If you’re planning to visit Sicily, then the city of Agrigento is one of the best places to visit. It’s known for the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Aside from the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, there are plenty of other things to do in Agrigento. These include visiting the local historic sites, shopping, and enjoying a meal at a restaurant with outdoor seating.
1. Valley of the Temples
Agrigento's Valley of the Temples is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site that time-travels back in history to when Sicily was a Greek colony. The ruins of a handful of grand temples, along with other monuments and necropolises, are located on a ridge outside of Agrigento town.
A visit to the Valley of the Temples is an absolute must for any tourist visiting Agrigento. These temples are a true representation of Sicily's ancient, classic culture and there is something new to see around every corner.
The Valley of the Temples is also known for its spectacular sunset and nighttime illuminations in summer, so if you are looking for a special experience, consider booking an evening guided tour from Agrigento.
You can visit the Valley of the Temples on foot, but if you are tired or can't walk too much, you can also use the tourist train shuttle service that runs up and down the ridge and costs just 3EUR one way.
2. Agrigento Old Town
Agrigento Old Town is the central part of the city that houses all the historical sites and tourist spots. It is also located near transportation hubs and restaurants.
It is full of ancient architectures that represent the city’s culture and history. It is also home to many museums that showcase various arts and installments of the city’s cultural heritage.
The Agrigento Cathedral is a very impressive building that dates back to the 11th century. Its richly adorned wooden ceiling and brilliantly painted dome take you straight back to medieval times.
The Cathedral Museum has a great picture gallery with paintings dating from the sixteenth to nineteenth century. It also contains a lot of artifacts including the ancient Agrigento Sarcophagus and vestments.
3. Scala dei Turchi
The cliffs of the Scala dei Turchi are a natural wonder that stretches out along the Sicilian coast near Realmonte and Porto Empedocle. This unique and stunning rocky white cliff is made of limestone and marl, sedimentary rocks that have been worked on by waves and rain.
It is also called the “Stairs of the Turks” as it was a refuge for Turkish pirates in the past. It is located between Realmonte and Porto Empedocle and is a short drive from Agrigento on the south coast of Sicily.
The cliffs are a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, as well as to take photos of the brightly reflected sunlight. During the summer, the beach is free and there is an excellent restaurant right by the cliffs.
4. Porta Di Ponte
The Porta Di Ponte is a large Roman bridge that has stood the test of time. It is a popular tourist attraction because of its history and culture.
The bridge was built during the Roman Empire in 138 AD. It is one of the best known bridges in Rome and stands near the River Tiber.
Agrigento also has several medieval and Baroque buildings. It is home to several important religious sites.
These include the church of Santa Maria dei Greci and the cathedral. The town is a hub for art and culture in Italy.
B&B Porta Di Ponte offers rooms with free WiFi and air conditioning. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and modern furnishings. A daily breakfast is served.
