Free walking tours in Sciacca and what to see

Must-sees

Sciacca is a coastal town in south-western Sicily, in the province of Agrigento, known for its spa tradition, its ceramics and its fishing port. The historic centre is terraced above the sea and explored along sloping streets. Piazza Angelo Scandaliato is a great open terrace over the harbour, and close by is the cathedral, dedicated to Maria Santissima del Soccorso, along with several medieval and baroque churches.

Among the civic buildings, Palazzo Steripinto stands out with its diamond-point stone façade, along with the Porta San Salvatore, one of the gates in the old walls. In the streets you will see workshops and shops selling hand-painted ceramics. Above the town rises Monte Kronio, with caves that give off natural steam and have been used since antiquity. The harbour, with its boats and fish market, is another must at sunset.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free tours in Sciacca. Its advantage is that it works as a base for day trips: to the Scala dei Turchi, the village of Caltabellotta, Palermo and Monreale, Marsala, Erice and Segesta, Cefalù and Castelbuono or, further afield, Syracuse and Ortigia. For the historic centre, the most practical approach is to explore on your own.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough for the historic centre, Piazza Scandaliato and the harbour. If you want to go up Monte Kronio and spend an afternoon on the beach, allow a full day. With three or four days you can use Sciacca as a base and make a couple of trips, for example to the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento or to Caltabellotta.

Where to stay

The historic centre has guesthouses and apartments in old buildings, with everything within walking distance, although the streets are steep. If you want a beach and pool, the resorts on the coast east of town are roomier and convenient with a car. For daily trips, choose a place with easy parking, as the centre is narrow and fills up in summer.