples is a vast field of ruined temples that speak to the importance of ancient Akragas during the height of its Greek phase. The remains of those seven temples, as well as other sections of the 3,212-acre site, are among the most iconic sites in all of Italy.

What to See & Do at the Valley of the Temples

There are seven temple ruins in the valley (which is not really a valley, but a plateau), in various states of preservation. All were built in the Doric style, between 510 - 430 B.C. The best-preserved and most often photographed are:

• Temple of Concordia: With its six mighty columns and raised pediment, the Temple of Concordia is the best-preserved in the park. During the early Middle Ages, it was converted to a church, which is part of the reason it remained in a relatively high state of preservation. A contemporary statue of Icarus, by Polish artist Igor Mitoraj, lays in front of the temple.
• Temple of Juno: Near the eastern entrance of the park, the Temple of Juno, once very similar in design to the Temple of Concordia, was destroyed by the Carthaginians. Marks from its burning are still visible in the temple interior.
• Temple of Hercules: Only eight columns remain standing from this once-mighty temple, the oldest at the site.

The other temples are:

• Temple of Olympian Zeus: Part of a vast Olympian field, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once held up by columns in the shape of atlases, or giants in human form. Several of them lay on the ground, partially reassembled near the temple.
• Temple of Castor and Pollux: A partially reconstructed corner with only four columns is all that remains of this temple, also called the Temple of the Dioscuri.
• Temple of Hephaestus:  The footprint of this 5th-century temple, built on the foundations of an even older one, suggests it was once one of the most important in the valley.
• Temple of Asclepius: Set apart from the rest of the sacred complex, this temple to the Greek god of medicine was likely a pilgrimage site for the sick.

Other sites at the Valley of the Temples archaeological park include:

• Pietro Griffo Archaeological Museum. Accessible via a combined ticket, the museum houses many finds from more than a century of excavations at the Valley of the Temples, including statuary, antique vases, and sarcophagi.
• Tomb of Theron: This misnamed tower tomb sits near the necropolis area.
• Necropoli Giambertoni and Paleo-Christian Necropolis. Both these burial grounds are composed of chest tombs and carved niches that once held funerary urns.
• Kolymbethra Garden. Accessible via a combined ticket this verdant spot features thousand-year-old olive trees, rock formations and rock-cut chambers, and a small stream.
• Remains of the ancient city walls. These once formidable walls were destroyed by the Carthaginians and other subsequent invaders, plus a series of earthquakes that further devastated the entire valley.
• By car: The Valley of the Temples is near the southwestern coast of Sicily, about 81 miles (130 kilometers) by car from Palermo, 108 miles (174 kilometers) from Trapani, and 99 miles (160 kilometers) from Catania. It's reachable by car via several regional highways that connect to Agrigento.
• By train: Trains from Palermo Centrale station run several times a day, with a two-hour journey time. From Catania Centrale, it's a minimum five-hour journey with at least two train changes. From the station in central Agrigento, it's a 1.9-mile (3-kilometer) walk to the park entrance, or take the #2 bus to Fermata Tempio di Giunone.

The three-star Villa San Marco and five-star Villa Athena are both located within the archaeological park, and both have pools. Villa Athena has a restaurant and spa, while San Marco offers B&B service. Dozens of hotels of all classes are located in Agrigento town. There are beachfront hotels south and west of the Valley of the Temples, on the SS115 coastal road.

Tips for Visiting & General Information

• Weather: From mid-June to early September, Sicily is extremely hot—daytime temps can top 100 degrees F (37 degrees C). Try to avoid the Valley in the hottest part of the day, and bring a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle. There are water fountains throughout the park.
• Walking: To explore all the sights in the park, you will need to walk 2.5 to 3.1 miles (4 to 5 kilometers). For 3 euros, an electric shuttle bus will take you from one entrance of the park to the other. The park offers free electric wheelchairs, by reservation, to those with reduced mobility.
• Entrances: There are currently two open entrances to the archaeological park. If you just want to see the main temples, head to the Temple of Hera Lacinia (Juno) entrance.
• Facilities: There is a cafe in the park, as well as bookstores at both main gates.
• Tickets: There are three different ticket types for the Valley. You can purchase a ticket just for the Valley of the Temples, a combination that includes the Valley and Kolymbethra Garden, or a combination that includes the Valley and access to the archaeological museum.

Plan to spend 3 to 4 hours in the park, more if you visit the gardens or the musuem.

The Valley of the Temples is located adjacent to the city of Agrigento a few miles inland from Sicily's southwest coast.

The two closest airports are Falcone Borsellino airport in Palermo and Fontanarosso airport in Catania. The drive time from each is about two hours.

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Agrigento: Sicily Tourist Guide

The Valley of the Temples makes Agrigento into one of Sicily’s biggest and most unmissable tourist destinations

Agrigento is on just about every tourist’s Sicily itinerary for one overwhelming reason: the Valley of the Temples

Agrigento is situated on Sicily’s southern coast, and the town’s Valley of the Temples ( Valle dei Templi ) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest legacies of ancient Greece. This parade of well-preserved Doric temples, just outside town, dates back to the fifth and sixth centuries BC and is what remains of the Greek city of Akragas.

• Sicily destinations and practicalities: full menu (at foot of this page)

The temples are spread along a rocky ridge a short way to the south of the medieval town centre, in a designated archaeological park. You can walk there, or catch a bus from the railway station. Food options are limited so you might wish to take a picnic lunch.

The town’s Museo Archeologico , between the town and the archaeological site, has a wide range of exhibits from the area, including statues and grave goods. As elsewhere in Italy, there are reductions for EU under-25s and students, and free entry for under-18s and over-65s (bring your passport/proof of status).

A more recent tourist sight is the childhood home of writer Luigi Pirandello ( Six Characters in Search of an Author ), which has been turned into a museum. His Casa Natale (birthplace) can be visited in the dramatically-named suburb of Caos.

Agrigento offers a full day’s worth of sightseeing, and is a long way from the other major tourist destinations of Sicily. Consequently most visitors stay overnight in the town or nearby – this is especially advisable for those relying on the infrequent public transport.

> Agrigento one-day itinerary: the Valley of the Temples

Travel to Agrigento

Bus services operate to Agrigento from Catania, Siracusa, Palermo and Caltanissetta. Trains to/from Palermo run approximately every hour and the journey takes just over two hours. Check the timetables first as there are some slow trains on the route. Trains from Catania are rarer, take over three hours, and may involve a change. Agrigento’s main railway station, Stazione Centrale, is located in the centre of town on Piazza Marconi.

A company called Lumia run buses from Trapani to Agrigento via Sciacca, a four-hour journey. The bus stops at Trapani Airport.

Agrigento accommodation

There’s a good range of places to stay in Agrigento, from modern hotels catering for the tour groups who visit, to quirky little B&Bs in the lanes of the old town centre. I had a wonderful stay, years back, at the Terrazze di Montelusa , a lovely B&B with a charming and helpful owner. Among the hotels, the Hotel Villa Athena stands out as a popular hoice: a five-star historic villa with temple views.

> More accommodation in Agrigento, with guest reviews and easy online booking

Agrigento one-day itinerary

Ancient Sicily – history-themed touring ideas (blog article)

Other UNESCO sites in Italy

If you like Agrigento, you may like

Paestum , Campania

Segesta , Sicily

Useful external links

Agrigento hotels & B&Bs

Italy car hire

Agrigento Museum

Parco Valle dei Templi – official website

Valley of the Temples – tour guides & information

Sicily destinations and more

• Sicily introduction
• Food & drink
• Hotels & B&Bs
• Travel and transport
• Aeolian Islands
• Castellammare del Golfo
• Egadi Islands
• Giardini Naxos
• Piazza Armerina
• San Vito Lo Capo

Sicily hotels  – Online hotel reviews and booking (Italy Heaven affiliate link – thank you for your support)

Valley of the Temples (Agrigento): The definitive guide

How to visit the valley of the temples (agrigento – sicily).

You’re planning to visit the Valley of the Temples during your next trip to Sicily ?

Excellent idea!

This UNESCO World heritage site is especially famous for its well preserved Doric temples dedicated to Greek divinities. Over the centuries, the Valley of the Temples has been a source of inspiration for many poets, philosophers and painters.

Along with Selinunte Temples and Segesta temple , it’s clearly one of the must-see archaeological parks in Sicily .

In order to help you plan your visit , I have prepared for you this definitive guide of the Valley of The Temples , with all my best tips.

Where to stay, how to get there, where to park your car, the best things to do around… It’s simple, you will know everything to enjoy your stay.

And to make you save some time, you will even be able to book your tickets in advance in this article.

Let’s plan your trip to Agrigento Valley of The Temples!

How to visit the Valley of the Temples?

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As the Valley of the Temples is a quite large site, there are 2 entrances:

• The porta Quinta (West of the Valley – Closest to Realmonte town)
• The entrance next to Juno Temple (East of the Valley)

Technically, it doesn’t matter from where you start your visit, however, when I visited, I started from the Porta Quinta entrance and I would suggest you to do the same.

If you start from there, you will see the best preserved temples last. It’s in my opinion the best way to enjoy your visit!

The valley of the Temples is open all year round, from 8:30 to 19:00 . The last entry is 1 hour before closing time.

The entrance ticket costs 12€ per person. Entrance is free of charge for European citizens under 18 years old and at a discounted rate of -50% for Europeans between 18 and 25 years old.

If you also want to visit Agrigento archaeological museum (also located in the Valley of the Temples), you can buy a combined ticket for 15.50€. It’s cheaper than buying tickets separately.

As ta lot of people wants to visit the site, you should really buy a skip the ticket to visit the Valley of the Temples . This will save you from waiting in the heat! This ticket also includes admission to the Regional Archaeological Museum of Agrigento , and it costs only 15€.

To buy it, simply click on the button below:

And if you want to learn more about the site’s history , you can get a skip the line ticket with an audio guide. It needs to be booked here.

You can also do a guided visit with a certified guide and rent electric scooters for your visit. I will explain you everything in details a bit further down in this article.

Unlike in other sites in Sicily, the map of the Valley of the Temples is not provided free of charge. You will have to pay 1€ to get it (I give you the digital version at the end of the article😊). It’s available for purchase in the souvenir shop, located behind the ticket office.

Now you’re ready to start your visit of Agrigento Valley of The Temples!

Let’s start with a bit of history.

The origin of the valley dates back to the 6th century BC , when the Greek settlers, who had first settled in Gela (South of Agrigento), decided to go back a bit more inland in order to counter Selinunte’s attempts to expand . The land in the valley was very fertile, and favourable for cereal cultivation, so the place was perfect.

The Greek city of Akragas (Agrigento’s ancient name) then experienced a period of economic prosperity. The famous temples were erected during this period and as you know, they still contribute to the place’s fame centuries later!

Unfortunately, many cities were envious of this success. In 406 BC, the city was attacked by the Carthaginians . The 8-month siege ended up with the Carthaginians victory and all residents were killed or displaced.

After a quieter period, Akragas was forced to join the Carthaginians in the war against the Romans. The city was defeated in 210 BC and The Valley of the Temples was then gradually abandoned.

Today, the valley is a magnificent archaeological park of nearly 1,300 hectares.

During your visit, you will be able to admire 8 temples, all built between 510 and 430 BC.

• Hera Temple (or Juno Temple) , dedicated to Zeus’ wife. Burned down by the Carthaginians in 406, it had to be reconstituted.
• Temple of Concordia , the best preserved temple in the valley. This excellent preservation state is due to the fact that it was consecrated as a Christian basilica in the 6th century AD. It has therefore been relatively protected.
• Temple of Heracles , the oldest temple on the site of which only 8 columns remain.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus: it was destroyed by the Carthaginians before being completed
• Temple of the Dioscuri (Castor and Pollux)
• Temple of Hephaestus
• Temple of Demeter
• Temple of Asclepius (God of Medicine) used to welcome the sick.

In addition to the temples, there are also Greek and Roman necropolises, residential areas, the tomb of Theron , and many other remains.

You can visit the archaeological site on foot , but if you are tired or can’t walk too much, there is also a tourist train shuttle service . It goes from 1 entrance to the other and cost 3€ one way.

There is no shade in the archaeological park, so don’t forget to bring a hat and sunscreen. There is however a restaurant if you want to buy drinks or have lunch in the Valley of the Temples.

Agrigento Regional archaeological museum is located on a hill, in the middle of the Valley of The Temples archaeological park. You can access it viat the cloister of the ancient Cistercian abbey of San Nicola.

The entrance ticket costs 8€, however, as I told you a bit earlier, you can purchase a combined ticket to visit the Valley + the museum. Instead of paying 12€ + 8€ (20€), it will only cost you 15.50€ per person

And don’t forget that if you have already bought your skip the line ticket in advance using the link I gave you earlier,  the museum entrance is included!

Here are Agrigento Regional archaeological museum opening hours:

• Tuesday to Saturday from 9h to 19h
• Monday and Sunday, morning only – 9h to 13h

In the museum, you can admire remains found on Agrigento Valley of the Temples site . The visit will allow you to know more about the city’s history.

Inside the museum, don’t miss:

• The marble statue of the Agrigento ephebe 
• The Telamon , the first known representation of a human being in a temple
• The collection of antique vases
• Greek and Roman sarcophagi.

In the Valley, there isn’t many explanatory panels, so if you want to learn more about this exceptionnal archaeological site, the best is to opt for a guided visit.

There are several types of guided visits available:

• A private guided visit (needs to be booked in advance)
• A group guided visit starting from your hotel (needs to be booked in advance too)
• A group guided visit starting from the Temple of Juno ticket office.

There is also another option, which is in my opinion, the best: A guided visit of the Valley of the Temples at sunrise!

It’s for sure the best guided visit , you will discover the magnificent temples in the morning light with your guide, before the official opening! You will also attend a private itinerant show : Gods and Heroes at the Valley of the Temples.

To book your guided visit of the Valley of the Temples at sunrise, you just have to click the button below:

What about a fun way to visit this archaeological site?

I have got what you need!

You can now do a guided tour of the Valley of the Temples by electric scooter , and it’s really awesome! It’s super easy to drive, your guide will take you everywhere while answering any questions you might have about the archaeological site.

You will for sure have a lot of fun!

This guided visit needs to be booked in advance , as there are not many electric scooters available. To book it, simply click the button below:

Since a few years, you can also visit the Valley of the Temples by night.

You can only do it in Summer, from July to September . The site is open from 8pm to 11pm during the week and 8pm to midnight on weekends. The price stays the same: 12€ per person.

During this visit, you will admire the temples at sunset and then illuminated at night. The mood is really unique!

If you want, it’s also possible to visit the Valley of the Temples as an organised day trip from Palermo or Catania

They will come pick you up at your hotel and take you to Agrigento and the Valley of The Temples.

You need to book these day trips in advance by clicking on the buttons below.

Here is the excursion from Palermo:

And from Catania:

You will find parkings at the 2 entrances of the Valley of the Temples.

They are quite big, but start to be full in the middle of the day during high season, so it’s another good reason to arrive early in the morning!

They are paid parking, and the maximum rate for a car is 5€ per day.

The archaeological site is quite big , so if you want to visit everything including the museum, 2h30 is a minimum.

If you are bored of walking or if you don’t have much time, don’t hesitate to take the tourist train shuttle (3€ one way) that goes from 1 entrance to the other.

As I told you a bit before, the best is to visit the Valley of the Temples early in the morning , it will be less hot and the tourist buses will not be here yet. The end of the afternoon is also a good option.

During the day, it’s really hot in summer, and as there is no shade, the visit can be quite tiring.

The 2 Best things to do around the Valley of the Temples

Agrigento old town is located at only 10 minutes by car from the Valley of the Temples.

It will take you about 1h

You can follow a route of about 1 hour (for the quick version) to see all the main historical monuments of the city.

Start on Atenea Street , the main street that crosses the historic center. Signs will then guide you through the monuments to be seen.

Don’t miss the monastery of the Holy Spirit , the Cathedral of San Gerlando and the Episcopal Palace.

If you want more details about the best things to do in Agrigento, you should read my article: Visit Agrigento – the definitive guide.

The Scala dei Turchi (“stairs of the Turks”) is located in Realmonte, close to the Valley of the Temples. It’s for sure one of the best place to visit during your trip to Sicily!

The place is famous for its white limestone cliff plunging steeply into the turquoise and translucent water below.

If you want to take nice pictures, you should really go there at sunset , it’s beautiful!

• B&B Sorahnia – Design House: Located a bit away from the heart of Agrigento and 4 km from the Valley of the Temples. Modern double room with terrace from 50€ per night, breakfast included. The strong points: the environment is quiet and close to the center, the very warm welcome and in addition, the exceptional home-made breakfast + a free private parking. It’s the best value for money in Agrigento!
• Colleverde Park Hotel: Located 2 kilometres from the heart of Agrigento and 15 minutes’ walk from the valley of the temples. A classical but bright Double room from 68€ per night, breakfast included. The strong points: the large garden with a view of the temples, Sicilian breakfast.
• Villa Athena Hotel : Luxury hotel located in the heart of the Valley of the temples, 200 meters from the temple of Concorde. A huge double room with a well decorated interior, and a magnificent view of the temples. Starting from 205€ per night, with breakfast at 18€. The strong points: the restaurant with its panoramic terrace overlooking the valley, the exceptional location with private entrance for the valley, luxury and refinement, swimming pool. It’s the best choice for an exceptional stay in Agrigento!
• From Palermo (North West of Sicily): around 2h20 by car
• From Catania: 2h10 by car
• From Modica (South of Sicily) : about 2h30 driving  to reach the Valley
• From Enna (center of Sicily): 1h40 by car to reach Agrigento

Here is a map of the Valley of the temples with all the temples and remains to see + the entrances. It’s being sold for 1€ at the tourist shop of the Valley. There is no free map.

And you, are you going to visit the Valley of the Temples during your trip to Sicily?

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• Buy the Lonely Planet Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
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Discover all my articles about Sicily : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sicily are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to Do in Sicily – The ultimate bucket list!
• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East + West)
• Itinerary: 1 week in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East coast)
• Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (West coast)
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (Full Sicily tour)
• Agrigento: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
• Catania: The 12 must-see attractions
• Palermo: The 15 things to do in the capital
• Syracuse: The 15 best things to discover
• Taormina: Top 10 things to do and must-see!
• Trapani: The 10 best things to do
• Zingaro nature Reserve: All my best tips to enjoy this wonderful hike

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Discussion 6 comments.

Hi, I will visit Agrigento this April. You mentioned in your Valley of the Temples article that there is “A group guided visit starting from the Temple of Juno ticket office”. How long is this tour and how much does it cost?

It seems that this tour is only available the first weekend of every month (Saturday and Sunday) at 10.30 am from April to December. It’s in Italian and it costs 5.00€. It’s better to book it in advance by calling at +39 0922 1839996 (official number of the Valley of the Temples).

I think they have stopped doing it during Covid and maybe they will have more availability and an English version a bit later in the year.

If you are not able to do the guided tour, the best is to rent the audioguide at the ticket offices of the Valley of the Temples. It costs 5€.

Enjoy your visit and your trip in Sicily!

Hi – great article thank you. Do you know if you can take bicycles into the Valley of the Temples if we hired bikes and cycled there? We are 2 adults and 2 children. We would love to do the e-scooter tour but expect children are not allowed? Also 4 x £62 is quite expensive. You have given us the idea to perhaps hire bicycles and cycle around the site. Thank you.

Hello Beccy,

Thank you! For the e-scooter tour, the minimum age requirement is not specified. However, on the activity booking page, in the comments section, we can see that some people have done the e-scooter tour with 6 year olds kids.

It is not possible to rent bicycles to visit the valley of the temples.

Enjoy your visit!

Do you know if I buy a combined ticket for the park and the archaeology museum can I visit the park one day and the museum the next? Or do I have to fit both in the same day?

Hello Laura,

On the Valley of the Temples website, it says: “COMBINED REGIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM ‘PIETRO GRIFFO’ AND VALLEY OF TEMPLES (VALID 3 DAYS FROM FIRST USE | ALLOWS ONE ENTRANCE TO THE VALLEY AND ONE TO THE MUSEUM) So you can visit the museum one day and the valley of the temples the next day.

Enjoy your stay in Sicily!

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Old City Center

Girgenti the old city centre of agrigento is a fascinating stroll through 2500 years of history, girgenti discovering the old city center.

Girgenti, the old centre of Agrigento, is a fascinating maze of narrow streets and monuments: a colourful tapestry woven over the centuries. Shortly after the coronation of Charlemagne, in about 827 AD, Agrigento was conquered by the Saracens. By then the population of Agrigento had already abandoned the Valley and had established the centre of the town on the hill in order to defend it from the barbarian incursions. The Saracens further developed the town, giving it a typical Islamic layout: an intriguing labyrinth of courtyards and alleys still characterizes the old centre today. Two centuries of Arabian domination have also had a lasting influence on local dialect, names of people and places and even on local cooking. For example, both the recipe and the name of the renowned Sicilian “cassata” derives from the Arabian “quas’at” which means ’round bowl’ and refers to the shape of the mould in which it is prepared.

Two centuries later, in the period of the first crusade, the Norman Count Roger de Hauteville conquered Sicily and put it back into Christian hands; Agrigento was freed in 1087. The Norman domination was characterized by an unprecedented degree of tolerance and civilization and various races and religions co-existed. This led to an original stylistic fusion in architecture and other cultural sectors. Many of the most important monuments and churches date back to the 12 th century or shortly thereafter, although subsequent renovations and modifications have left visible traces. The most remarkable example is the Cathedral , built by the first Norman Bishop of Agrigento and current patron saint of the city, Gerlando of Besancon.

Not far down via Duomo there are several other wonderful monuments: the Lucchesiana Library , the Bishop’s Palace – which houses the diocesan museum MUDIA – and the Church of Santa Maria dei Greci , built on the foundations of a Greek temple. The main shopping area is located in via Atenea with its boutiques, trendy bars and cozy restaurants; strolling along via Atenea you will encounter mysterious alleys and flights of stairs which conduct deeper into the historical centre of town to hidden pearls such as the Monastery of Santo Spirito . This monastery and its adjacent Church of Santo Spirito boast splendid baroque stuccoes and magnificent arches in typical Chiaramontine style. In piazza San Francesco a stone staircase leads down to the small convent in Chiaramontine style of the Friars Franciscans Minor : another gem representative of the Medieval Era.

Via Atenea was once flanked by elegant and richly decorated villas and some baroque balconies and friezes can still be distinguished; Palazzo Celauro, where Goethe sojourned in 1789 during his stay in Sicily, is a fine example. In Piazza San Francesco, in the spaces below the church, you can visit Le Fabbriche – Orestiadi Foundation, an important contemporary art center and cultural laboratory. The ex Church of San Lorenzo , located in piazza Purgatorio, has a beautiful baroque facade and has been adapted as a venue for various cultural events. A compulsory stop for art lovers is the 17th century ex Collegio dei Filippini (nowadays the Museum of the Filippini) where paintings from the 14th to the 18th century are exhibited. Don’t miss the paintings of the most important 18th century Sicilian landscape artist, Francesco Lojacono.

In the buildings of the ex Convent of the Domincan order, next to the Church of San Domenico, the Town Hall and the municipal theatre are located. The magnificent 19th century theatre is named after Luigi Pirandello , the famous playwright from Agrigento who was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature: manuscripts, letters, photos and memorabilia of Pirandello are exhibited at his birth home, today Museum Luigi Pirandello and at the library-museum dedicated to him. Continue your walk through the old town and discover its history as it enfolds behind every corner and in each hidden courtyard.

Agrigento City Center interactive map

Cathedral of san gerlando.

The Cathedral of San Gerlando is an original composition of different styles, brought together over the centuries

Lucchesiana Library

The Lucchesiana Library is one of the most ancient and precious libraries in Sicily

MUDIA – Diocesan Museum of Agrigento

Art and religion: discovering the Cathedral’s Treasures

Church of the Santa Maria dei Greci

From Greek temple to Christian church: the Church of the St. Mary of the Greeks is a place of worship for over 2500 years

Monastery of Santo Spirito

The Monastery of Santo Spirito is one of the most beautiful medieval complexes in Sicily

Church of Santo Spirito

An  austere facade which hides a rich baroque interior

LE FABBRICHE FONDAZIONE ORESTIADI

An Ancient Venue where New Cultural Projects Come to Life

Church of Saint Lorenzo

A nice baroque church with a cultural centre inside

Museum of the Filippini

A wonderful art gallery in the building of an ex Seminary of the Philippine Fathers

Theatre of Pirandello

Theatre of Pirandello is one of the most beautiful 19 th century theatres in Sicily

The Church of the Addolorata

A baroque sanctuary with antique underground  crypts

Episcopal Seminary

The Collegium of Saints Agostino and Tommaso, or “Episcopal Seminary”, is a building of the 18th century wich has incorporated the medieval “Steri”: the fortified castle of the Chiaramonte family.

L. Pirandello Library Museum

The library is a multimedial documentary centre dedicated entirely to the life and works of the Nobel playwright. It’s an integral part of the Luigi Pirandello House Museum .

Exploring the Historic Center of Agrigento

An unforgettable walk through the wonders of history and beauty

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The treasure of the cathedral.

The Sarcophagus of Phaedra in the Cathedral: a must for travelers on the Grand Tour

ART AND MUSEUMS PATH

Discover the wonderful world of art and museums in Agrigento and surroundings

The Mysteries of the Cathedral

The Cathedral of San Gerlando dominate the old centre from nine centuries guarding an array of mysterious legends

The Cathedral of S. Gerlando in Agrigento

Walking through the Middle Ages of Agrigento

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Thank you everyone for all the great tips. We have been able to plan most of our trip by reading the fantastic posts!

9 replies to this topic

Yes, I’d recommend Roberto Alabiso.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g194662-d11698699-Reviews-Shuttle_Tour_N_C_C_Taxi_Roberto_Alabiso-Agrigento_Province_of_Agrigento_Sicily.html

Also Roberto Sapone:

https://robertosapone.wixsite.com/centralsicily

Are you aware that there is excellent bus transportation available? Unless you plan on making a few stops at major cultural sites, there is little reason to pay the exorbitant cost of a private transfer.

I will second Vagabonda's recommendation of Roberto Alabiso.

He drove us a few times when we were in that area and we liked him very much. He speaks perfect English and offers so much information on history and details of local life that you would not read in a guidebook....very high personal recommendation.

GAC - I think I probably prefer private driver because I am a senior and concerned about larger luggage on a bus butttt...can you send me info. on bus company. I can find other ways to spend money!

Thank you for this information! Exactly what I was looking for

Having noted the above, I do agree that hiring a private driver makes a great deal of sense if you plan on stopping in one or more sites en-route from Agrigento to Siracusa, such as at the Roman Villa of Casale near Piazza Armerina, or at Caltagirone. But if you are merely needing transportation from point A to point B and nothing more, then you are actually better off taking the bus, because you will see more of the pretty Sicilian countryside sitting on the bus than in a car . Indeed, the bus from Agrigento to Catania Airport is often a double-decker, where you get extremely fine views from the upper floor of the bus. Seatbacks on the bus recline.

Bus service is HOURLY, so you have plenty of choices! (There are slightly fewer buses on Sundays).

There is also an issue of cost: Agrigento to Siracusa by bus is about 20 Euros per passenger, versus several hundred Euros for a private transfer.

You purchase the Agrigento to Catania Airport bus ticket at the Agrigento bus depot, and the Catania Airport to Siracusa bus ticket at the ticket kiosk next to the bus stop, which is directly outside of the main passenger terminal, ground level. There are stone benches where you can sit while waiting for the connecting bus, plus food and beverage vendors (and rest rooms) inside the terminal itself. The connection could not be easier: you get off the bus arriving from Agrigento, buy the connecting bus ticket, sit on the stone bench, then board the connecting bus to Siracusa. Everything is within about 5 meters.

I have done this trip so can vouch for its simplicity.

These are the websites of the two bus companies:

http://www.saistrasporti.it (Agrigento to Catania Airport)

http://www.etnatrasporti.it (Catania Airport to Siracusa).

Take a look at the bus schedules to see just how many selections are available.

You probably will want to take a taxi from your lodging to the Agrigento bus depot, and another taxi when you arrive at the Siracusa main bus arrival area near the train station. As there usually are no taxis waiting at the Siracusa bus stop, walk 150 meters to the train station, where there often are taxis available. The train station is extremely close, but not visible from the bus stop because you must turn right at the end of the street (proceeding north).

A prearranged transfer is very convenient, also pricey, and more typically recommended in the absence of convenient and frequent public transport lines.

The bus websites provide information regarding luggage.

Siracusa has new local bus service run by SAIS.

An update: Siracusa's City Bus Lines:

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187886-i343-k14686092-An_update_Siracusa_s_City_Bus_Lines-Sicily.html

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