In short: The Province of Agrigento on Sicily’s south coast stands for Greek antiquity (the UNESCO World Heritage Valley of the Temples), striking coastlines like the Scala dei Turchi, wide, often quieter sandy beaches and the thermal spa town of Sciacca. The remote Pelagie Islands (Lampedusa, Linosa) also belong to it administratively. Ideal for culture and beach travellers who want to avoid the crowds of the east coast.
Quick Facts
- Location: south coast of Sicily
- UNESCO: Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi), Agrigento
- Highlights: Valley of the Temples, Scala dei Turchi, Sciacca, Eraclea Minoa
- Islands: Pelagie Islands – Lampedusa & Linosa
- Best for: antiquity/culture, beach, quiet; less suited to pure nightlife
- Getting there: usually via Catania or Palermo airport + rental car
Who is the Province of Agrigento good for? (decision guide)
| Traveller type | Well suited | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Culture & antiquity | Valley of the Temples, archaeological sites, Eraclea Minoa | very hot at midday in high summer – start early |
| Beach & quiet | wide south-coast beaches (Eraclea Minoa, Torre Salsa), Sciacca | many beaches only reachable by car |
| Island trip | Pelagie Islands (Lampedusa, Linosa) | far away – a trip of its own, by ferry/flight |
| Without a car | Agrigento & Valley of the Temples reachable by train/bus | remote beaches/villages hard to reach without a car |
Places in the Province of Agrigento
- Agrigento – city by the Valley of the Temples, gateway to the ancient world.
- Sciacca – thermal spa town and fishing village with a ceramics tradition.
- Realmonte – coastal village at the Scala dei Turchi.
- Eraclea Minoa – ancient site above a wide sandy beach.
- Licata, Naro, Caltabellotta – villages inland and along the coast.
- Porto Empedocle – ferry port to the Pelagie Islands.
Top Sights
- Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) – UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most significant complexes of Greek temples in the world.
- Scala dei Turchi – white marl cliffs near Realmonte (access sometimes restricted – check current conditions; see “Beaches in Sicily”).
- Agrigento Archaeological Museum – finds from ancient Akragas.
- Eraclea Minoa – ancient theatre and excavations above the coast.
Pelagie Islands
The Pelagie Islands Lampedusa and Linosa belong to the Province of Agrigento – far to the south, geographically closer to Africa. They are known for their beaches and clear water and are more a trip in their own right than a side excursion. Details: Island Hopping in Sicily.
Getting There & Best Time to Visit
The province is usually reached via Catania or Palermo airport and a rental car; Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples are also accessible by train/bus. Best time for antiquity and coast: spring and autumn – the south coast is very hot in high summer. See Best Time to Visit Sicily, Getting There and Car Rental.
Whether a cultural trip to the Valley of the Temples, a beach holiday on the south coast, or a combination with other regions – our travel agency puts your trip together and takes care of the booking. Just send us a non-binding trip request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highlight of the Province of Agrigento?
The UNESCO World Heritage Valley of the Temples in Agrigento – one of the most significant complexes of Greek temples outside Greece.
Do Lampedusa and Linosa belong to the Province of Agrigento?
Yes. The Pelagie Islands Lampedusa and Linosa belong administratively to the Province of Agrigento, but lie far to the south and are reached by ferry (from Porto Empedocle) or by flight.
When is the best time to visit Agrigento?
Spring and autumn. The south coast is very hot in high summer – plan sightseeing for early in the day.
Sources & Update
Basis: editorial local knowledge; UNESCO World Heritage Site “Archaeological Area of Agrigento”. Last updated: 14 June 2026. Opening hours, prices and access rules (e.g. Scala dei Turchi) change over time and should be checked before your trip.
