Nicolette was fabulous! So learned and excited to share her knowledge of this complex site that she so clearly loves. She could answer every question without hesitation. She was also happy to share information about present-day Agrigento and Italy in general.
Agrigento Archaeology Tour: Valley of the Temples
Stand among Greek temples built for gods, power, and beauty
The Finer Details
The famous Greek poet Pindar described Akragas (Greek for Agrigento) as “the most beautiful city on earth” for its spectacular location and monumental buildings. Join a local expert for this 2-hour tour of the magnificent Valley of the Temples and see with your own eyes what Pindar was describing. Crafted to provide a solid introduction for those visiting Agrigento for the first time or travelers returning, you will explore the local history and cultural depth of this intriguing area of Sicily.
Sites Visited
- Valley of the Temples
Included
- 2 hours with an MA or Ph.D. level guide
- Skip-the-line tickets for the Valley of the Temples
- Taxi ride back to the parking lot at the end of the tour
Itinerary Detail
We will begin our journey in the Valley of the Temples to help familiarize ourselves with the ancient urban layout of Agrigento; its main streets, fortifications, and sacred buildings dedicated to the Olympian Gods. Each temple presents its own unique and singular characteristics.
In particular, your expert guide, trained in archaeology or history, will discuss the importance of the Temple of Concord and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The remains of the former, built around 450 B.C., including its inner structure and cellar, were the location of the divinity. The latter, whose construction began around 480 B.C., is perhaps the largest Doric temple ever built.
In particular, your expert guide, trained in archaeology or history, will discuss the importance of the Temple of Concord and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The remains of the former, built around 450 B.C., including its inner structure and cellar, were the location of the divinity. The latter, whose construction began around 480 B.C., is perhaps the largest Doric temple ever built.
At the conclusion of your visit to the Archaeological Site, a taxi will return you and your guide to the Temple of Juno, where our walk began.
Please note: If you're staying at the Hotel Villa Athena, you can meet the guide in the lobby of the hotel and start the tour directly from your hotel. Please let us know whether you're staying at Villa Athena or not at checkout.
FAQ
Where do we meet? Where does it end?
It depends on where you are staying. If you are staying anywhere in Agrigento, you will meet your guide at the ticket desk near the Temple of Juno. If you're staying at the Hotel Villa Athena, you can meet the guide in the lobby of the hotel and start the tour directly from the Archeological Park. Please let us know whether you're staying at Villa Athena or not at checkout. The tour ends back at the Temple of Juno.
When is the best time of the day to visit?
If you are traveling during the summer months, we recommend early morning or late afternoon. The heat and crowds can be heavy and the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views in the golden light of sunset is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Is this tour walking-intensive, and/or wheelchair accessible?
We do cover quite a bit of ground on this tour, and therefore we recommend contacting us with any mobility questions; we will be happy to advise if the itinerary will be appropriate for you or propose modifications where necessary. Please feel free to contact us.
Meet the Experts
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Valley of the Temples
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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GratuitiesTips aren’t included, but we encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Food and drinkUnless booking a Food & Drink tour or tasting experience, refreshments are not included.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Don’t just take our word for it
Nicolette was great! Very informative and the tour was at a good pace. Could not have been happier.
Alice was so knowledgeable and spirited and shared both information and her passion for the history and the place that brought it alive
Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey
Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.
Structured, never scripted
Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.
Crafted for conversation
With 12 or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.
Experts, not guides
Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.
