Agrigento's Valley of the Temples is not a valley at all but a long ridge on which the ancient Greek city of Akragas built a line of Doric temples in the fifth century BC. The star is the Temple of Concordia, among the best-preserved Greek temples anywhere, its golden columns and pediments surviving because it was converted into a church in late antiquity. Nearby stand the ruins of the Temple of Juno, the toppled giants of the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hercules, the oldest of the group, along with the Kolymbethra garden, a hidden valley of citrus and olive groves. The archaeological park is large, so wear comfortable shoes and plan for several hours. A good route follows the ridge from the Temple of Juno down to Concordia and on to the Temple of Hercules, with detours for the Kolymbethra garden. The park is spectacular at sunset, when the stone turns gold, and in spring when almond blossom and wild flowers frame the ruins.
Why it matters: Akragas was among the richest Greek cities in the Mediterranean, and the temples were built to show it. Many are in various states of collapse, thanks to earthquakes, but Concordia stands nearly intact, giving you a sense of what the others looked like in their prime. The archaeological museum Pietro Griffo, near the park, holds finds, including the vast telamon figures that once supported the Temple of Zeus, and is worth an extra hour.
Planning: Agrigento is roughly two hours by road from Palermo and a similar distance from Catania, making it a long day trip or an overnight stop. Many travellers take a guided tour from Palermo or drive themselves. Book timed tickets online, especially in peak season, and consider a guide or audio guide to bring the ruins to life. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen because there is little shade, and note that some paths are uneven.
Timing: spring and autumn are the best seasons, with comfortable temperatures. In July and August start early or visit in the evening when the park opens late. The park sometimes holds evening events, and a visit at golden hour is unforgettable. Check opening hours for the temple area, the garden and the museum, since they differ and change seasonally. A lunch of fresh seafood or local pasta in Agrigento rounds out the day.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided or guided walk along the ridge of Doric temples, with optional garden and museum visits.
Best time
Spring and autumn, ideally in the morning or near sunset when the stone glows.
How long
Three to four hours, longer with the garden and the museum.
Tips
Bring water, a hat and good shoes; book timed tickets and consider an audio guide.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who loves ancient history or wants the best Greek ruins outside Greece.
- Families
- Older children enjoy the open spaces; the lack of shade makes summer middays hard for little ones.
- Couples
- Golden hour among the temples is hard to beat.
- Pair with
- A day trip route from Palermo, or Syracuse and Ortigia for more Greek Sicily.
- Time needed
- A full day trip from Palermo or Catania; a half day if you stay nearby.
Good questions
How far is Agrigento from Palermo?+
About two hours by road, and similar from Catania. Guided tours and car hire both work well, and buses and trains connect the cities more slowly.
What is the best temple to see?+
The Temple of Concordia is the best preserved and the most photographed. The Temple of Hercules is the oldest, and the Temple of Juno has the best view.
Is the Kolymbethra garden worth visiting?+
Yes, it is a shady, tranquil garden of citrus and olive trees in a hollow, and a welcome break from the heat. Check whether it has separate hours or a separate ticket.
How long do I need?+
Three to four hours for the main temples, or a full day with the museum and garden.
Is it too hot in summer?+
Midday is very hot and shadeless. Visit early or late, carry water and wear a hat.
