Selinunte Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

With its breathtaking ruins and stunning coastal views, Selinunte is a hidden gem in the Sicily region of Italy. Located on the southwestern coast of the island, this ancient city offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a serene escape from the bustling tourist crowds.

Selinunte is best known for its impressive archaeological park, which is home to some of the largest and most well-preserved Greek temples in the world. As you wander through the ruins, you'll be transported back to the 5th century BC when Selinunte was a thriving city-state. Marvel at the majestic remains of the Temple of Hera, which once stood as a testament to the city's power and wealth. Take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and imagine what life was like in this once-great city.

After exploring the ruins, head to the nearby coastline to enjoy the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Selinunte's pristine sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are also plenty of water sports activities available, such as snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing.

As you wander through the charming streets of Selinunte, be sure to sample some of the local cuisine. The region is known for its delicious seafood, and you'll find an array of restaurants offering fresh catch-of-the-day dishes. Pair your meal with a glass of Sicilian wine and savor the flavors of the Mediterranean.

In addition to its archaeological wonders and picturesque beaches, Selinunte also offers a range of cultural experiences. Visit the Museo Archeologico di Selinunte to learn more about the city's history and see artifacts discovered during excavations. The museum provides valuable insights into the ancient civilization that once thrived here.

Alternative names: Built: 628 B.C.E.Elevation: 115 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 37°35'3"N, 12°50'17"E

Location

SicilyItaly

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Selinunte Top Attractions

Selinunte Attractions - What to See and Explore

Selinunte offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Temple C, Temple E, Temple F, Riserva naturale Foce del Fiume Belice e dune Limitrofe. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Temple
Temple C
Temple C, standing as a testament to the ancient grandeur of Greek civilization, is one of the essential attractions in Selinunte, located in the province of Trapani, Italy. This archaeological gem, part of a larger archaeological park, is a captivating site for...
Temple • Ruins • Sacred and religious sites
Temple E
Temple E, nestled in the ancient ruins of Selinunte on the southwestern coast of Sicily, Italy, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Greek architecture and the rich history that characterizes this archaeological site.
Temple
Temple F
Temple F at Selinus in Sicily is a Greek temple of the Doric order. It was probably dedicated to Dionysus or Athena and is one of the three temples on the East Hill. The temple's dating is very uncertain, but it probably belongs to the middle of the sixth century BC.

Day trips

Selinunte – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Selinunte, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Valle dei Templi (Agrigento), Palermo Cathedral (Palermo), Palazzo dei Normanni (Palermo).

46 milesSE
Ancient archaeological site with museum
Valle dei Templi, Agrigento
The Valle dei Templi, a majestic collection of Greek ruins, stands as a testament to the ancient city of Akragas, today's Agrigento, on the southern coast of Sicily, Italy. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, this archaeological park is one of the most...
46 milesNE
12th-century structure with royal tombs
Palermo Cathedral, Palermo
Palermo Cathedral, a majestic church nestled in the heart of Palermo, Italy, stands as a testament to the city's rich historical tapestry. This architectural marvel, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is renowned for its eclectic mix of styles that span...
46 milesNE
Ornate 9th century palace and museum
Palazzo dei Normanni, Palermo
The Palazzo dei Normanni, or the Norman Palace, is a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Palermo, the capital city of the Italian island of Sicily. Originally built in the 9th century as an Arab fortress, it was expanded and transformed by the Normans who...
40 milesSE
Natural attraction, Geologic formation, Park
Scala dei Turchi, Realmonte
Nestled on the southern coast of Sicily near the city of Realmonte, the Scala dei Turchi, or "Stair of the Turks," is a stunning natural wonder that beckons travelers with its unique beauty. This striking white cliff, with its smooth, undulating surfaces and stair-like...
46 milesSE
Ancient Greek architecture, Temple, Ruins
Temple of Concordia, Agrigento
The Temple of Concordia stands as a majestic reminder of the ancient world, nestled within the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Italy. This well-preserved Greek temple, a striking symbol of Doric architectural prowess, was constructed in the 5th century BC and has...