There are so many things to do in Agrigento, Sicily.
To experience Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples in southwest Sicily is to travel back in time to witness the parade of cultures that contributed to the area’s rich heritage.
Founded by Greeks in the 6th Century BCE, the city grew to be home to over 200,000 inhabitants at its apex.
Most of the magnificent ruins of temples you see today, the Temples of Concordia, Hercules, Zeus and Hera, date from that period.
A Brief History of Agrigento
With the decline of Greece, Agrigento passed on to the Carthaginians in 406 BCE after a long siege.
The Romans, knowing a good thing when they saw it, captured the city in 261BCE.
Possession of the city passed back and forth between the Romans and Carthaginians until 210 BCE when the Roman’s definitive victory settled the issue.
The Romans held the city, which was a major source of income for the Empire, for hundreds of years until the fall of the Roman Empire in 476CE.
The dark ages after the fall of the Roman Empire were not as kind to Agrigento.
The once glorious city successively passed through the hands of Vandals, Ostrogoths, Byzantium, Arabs and Normans.
Although the city enjoyed some bursts of cultural and commercial revival during this time, it never again reached its prior splendor.
The population began to shrink, Saracens raided the port settlements, commerce sputtered to a trickle.
In fact, history tells us that at one point during the Middle Ages the Temple of Concordia was used as a lime pit. A LIME PIT! Can you imagine?!
It was in the 1800s that archeologists and scholars began to excavate and rediscover the greatness that was Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples.
The sites continues to be an area of archeological study and is still not completely excavated.
In 1997 the Valley of the Temples was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It is thanks to the community of lovers and protectors of antiquity that we can experience Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples today.
How to Get to Agrigento
Agrigento, perched on Sicily’s southern coast, is one of the island’s must-visit destinations, but getting there requires a bit of planning. Fortunately, there are several practical options depending on your starting point and travel style.
By Air
The nearest airports are Palermo Falcone-Borsellino (PMO) and Catania Fontanarossa (CTA). Both are roughly 2–3 hours away by car or bus. From either airport, you can continue to Agrigento by:
- Rental car: Ideal for those planning to explore the Sicilian countryside or nearby towns like Sciacca or Selinunte. The drive is scenic along the coast, especially if you take the SS115 route.
- Private transfer or taxi: The easiest and most comfortable option, particularly if you’re carrying luggage or traveling in a group.
By Train
Agrigento is connected to the Sicilian rail network via Agrigento Centrale Station, which sits a few kilometers outside the historic center. Trains run from Palermo, Catania, and even Messina. From the station, you can take a taxi or local bus into town. While train travel is scenic and budget-friendly, keep in mind that services can be infrequent, especially on weekends.
By Bus
Sicilian buses offer good connections to Agrigento from Palermo, Catania, and other nearby towns. SAIS Autolinee and Interbus are the main operators. Buses usually drop passengers at Agrigento’s main bus terminal near the town center, making it convenient if you don’t have a car.
By Car
Driving to Agrigento gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. The main routes are:
- From Palermo: About 2 hours along the A19 and SS624/SS118.
- From Catania: Around 2.5–3 hours via the SS114 and SS640.
Tips for Driving:
- Parking in the historic center is limited; use public lots near Porta di Ponte or Porta San Pietro.
- The roads along the southern coast are scenic but winding — take your time, especially in the summer when traffic increases.
What To Do And See In The Valley of the Temples
Temple of Concordia: Explore the most famous temple on the site, known for its Doric architecture.
Once used as a church, this well-preserved structure, except for the missing roof, dates back to around 450-440 BCE.
Temple of Olympian Zeus: Journey into the late 6th century BCE as you visit one of Sicily’s renowned temples.
While construction was never completed, the site boasts impressive columns and walls.
Despite its partial collapse, the temple echoes the grandeur of a bygone era.
Temple of Hercules: Stand next to the city gate at the second-largest temple, dating back to 500 BCE.
Admire the front and back porch, and learn about its statue of Hercules and remarkable artwork.
Damaged by fire but later restored by the Romans, it showcases the resilience of ancient architecture.
Temple of Dioscuri: Step back to 450-400 BCE and witness the Doric temple’s restoration over the years, blending ancient charm with a touch of modernity.
Marvel at the ongoing story of preservation and adaptation that unfolds within its ancient walls.
Temple of Juno: Perched on a ridge, this temple provides a breathtaking view of the valley.
While parts have been restored, the original architecture remains, inviting you to connect with the past against the backdrop of natural beauty.
Archaeological Museum: Conclude your exploration by delving deeper into the history of Agrigento at the Archaeological Museum.
The exhibits complement your temple experience, offering a comprehensive understanding of the significance of these ancient ruins.
As you traverse the Valley of the Temples, you’ll unearth the layered history of Greek colonists, Roman influence, and the captivating allure of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ancient Walls Of Agrigento [Acragas]
In the early 5th century BCE, probably during the city’s renovation led by the tyrant, Theron, the fortifications were enhanced to strengthen the city’s defenses.
Significant enhancements were implemented at Porta 1. At the same time, measures were taken to channel water thereby safeguarding the city walls around the sacred Temple of Demeter.
Porta V also underwent security improvements. Its dimensions were reduced, and pillars were added for more stable defense.
The earth floor of the Santuario delle Divintia Ctonie (Sanctuary of the Chthonic Deities) was also replaced.
Hidden Gems & Lesser-Known Sights in Agrigento
While the Valley of the Temples is undoubtedly the star attraction, Agrigento has plenty of lesser-known treasures that offer history, culture, and scenic beauty without the crowds. These hidden gems are perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more authentic experience of the area.
Kolymbethra Garden (Giardino della Kolymbethra)
Nestled within the Valley of the Temples, Kolymbethra Garden is a serene oasis of citrus groves, olive trees, and flowering plants. Managed by the World Monuments Fund, it’s a quiet place to wander away from the main tourist paths.
Highlights:
- Ancient irrigation channels and stone pathways
- Fragrant citrus groves and colorful flowers
- Small museum detailing local agriculture and history
Tip: Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and the best light for photography.
Chiesa di San Nicola
This charming church is often overlooked by visitors focused on the temples. It showcases a mix of medieval and Baroque architecture and offers a peaceful retreat within the old town.
Highlights:
- Beautiful frescoes inside the church
- Historic bell tower with classic Sicilian stonework
- Quiet piazza outside for coffee or people-watching
Torre Carlo V (Charles V Tower)
Located in the historic center, this ancient watchtower was built during the Spanish rule of Sicily. It’s a great spot to appreciate Agrigento’s defensive history and panoramic views of the city.
Highlights:
- Stone ramparts and defensive architecture
- Overlooks rooftops and the coastline in the distance
- Small plaques detailing historical significance
Porta di Ponte & Medieval Streets
Wandering Agrigento’s narrow medieval streets is an experience in itself. Start at Porta di Ponte, an ancient gateway, and explore alleys lined with historic houses, artisan shops, and quaint cafes.
Highlights:
- Local artisan shops for ceramics and souvenirs
- Hidden viewpoints over the surrounding hills
- Quiet streets away from the tourist crowds
Regional Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Regionale “Pietro Griffo”)
Most visitors rush to the Valley of the Temples, but this museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Akragas. It’s a must for history buffs wanting context for what they see in the temples.
Highlights:
- Ancient pottery, sculptures, and coins
- Information on daily life in Greek-era Agrigento
- Temporary exhibitions with local archaeological finds
Cultural Influances
In the 6th century BCE, Akragas remained a modest city with both sacred and residential structures. The city’s urban footprint began to take shape.
The city’s development was significantly influenced by the Rhodians, contributing merchant activity and established a commercial center at the mouth of the Akragas River.
They also initiated the minting of the first coins in the area. Meanwhile, the Cretans brought refined craftsmanship,
In the Sanctuary of the Chthonic Deities (gods that deal with the underworld), a sacred enclosure reminiscent of the temple of Gortyna on the island of Crete is still visible.
Agrigento and th
Getting to and Around the Valley of the Temples
The temples are linked by a 2.5 km dirt path cutting through the archaeological site.
A stroll along this path provides an opportunity to delve into the intriguing history of the Valley of the Temples. Clear signs along the route offer insights into the temples’ past and unique features.
The site’s complexity caters to diverse levels of interest, allowing visitors to allocate time based on their individual fascinations.
In addition to the main attraction, the Valley of the Temples complex, check out the Archaeological Museum and the charming Kolymbethra cactus garden.
For those focusing solely on the complex, plan for 3 to 4 hours, with additional time for the extra attractions if desired.
Ticket prices are €10 for adults, accompanied by a parking fee. Children under 18 enjoy free admission, but teenagers require ID.
An extra €3 gets you entry to the Garden of Kolymbethra and, yes, it’s worth it.
Tickets are available for purchase at the main entrances, notably Porta Quinta Sant’Anna near the Temple of Juno. They can also be conveniently acquired online.
You can find out a lot about the site with private guided tours, sunset and night tours (available in summer only), and group tours.
Here in the Valley of the Temples you can immerse yourself in the captivating history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This is where the ancient ruins intertwine with the natural beauty of lush gardens and panoramic views.
There are a variety of ticket prices where you can save a bit of money by purchasing combination tickets; complex, museum garden.
How to Get Around Agrigento
Exploring Agrigento is easier than it seems, but knowing your options in advance can save time and help you enjoy the town and the Valley of the Temples at your own pace.
Walking
The historic center of Agrigento is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Most streets are narrow, cobblestoned, and best explored on foot. Walking allows you to discover hidden piazzas, artisan shops, and local cafes that you might miss otherwise.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to wander up to the ancient walls of Acragas or through the medieval streets.
Local Buses
Agrigento has a small network of local buses connecting the town center with key sites like the Valley of the Temples and nearby beaches. The main operator is SAIS Autolinee. Buses are affordable, though schedules can be sparse, so check timings ahead of your trip.
Taxi Services
Taxis are available but not always easy to hail on the street. It’s better to book in advance through your hotel or a local app. Taxis are ideal if you want to reach the Valley of the Temples, surrounding beaches, or small villages quickly without worrying about parking.
Car Rentals
Renting a car gives you freedom to explore outside Agrigento, including coastal towns, archaeological sites, and the Sicilian countryside. Be aware that parking in the town center can be limited, so plan to use public parking lots near Porta di Ponte or Porta San Pietro.
Biking & Scooters
For active travelers, bicycles or electric scooters can be a fun way to get around. Some hotels offer rentals, and it’s an eco-friendly way to explore the old town and surrounding areas at a relaxed pace.
Quick Tip:
For first-time visitors, a combination of walking within the town and using buses or taxis for the Valley of the Temples and nearby sites is usually the most convenient. If you plan on exploring beyond Agrigento, consider renting a car for a full-day adventure.
Where to Stay and Eat in Agrigento Near the Valley of the Temples
Right outside Agrigento, there is an excellent “agriturismo” guest house, Baglio Della Luna.
These guest houses are hotels that offer meals, as well as outdoor activities such as hiking and four-wheel drives. They tend to be located in especially beautiful environments.
These establishments are becoming increasingly popular throughout Europe. They are nice places to hang out for a couple of days to explore the scenic countryside.
I’ve been to a couple of these in Europe and have found them to be a nice alternative to the traditional hotel or guest house.
This guest house had a very nice restaurant but for some reason, they were promoting a dish called “transparent egg.”
As far as I could tell this was a regular, run-of-the-mill fried egg dressed up with colorful spices and displayed on a fancy dish to make it appear somehow extraordinary.
Nevertheless, the waitress, and no less than the restaurant manager, came to our table to recommend the egg and sing its praises.
We ordered it and, as suspected, it was a standard common egg. It was good but certainly not worthy of the drama and praise the restaurant showered on it. Very odd.
Nevertheless, the rest of the meal and the wine were exceptional. The restaurant sits on a little hill overlooking the Sicilian countryside. The sunset views are stunning.
Check out other accommodation options in Agrigento.
Day Trips from Agrigento
Villa Romana del Casale: 125 km from Agrigento via SS640
About an hour east of Agrigento is the province of Enna and the town of Piazza Armerina.
Here is where you will find the well excavated Roman villa, Villa Romana del Casale, another, equally impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sometimes this magnificent structure is missed by people anxious to get to Agrigento with its outsized reputation for Greek ruins. That would be a BIG mistake.
The “Villa” is actually more like a palace with the largest, most complex and best-preserved collection of Roman mosaics in the world.
Built in the 4th century CE it was severely damaged at various times in its history until it was finally abandoned in the 12th century after a landslide buried it.
Excavations took place throughout the 20th century and the mosaics survived relatively intact.
Seeing these beautiful mosaics is another one of those travel moments where you feel a connection to the past. It’s the reason you travel.
Ragusa: 135 km via SS115
Ragusa is a beautiful baroque town nestled on a mountaintop.
The town suffered a massive earthquake in 1693 and much of it had to be rebuilt.
As this was the height of the baroque period in Europe many of the city’s architectural masterpieces were built during this time.
The baroque style churches and palaces in Ragusa and nearby Noto are so impressive that they were designated UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2002.
Some of the more imposing structures include the Cathedrals of San Giovanni Battista and San Giorgio. Also noteworthy is the local museum, the Museo Archeologico Regionale Ibleo.
We got hopelessly lost in mountainous Ragusa.
After about an hour of mindless meandering around the city and its outskirts, we stopped an old man on the road to ask for directions.
His instructions were incomprehensible; “make a left at the old tree and a right at the place that burned down.”
Knowing I would never be able to distinguish the “old tree” from any other tree, I offered to take him wherever he was going if he accompanied us to our hotel. Happily, he agreed.
He directed us to the Hotel Dell’Orologio nestled in a little crevice on the side of a mountain reachable only on foot.
We would never have found it without him. His name was Vito. Later we saw Vito at a bar in the local plaza regaling several other men with the story of how he helped the lost foreigners.
These are the kind of little adventures that make a trip; getting lost, wandering, meeting people, hanging out with the locals in a trattoria in the shadow of a baroque church in Sicily.
Suggested Agrigento Itinerary
Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples are best explored with a plan, especially if you want to balance history, culture, and relaxation. Here’s a travel-blog-friendly itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
1-Day Itinerary
Morning
Start at the Valley of the Temples early to avoid crowds and the midday sun. Focus on highlights like the Temple of Concordia, Temple of Juno, and the Temple of Heracles. Walk through Kolymbethra Garden for a peaceful nature break and a closer look at ancient irrigation systems.
Afternoon
Head to Chiesa di San Nicola and wander Agrigento’s historic streets near Porta di Ponte. Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria serving Sicilian specialties such as pasta alla Norma or fresh seafood.
Evening
Watch the sunset from a viewpoint near the town center or along the cliffs overlooking the coast. Dinner at a rooftop restaurant or wine bar in the historic center.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Follow the 1-day itinerary above.
Day 2
Morning: Visit the Regional Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Regionale “Pietro Griffo”) to see artifacts from Akragas. Late morning: Take a short trip to Torre Carlo V for panoramic city views. Afternoon: Head to Giardini Naxos or another nearby beach for a relaxing swim. Evening: Explore local markets or enjoy an aperitivo in a quiet piazza.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1 & 2
As outlined above.
Day 3
Take a day trip to nearby towns like Selinunte, Scala dei Turchi, or Castelvetrano to explore more of Sicily’s coast and countryside. Return to Agrigento in the evening for a final stroll through the historic streets or a farewell dinner with local wine.
Quick Tip
If you’re short on time, prioritize the Valley of the Temples and Kolymbethra Garden. For those with three days, include beaches and nearby towns to balance cultural and scenic experiences. This itinerary works well for solo travelers, couples, or small groups and ensures a mix of history, nature, and authentic Sicilian charm.
Best Times to Visit
Spring Splendor: Experience the Valley of the Temples in its full bloom during spring (April to June) when the weather is mild, and the landscape is vibrant with blossoms.
Mild Autumn: Consider visiting during the fall (September to November) for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, providing an ideal setting for exploration.
Avoiding the Summer Heat: While summer (July to August) offers long daylight hours, be prepared for intense heat. If you visit during this time, plan activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Weather Considerations
Summer Sunshine: Expect hot and dry weather in the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Ensure you have sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan for breaks in shaded areas.
Mild Winters: Winter (December to February) brings milder temperatures, but occasional rain showers are possible. Bring a jacket and be prepared for cooler evenings.
Spring and Fall Comfort: Both spring and fall boast pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), offering comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration. Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
Check Weather Forecasts: Keep an eye on weather forecasts before your visit to Agrigento to plan accordingly and make the most of your time exploring the Valley of the Temples.
What are your thoughts on the Valley of the Temples?
Do you often imagine people in the future looking at archeological sites from our time?
Do you think they will be as impressed as we are by the ancient Greeks and Romans?
Want to know more about this fascinating culture before you go? Check out these reference books.
Read the other installments of the series: Adventures in Southern Italy.
- Southern Italy-Matera
- Southern Italy-Taormina
- Southern Italy-Ortygia
- Southern Italy-Monreale
- Southern Italy-Palermo
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