Private Tour to the Villa Romana del Casale and the Valley of the Temples
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Villa Romana del Casale: Ancient Mosaics
Discover the sumptuousness of the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina among fascinating mosaics that narrate life in the Roman Empire.
Valley of the Temples: Classical Elegance in Agrigento
Head to Agrigento to explore the majestic Valley of the Temples, declared a World Heritage Site. Admire ancient Greek temples with spectacular sea views.
Private Tour by Car: Convenience and Personalization
Our private tour offers maximum comfort and flexibility. Book today for a unique cultural experience of history, mosaics and ancient ruins.
The service includes a professional English-speaking driver, who will assist you during the journey, but does not include a tour guide within the sites to be visited. You can request the latter by contacting us before the tour.
Available options
Tour with departure from Catania
From Catania: Departure from accommodation located in the Catania area<br/>Sedan or Minivan: For services with 1-3 people a sedan will be used, while for those with 4 people or more a minivan will be used<br/>Pickup included
Tour with departure from Taormina
From Taormina: Departure from accommodation located in the Taormina area<br/>Sedan or Minivan: For services with 1-3 people a sedan will be used, while for those with 4 people or more a minivan will be used<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
WiFi on board
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Villa Romana del Casale has origins between the 3rd and 4th centuries, but was discovered in today's world only in 1950, thanks to the explorations of Gino Vinicio Gentili. Now it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is possible to visit it and admire the mosaics inside.
2
Stop 2
The Valley of the Temples is an archaeological park in Sicily characterized by an exceptional state of conservation and by a series of important Doric temples from the Hellenic period. It corresponds to the ancient Akragas, monumental original nucleus of the city of Agrigento. Since 2000 it has been a regional archaeological park.
Since 1997, the entire area has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is considered a popular tourist destination, as well as being the symbol of the city and one of the main ones on the whole island. The archaeological and landscape park of the Valley of the Temples, with its 1300 hectares, is the largest archaeological park in Europe and the Mediterranean
What's not included
Access to the Roman Villa del Casale (€12 per person)
Access to the Valley of the Temples (15€ per person)
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
12 reviews
5★
7
4★
4
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
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1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Catania
Catania is a vibrant city on the east coast of Sicily, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and active volcano, Mount Etna. The city offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, baroque buildings, and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Catania, featuring the stunning Catania Cathedral and the elegant Elephant Fountain. The square is a hub of activity and a must-visit for its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Teatro Romano
The Roman Theatre is an ancient ruin dating back to the 2nd century AD. It's a fascinating glimpse into Catania's Roman past and a popular spot for cultural events and performances.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€4 (includes access to the nearby Roman Odeon)
Castello Ursino
Castello Ursino is a 13th-century castle that now houses the Civic Museum, showcasing art and artifacts from Catania's rich history. The castle's imposing structure and scenic views make it a must-visit attraction.
Historical/Museum
1-2 hours
€8
Mount Etna
Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.
Nature/Adventure
Half-day to full-day
€50-€150 (depending on the tour)
Fish Market (La Pescheria)
La Pescheria is Catania's bustling fish market, offering a vibrant and authentic Sicilian experience. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, interact with local vendors, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (food purchases vary)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pasta alla Norma
A classic Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta salata, and basil. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Sicilian cuisine.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Arancini
Fried rice balls stuffed with various fillings such as ragù, mozzarella, and peas. They are a popular street food and a must-try in Catania.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Cannoli
Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with chocolate chips or candied fruit. Cannoli are a beloved Sicilian dessert and a must-try in Catania.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Granita con Brioche
A refreshing Sicilian breakfast consisting of granita (a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors) served with a sweet brioche bun. It's a perfect way to start the day, especially in the summer.
Breakfast
Vegetarian, Vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hiking Mount Etna
Guided volcano tours
Scuba diving
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Visiting museums
Attending cultural events
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Catania is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.
18-28°C
64-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, Sicilian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Catania is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.
Getting there
By air
- Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Catania Centrale
By bus
Autostazione di Catania
Getting around
Public transport
The AMT bus system covers the entire city and its suburbs, offering frequent and affordable service. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Catania.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
San Berillo
Borgo
Canalicchio
Day trips
Taormina
50 km • Half day to full day
Taormina is a charming hilltop town known for its stunning views, ancient Greek theatre, and elegant shops and cafes. It's a popular day trip from Catania, offering a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
Syracuse
70 km • Full day
Syracuse is a historic city on the eastern coast of Sicily, known for its ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and rich history. It's a fascinating day trip from Catania, offering a mix of archaeological sites and scenic views.
Mount Etna
30 km • Half day to full day
Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours offer opportunities to explore the volcano's craters, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.
Festivals
Festa di Sant'Agata • February 3-5
Catania Jazz Festival • Late October to early November
Infiorata di Catania • May (first Sunday)
Pro tips
- Visit the fish market (La Pescheria) early in the morning for the freshest catch and a lively atmosphere.
- Explore the city's historic neighborhoods, such as San Berillo and Borgo, for an authentic and immersive experience.
- Take a guided tour of Mount Etna for a safe and informative exploration of the volcano's craters and lava fields.
- Sample local specialties, such as pasta alla Norma, arancini, and cannoli, at traditional trattorias and street food stalls.
- Attend local festivals and events, such as the Festa di Sant'Agata and the Catania Jazz Festival, for a unique and memorable experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
