Two entrances, a gently sloping path, and along the way some of the most impressive temples of antiquity: The most enjoyable way to experience the Valley of the Temples is to start at the Temple of Juno (Porta Giunone) at the top and walk westward downhill toward Porta V. This way you’ll see the highlights in perfect order and save yourself the climb. A pedestrian bridge connects the upper row of temples with the lower area – the crossing is well signposted.
The Walking Route
Start your walk at Porta Giunone and linger at the Temple of Juno perched high above the coastline. From here, the spectacular views stretch all the way to the Temple of Concordia.
The path, the Via Sacra, then leads you to the undisputed star of the site: the Temple of Concordia. In front of it lies the striking bronze-green statue of the Fallen Icarus by Igor Mitoraj – one of the most photographed spots in the valley.
As you continue downhill, the Temple of Heracles comes into view, its columns the oldest in the complex. A little further on is the vast area of the Olympeion, or Temple of Zeus. The route ends at the Dioscuri (Castor & Pollux), their elegant columns rising dramatically beside the sanctuaries of the chthonic deities. Even though only a few pillars remain, it’s still one of the valley’s most photogenic corners.
If you’re craving shade and the scent of citrus, step into the Giardino della Kolymbethra, tucked right between the western temples. It’s easy to reach from both entrances (Porta V is closest). Tickets can be bought separately or as part of a combo.
Round off your visit at the Pietro Griffo Archaeological Museum to dive deeper into the region’s history. Go there first if you arrive in the early afternoon – not only will you gain context for what you’re about to see, you’ll also catch the temples in the softer late-day light.
Practical Tips
- Most of the path is exposed to the sun – bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- The trail is well maintained but dusty: closed shoes are a good idea.
- Don’t rush. The site’s scale is best appreciated with time for breaks and photos.
Best Time to Visit
For photos, mornings are unbeatable. Many temples are oriented east, so the light hits their façades directly. Late afternoons are another great choice – cooler, with the ruins bathed in golden light.
In summer, there are often evening/night openings: seeing the temples illuminated against the dark Sicilian sky is a nice experience.
How Long to Stay
Set aside around 2–3 hours for the temples themselves, plus extra if you’d like to see the museum and the garden.
Getting There
By car, the easiest places to park are at the top (Giunone) or bottom (Porta V) entrances, both with official lots. To avoid walking back uphill, start at the top, finish at Porta V, and catch the small seasonal shuttle or a taxi back to where you began.
If you’re coming by public bus, line 1 runs to Porta V and line 2 to Porta Giunone. Both depart from Piazzale Rosselli, Agrigento’s main bus station. City transport
Parking
- Temple of Giunone Parking – Via Panoramica dei Templi (cars)
- Porta Quinta – Sant’Anna Parking – Via Caduti di Marzabotto (cars and campers, bus stop)
- Contrada Cugno Vela Parking – Villaseta (tour buses).
Parking fees: Motorcycle €2, Car €3, Camper €5
Attention: Parking on the roadside is prohibited – it is monitored.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the entrance. The first Sunday of the month often means free entry, though expect bigger crowds.
The park is open daily, but hours vary with the seasons – check ahead.