Agrigento (province) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in our ultimate travel guide to Agrigento (province) in Sicily, Italy.


Introduction to Agrigento (Province)

Agrigento is a province located in the southern part of Sicily, Italy. It is situated on the southwest coast of the island and is home to some of the most breathtaking ancient Greek ruins in the world. The city of Agrigento, the capital of the province, is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture.

List of Places to Visit in Agrigento (Province)

Agrigento (province) has a lot to offer, from cultural attractions to natural wonders. Here are just a few of the top places to visit in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Valley of the Temples: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring some of the best-preserved Greek ruins in the world.
  • Archaeological Museum of Agrigento: A museum that houses a significant collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Greek and Roman periods.
  • Scala dei Turchi: A beautiful cliff made of white limestone that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.

Natural Attractions of Agrigento (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Torre Salsa Nature Reserve: A protected area located on the southern coast of the province where visitors can hike, swim, and relax on beautiful beaches.
  • Eraclea Minoa: A pristine beach with turquoise waters and stunning cliffs.
  • The Temple of Olympian Zeus: The largest ancient Greek temple ever built, located in the town of Agrigento.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Agrigento (Province)

Agrigento (province) is home to some of the most beautiful hiking and biking trails in Sicily. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Riserva naturale Torre Salsa: A scenic hiking trail that leads to the beach of Torre Salsa.
  • Santuario di San Calogero: A challenging hike that takes you up to the top of a mountain where you can enjoy stunning views of the valley below.
  • Scala dei Turchi: Bikers and hikers can enjoy the spectacular sea views while exploring the cliff made of white limestone.

Best Things to Do in Agrigento (Province): Activities and Tours

  • Take a private guided tour of the Valley of the Temples to learn about the history and significance of the ancient Greek ruins.
  • Go on a boat tour along the coast of Agrigento (province) and explore the pristine beaches and secluded coves.
  • Join a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Sicilian dishes like pasta alla Norma and arancini.

Week-Long Itinerary for Agrigento (Province)

If you’re planning to spend a week in Agrigento (province), here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Valley of the Temples
2 Hike the Riserva naturale Torre Salsa
3 Visit the town of Sciacca and its local markets
4 Discover Scala dei Turchi and its surrounding area
5 Chill out on the beautiful beach of Eraclea Minoa
6 Go on a boat tour along the southern coast of Agrigento (province)
7 Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Sicilian dishes

Food and Drink Scene of Agrigento (Province)

Sicilian cuisine is known for its unique blend of flavors and influences from various cultures. Agrigento (province) is no exception, and visitors can indulge in a wide range of delicious dishes and local specialties.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arancini: fried rice balls filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Pasta alla Norma: a pasta dish with fried eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta cheese.
  • Cannoli: a sweet pastry made of fried dough filled with sweet ricotta cheese and topped with chocolate chips.

Local Beverages

  • Nero d’Avola wine: a rich red wine produced in the area surrounding Agrigento (province).
  • Limoncello: a sweet and sour liqueur made from locally grown lemons.

Where to Stay in Agrigento (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Agrigento (province) has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Colleverde Park Hotel: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Agrigento with a beautiful garden and a stunning view of the Valley of the Temples.
  • B&B Villa San Marco: A charming guesthouse located in Sciacca with a beautiful garden and a swimming pool.
  • Albergo Akropolis: A budget-friendly hotel located in Agrigento with basic amenities and a central location.

What to Buy in Agrigento (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Agrigento (province) is famous for its ceramics, handmade jewelry, and local delicacies. Here are some of the best souvenirs to bring home:

  • Traditional Sicilian ceramics from local artisans.
  • Local olive oil and wine from the surrounding area.
  • Handmade jewelry featuring local gemstones like black onyx and coral.

Local Culture and Customs of Agrigento (Province)

Sicilians are known for their love of food and laid-back lifestyle. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, especially when it comes to food.

Best Time to Visit Agrigento (Province)

The best time to visit Agrigento (province) is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild and crowds are thinner. July and August are the busiest months and can be extremely hot.

Do’s and Don’ts of Agrigento (Province)

Do:

  • Enjoy local cuisine and wine.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take care of the natural environment.

Don’t:

  • Ignore dress codes when visiting religious sites.
  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Be disrespectful to locals or tourists.

Safety and Health

Safety in Agrigento (Province)

Agrigento (province) is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always wise to take precautions like locking your valuables, using a hotel safe, and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Agrigento (Province)

Sicily, including Agrigento (province), has a high level of healthcare that meets European standards. Visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance and bring any necessary medication with them.

Getting to Agrigento (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Agrigento (Province)

The nearest international airports to Agrigento (province) are:

  • Falcone-Borsellino Airport in Palermo (170 km)
  • Vincenzo Florio Airport in Trapani (130 km)

Bus Stations Near Agrigento (Province)

There are several bus stations in Agrigento that connect with major cities in Sicily, including:

  • Palermo
  • Catania
  • Trapani

Other Options

Renting a car is a great way to explore Agrigento (province) and its surrounding areas. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in the city center.

How to Get Around in Agrigento (Province)

Public transportation in Agrigento (province) is limited, and the best way to get around is by car. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in the city center. Taxis and private drivers are also available.

Where to Go Next from Agrigento (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Agrigento (province) is an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of Sicily. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Palermo: The capital city of Sicily, located 130 km from Agrigento (province).
  • Marsala: A beautiful historic city famous for its wine, located 70 km from Agrigento (province).
  • Mount Etna: The tallest active volcano in Europe, located 200 km from Agrigento (province).

Conclusion

Agrigento (province) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the Valley of the Temples to the beautiful beaches and hiking trails, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Sicily, Italy. Plan your trip today and experience all that Agrigento (province) has to offer!

Province of Agrigento Province of Agrigento


    Canicattì
    Heraclea Minoa
    Pelagie Islands
    Porto Empedocle