Agrigento Holidays

Agrigento is one of Sicily’s best known towns, offering visitors a taste of medieval Italy along with roots that delve deeper into the past. Once one of the world’s largest cities, this hilltop settlement is now a modern city with an atmospheric centre, filled with winding alleys and bustling piazzas. Of course, for many the main draw is the nearby Valley of the Temples: a dramatic UNESCO World Heritage site complete with some of the most outstanding remaining Ancient Greek structures found anywhere in the world.

And if that’s not enough to tempt you, Agrigento is also just a few miles from the beach so you can combine ancient history with some down time by the sea. It’s the ideal option for those wanting the best of both worlds – in Agrigento, history and relaxation can be enjoyed in equal measure.

Handpicked Hotels in Agrigento

Discover the real Agrigento while staying in one of our carefully selected hotels

Scala dei Turchi

Sicily, Agrigento

Chic modern décor and spacious accommodation
350 yards from the famous white Scala dei Turchi cliffs

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Tour Inspiration

Treasures of Sicily Small Group Escorted Tour

At a glance

Exclusive to Citalia
Explore temples, ruins and buildings dating back to ancient Greece
Immerse yourself in the Greek mythology of ancient times
Maximum group size 18
Take in the beautiful Baroque architecture of the area
Try fine local wines and appetisers in a traditional winery
Visit Sicily's largest market and try local delicacies and street food
Visit the majestic Mount Etna and maybe see smoke from the top
Wander through cobbled streets which overlook the sparkling Mediterranean

8 days from £2395 per person
ATOL Protected

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Things to do in Agrigento

Things to doAgrigento CathedralAgrigento’s cathedral is dedicated to Saint Gerland, and was built by Normans in the 11th century. Since then, extensions to the church took place in the 13th and 14th centuries, and a baroque style was added in the 17th century. Find out more about Agrigento Cathedral

Things to doScala dei TurchiIf you thought a set of stairs couldn’t possibly be of any interest, think again. The elegant Scala dei Turchi is like no staircase you’ve ever seen, climbed or photographed. The white cliff is located between Realmonte and Porto Empedocle, and features rock of soft limestone and bright white marl.Find out more about Scala dei Turchi

Things to doThe Church of San LorenzoAlso known as the Church of Purgatory, this baroque-style church is worth a mention. It’s located in the centre of historic Agrigento and those passing will appreciate its intricate exterior. However, the inside of the church is perhaps more impressive, with stuccos by Giacomo Serpotta (one of Sicily’s baroque masters) and intricate details throughout. Find out more about the Church of San Lorenzo

Things to doValley of the TemplesThe Valle dei Templi is one of the most famous historical sites in Sicily, attracting thousands of visitors each year. This fascinating archaeological site is the largest in the world, and home to some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. Find out more about the Valley of the Temples

Flight Information

The closest airport to Agrigento is Palermo (PMO), which is about 2 hours from Agrigento. Direct flights to Palermo are available from London Gatwick and take approxmimately 2 hours 50 minutes.

When to go

Thanks to its southerly location, Sicily enjoys mild temperatures all year round. Spring and autumn are both lovely times to visit, with temperatures in the high teens and early 20s (although up in the hills and on the slopes of Mount Etna it can be significantly cooler). In summer, you can expect temperatures in the high 20s – perfect for spending time on the island's beautiful beaches.

Visa Information

At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.

Tipping

You don’t have to leave a tip in Italy – most Italians don’t tip for restaurant meals, bar drinks, taxi rides or hair and beauty treatments. However if you do leave a tip, you might receive quicker service.

Introduction to languages

Agrigento Specialities There are plenty of dining options in Agrigento, ranging from Italian fine dining to more rustic trattorie and local bars. Seafood and pasta dishes are among the most popular here, thanks mainly to the prime location just a few miles from the sea, but there are also some more unusual delights such as arancini (fried rice balls) and granita (a sorbet-like dish) to enjoy. Make sure to try the locally popular dish of Pasta alla Agrigentina – a simple and elegant dish featuring pasta, tomato, aubergine and fresh mozzarella.