I am staying in Syracuse in October. It is a drive of at least 2.5 hours to Agrigento.
Is it really worth spending 5 hours in the car to see?? (Not that worried about the drive - just dont want to waste a day!)

I though the ruins in Agrigento were spectacular and a definite don't miss.

I agree. Plus you can see some more of Sicily on your way there and back.

I would definitely go. We thought Agrigento was great.

Just want to add that the best preserved temple in Agrigento, the Temple of Concord, is made from limestone therefore is in tan color. If you imagine it in glistening white marble like the Parthenon in Athens, it is not.

If you do go, Google the location of "Villa Kephos Ristorante Agrigento" right next to the archeological site to enjoy a bountiful lunch in a beautiful outdoor setting.

I suppose penny made some research in the web. If he doesn't like Greek temples and is not interested in European History, it doesn't make sense for him to go to Agrigento.

Absolutely do go: Loved Syracusa but Agrigento is not to be missed.

<< It is a drive of at least 2.5 hours to Agrigento >>

Viamichelin says it's 2.75 hours each way and I always find that I need to add 25% to driving times given by web sites so you're looking at 3.25 hours each way.

If you like temples and haven't seen many of them then do go to Agrigento.

The temples and museum at Agrigento are amazing, and Agrigento itself has an interesting medieval core. You might want to consider staying overnight, as the ruins have almost no shade and it can be brutally hot. Do take lots of water, sunscreen, and a hat with a shading brim.

I agree with kja. If you can, try to spend the night because that would be a very long drive.

Agrigento was a highlight in a trip of highlights. I hope you enjoy Sicily.

And if you stay a night in middle Sicily, you might also check out the mosaics near Piazza Armerina. In an old Roman hunting villa at Casale are some of the best mosaics in the world. Both Agrigento and the Roman villa are UN World Heritage Sites.

Many thanks for all of these replies! I shall definitely go then.
We are making another day trip to Villa Casale/ Piazza Armerina too.
THanks for the idea for lunch too.
WHat a great forum.

Speaking of lunch, there's a nice restaurant just up the road from the villa at Casale. It's called La Ruota; we had a very good meal there sitting outside with a view of the garden.

I agree about staying overnight in Agrigento; the driving is a little arduous. We were staying near Catania and drove to Piazza Armerina, toured a bit, then continued on to Agrigento. Saw the temples in the late afternoon/evening (they are spectacular at sunset). Overnighted at a little B&B, then drove back to the east coast, stopping in lovely Ragusa for lunch and some wandering.