This captivating tour takes travelers on a journey through Sicily’s rich history and cultural heritage. Starting from Agrigento, visitors will explore the renowned Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Doric temples. The tour then moves to the stunning Roman Villa of Casale in Piazza Armerina, another UNESCO site famous for its exquisite ancient mosaics. With a full-day itinerary, air-conditioned transportation, and guided tours, this immersive experience promises to transport you back in time and leave you eager to uncover more of Sicily’s captivating past.
Key Points
- This tour visits two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Valley of the Temples and the Roman Villa of Casale – during an 8.5-hour journey from Agrigento to Taormina.
- The tour includes a 2-hour audio-guided tour of the Valley of the Temples, known for its well-preserved Doric temples dating back to the 5th century BC.
- Travelers can independently explore the Roman Villa of Casale for 1.5 hours, admiring its exceptional collection of intricate and colorful Roman mosaics.
- Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned van with an English-speaking driver, and the tour can be booked now and paid for later.
- The tour has a small group size of up to 7 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Details
In an article titled ‘From Agrigento to Taormina: Valley of Temples & Roman Villa‘, it’s now time to discuss the FIRST SUBTOPIC ‘Tour Details‘.
The tour starts from £202.16 per person and lasts for 8.5 hours.
Customers can reserve now and pay later, with a small group limited to 7 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes pickup from Agrigento and dropoff at Taormina, allowing visitors to experience the Valley of the Temples and the Roman Villa of Casale in Piazza Armerina, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned van with an English-speaking driver, and includes admission fees for the Valley of the Temples.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Piazza Armerina.
Pickup and Dropoff
The tour pickup takes place in Agrigento, with the dropoff occurring at the destination of Taormina. This ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s exploration. The pickup and dropoff locations are conveniently located, allowing participants to easily access the tour.
| Pickup | Duration | Dropoff |
|---|---|---|
| Agrigento | 8.5 hours | Taormina |
| Centrally located | Full-day tour | Coastal town |
| Convenient for participants | Sufficient time for activities | End point of tour |
The transportation provided is an air-conditioned van, driven by an English-speaking driver, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey from start to finish.
Stops and Highlights
The tour visits two UNESCO World Heritage sites, starting with a 2-hour audio-guided tour of the impressive Valley of the Temples.
Afterward, participants enjoy an independent 1.5-hour exploration of the remarkable Roman Villa of Casale in Piazza Armerina. This villa is known for its exquisite mosaics that depict scenes from daily life in ancient Rome.
Travelers can wander through the villa’s grand rooms and courtyards, marveling at the intricate and well-preserved mosaics. The tour provides an opportunity to explore Sicily’s rich history and admire its UNESCO-listed cultural treasures, offering a well-rounded experience for both archaeology and history enthusiasts.
Valley of the Temples
Spanning over a vast expanse, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento invites visitors on a captivating journey through ancient Greek civilization.
Its remarkably well-preserved Doric temples, dating back to the 5th century BC, stand as testament to the architectural prowess and cultural legacy of the region.
During the 2-hour audio-guided tour, visitors will be mesmerized by the grandeur of landmarks like the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Juno, and the impressive ruins of the Temple of Zeus.
The serene, otherworldly atmosphere allows travelers to truly enjoy the rich history and mythology that permeates this UNESCO World Heritage site.
More Great Tours NearbyRoman Villa of Casale
After exploring the grandeur of the Valley of the Temples, the tour takes visitors to the magnificent Roman Villa of Casale in Piazza Armerina.
This 1.5-hour independent visit allows guests to marvel at the exceptionally well-preserved Roman mosaics that adorn the floors of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Covering an area of over 3,500 square meters, the villa boasts an array of intricate and colorful mosaics depicting mythological scenes, hunting parties, and daily life in ancient Rome.
Visitors can wander through the various rooms and halls, admiring the remarkable attention to detail and the impressive scale of this remarkable archaeological treasure.
With free time to explore at their own pace, guests can fully enjoy the history and beauty of this captivating Roman villa.
UNESCO World Heritage
Both the Valley of the Temples and the Roman Villa of Casale are UNESCO World Heritage sites, recognized for their exceptional cultural and historical significance. Collectively, these two remarkable archaeological wonders offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Sicily.
| Site | Year Inscribed | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Valley of the Temples | 1997 | (i), (ii), (iii) |
| Roman Villa of Casale | 1997 | (ii), (iii), (iv) |
The Valley of the Temples is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Doric temples, while the Roman Villa of Casale boasts an exceptional collection of intricate mosaics. Both sites showcase the cultural and architectural legacy of Sicily’s past, making them must-see destinations for anyone exploring the island’s rich history.
Vehicle and Inclusions
The tour package includes an air-conditioned van and an English-speaking driver to transport visitors comfortably between the two UNESCO World Heritage sites. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey, allowing travelers to focus on taking in the stunning landscapes and historical sights along the way.
The admission fees for the Valley of the Temples are covered, providing hassle-free access to this remarkable archaeological site.
Plus, the package includes booking fees, fuel, parking, and driver expenses, making it a comprehensive and convenient option for those seeking to explore these remarkable cultural treasures.
With these inclusions, travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the rich history and beauty of Sicily.
Exclusions and Restrictions
While the tour package includes various amenities, there are a few exclusions and restrictions to be aware of.
The admission fee for the Roman Villa in Piazza Armerina isn’t covered and must be paid on-site. Plus, the tour doesn’t include gratuities, tips, meals, or beverages, so travelers will need to budget for these expenses separately.
It’s important to note that the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the included activities and transportation may present accessibility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Take Pictures During the Tour?
Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour provider encourages visitors to capture the stunning historical sites and scenery along the way, though they may need to follow any on-site rules regarding photography.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for the tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Modesty is recommended when visiting religious sites like the Valley of the Temples.
Can We Make Any Stops Along the Way?
Yes, the tour allows for stops along the way. The tour includes a 2-hour audio-guided tour of the Valley of the Temples and a 1.5-hour independent visit to the Roman Villa of Casale in Piazza Armerina.
Do We Need to Bring Our Own Snacks and Water?
Travelers should bring their own snacks and water, as the tour does not include meals or beverages. The tour focuses on visits to the destinations, so you will need to manage their own refreshment needs during the day.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
Unfortunately, the tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. The tour price of £202.16 per person is fixed, though free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Recap
This comprehensive tour provides an immersive journey through Sicily’s captivating history and cultural heritage.
Travelers explore the renowned Valley of the Temples and the stunning Roman Villa of Casale, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
With air-conditioned transportation and guided tours, the tour offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore Sicily’s rich past.
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