Published on Sep, 2023

One of the largest archaeological sites in the Mediterranean and a UNESCO world heritage site. The site has 8 temples, constructed in dedication to Greek Gods 2500 years ago, with impressive sections still standing, and evidence of collapsed temples still remain. It is considered second to Athens’ Acropolis in Athens, Greece. It was a fascinating part of our stay, and a unique opportunity to be absorbed in history and witness 1st hand how temples were constructed. Advice is to arrive early in the day, or later, avoiding midday sun as there is little shade and a lot of walking. Scala Dei Turchi - interpreted as Turkish Stairs one of mothers natures gifts. Steps made from granite and chalk that shelter the sea. Access is via a steep stepped path, so requires reasonable fitness to complete. Parking is available on the roadside above, but was very busy when we visited in late August. We were also unable to access the stairs as it has been cordoned off, but was able to get close to see the beautiful landmark. Worth visiting both on the same day.

Published on Jan, 2020

Good experience for this trip… The Valley of the Temples is certainly the most important testimony of the ancient, classical culture of Sicily... Turkish Steps is the good view

Published on Oct, 2019

We wanted to see as much of Sicily as possible during our week there, so this trip was a must, and it didn't disappoint. The pickup point was easy to find from our accommodations in Catania, and we left early for the two hour plus ride across the island to Agrigento. Fortunately, our guide Daniele spoke fluent English and was a big fan of American TV and movies, so we chatted happily the whole way, making the time pass quickly while taking in the beautiful countryside. Our first stop was the Valley of the Temples, where the Greek ruins were spread out across a stretch of land with breath-taking views. Prepare for this portion of the trip by bringing a hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water. Fortunately, all of these were on sale where we entered the park and bought our tickets, and there was a small cafe about half way through the park where we were able to stop, rest and have a cool granita di limone before moving on. The next stop was lunch, which we ate out in front of a nearby pasticceria. The meal was pizza and focaccia, along with very good Sicilian wine and plenty of water to re-hydrate after our walk in the sun, followed up by sweets. We took advantage of the opportunity to purchase a beautiful tart for dessert for our dinner at home that night, along with a bag of cookies - just in case. After lunch we headed to the beach, and the Turkish Steps. This part of the trip involved walking down several flights of stairs to the sand and then a good distance down the shore to reach the Turkish Steps. I let my husband go alone on that hike, which he pronounced well worth the effort, and settled happily under an umbrella with a coffee to watch the sun bathers come and go. After more water and a rest stop, we loaded back up for the ride home, tired but happy. We were anxious to see these particular sites, and we're glad we went. I will warn other travelers that this trip involves a long van ride and a lot of walking in the sun, with both stairs and ramps. It might not be a great fit for those with very small children or for whom a full day of walking it a little too much. But if you are fit, or just determined to see some of the best preserved Greek ruins anywhere in the world, this trip is for you.