Best of Western Sicily – Escorted
This trip visits the wonders of Western Sicily: the finest Greek temples outside Greece at Agrigento, Selinunte and Segesta in their evocative settings, exploring a fascinating history of Carthaginian, Greek and Roman invasion.
It visits ancient salt pans, the vineyards and wines of Marsala; the exquisite off-shore Egadi Islands with startling pre-historic cave paintings and the lovely medieval hilltop town of Erice, before arriving in the capital, Palermo, to explore its lively markets, the glories of its Norman and Baroque palaces and oratories, and to visit the splendid, mosaicked Cathedral at Monreale, a short distance inland of Palermo.
Duration: 8 days
Trip dates:
25 Oct - 01 Nov 2026
Itinerary
After arrival at Catania airport we drive (2 hours) to Agrigento, site of the ancient Greek city of Akragas, with its splendid Doric temples. We stay for two nights at a 4* hotel in the country, not far from the archaeological sites.
Site of the ancient Greek city of Akragas. Founded in the 6th century BC it was one of the major cities of Grecia Magna (larger Greece). The ancient city was largely abandoned during the Byzantine era, its inhabitants moving up to the acropolis (citadel), before it fell under Norman rule in 1087. Much of the ancient city is still unexcavated, but the seven Doric temples are its most renowned sites, and are some of the best-preserved classical monuments outside Greece itself.
Elegantly converted manor house situated between Agrigento and the sea
We walk (2.5 hours) with a local archaeological guide, to visit the ‘Valley of the Temples’, an extensive site dating from the 6th century BC, including amongst others the majestic 5th century BC ‘Temple of Concordia’. We also visit the fine archaeological museum before returning to our hotel for our picnic lunch. Free afternoon to relax in the hotel's gardens, or drive down to the sea, to a sandy beach near the white cliffs known as the ‘Scala dei Turchi’, where you can swim.
Explore the magnificent Valley of the Temples, home to the well preserved Temples of Concordia, Juno, Heracles and Zeus. Visit the Regional Archaeological Museum for ancient artifacts, then wander the charming historic centre with its Baroque churches and narrow lanes. Nearby, marvel at the dazzling white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi and the Garden of Kolymbethra—an oasis of citrus groves and archaeological wonders.
Elegantly converted manor house situated between Agrigento and the sea
We drive (1.5 hours) to visit the majestic ruins of Selinunte. We explore the site of this once-great city - situated on two hills overlooking the sea, with its ruined temples, fortifications and other buildings dating back to the 7th century BC with an archaeological guide (2.5 hours). After our picnic lunch, we continue to Marsala (1.5 hours), pausing en route to view a 5C BC limestone quarry from which rock was extracted to build one of Selinunte's temples. Our hotel, where we spend two nights, is on a private wine estate.
Another important Greek coastal colony, known as Selinus. Unlike Agrigento the city has been abandoned for over 2,000 years following its destruction in the 1st Punic War (250 BC).The city still lies in ruins, picturesquely overgrown, though one Doric temple, called ‘Temple E’ was rebuilt in the 20th century.
Sprawling wine estate with views of the Mediterranean
We drive (15 mins) to visit the extraordinary salt pans of Marsala, and then take a boat across the lagoon to visit the Phoenician settlement of Mothia (optional walk round the island, with its interesting remains, 1.5 hours). Optional late afternoon walk (1.5-2 hours) through the picturesque vine-clad estate.
Known in the wider world for its fortified wine, Marsala is a port situated on the western-most point of the island. The modern name derives from the Arabic Marsa Allah (Port of God) and the port was where Garibaldi began his campaign to unify Italy in 1860. Apart from the wine, its chief interest nowadays is the restored Baroque centre and archaeological museum.
Sprawling wine estate with views of the Mediterranean
Early start, to travel by road (1 hour) to the port of Trapani, from where a hydrofoil takes us to the small, sparsely populated island of Levanzo (one of the Egadi Islands). We travel by jeep or boat (depending on the conditions) to visit a grotto with fine prehistoric cave paintings. Optional return to village on foot along a scenic, rugged coastal path (1.5 hours). After lunch in a local café on the island, we return to the mainland and continue (30 mins) by road to our hotel in the quaint fortified town of Erice, perched on a nearby hilltop, with magnificent views.
Levanzo - The smallest of the main Egadi Islands. The majority of its 450 inhabitants live in the tiny port, whilst its visitors admire the prehistoric drawings in the Grotta del Genovese.
Erice - Atop a 750m mountain of the same name, Erice was named after the Greek hero Eryx. Arab, Norman and Medieval architecture can be seen within the atmospheric network of narrow streets, castles and churches.
15th century former convent, in excellent location
We drive (45 mins) to a picturesque coastal nature reserve and walk along a fine path with sweeping sea views and concealed bays (opportunities for swimming - 1-3 hrs). After lunch, we drive (30 mins) to visit the Temple of Segesta. Built in the 5th century BC, in Greek Doric style, by the Elimi people, whose origins are unknown, it is one of the most perfectly preserved monuments to survive from antiquity. We continue by road to Palermo (1 hour), where we stay for two nights.
One of the major cities of the indigenous Sicilian Elymian people, and like its neighbours was ruled by both the Carthaginians and Romans before being destroyed by the Vandals. Its finest monuments are its well-preserved Doric temple and dramatic Roman theatre with panoramic views.
Friendly, boutique hotel in heart of historic centre
We spend the morning exploring the vibrant historic centre of Palermo, visiting some of its most important churches and oratories with a local guide. After lunch we drive (25 mins) to Monreale, to visit its cathedral, the great masterpiece of medieval architecture, still perfectly preserved after eight centuries, with its superb Byzantine mosaics and fine cloister. Return to Palermo to enjoy further sightseeing or relax at the hotel, before walking out to dinner in a restaurant.
Palermo - Principal city and administrative seat of Sicily, founded by the Phoenicians in the 8thcentury and ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, house of Aragon and Spain among others.
Cathedral of Monreale - Basilica with nave, two aisles and arguably the finest Romanesque cloister in Italy.
Friendly, boutique hotel in heart of historic centre
We visit the Palazzo dei Normanni with its 'Royal Apartments' and magnificent Cappella Palatina before departing for the airport.
Trip Planner
Walking & Terrain
Easy to moderate walking. This is an 8-day trip, with walks offered on 5 days, plus sightseeing. The length of each day varies from 2 hours to a maximum of 4 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from group to group, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing, rests or siestas.
Much of our walking is exploration of archaeological sites and town walking (e.g. Palermo), so the pace is naturally quite slow. The terrain can nevertheless be rough or rocky in places and trekking poles are strongly recommended for those not comfortable with uneven terrain. There are few prolonged gradients apart from a notable descent/re-ascent to visit the prehistoric cave paintings on the island of Levanzo (45 mins each way).
Our support vehicles allow you the flexibility to walk 'as much or as little as you like', with drop-offs and pick-ups appropriate to the given day's itinerary. The Tour Leader will tell you each evening about the following day's walking options.
Walking & Terrain
Easy to moderate walking. This is an 8-day trip, with walks offered on 5 days, plus sightseeing. The length of each day varies from 2 hours to a maximum of 4 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from group to group, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing, rests or siestas.
Much of our walking is exploration of archaeological sites and town walking (e.g. Palermo), so the pace is naturally quite slow. The terrain can nevertheless be rough or rocky in places and trekking poles are strongly recommended for those not comfortable with uneven terrain. There are few prolonged gradients apart from a notable descent/re-ascent to visit the prehistoric cave paintings on the island of Levanzo (45 mins each way).
Our support vehicles allow you the flexibility to walk 'as much or as little as you like', with drop-offs and pick-ups appropriate to the given day's itinerary. The Tour Leader will tell you each evening about the following day's walking options.
Your Personal ATG Route Manager
Route Book
The ATG Route Book is a detailed, day-to-day guide. The book anticipates your needs with easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer and is the key to the success of an independent holiday with us.
Walking App
Your Route Manager can provide you with a link to download an app to your smartphone. This app provides the GPS track for your route on your phone. You can use this digital support to find your position and navigate the route, even without an internet connection or mobile phone reception.
Accommodation & Meals
The hotels we stay in are characteristic of the area and the towns we visit.
All evening meals are included and are taken either in the hotel or in local restaurants. At dinner, the Tour Manager will tell you about each evening’s menu and if there is anything else that you would prefer, you have only to ask. The dress code is smart-casual. In Palermo, a jacket or skirt/dress would not be inappropriate but is not necessary.
Each day the Tour Manager will meet you with one of ATG’s celebrated picnic lunches. You will be greeted with mineral water and a starter followed by wine and an abundant lunch of local organic produce and specialities. Picnics are colourful, varied and nutritious. Buffet-style, there is a choice of meats, cheeses, substantial salads, bread and fruit…and pudding. If it is cold there will be a hot dish.
Food & Wine
Sicilian cuisine is one of contrasts, simple peasant cooking and the richer, more exotic styles of the invading civilisations. Its varied style is also characterised by the intense and pure flavour of the local ingredients. The Sicilians readily admit to the influences of the past: pasta came to Sicily with the Arabs, the Greeks introduced wine, honey and olives, the Byzantines brought sharp, pungent cheeses and spicy biscuits, the Normans salt cod, and the Spanish the infamous tomato sauce and sweet and sour flavours. Fish is one of the glories of Sicilian cooking, prepared in every possible way, including exotic fish stews and soups. However, the island’s large, mountainous interior means that good quality locally reared meat is also available on most restaurant menus. The mild winter climate and long summers mean that the fruit and vegetables are less seasonal than in northern Italy and the Sicilians have developed a wide range of delicious vegetable antipasti. Aubergines, artichokes and peppers are often roasted over charcoal fires and sprinkled with garlic, olive oil and chopped parsley; however, sweetness and spices occur with equal frequency in local dishes, their presence dating back to the island’s long period of Arab domination. Arabic influence is particularly strong in the west of the island, with couscous a speciality (a couscous festival is held every September). This influence, together with the extreme poverty that the island has experienced in more recent times may also explain the prevalence of deep-fried snacks in Sicily: various kinds of fritter, croquette and doughnut, sweet and savoury, are eaten with enthusiasm all over the island.
Sicily (together with Puglia) may be the largest producer of wine in Italy, but in recent years the activity of a new generation of winemakers has seen Sicilian wines improving significantly and gaining considerable international recognition. We sample a good selection of white and red Sicilian wines during the trip, in particular those from the renowned wine-making areas in the western provinces: Agrigento, Palermo, Trapani, Marsala. Notwithstanding its increasing standing, most of the grape varieties used in Sicilian wines remain little known outside Sicily. Popular white grape varieties include Insolia, Catarrato, Grillo and Caricante, (this last grown almost exclusively on Mount Etna). Red-wine production is dominated by Nero d’Avola grape, but this variety is often supported by the lesser-known varieties Nerello or Perricone for added structure. The Sicilian islands also produce some lovely white dessert wines based on the white Moscato (muscat) and Malvasia grapes. Marsala is perhaps Sicily’s most famous wine export. It was originally a wine fortified with alcohol to stabilise it during sea transportation but the popularity abroad of its strong, distinctive taste is largely due to the English merchant John Woodhouse, who in 1773 realised its similarities to port and sherry — then hugely popular in England. Traditionally served as an aperitif between the first and second courses of a meal, it too is now most commonly consumed as a dessert wine, or as an accompaniment to cheeses. Like most wines, Marsala is classified according to its age, colour and sweetness.
History
Sicily, straddling the Mediterranean between Italy and Africa, was coveted from earliest times and contested by the Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans. These civilisations left outstanding monuments; and the Arabs, Normans, Germans, French and Spanish that followed left further magnificent buildings: symbols quite unrepresentative of the life of the Sicilians, who through the centuries have remained poor and exploited. Sicilians only regarded themselves as part of Italy after being impacted by Garibaldi’s idealism in 1860. In C20 the island nevertheless experienced mass emigration as people sought an escape from poverty overseas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Escorted trips are accompanied by two of ATG’s fully trained Tour Consultants, from the moment they welcome you at the airport, through to the end-of trip airport transfer. The Tour Manager looks after the practical side of the trip – luggage transport, hotels, food and drink. The Tour Leader will lead each day’s walk, and after dinner each evening will tell you about the following day’s itinerary. Both Tour Consultants will explain their role, and how the trip will run, on the first evening at dinner.
Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so that our Tour Consultants can ensure that you are catered for during your holiday. Most dietary restrictions do not present a problem on our trips and the Tour Manager can discuss your requirements in more detail with you at the start of your trip.
The walks are graded according to difficulty but you can walk as much or as little as you like.
Easy: walking along well-established paths and tracks with some short ascents/descents. These trips are suitable for most people who enjoy occasional exercise.
Easy to Moderate: walking along well-established paths and tracks. Occasional loose (gravel) surfaces. Ascents/descents up to 1 hour. These trips are suitable for most people who have a reasonable level of fitness.
Moderate: walking along a variety of paths and tracks. Occasional uneven areas. Ascents/descents 1-2 hours. These trips are suitable for those who have a reasonable to good level of fitness.
Moderate to Challenging: walking along varied paths and surfaces, occasionally challenging, with ascents/descents of 2-3 hours. These trips are suitable for more experienced walkers who have a good level of fitness.
Single travellers will be booked into a double room which will carry a single occupancy supplement.
Flights are not included in the price of your ATG holiday and should be booked independently. We will advise you of the group meeting time at the destination airport and return transfer time to the airport at the end of your trip to enable you to book compatible flights.
Yes. All of our escorted trips can be booked privately, you can book a set departure or a date to suit you (subject to availability). In most instances if the group is 13-16 clients we will offer the trip at the published price. For 12 or fewer clients we would provide a bespoke costing.
On escorted trips everything is included (per the published itinerary) apart from items of a personal nature and snacks or drinks outside of the set meals.
We are delighted to book extensions for you at either end of your trip. We only book hotels with which we have an established relationship and where we can ensure a high level of service and enjoyment. If you would like an extension hotel booking please indicate this during the booking process and we will contact you with pricing information.
ATG does not provide any form of insurance cover. However, it is a condition of booking that you have fully comprehensive insurance cover, including:
Cancellation/curtailment up to the cost of the holiday (preferably including flights)
Medical emergencies and repatriation
Travel delay / missed departure
Lost or stolen personal belongings
Personal liability
Legal expenses
Natural Disasters
Although most credit card companies offer travel insurance as something that is included when paying the balance with the card, it may be advisable to check that the cover offered is what you expect it to be. Very few companies include cancellation and curtailment or medical expenses. Whatever the insurance policy you have taken out, please read the documentation carefully. Please ensure also that you take it with you on your trip and refer to it in the case of any claim or emergency.
Yes, please click here for what to bring. A packing checklist is also included with your booking confirmation.
Sustainability
ATG was founded on principles of conservation and sustainable development. It was the first company to win the tourism industry’s two top awards: Tourism for Tomorrow (UK) and the World Legacy Award (National Geographic and Conservation International USA) and also the first to have an accredited Environmental Management System.
Everyone who walks with ATG contributes to the ATG Trust, which funds projects that benefit local communities in the regions visited. By supporting these initiatives, ATG promotes sustainable tourism. Past projects have included heritage restoration projects, environmental conservation and educational projects.
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