Excursion Erice & segesta tour at Palermo

Embrace the medieval beauty of Sicily's west coast during this panoramic, full-day excursion to Erice and Segesta.

Erice

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.75-hour sightseeing drive through Palermo en route to Sicily's west coast, and a visit to Erice. A small, medieval town perched on an isolated hill north of Trapani, Erice was founded in 415 B.C. and renowned in ancient times as an important sanctuary of Venus. Although it is often shrouded in mist due to its hilltop location, Erice offers splendid panoramic views of the sea and Egadi Islands. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through this lovely town.

The Walls

Erice's Norman-style influences are reflected in its imposing towers and fortifications. During your guided walking tour, see the walls that stretch from Porta Spada to Porta Trapani, and protect the only side of the hill with no natural defences. On all other sides, the sheer rock face made the town one of the most impregnable fortresses on the island.

Balio Gardens and Venus Castle

Other historic sites that may be encountered during your visit include the delightful, English-style Balio Gardens and ancient Venus Castle, which offers exquisite panoramic vistas and an up-close look at the remains of the Temple of Venus. Following your guided visit, you will be proceeding for a typical Sicilian lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, re-board your coach for the drive to nearby Segesta.

Segesta

Upon arrival in Segesta, discover why the view of the renowned Doric Temple on a bare hill in the deserted countryside has awed visitors for centuries. Walk up the path and steps from the coach parking area, then past the agave plants and on to this extremely well-preserved temple, which was thought to have been built by a Greek architect between 424-416 B.C. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier via Palermo's historic centre.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Palermo, Erice, Fortifications, Walls, Balio Gardens, Venus Castle, Lunch, Segesta Doric Temple

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.2 miles (about 1.9 kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and slippery surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and stairs at the sites visited. Visit of Erice and Segesta are entirely on foot. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Shoulders and Legs must be covered to enter churches. The tour sequence may vary. Approximately 4.25 hours are spet on the bus. Please note that guides may have accents reflecting their regional backgrounds, which adds to the diversity and richness of the experience.