Things To Do
in Agrigento
Agrigento sits on Sicily’s southern coast, where ancient ruins meet sun-kissed beaches. The star attraction is the Valley of the Temples, a vast arc of Doric temples set against olive groves and rolling hills. The historic center along Via Atenea offers charming bars, markets, and Baroque touches, while nearby coastlines invite coastal walks and cliff views.
The region blends archaeology, natural beauty, and hearty Sicilian dining for a thoroughly immersive experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Agrigento train station and take in the beautiful Sicilian landscapes as you make your way to your accommodation. After checking in, enjoy a rich Italian breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and espresso. Take some time to relax and acclimate to the charming atmosphere of the town.
Explore the historic town center, visiting the stunning Cathedral of San Gerlando, which boasts a mixture of Norman and Moorish architectural influences. Stroll through the narrow streets, appreciating the local shops and artisan offerings. Stop for a leisurely lunch at a trattoria, indulging in typical Sicilian dishes such as pasta alla Norma or arancini.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Valley of the Temples as the sun sets over the ruins. Savor the local wines paired with fresh seafood and regional specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant night ambiance of Agrigento.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the magnificent Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the morning wandering among ancient Greek temples, marveling at the well-preserved ruins and striking landscapes. Hire a guide to learn about the history and significance of this archaeological wonder.
After exploring the temples, have lunch at a nearby agriturismo, where you can experience farm-to-table dining in the heart of the Sicilian countryside. In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento to further enrich your understanding of the region's rich historical context. Take your time to enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.
As evening falls, return to the valley for a special sunset tour, where the temples are bathed in a golden light. Enjoy a picnic dinner on the temple grounds, surrounded by the ancient structures. Reflect on the day's adventures before heading back to the town center for gelato and leisurely evening strolls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧀Pane e formaggio / cheese | $5-8 |
| 🚗Taxi 1 mile | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $85-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient history and iconic temples
- Stunning coastal scenery and approachable day trips
- Good value for money and easy to walk around
- Summer crowds and heat can be intense
- Some areas have limited English and signage
- Longer drives to major Sicilian cities or airports
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi può consigliare un ristorante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due" - I’d like a table for two
Places to Visit in Agrigento
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand vista of Doric temples set in olive groves, especially dramatic at sunrise and sunset.
A stunning white limestone staircase cliff along the coast with striking sea backdrops.
Historic cathedral paired with the lively street and Baroque balconies for street photography.
Hilltop viewpoints near the temples offer wide-angle shots of columns and terraces.
Food in Agrigento
Agrigento Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Sicilian pasta with sardines, fennel, raisins, and pine nuts.
Must-Try!
Sweet-sour eggplant relish with olives, capers, and tomatoes.
Rabbit stew with tomatoes, olives, and herbs.
Seafood couscous common along the southern coast, made with fish stock, mussels, and calamari.
Classic Sicilian desserts; cannoli filled with ricotta and granita in lemon or almond flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market near the historic center offering fresh produce, olives, cheese, and bread; sample local street bites.
Arancine, panelle, crocchè, and fritti enjoyed on the go.
Fresh seafood sold daily; try grilled fish or seafood salads from the stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Buongiorno or Buonasera when entering shops or dining.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid beachwear in town centers.
Speak softly in residential areas, especially in the evening; observe siesta times in hot months.
Tipping is appreciated for good service, especially in nicer restaurants, but not always expected.
Safety
Tipping in Agrigento
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in larger restaurants; if not, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places support contactless payments; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with strong sun; carry sun protection, water, and light clothing. Expect crowds at major sites and beaches.
Mild temperatures and blooming citrus trees; ideal for wandering the old town and markets.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; great for photography and day trips along the coast.
Cooler with occasional rain; fewer crowds and some sites with limited hours.
Agrigento at Night
Hiking in Agrigento
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal hike along the white limestone cliff with sea views and photo opportunities.
Trail along the shore to the ancient Greek site of Eraclea Minoa with ruins and beaches.
Airports
How to reach Agrigento by plane.
About 120-150 miles (190-240 km) from Agrigento; best reached by car or rail via major highways.
Approximately 140-190 miles (230-300 km) away; major international gateway with frequent connections.
Smaller regional airport about 60-90 minutes by car to Agrigento; convenient for some routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Sicilians who have lived in Agrigento for generations; warm and family-focused.
Domestic and international visitors exploring temples, beaches, and the old town.
Visitors and locals involved with universities and cultural programs.
People drawn to Sicily’s climate and relaxed pace of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and matches are common in season.
Beaches near San Leone offer swimming, sailing, and windsurfing.
Common in local clubs and schools; occasional community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Agrigento.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian pastas, grilled vegetables, caponata, and cheese plates; for dairy-free requests, ask for simple tomato-based pastas or grilled vegetables.