Segesta and Erice

This private shore excursion visits the important archaeological site of Segesta, followed by the medieval village of Erice, a popular destination for its medieval atmosphere, cool mountain air, pine woods and rich local craft traditions.

After meeting your guide you depart for the archaeological site of Segesta. According to ancient legend recorded by the historian Thucydides, the city was founded by Trojan refugees who fled the destruction of Troy and settled here under the name Elymians. The site is divided into two areas: the southeastern section was mainly residential, while the northern area held public buildings, including the theater. The highlight of your visit is a 5th century BC Doric temple, one of the finest remaining examples of classical architecture anywhere in the ancient world.

Next you drive to Erice, which occupies a memorably beautiful site. Developed as a Phoenician and Elymian town, it sits on a plateau roughly 2,500 feet (760m) above the sea, offering glorious views. Enclosed within defensible bastions and walls, the town is a labyrinth of little cobbled streets and passages, some only wide enough for one person at a time. The houses are packed one upon another, each with its own charming inner courtyard shielded from the gaze of neighbors, allowing family life to take its course in privacy.

In ancient times Erice was famous for its temple, where the Phoenicians worshiped Astarte, the Greeks venerated Aphrodite, and the Romans celebrated Venus. Mount Eryx served as a point of reference for sailors, who adopted Venus as their protector. At night a large fire would be lit within the sacred precinct and used as a guiding beacon, an ancient lighthouse for ships at sea.

Later this afternoon you return to the pier in Palermo.

If you cannot find what you are looking for, our Sicily Palermo tours and Sicily Palermo Shore Excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Sicily Palermo tour using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.

• Walking is difficult on this tour due to the archaeological site at Segesta and the cobbled streets of Erice. No wheelchair access.