ISSIMO Travel Guide to Agrigento, Italy’s Capital of Culture 2025
Here’s how to plan a visit to this Sicilian gem
Every year, Italy names a capital of culture – a city designated by the Ministry of Culture and a commission of experts to showcase its artistic, cultural and creative side.
For 2025, the title has been given to Agrigento, a hilltop city on Sicily‘s southwest shore that’s long been known for its proximity to the Valley of the Temples, a vast archaeological site that’s arguably one of the most outstanding examples of ancient Greek art and architecture.
If you’re a history buff and a Sicily enthusiast (we hear you!) chances are you already have this destination on your radar. And if you don’t, then what better opportunity than this to plan a trip? With a rich cultural program that spans special events, concerts, exhibitions, and contemporary art installations, there’s no better time to visit Agrigento, and enjoy its cultural and natural heritage combined.
Here’s all you need to know to make the most of it. Ready to explore? Andiamo!
see
Agrigento’s crown jewel, the Valle dei Templi, is an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the ruined ancient city of Akragas. Only 3 km south of Agrigento and split into a western and an eastern zone, it’s home to some of the best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece, such as the Temple della Concordia and the Temple di Ercole – two remarkable edifices dating from 430 BC and the late 6th century BC respectively. Visit in the afternoon for the perfect golden glow, or early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Short on time? Then focus on exploring the eastern zone, where the best-preserved temples are.
Fun fact
Covering a whopping 1,300 hectares, the Valley of the Temples is one of the largest archaeological sites in the world, and the largest archaeological park in Europe and the Mediterranean basin.
Next up on your Argrigento visit – well, quite, as it’s only a short drive away – is the Scala dei Turchi, a dazzling white limestone cliff that dramatically cascades into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. It’s an ultra cinematic sunbathing spot, so bring your swimsuit and your best La Dolce Vita pose.
Back in Agrigento, wander through the charming old town, a maze of narrow alleys, Baroque churches, and hidden courtyards. Don’t miss the Cathedral of San Gerlando for its sweeping views over the city and coastline.
eat
Agrigento is not only a place of historical, natural and cultural interest – it also offers an extraordinary gastronomic experience.
La Scala, a centro storico institution set in an 1800s palazzo, is a good place to start exploring it. Reinvented Sicilian cuisine with a focus on seasonality and a strong sense of belonging is on the menu here, meaning dishes that respect tradition while still being creative.
Family-run pasticceria Infurna is the place to go for all-things sweet – cassate, cannoli, almond paste, you name it – while Cusà is where you go to savour a cuisine that winks at tradition and street food, with items like panko-breaded seafood meatballs, delicious busiata (typical pasta from western Sicily) with Trapani-style pesto and fish sandwiches you’ll want to have multiple times over.
Last but not least, make a beeline for caponata at Osteria Expanificio (best if paired with a crisp glass of local Grillo wine) and a lemon granita at Caffè San Pietro for a refreshing break.
do
The rolling hills around Agrigento are dotted with wineries producing fantastic Nero d’Avola and Catarratto. Book a tasting at wineries Baglio del Cristo di Campobello or Baglio Bonsignore, only a short drive away, then go back to town and grab a vino at Decanto, a favourite enoteca among locals to sip your way through Sicilian terroir.
To get to see Agrigento in all its splendour, consider booking a walking tour, the best way to explore the steep pathways of the city centre, its many churches – don’t miss the Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Greci – and the oh-so charming Teatro Luigi Pirandello, built in 1870 and a grand example of neoclassical style architecture.
Last but not least, consider visiting Agrigento during one of its sagre, like the Sagra del Mandorlo in Fiore in the spring, when folk dancers, parades, and floral displays take over the city.