Segesta & Erice

by coach & on foot

From Palermo you will take the highway to reach Segesta, known as ‘Egesta’ by the Greeks and ‘Segesta’ by the Romans. This was, with Erice and Entella, one of the most advanced centres of the ancient Elymian civilisation, one of the three indigenous peoples of Sicily. The city stood on a vast plateau between the two peaks of Monte Barbaro and was surrounded by walls from the Classic or Hellenistic Age.

On a hill, just outside the ancient city of Segesta you will find the magnificent Doric Temple, whose majestic appearance and dominating position bestow great nobility on the landscape. The Temple is thought to have been built by an Athenian architect and has several columns on a base, whose platform is three steps high.

After your visit you will re-join your coach and head to Erice located on top of Mount Erice overlooking the city of Trapani, at approximately 750m (2460ft)  above sea level. Erice is a delightful medieval village in a panoramic position, with spectacular views of the Egadi Islands. The influence of Normans is felt in its towers and fortifications, and there are English-style gardens scattered throughout the town. In the north eastern part, there are the remains of ancient Elymian and Phoenician walls indicating different stages of their settlements. After a walking tour of the town, you will have some free time for further independent exploration.

Prior to returning to Palermo you will visit a local restaurant for a sit down lunch included as part of your tour.

On your return journey to the ship you will enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Palermo town centre from the comfort of your coach.