Agrigento (province) Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

Agrigento is a province on the southwestern coast of Sicily, Italy, that stretches from the south coast into the mountainous hinterland. The province faces the Channel of Sicily in the south and is known for its beaches. Torre Salsa's beaches have been designated natural reserves and are protected due to their environmental importance.

• 37.31666713.5833331 Agrigento — to the south and particularly noted for the Valle dei Templi (Valley of Temples) ( UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• 37.58333313.2166672 Caltabellotta — q hilltop village outside Sciacca
• 37.39388913.2808333 Heraclea Minoa (Eraclea Minoa) — Greek ruins above an attractive beach
• 37.313.5333334 Porto Empedocle (Marina) — a port town close to Agrigento
• 37.50916713.0888895 Sciacca — a quiet, south coast port town
• 37.3589413.8508426 Canicattì — a working class city between Caltanissetta and Agrigento
• 37.19361113.7658337 Palma di Montechiaro —

• 35.5114112.6038411 Pelagie Islands (Isole Pelagie) — most southern, in the Mediterranean Sea
• 37.649813.41842 Monti Sicani Park — Parco dei Monti Sicani

Gela inhabitants founded the province in the 6th century BCE as Akragas. The Carthage destroyed the province in 406 BCE but was later ruled by the Romans, Goths, Byzantines, and Arabs. The Arabs rebuilt several parts of the province. Several ancient Doric temples were constructed during the 6th and 5th century BCE to worship Hercules, Olympian Jupiter, Juno, Castor, Pollux, and Demeter. They are located in the Valley of Temples (Valle dei Templi). The ancient temples and other architectural structures were built using the stones of the hills near Capo San Marco.

• Agrigento municipal website

In summer it can be unbearably hot in Sicily with its arid Mediterranean climate, in winter the temperatures are often pleasant and snow hardly ever falls. In spring and autumn, the temperatures are very pleasant, apart from the sometimes heavy thunderstorms.

From the A19 Palermo - Catania motorway to Caltanissetta, then on the SS640, through the mountains to the south coast. Alternatively on the southern coastal road SS115, which runs along the entire southern coast of Sicily from Trapani to Siracusa.

Ferrovia Palermo - Agrigento - Porto Empedocle line or Agrigento - Caltanissetta line and then connection to the Palermo - Catania line.

The region can be easily travelled by car. With larger vehicles or mobile homes, caution is advised in narrow towns, scooters can get through everywhere without any problems.

As in all of Italy, people drive in Sicily quite "impulsively" and quickly. As a rule, it is important to be very attentive at all times, but this also applies to local road users: in rural Sicily, the right-of-way is often not stubbornly insisted on — a vehicle is sometimes allowed to enter from a turner or stopped for a left turn, the traffic partners mist clearly see what you are planning to do.

Travelling in the region by public transport is challenging, railway connections are rare, all towns and cities are connected by a dense bus network, the website of the Sicilian bus company AST seems a bit confusing and is written in fluent Italian.

Agrigento province is one of the richest archaeological areas in Sicily, home to ancient Greek cities, Roman villas, prehistoric necropolises, and sacred landscapes that speak to millennia of human settlement.

• Valley of the Temples (Agrigento) — Sicily’s most iconic archaeological park, featuring the remarkably preserved Temple of Concordia, along with ruins of other Greek temples, sanctuaries, and the ancient city of Akragas. UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Eraclea Minoa (Cattolica Eraclea) — Seaside ruins of a Greek settlement near the Platani River, including a small theatre overlooking the sea, city walls, and house foundations.
• Monte Adranone (Sambuca di Sicilia) — Hilltop ruins of a fortified Elymian-Greek town with panoramic views, necropolis, and remains of ancient walls and houses.
• Realmonte Roman Villa (Realmonte) — A Roman-era villa near the coast with colourful floor mosaics, baths, and residential quarters, not far from Scala dei Turchi.
• Necropoli di Anguilla (Sant'Angelo Muxaro) — A cluster of prehistoric tombs carved into limestone cliffs, with connections to ancient Sican culture.
• Grotte di Carusi (Cammarata area) — Prehistoric caves and early settlement traces in the mountainous inland region near Cammarata.

Beyond its ancient past, Agrigento province offers architectural highlights from medieval towns to baroque churches and noble villas.

• Agrigento — The old town has winding lanes, Baroque churches such as San Lorenzo, and the cathedral dedicated to San Gerlando perched above the valley.
• Sciacca — A coastal town known for its Baroque churches, thermal baths, and Art Nouveau villas. The Castello Luna and Steripinto Palace are standout landmarks.
• Naro — A hill town with a mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, including a castle and numerous richly decorated churches.
• Raffadali — Historic centre with palazzi and religious architecture, including the Church of San Giacomo.
• Sambuca di Sicilia — Noted for its Arab-Norman street layout, historic houses, and the remains of the Castle of Zabut.

Borghi are historic small towns and villages — often medieval, always full of character — and many are officially listed among Italy’s most picturesque places. Agrigento province features several such places, set amid hills, vineyards, and coastal scenery.

• Sambuca di Sicilia — A Borgo più bello d’Italia award-winner known for its Arab-influenced layout, charming alleys, and revival through house restoration schemes.
• Caltabellotta — A dramatic mountain town with panoramic views, a Norman castle, and ancient roots. Rich in tradition and religious heritage.
• Bivona — Known for its late summer peach festival and quiet, traditional streets. Surrounded by nature.
• Sant'Angelo Muxaro — A small hill town with prehistoric sites and a strong sense of local identity. Popular with cultural and slow travellers.
• Cianciana — A rural borgo with increasing interest from international residents, offering proximity to countryside trails and river valleys.

• Museo Archeologico Regionale di Agrigento (Agrigento) — One of Sicily's premier archaeological museums, with artefacts from Akragas, Greek temples, and local necropolises.
• Museo del Carnevale (Sciacca) — Displays costumes, papier-mâché floats, and multimedia exhibits related to Sciacca's famous carnival.
• Museo Francesco Scaglione (Sciacca) — Art and archaeology museum housed in a 19th-century palazzo, with ceramics, paintings, and sculptures.
• Museo della Casa Contadina (Sant'Angelo Muxaro) — A small ethnographic museum showcasing traditional Sicilian peasant life.
• Museo Civico di Naro (Naro) — Exhibits include archaeological finds, religious art, and local history items from the Naro area.

Many of these sites are complemented by natural beauty, traditional festivals, and a strong local identity, making Agrigento an excellent province for cultural travellers.

While Agrigento is best known for its temples and coastline, it also offers several green spaces that combine natural beauty with cultural or historical value.

• Giardino della Kolymbethra (Valley of the Temples, Agrigento) — This lush archaeological garden, hidden within the Valley of the Temples, revives the ancient Greek irrigation system and is filled with citrus, almond, and olive trees. Managed by the FAI (Italian Environmental Fund), it offers a peaceful refuge amid the ruins and occasionally hosts guided tours and tastings.
• Villa Bonfiglio (Agrigento city) — A pleasant municipal park with shady paths, fountains, and sea views, located near Viale della Vittoria. Popular with locals for a stroll or relaxing under pine trees.
• Pineta Ricca (Sciacca) — A pine forested area just outside the town of Sciacca, ideal for picnics and walks with sea views. Locals often use it as a cool retreat in summer.

Agrigento province combines coastal cliffs, nature reserves, and inland hills, offering diverse options for walkers and day-hikers.

• Riserva Naturale di Torre Salsa – One of the most scenic hiking spots in southern Sicily, this WWF-managed coastal reserve lies between Siculiana and Eraclea Minoa. Trails lead through sand dunes, chalk cliffs, and Mediterranean scrub, often with sea views and turtle nesting areas. A great spot for peaceful walks, especially in spring and autumn.
• Riserva Naturale Monte Cammarata – Located near San Giovanni Gemini, this is one of Sicily’s highest inland peaks (1,578 m). The reserve offers forested trails through holm oak, chestnut, and pine, plus panoramic ridgelines overlooking the Sicilian interior. Some paths are steep but rewarding, especially for more experienced hikers.
• Riserva Naturale Orientata Grotta di Santa Ninfa – Though mostly in nearby Trapani province, parts of the trail system extend toward the Agrigento border. Trails explore karst formations, caves, and rural countryside.
• Eraclea Minoa Clifftop Trails – Short but beautiful informal paths run along the chalk cliffs above the beach and archaeological site. Good for sunset walks and coastal photography.
• Rural tracks near Sant’Angelo Muxaro – A lesser-known area with walking paths through rolling hills, river valleys, and archaeological sites. Several local operators offer guided "community walks" that connect cultural visits with light hiking.

Paths in this province vary from marked nature trails to unpaved rural roads. Good footwear and a GPS-based map app are recommended. Expect little shade in summer and plan accordingly.

Fishing along the southern coast is mostly small-scale. Shore anglers are common near Sciacca and Licata, and a few guesthouses may arrange informal boat outings, especially in summer. The experience is peaceful and low-key.

Agrigento province offers relaxed cycling through open countryside, coastal roads, and archaeological landscapes. While formal bike paths are limited, the rural terrain and quiet secondary roads make it a rewarding area for touring and slow cycling.

• Valley of the Temples (Agrigento) – Some riders choose to cycle through or around the Valley of the Temples. While cycling inside the archaeological park is restricted, the surrounding roads offer stunning views of the ancient ruins, especially in the early morning or at sunset. E-bike rentals are available in Agrigento city.
• Scala dei Turchi coastal ride – A scenic coastal road links Realmonte with the white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi, continuing east toward Porto Empedocle. Though narrow in sections, it's a photogenic route, best in the off-season when traffic is lighter.
• Sambuca di Sicilia & Lago Arancio – The hilly countryside around Sambuca is popular with local cyclists and offers loops past vineyards, hilltop towns, and the shores of Lago Arancio. Good for intermediate road cyclists or those interested in wine-country routes.
• Menfi to Sciacca – A rural coastal stretch along the southern coast, connecting small fishing towns, beaches, and olive farms. The rolling terrain and open roads make it suitable for touring cyclists.
• Ribera & Seccagrande – A lesser-known option for coastal and river valley cycling. Quiet inland roads offer gentle climbs, while the seaside promenade at Seccagrande is good for casual riding.

Bike rentals are limited outside Agrigento city and a few coastal towns — check with hotels or agriturismi for local arrangements. Summer heat can be intense, so early morning or off-season rides are best.

Agrigento province offers a mix of dramatic cliffs, long sandy beaches, and quieter coves. While not heavily developed for resort tourism, its southern coastline is ideal for travellers seeking natural beauty and a more relaxed beach experience.

• Scala dei Turchi (Realmonte) – One of Sicily’s most famous landmarks, this white limestone cliff forms natural steps that descend into turquoise water. Swimming is allowed nearby, but climbing the cliff itself is now restricted to protect it. Access from Realmonte involves a short walk from parking areas.
• San Leone (Agrigento) – The main beach resort near Agrigento city, with sandy shores, a promenade, and beach clubs. Popular with locals in summer, it offers amenities like umbrellas, cafés, and windsurfing schools.
• Eraclea Minoa – A scenic and uncrowded beach beneath clay cliffs, backed by a pine forest. The area includes an archaeological site and is known for its peaceful setting. Bring supplies, as facilities are limited.
• Torre Salsa Nature Reserve – A protected stretch of wild beach between Siculiana and Eraclea Minoa. Known for its sand dunes, sea turtles, and undeveloped beauty. Access is via dirt roads and walking trails — best for those seeking solitude and nature.
• Punta Grande & Lido Rossello – Two quieter beaches near Realmonte with golden sand and calm waters, suitable for families and less crowded than San Leone.
• Licata area – Further southeast, Licata and its surrounding coast offer long, sandy beaches with shallow water and low-key beach resorts.

Many beaches in the province are unshaded and remote, so bring water and sun protection. Summer can be crowded near San Leone, but most beaches remain quiet outside July and August.

While Agrigento province is famous for its archaeology and beaches, it also offers a few low-key adventures for those looking to get active in nature.

• Coastal trekking & cliff walks (Scala dei Turchi) – Though not a formal sport, walking the white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi offers a mild thrill and unforgettable views. Exercise caution on slippery surfaces, especially after rain.
• Kayaking near Torre Salsa & Eraclea Minoa – These undeveloped coastal areas are great for sea kayaking, with quiet coves, sand dunes, and turquoise water. Occasional tours or rentals may be available through eco-tour operators.
• Horse riding tours (Naro, Licata, Siculiana) – Several countryside stables offer horseback treks through olive groves, pine forests, and hilltop towns. Some tours combine riding with food or archaeological visits.
• Off-road excursions inland – Some adventure providers offer 4×4 trips or quad biking in the Sicani Mountains and Platani Valley, passing through scenic agricultural zones and rustic villages.

Adventure options in Agrigento are more seasonal and scattered than in other provinces. Booking in advance is advised, especially for water-based or guided activities.

Agrigento province offers a relaxing blend of seaside leisure, thermal healing, and open-air activity. Whether you're soaking in sulphur springs or playing beach volleyball under the sun, the area encourages both movement and rest.

• Thermal Baths of Sciacca (Terme di Sciacca) – One of Sicily’s oldest spa towns, Sciacca is known for its natural steam caves and sulphurous thermal waters. While the historic spa complex has seen intermittent closures, various hotels and wellness centres in town still offer mud treatments, thermal pools, and massages. Ideal for rheumatism, skin treatments, or simply relaxation.
• Beaches with fitness options – Larger beaches such as San Leone (near Agrigento city) and Eraclea Minoa often have space for beach yoga, casual running, or pickup games of beach volleyball and football. Equipment isn’t always provided, but open space is plentiful.
• Walking trails at Torre Salsa – The quiet coastline and dune landscapes of Torre Salsa Nature Reserve are ideal for low-intensity hiking, walking meditation, or simply unwinding in solitude.
• Resort wellness – Several countryside hotels and agriturismi near Menfi, Realmonte, and Ribera offer spa amenities like hydrotherapy, massage, and saltwater pools, often paired with wine or olive oil tastings.

Wellness activities in Agrigento are mostly seasonal, with outdoor options best from spring to early autumn. Spa treatments may be available year-round depending on the venue.

The Sicilian cuisine in the southern provinces is similar to that of Italy: fish and fresh seafood are mainly offered in the port cities, in the mountain areas ham and mountain cheese are instead on the appetizer plate.

The province is well known for its vineyards and wines. Around three-quarters of the Sicilian land devoted to growing Fiano grapes is in the province. Some of the important municipalities known for their vineyards include Sambuca di Sicilia, Menfi, and Santa Margherita di Belice.

Security in southern Sicily is not much different from other rural areas of Italy. Pickpocketing and car break-ins are to be expected if valuables are left in the vehicle. However, the risk is no greater than in large cities in northern Europe.