Explore the enchanting landscapes of Sicily on a captivating journey from Agrigento to Taormina. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, delving into the rich cultural heritage of the island. Venture through the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the exquisite mosaics of the Villa Romana del Casale. With personalized attention from a small group, learn about the ancient wonders that have captivated visitors for centuries. Uncover the secrets of Sicily’s past and discover why this destination continues to captivate the imagination of travelers from around the world.
Key Points
- This 8.5-hour tour covers two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Valley of the Temples and the Villa Romana del Casale, with an audio-guided walking tour and self-guided exploration.
- The tour starts in Agrigento, where you’ll explore the ancient Greek ruins of the Valley of the Temples, including the Temple of Hera, Temple of Concordia, and Temple of Hercules.
- After the Valley of the Temples, the tour takes you to the Villa Romana del Casale, a 4th-century AD Roman villa with an extensive collection of well-preserved mosaics.
- The tour ends in Taormina, with an estimated arrival time of around 6:45 PM, subject to traffic conditions.
- The tour is priced at $267.53 per person, with a maximum group size of 7 participants for a personalized experience, including hotel pickup and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
Exploring the ancient wonders of Sicily, this tour takes visitors on a captivating journey from Agrigento to Taormina.
Spanning 8.5 hours, the experience offers a chance to discover two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Valley of the Temples and the Villa Romana del Casale.
With a maximum group size of 7 participants, the tour provides a personalized experience. Pickup from the hotel is included, and guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary features an independent audio-guided walking tour of the Valley of the Temples and a self-guided visit to the Villa Romana del Casale, before continuing on to the picturesque town of Taormina.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Piazza Armerina.
Tour Itinerary
The tour commences with a pickup from Agrigento, where guests embark on their journey. Their first stop is the iconic Valley of the Temples, where they’ll enjoy an independent audio-guided walking tour for 2 hours, exploring the Temple of Hera, Temple of Concordia, Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Zeus. Afterward, the group travels to the stunning Villa Romana del Casale, a 4th-century AD luxury Roman villa with over 3,500 square meters of mesmerizing floor mosaics. Here, they’ll have 1.5 hours to enjoy the villa’s grandeur before continuing on to the final destination, Taormina, where the tour is estimated to arrive around 6:45 PM, subject to traffic conditions.
| Pickup Location | Stops | Travel Times |
|---|---|---|
| Agrigento | Valley of the Temples (2 hours) Villa Romana del Casale (1.5 hours) |
Agrigento to Valley of the Temples: 15 minutes Valley of the Temples to Villa Romana del Casale: 1.5 hours Villa Romana del Casale to Taormina: 1.5 hours |
Valley of the Temples
Established in 582 B.C. by Rhodian-Cretan colonists, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is one of Sicily’s most iconic archaeological sites.
This UNESCO World Heritage site features:
- Temple of Hera, with its well-preserved Doric columns
- Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world
- Temple of Hercules, with its impressive ruins dating back to the 6th century B.C.
Spanning over a mile, the valley offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient Greek civilization that once thrived in this region.
Visitors can explore the site’s rich history through an independent audio-guided walking tour, seeing the grandeur of these remarkable ancient structures.
Villa Romana Del Casale
Situated approximately 1.5 hours from the Valley of the Temples, the Villa Romana del Casale boasts one of the most extensive and well-preserved collections of Roman mosaics in the world.
Dating back to the 4th century AD, this luxurious villa covers an impressive 3,500 square meters and features intricately detailed mosaics depicting scenes from mythology, hunting, and daily life.
Visitors can wander through the villa’s grand halls and admire the exceptional craftsmanship and vibrant colors of the mosaics, which have endured for centuries.
The Villa Romana del Casale is a testament to the opulence and artistry of the Roman empire and a must-see destination for anyone exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDuration and Pricing
Although the tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, it offers a comprehensive experience that covers two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Priced at $267.53 per person, the tour is limited to a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour includes:
- Hotel pickup and air-conditioned transportation
- An English-speaking driver who provides information
- Admission fees and audio-guide for the Valley of the Temples
- Booking fees, fuel, parking, and VAT
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence.
Whether seeking ancient history or stunning Roman mosaics, this tour provides an immersive journey through Sicily’s cultural treasures.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Pickup from your hotel is provided, along with transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. An English-speaking driver accompanies you throughout the journey, offering information along the way.
Admission fees and audio-guides for the Valley of the Temples are covered. However, the admission fee for the Roman Villa del Casale isn’t included and must be paid on-site.
Plus, meals, beverages, and gratuities aren’t part of the package.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking this tour is straightforward. Travelers can easily secure their spot by visiting the tour provider’s website and completing the online booking form.
Once the booking is confirmed, customers will receive a detailed confirmation email with all the necessary information. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning.
Key features include:
- Simple online booking process
- Confirmation email with all details
- Free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior
This convenient booking experience and generous cancellation policy ensure a stress-free planning process for those eager to explore the Valley of Temples and Villa Romana del Casale.
Practical Information
When planning this tour, travelers should keep in mind a few practical considerations.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking at both the Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.
While the driver provides information, they aren’t a licensed tourist guide, so they can’t escort visitors inside the monuments.
The tour requires a minimum number of participants, and if this isn’t met, travelers will be offered an alternative date or experience, or a full refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary Based on My Interests?
While this tour has a set itinerary, the provider may be able to accommodate minor customizations based on the traveler’s interests. Guests should inquire about flexibility when booking to ensure the experience aligns with their preferences.
How Should I Dress for the Tour?
The tour operator recommends wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes that can handle uneven terrain at the archaeological sites. Loose, breathable clothing is also advised to stay cool and comfortable throughout the day’s activities.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 7 participants. The small group size ensures a more personalized and intimate experience for travelers exploring the Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?
Yes, participants can bring their own snacks and water on the tour. However, the tour does not include any meals, so travelers should plan accordingly to have their own provisions during the day.
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
The tour operates in English, but other languages like Italian, French, German, or Spanish may be available upon request, subject to the availability of multilingual drivers. Customers should inquire about language options when booking the tour.
Recap
Discover the captivating ancient ruins and exquisite mosaics that make this journey from Agrigento to Taormina truly unforgettable. Explore the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale, immersing oneself in Sicily’s rich cultural heritage. With personalized attention in a small group, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the wonders of these iconic sites.
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