Greek colony with a reconstructed temple, the ruins of giant Temple G and a coastal setting, in one of Europe's largest archaeological parks.
Selinunte is on Sicily's south-west coast about 110 km (68 miles) from Palermo, roughly 1 hour 45 minutes by car, and is one of the largest archaeological parks in Europe. The Greek colony was founded in the 7th century BC and destroyed by Carthage in 409 BC. The park is divided between the Eastern Hill, with the reconstructed Temple E (traditionally attributed to Hera), the Acropolis with its temple remains, and the western area with the Sanctuary of Malophoros. Temple G, one of the largest Greek temples ever planned, lies in ruins, and its enormous column drums are still scattered on the ground. The setting, with the sea and wild celery fields, is dramatic. The park is large, and walking all areas takes three to four hours, though an electric shuttle or a bicycle covers the distances. Public transport requires a coach to Castelvetrano and a local bus onward, which is slow; a hire car or an organised day tour is more practical. Nearby, Marinella di Selinunte has a beach and seafood restaurants for lunch. Spring and autumn offer the best light and temperatures. Midday in summer is hot, and shade is limited. Early arrival is advisable.
| Distance | 110 km (68 miles) south-west of Palermo |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1h 45min by car |
| Getting there | Driving from Palermo via the A29 to Castelvetrano and Selinunte, about 1h 45min; public transport requires a coach to Castelvetrano and a local bus onward |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Via Selinunte, 91022 Castelvetrano TP |
How to get there
- Driving: A29 and SS115 to Selinunte, about 1h 45min
- Coach from Palermo to Castelvetrano, then a local bus to Selinunte; slow, check times locally
- Organised day tours from Palermo
Location
Via Selinunte, 91022 Castelvetrano TP
37.5835, 12.8305 View on map
Highlights
- Reconstructed Temple E on the Eastern Hill
- Ruins of Temple G, one of the largest Greek temples ever built
- Acropolis with temple foundations and the ancient street grid
- Sanctuary of Malophoros in the western area
- Seaside lunch at Marinella di Selinunte
Tips for visiting
- Hire a car or join an organised tour; public transport is slow and limited
- Start early to cover the park before the midday heat
- Wear a hat and carry water; shade is scarce
- Use the electric shuttle or a bicycle for the long distances between areas
- Check the opening hours of the park before travelling
When to visit
April-June and September-October; summer is very hot.
Accessibility
Paths are largely flat but unpaved and exposed; the large distances make a wheelchair visit difficult without the shuttle.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Selinunte from Palermo?
About 110 km, roughly 1 hour 45 minutes by car.
How long does the park take to visit?
Three to four hours on foot, less with the shuttle.
Can Selinunte be reached by public transport?
Coaches serve Castelvetrano, with a local bus onward to Selinunte, but the connection is slow and confirmation of times is needed.
When is the best time to visit?
April-June and September-October.