Porto Empedocle Cruise Port Guide: Reaching the Valley of the Temples

Porto Empedocle serves as the cruise port for accessing Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring remarkably preserved ancient Greek ruins. Located approximately 8 kilometers from the archaeological park, visitors can reach the temples by taxi, organized shore excursions, or local bus. The journey takes roughly 20-30 minutes depending on transportation choice.

Quick Port Facts

Fact	Detail
Port Type	Small cargo and passenger port
Distance to Valley of the Temples	6-8 km (20-30 minutes)
Distance to Agrigento Town	15-20 km
Language	Italian (limited English)
Time Zone	Central European Time (CET/CEST)
Currency	Euro (EUR)
Port Website	Visit Sicily

Port Day Checklist

• Save your cruise ship’s emergency contact number before disembarking
• Bring euros in small denominations for taxis, entry fees, and restaurants
• Pack water, sunscreen, hat, and comfortable walking shoes for the archaeological site
• Download offline maps of Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples
• Confirm your terminal assignment (G or J) with your cruise line the night before
• Set your return alarm for at least 90 minutes before ship departure
• Bring your passport or cruise ship ID
• Check Valley of the Temples opening hours for your specific date

Want to know more about other cruise ports? Check out our comprehensive guides to Mediterranean cruise ports in Sicily and Mediterranean cruise ports in Italy.

Porto Empedocle Map

Porto Empedocle sits on Sicily’s southern coast, directly opposite the hilltop town of Agrigento. The port handles both cargo and cruise traffic, with terminals located along the harbour’s eastern edge. The Valley of the Temples archaeological park lies inland from Agrigento’s modern town centre.

Can You Walk to Town from the Port?

Let me be clear: Porto Empedocle is not a walking port if you’re headed to the Valley of the Temples. You’re looking at roughly 6-7 kilometres through industrial areas and residential neighbourhoods that don’t offer much in the way of attractions. Walking would take well over an hour, and you’d arrive exhausted before even starting your temple visit.

• Porto Empedocle town centre: About 1-1.5 km from the port terminals, achievable on foot if you fancy a quick stroll around a working Sicilian port town, but there’s genuinely not much to see here.
• Valley of the Temples: Not walkable in any practical sense for cruise passengers on a time-limited port day.
• Agrigento town: Even further than the temples at 15-20 km, requiring motorized transport.

How to Get Around from Porto Empedocle & Shore Transportation

Porto Empedocle functions purely as a gateway, so your transport decision is critical. The three main options are ship excursions, private taxis or transfers, and public buses, each with distinct advantages depending on your priorities.

Ship Shore Excursions

• The safest option timing-wise, as the ship won’t leave without its own tour group
• Typically includes transport, entry tickets, and a guide who explains the historical context
• Expect to pay anywhere from 60 to 120 euros per person depending on your cruise line
• The downside is less flexibility, fixed schedules, and larger group sizes that can feel rushed at popular photo spots
• Book early as these excursions often sell out for this port

Private Taxi or Transfer

• Taxis wait outside the port terminals with clear signage for the Valley of the Temples
• Round-trip fares typically range from 60 to 120 euros for the vehicle (not per person), making this economical if you share with other passengers
• Agree on the price before getting in and confirm whether it’s one-way or return
• Drivers often give you their mobile number so you can call when ready to return
• This gives you complete control over timing and allows you to linger as long as you want
• Some taxis will wait at the site for an agreed hourly rate

NCC (Private Chauffeur Service)

• More comfortable than standard taxis and can be pre-booked online
• Professional drivers who can tailor routes to include multiple stops like Scala dei Turchi
• More expensive but offers flexibility and comfort
• Best option if you want to maximize your day beyond just the temples

Public Bus

• The budget option but genuinely challenging for cruise passengers with tight schedules
• Requires a bus from Porto Empedocle to Agrigento, then another connection or taxi to the Valley of the Temples
• Schedules don’t always align well with cruise ship timing
• Tickets cost just a few euros but you risk missing the ship if connections don’t work out
• Only recommended for experienced independent travellers comfortable with Italian public transport

What to See Within Walking Distance from the Port

Honestly, there’s not much within practical walking distance from Porto Empedocle cruise terminals. This is an industrial port serving a working town, not a tourist destination.

• Porto Empedocle waterfront: A 15-20 minute walk brings you to the town’s modest seafront promenade with a few cafés and the statue of Andrea Camilleri, the famous Italian author who was born here. Only worth the stroll if you have hours to kill before departure.
• Local bars and cafés: A handful of spots within 500 metres of the port gates where you can grab an espresso or a quick panino, but these cater to dock workers rather than tourists.

Must See Attractions in Porto Empedocle for a One Day Cruise Visit

The Valley of the Temples is why you’re here. Everything else is a distant second. With limited cruise time, focus your energy on the archaeological park and perhaps one additional stop if you’ve arranged private transport.

Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi)

• What it is: One of the most impressive ancient Greek archaeological sites outside Greece, featuring remarkably preserved Doric temples from the 5th century BC set along a dramatic ridge with sweeping views of the countryside and sea.
• Why it matters: The Temple of Concordia is one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. Standing before these massive columns, you’ll understand why this site earned UNESCO World Heritage status. The scale and preservation are genuinely breathtaking.
• Time needed: Minimum 2.5 to 3 hours to see the main temples without feeling rushed. The site is extensive, with temples spread along approximately 1,300 metres. Add 30 minutes if you include the Kolymbetra Garden.
• Practical tips: Entry costs around 12 euros. Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds. Much of the site has limited shade, so bring water and sun protection. Wear proper walking shoes as paths are uneven with loose gravel and stones. Audio guides are available at the entrance for around 5 euros and genuinely enhance the experience. The site has two main entrances; most taxis drop at the eastern gate near the Temple of Juno.

Temple of Concordia

• What it is: The centrepiece of the Valley of the Temples, this near-perfect Doric temple dates to around 440 BC and owes its remarkable preservation to being converted into a Christian church in the 6th century AD.
• Why it matters: This is the postcard image and the main reason cruise ships stop here. The temple’s 34 columns stand intact, and the warm honey-coloured stone glows magnificently in afternoon light.
• Time needed: Allow 30-45 minutes here including photos and walking the perimeter.
• Practical tips: The temple sits roughly midway along the archaeological path. The area directly around it can get crowded between 11am and 2pm when multiple tour groups converge. If you want relatively peaceful photos, aim for early morning or after 3pm.

Temple of Juno (Temple of Hera)

• What it is: Perched at the highest point of the ridge at the eastern end of the park, this 5th-century BC temple dedicated to Hera offers the best panoramic views across the valley.
• Why it matters: While less complete than Concordia, the dramatic positioning and views make this a highlight. You can still see fire damage on some stones from the Carthaginian attack in 406 BC.
• Time needed: 20-30 minutes including the walk up from the entrance and time to appreciate the views.
• Practical tips: This is often the first temple visitors encounter if entering from the eastern gate. The climb is gradual but steady, so pace yourself in hot weather.

Temple of Zeus (Temple of Olympian Zeus)

• What it is: The ruins of what was once one of the largest Greek temples ever built, now reduced to tumbled columns and the famous Telamon (Atlas figure) replica lying among the rubble.
• Why it matters: The sheer scale of the fallen blocks conveys the temple’s original grandeur better than any standing structure could. The original Telamon statues, 7.5 metres tall, were used as supporting columns.
• Time needed: 20-30 minutes to walk among the ruins and read the information boards.
• Practical tips: The authentic Telamon statue is in the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento if you have extra time. The temple area is largely unshaded, so this can be brutal at midday in summer.

Kolymbetra Garden

• What it is: A sunken garden within the Valley of the Temples featuring ancient agricultural terraces, citrus groves, Mediterranean vegetation, and archaeological remains, all maintained by the Italian environmental organization FAI.
• Why it matters: This provides a shaded, peaceful contrast to the exposed temple areas. The garden occupies an ancient water basin and demonstrates centuries of Sicilian agricultural tradition.
• Time needed: 30-45 minutes if you want to stroll the paths properly.
• Practical tips: Entry requires a separate ticket (around 3-5 euros) or is sometimes included with combined tickets. The garden entrance is accessed from within the archaeological park near the Temple of Castor and Pollux. This is worth the detour if you need a break from the sun or want some botanical variety.

Scala dei Turchi

• What it is: A striking white limestone cliff formation that descends like a natural staircase into turquoise waters, located about 15 km west of Porto Empedocle along the coast.
• Why it matters: The brilliant white marl rock creates a stunning contrast with the blue Mediterranean. It’s become one of Sicily’s most photographed natural landmarks.
• Time needed: 45 minutes to an hour if you’re making a dedicated stop.
• Practical tips: This only makes sense if you’ve arranged private transport and have a longer port day. You can’t reasonably do both the Valley of the Temples and Scala dei Turchi justice in a standard 6-8 hour port call. Access to the cliff itself has been restricted at times for preservation reasons, so check current status before planning around this stop.

Port Day Itinerary: Things to Do in 8 Hours

Here’s a realistic schedule that fits a typical 8am-4pm port day at Porto Empedocle, assuming you’re visiting independently via taxi rather than a ship excursion.

• 8:00am-8:30am | Disembark and arrange transport: Clear the ship, navigate passport control if required, and locate taxis at the port gates. Negotiate a round-trip fare or take down the driver’s number for pickup later. The 20-minute drive to the Valley of the Temples passes through Sicilian countryside with almond groves and olive trees.
• 8:50am-9:00am | Arrive and enter Valley of the Temples: Purchase tickets at the main entrance. Pick up an audio guide if you want detailed historical context. Start at the eastern section near the Temple of Juno to beat the crowds.
• 9:00am-10:30am | Eastern temples section: Visit the Temple of Juno first while it’s relatively quiet, then walk down to the Temple of Concordia. Take your time here as this is the highlight. The morning light on the honey-coloured stone is particularly beautiful.
• 10:30am-11:30am | Western temples section: Continue along the main path to the Temple of Heracles, then explore the massive ruins of the Temple of Zeus. The fallen Telamon figure is worth examining up close. If you’re feeling energetic, detour to the Kolymbetra Garden for some shade and greenery.
• 11:30am-12:00pm | Final temples and exit: Complete your circuit past the Temple of Castor and Pollux and any remaining structures. Head toward the exit, using facilities before you leave the site.
• 12:00pm-1:30pm | Lunch near the temples: Several restaurants sit within a few minutes of the Valley entrances. Trattoria dei Templi or La Terrazza degli Dei both serve proper Sicilian food with views. Expect to pay 20-35 euros per person for a full meal with wine. Try pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, wild fennel, and pine nuts) or caponata. Don’t rush this portion—you’ve earned a proper sit-down meal.
• 1:30pm-2:00pm | Return journey to port: Call your taxi driver or catch a new cab from the rank near the restaurants. The return journey takes about 20 minutes. Some cruise passengers use this time to stop at Agrigento town for a quick walk along Via Atenea, but this is tight time-wise.
• 2:00pm-3:30pm | Porto Empedocle or back to ship: You’ve got buffer time here. If you want to see the town where Inspector Montalbano author Andrea Camilleri was born, take a 15-minute walk along the waterfront. Otherwise, head back to the ship for a shower and a rest before dinner.
• 3:30pm-4:00pm | Final boarding buffer: Be back on board well before the all-aboard time. This gives you cushion for any unexpected delays.

This timing works comfortably without feeling rushed, assuming you’re reasonably fit for the walking involved at the archaeological site.

Where to Eat Near the Port

The food scene around Porto Empedocle port itself is basic—a few cafés and workers’ bars serving espresso and cornetti. Your proper dining opportunities are near the Valley of the Temples or in Agrigento town.

• Restaurants near Valley of the Temples: Trattoria dei Templi, La Terrazza degli Dei, and Il Re di Girgenti are the most consistently recommended spots within a few minutes of the archaeological park. Expect traditional Sicilian fare including fresh seafood, pasta with local ingredients, and good local wines. Prices run 20-40 euros per person for a full meal with wine. Book ahead if visiting during peak season.
• Sicilian specialties to try: Pasta con le sarde is the local signature dish—pasta with sardines, wild fennel, saffron, pine nuts, and raisins. Caponata (sweet and sour aubergine) appears on most menus. Fresh fish is excellent here given the coastal location. Arancini (stuffed rice balls) make a good quick lunch if you’re tight on time.
• Quick options near the port: If you need something fast before or after your temple visit, the bars within 500 metres of the cruise terminals serve acceptable panini, pizza slices, and coffee. Don’t expect gourmet quality, but it’ll do if you’re in a rush. Prices are reasonable at 3-7 euros for a quick bite.
• Agrigento town (Via Atenea): If your private transport allows time in Agrigento proper, Via Atenea offers numerous cafés, gelaterias, and restaurants serving both tourists and locals. Quality varies, but you’ll find more options than near the port. This is where to go for post-temple gelato.
• Food safety: Sicily’s food standards are high, and tap water is safe to drink. Street food and seafood are reliably safe in established restaurants. The main risk is overordering—Sicilian portions are generous and multi-course meals are substantial.

Shopping: What to Buy & Where to Go

Let’s be honest: Porto Empedocle is not a shopping destination. The port town offers virtually nothing in terms of tourist shopping, and the Valley of the Temples has only a small gift shop selling the usual postcards, guidebooks, and replica souvenirs.

If you have extra time in Agrigento town, Via Atenea is the main shopping street with local boutiques, ceramics shops, and food stores. Sicilian ceramics featuring the traditional yellow, blue, and green patterns make decent souvenirs and are lighter to pack than you’d expect. Local almonds (mandorle) and pistachio products from nearby Bronte are worth buying if you want edible gifts. Olive oil from the region is excellent, though you’ll need to pack it carefully in checked luggage.

Shops in Sicily typically close between 1pm and 4pm for the traditional siesta, then reopen until 7pm or 8pm. Don’t expect much to be open on Sundays or public holidays. Haggling is not standard practice in Sicilian shops—prices are fixed in legitimate retail establishments. Payment by card is widely accepted in Agrigento but carry cash for smaller purchases.

Emergency Contacts

• General Emergency (Police, Fire, Medical): 112
• Capitaneria di Porto (Harbor Master): +39 0922 636640 or +39 0922 637888
• Questura di Agrigento (Police Headquarters): +39 0922 483111
• Polizia Municipale (Municipal Police): +39 0922 590111
• Ospedale San Giovanni di Dio (Agrigento Hospital): +39 0922 492111

Save your cruise ship’s emergency contact number before going ashore. This should be in your daily program or available from guest services.

Essential Gear for a Full Day Exploring the Valley of the Temples

You’ll likely walk 15,000+ steps exploring the archaeological site and surrounding areas. Here’s what made our day comfortable:

For Your Feet

The uneven terrain, loose gravel, and ancient stone paths at the Valley of the Temples are no joke. Comfortable walking shoes for men or supportive walking shoes for women saved us from the blisters we got at other archaeological sites. The paths can be surprisingly rough on your feet over 3-4 hours of exploring. Bring blister prevention just in case, especially if you’re breaking in new shoes.

Your Daypack

You’ll need something for water bottles, sunscreen, cameras, and any souvenirs you pick up in Agrigento. An anti-theft backpack fits under airline seats on the way to Sicily and kept our valuables secure in crowded areas around the most popular temples. A collapsible water bottle clips on the outside and takes up almost no space when empty, which matters in small cruise cabins.

Staying Charged

Between photos of the temples, using Google Maps to navigate Agrigento, and messaging your ship about return timing, your phone will die. A portable charger with 20000mah capacity got us through 12-hour port days in Sicily without stressing about battery life. The portable charger with built-in cable is even more convenient since you don’t need to carry separate charging cables.

European Power

Don’t forget that Italy uses different outlets than North America or the UK. A European power adapter is essential for charging your devices back on the ship or in any cafés where you stop.

Staying Organized

With limited cabin space on cruise ships, compression packing cubes let us find what we needed without destroying our suitcase before each port stop. They’re a game-changer for multi-port Mediterranean cruises where you’re unpacking and repacking frequently. Hanging toiletry bags use vertical space in tiny ship bathrooms, and a cable organizer keeps all your chargers manageable instead of tangled at the bottom of your bag.

Protection from Sicilian Sun

The Valley of the Temples has minimal shade, and the Sicilian sun is intense from April through October. Beyond sunscreen, consider a lightweight women’s packable jacket or men’s lightweight jacket that blocks UV rays during the midday heat but stuffs into your daypack when you don’t need it.

Currency, ATMs & Money Matters

Sicily uses the euro, and you’ll need cash for taxis, smaller restaurants, and any purchases outside the main tourist areas.

• ATMs: You’ll find ATMs in Porto Empedocle town centre (15-minute walk from the port) and in Agrigento town. The Valley of the Temples entrance has limited banking facilities, so withdraw cash before you leave the port area if possible. ATMs in Italy typically dispense notes in denominations of 20 and 50 euros.
• Card acceptance: Larger restaurants and the Valley of the Temples ticket office accept cards, but many taxis prefer cash. Having 100-150 euros in mixed denominations covers most scenarios for a port day.
• Exchange rates: ATMs offer better exchange rates than currency exchange booths. Your bank will charge foreign transaction fees unless you have a travel-friendly card. Check these fees before your trip as they add up.
• Notify your bank: Tell your bank you’re travelling to Italy to prevent your card being blocked for suspicious foreign transactions. This happens more often than you’d think.
• Tipping: Service charges (coperto) are often included in restaurant bills in Sicily. If not, 5-10% is appreciated for good service but not obligatory. Round up taxi fares rather than calculating exact percentages.
• Receipts: Italian law requires restaurants and shops to issue receipts (scontrino or ricevuta fiscale), and you’re technically required to keep them until you leave the premises. Finance police occasionally check compliance.

Weather by Month

Season	Months	Temperature	What to Expect
Spring	April-May	16-24°C	Ideal conditions for the Valley of the Temples with mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds than summer. Pack layers as mornings can be cool. Occasional rain showers possible.
Summer	June-August	24-32°C	Peak season with hot, dry weather and intense sun. The archaeological site offers minimal shade, making midday visits challenging. Bring substantial sun protection, water, and lightweight clothing. Crowds are heaviest during these months.
Autumn	September-October	20-27°C	Excellent visiting conditions with warm but not extreme temperatures. September sees lingering summer crowds but October is quieter. Still dry with minimal rainfall. Good light for photography.
Winter	November-March	10-16°C	Off-season with cooler temperatures, potential rain, and significantly fewer tourists. The Valley of the Temples is atmospheric but can be windy. Some cruise lines avoid this port during winter months. Pack waterproof layers and warmer clothing.

Common Questions & FAQ

How much does a taxi cost from Porto Empedocle to the Valley of the Temples?

Round-trip taxi fares typically range from 60 to 120 euros for the vehicle, not per person. The price varies depending on whether the driver waits for you, how long you stay, and your negotiation skills. Sharing with other cruise passengers brings the cost down substantially. Always agree on the price before getting in the taxi, and clarify whether the quoted price is one-way or return.

Can I visit both the Valley of the Temples and Scala dei Turchi in one port day?

Technically possible if you arrange private transport and have a full 8-10 hour port day, but you’ll be rushing both sites and won’t do either justice. The Valley of the Temples alone deserves 3-4 hours, and Scala dei Turchi is 15 km in the opposite direction from Agrigento. Most cruise passengers find they’re better off focusing exclusively on the temples and doing them properly rather than trying to tick multiple boxes in a single day.

Is the Valley of the Temples accessible for wheelchair users or people with limited mobility?

Partially accessible but challenging. The archaeological park features uneven terrain, gravel paths, and significant distances between temples. The main path is relatively flat, but accessing all areas requires dealing with slopes and loose stones. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can manage some sections, but not the entire site. Contact the park in advance if you need specific accessibility accommodations. People with moderate mobility issues should plan for a slower pace and potentially skip the more distant temples.

Should I book a ship excursion or go independently to the Valley of the Temples?

Ship excursions cost more (typically 80-150 euros per person depending on your cruise line) but guarantee you won’t miss the ship and include knowledgeable guides. Independent travel via taxi costs 15-30 euros per person if you share a cab, giving you complete control over timing and pace. The deciding factors are your confidence navigating independently, how much you value the guaranteed return timing, and whether you want guided historical context or prefer exploring at your own speed. The temples themselves are well-signed, so you don’t strictly need a guide to appreciate them.

How long should I spend at the Valley of the Temples?

Minimum 2.5 to 3 hours if you want to see the main temples without feeling rushed. Enthusiastic visitors can easily spend 4-5 hours exploring thoroughly, including the Kolymbetra Garden and reading all the information boards. If you’re trying to squeeze in lunch at a nearby restaurant and account for travel time from the port, budget 5-6 hours total for the entire excursion. Don’t make the mistake of allocating just 90 minutes—you’ll end up frustrated that you couldn’t see everything properly.

What should I wear to the Valley of the Temples?

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential—the paths are uneven with loose gravel and stones. Sandals or flip-flops are inadequate and potentially dangerous. Bring a hat and sunscreen as most of the site is fully exposed to the sun with minimal shade. Lightweight, breathable clothing works best in warm months. There’s no specific dress code as this is an outdoor archaeological site rather than a religious building. Bring or buy water before entering as facilities inside are limited.

Are there places to eat inside the Valley of the Temples archaeological park?

The park has very limited food options—perhaps a small refreshment kiosk depending on season, but don’t count on it. Plan to eat before entering the site or after you exit. Several restaurants sit within a few minutes’ walk of the main entrances, including Trattoria dei Templi and La Terrazza degli Dei. If you’re on a tight schedule, bring snacks and water with you into the park. There are shaded rest areas where you can sit and eat your own food.

What other Sicilian ports should I research for my Mediterranean cruise?

If your itinerary includes other Sicilian stops, check out our detailed guides to Syracuse cruise ship port, Palermo cruise ship port, and Trapani cruise ship port. Each offers very different experiences—Syracuse for Greek ruins and baroque architecture, Palermo for Norman-Arab heritage and street food, and Trapani as a gateway to medieval Erice. For broader planning, see our overview of Mediterranean cruise ports in Sicily and Western Mediterranean cruise ports. If you’re also visiting Mediterranean cruise ports in Greece, you’ll notice interesting contrasts between Greek sites in Greece itself versus the Greek heritage preserved in Sicily.

Packing Smart for Multi-Port Mediterranean Cruises

After multiple Mediterranean cruises, here’s what actually makes cabin life and port days easier:

Luggage That Works

Most cruise cabins are tiny, with limited storage under beds and in shallow closets. A hardside carry-on spinner fits in the cabin storage areas and the hard shell protects souvenirs and breakables you collect in ports like Agrigento. Packing cubes in a 4-piece set keep everything organized so you’re not living out of an exploded suitcase for a week. Being able to find your sunscreen or adapter without unpacking everything matters when you’re getting ready for early port departures.

Security

Cruise ship cabins don’t lock as securely as hotel rooms, and crew members have access for daily cleaning. A portable door lock adds security when you’re sleeping or in the shower. An anti-theft messenger bag protects your cards and passport in crowded port areas like Agrigento’s Via Atenea or busy temple sites.

Organization Essentials

Small cruise bathrooms have almost no counter space. A hanging toiletry bag uses vertical space on the back of the bathroom door. A cable organizer keeps your phone chargers, camera batteries, and adapter cords from becoming a tangled mess at the bottom of your bag. A portable luggage scale saves you from overweight bag fees at the airport after you’ve loaded up on Sicilian ceramics, olive oil, and wine.

Travel Comfort

Getting to Sicily usually involves long flights from North America or connections through European hubs. A memory foam travel pillow and compression socks make those long-haul flights bearable and reduce the leg swelling that makes walking archaeological sites uncomfortable the next day.

Specialty Items

If you’re buying delicate souvenirs like Sicilian ceramics or bringing nice clothes for formal nights, a travel steamer handles wrinkles better than trying to iron in a tiny cabin. A travel jewelry organizer keeps necklaces from tangling and earrings from disappearing. Shoe bags keep dirty walking shoes from touching clean clothes in your suitcase.

Personal Experience

When our cruise ship docked at Porto Empedocle, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from getting to the Valley of the Temples. The port itself is pretty small and straightforward, which actually made things easier. Right outside the port gates, there were taxis lined up, and the drivers were holding signs for the temples. We decided to share a cab with another couple from the ship, which brought the cost down to about 15 euros each for the round trip. The drive took roughly 20 minutes through some beautiful Sicilian countryside, and our driver even gave us his phone number to call when we were ready to head back.

Once we arrived at the Valley of the Temples, I was blown away by how well-preserved everything was. We bought our tickets at the main entrance for around 12 euros, and honestly, you could easily spend three to four hours wandering through the ancient ruins. The Temple of Concordia is absolutely magnificent, and the views across the valley are worth the visit alone. My advice would be to wear comfortable shoes because there’s quite a bit of walking on uneven ground, and bring water since it can get really hot with limited shade. We made it back to the ship with plenty of time to spare, and it ended up being the highlight of our entire Mediterranean cruise.