Agrigento is synonymous with the Valley of Temples (Valle dei Templi), an assembly of well-preserved Greek temples (highlighted by the Temple of Concordia, the model for UNESCO’s logo) watching over a valley of almond trees where the ancient city of Akragas once stood. In town, a medieval center unfolds along pedestrian Via Atenea. Most things to do in Agrigento revolve around the archaeological site and Agrigento Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Regionale "Pietro Griffo")—the exception being the Scala dei Turchi, a white coastal cliff often featured on Sicilian postcards.
After a sleepy Sicilian winter, Agrigento rouses to life in spring for the Almond Blossom Festival, a celebration of local almond trees and Sicilian cuisine and traditions. Generally, Sicily is punishingly hot most of the summer (and longer), so unless you plan on hitting crowded beaches all day, visit in late spring or early to mid-fall. To avoid the worst heat and see the temples illuminated, visit the Valley of the Temples after sunset—in summer, it can stay open until 10pm.
Agrigento lies on the south-central coast of Sicily, about 75 miles (120 kilometers) south of Palermo. Sicily is less connected by rail than the Italian mainland, and trips from Palermo to Agrigento typically require train and bus combos. Rental cars are much better for getting around. TUA buses (Trasporti Urbani Agrigento) connect the town to the Valley of the Temples—lines 1, 2, and 3 make the trip in less than 10 minutes.
The Valley of the Temples archaeological site, which comprises about 5 square miles (13 square kilometers), is split into eastern and western zones. If time is of the essence, start with the eastern zone. It's where you’ll find some of the best-preserved temples, including the Temple of Concordia and the Temple of Hera. A sight to behold, Concordia has remained largely intact since the fifth century BC.
