Ancient Agrigento™

A Culinary & Cultural Journey Through Agrigento ~ 4 Days

Tie on your apron and step into the heart of Sicily! Agrigento, a breathtaking hilltop city on the island’s southwest coast, is where ancient history meets mouthwatering flavors. Wander through sun-drenched streets lined with local markets where artisans sell their products, and the scent of fresh bread and citrus fills the air. Indulge in Sicilian classics like creamy cannoli, citrus granita, and bold espresso as you soak in the charm of this historic gem. From the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples to lively trattorias serving up farm-to-table delights, Agrigento is a feast for the senses—ready to be savored, one bite at a time!
Agrigento
Perched by the sea on Sicily’s sun-kissed coast, Agrigento is a city where history and culture intertwine with breathtaking landscapes lined with olive groves vineyards and medieval villages and beaches. Best known for the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agrigento was once a powerful Greek colony in the 6th century BCE, known as Akragas. This ancient city flourished under Greek rule, becoming a center of art, philosophy, and architecture. The Valley of the Temples still stands as a testament to its grandeur with well-preserved Doric temples dedicated to gods of Zeus, Hera, and Concordia. Walking among these ruins, visitors can almost hear echoes of the past, a reminder of Agrigento’s pivotal role in Mediterranean history.
Beyond its archaeological wonders, Agrigento is a vibrant blend of old and new. The historic center, with its winding streets and medieval charm offers a glimpse of Norman, Arab, and Baroque influences. The city’s past is reflected in its architecture, from the 11th-century Cathedral of San Gerlando to the atmospheric alleys of the old town. Modern Agrigento, however, is just as lively, boasting a rich culinary scene where visitors can savor Sicilian cuisine including arancini, rice balls filled with meat, tomato and peas, pasta alla Norma, an eggplant and pasta specialty, and tegame Aragonese, pasta layered between a white wine infused red ragù with pork, veal. Fresh sea food served any way is a staple. Whether you’re exploring the ancient streets or indulging in a hands-on cooking experience, Agrigento is a destination best discovered one delicious moment at a time.

The Valley of Temples

Step into the timeless charm of Sicily with a visit to the Valley of the Temples — a breathtaking destination where history and beauty blend like the perfect recipe. This UNESCO World Heritage site is set on the sun-drenched hills of Agrigento which was once the ancient Greek city of Akragas. This region was founded in the 6th century BC and is home to the best-preserved Doric temples in the world. Wander among the awe-inspiring Temple of Concordia, the majestic Temple of Juno, the storied Temple of Heracles, and the grand Temple of Olympian Zeus — each one a masterpiece of classical Greek architecture. The Valley of the Temples tells a story of prosperity, passion, and cultural richness. It’s a true taste of Sicily’s ancient soul — a place where the past is always present, and every step connects you more deeply to the island’s enduring heritage.
Agrigento Cooking Classes
Tie on your aprons for a hands-on cooking class where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Agrigento. Limited to small groups, our classes ensure that every participant gets personal attention as you learn the secrets of authentic Sicilian cuisine. Prepare a full course menu of Sicilian cuisine—antipasti, handmade pasta, and main courses featuring freshly caught seafood, meats, and vegetarian dishes. And, of course, no Sicilian meal is complete without a taste of traditional desserts like cassata, cannoli, or almond biscotti.
Step into the kitchen where cooking is second nature and experience the warmth of Sicilian hospitality. Using farm-to-table, seasonal ingredients, you’ll master the art of Sicilian cooking techniques while sharing stories, laughter, and a love for food. After class, sit down to enjoy the meal you’ve created, accompanied by a toast of local red or white wine. Finish with a traditional caffè, just as the Sicilians do. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this is your chance to bring a piece of Sicily home with you—one delicious recipe at a time!
Agrigento Accommodations

Sicily Accommodations

5 Star Luxury Villa

Step into a world of elegance and old-world charm at our five-star Luxury Villa, where Sicilian hospitality meets refined indulgence. Nestled amidst rolling vineyards and overlooking the shimmering Mediterranean, this exquisite retreat blends Baroque architecture, hand-painted tiles, and sun-drenched terraces with modern sophistication. Deluxe suites are draped in fine Italian linens creating an atmosphere of timeless beauty. Wake up to the scent of freshly baked pastries and Sicilian citrus before stepping out onto your private balcony, where the golden hues of the ancient Valley of the Temples greet you. This is more than just a stay—it’s a sensory journey through the heart of Sicily, one indulgent moment at a time.  The Villa property is a Luxury Wow experience.

Itinerary: 4 Days, 3 Nights

Day 1: Arrival & Check-In

  • Day One: Arrival and Check-In Welcome
  • Check-in and enjoy a Prosecco and your Cooking Vacations’ Welcome bag. Relax and unwind.
  • In the evening, enjoy your Welcome Dinner featuring a Chef’s Tasting Menu with a glass of local wine included.

Day Two: Visit to the Valley of Temples & Sicilian Aperitivo

  • Breakfast is served.
  • Meet your driver for a full day excursion to the Valley of Temples and immerse into the ancient Greek art and architecture with our English-speaking guide.
  • Following your visit to the Temples, enjoy a traditional lunch in our favorite Sicilian trattoria, included.
  • After lunch, take time out for shopping or a gelato in Agrigento.
  • Return to the property, and enjoy the rest of your day at your leisure. Relax and swim by the pool with a Sicilan aperitivo, included.
  • Later in the evening, enjoy dinner on your own with suggestions provided.

Day Three: Cooking Class 1 and Luxury Spa Treatment

  • Breakfast is served.
  • Tie on your apron and head into the kitchen for your hands-on cooking class 1 learning to prepare a full-course traditional menu. After the class, everyone enjoys the foods made in the cooking class with a toast of local wine included.
  • Following your meal, check in to the property’s luxurious spa – relax, unwind and enjoy your personal spa treatment with a professional masseuse.
  • Continue your day of relaxation with dinner to follow, suggestions provided.

Day Four: Ciao and Arrivederci!!!

  • Breakfast is served.
  • Departure transfer to Airport or Train Station. Arrivederci!

Program Includes:

  • 4 days, 3 nights in our 5-Star Super Luxury Villa.
  • Welcome Dinner with Chef’s Tasting Menu featuring full course menu with local wine.
  • 1 Hands-on cooking classes preparing a full Sicilian menu. Everyone enjoys lunch or dinner following with a toast of local red or white wine included.
  • A Visit to the Valley of Temples with English-speaking guide and driver.
  • Sicilian Aperitivo at the property.
  • Sicilian Dinner with Tasting Menu at the property.
  • 1 Luxury Spa Treatment with licensed professional.
  • Round trip transfers from Palermo Airport or Train Station to property.
  • A Cooking Vacation’s Welcome Bag with chef’s apron, Prosecco, and recipe booklet.
  • A copy of Lauren’s book “It’s a Dream Place – Stories & Recipes of Food, Love and the Amalfi Coast.”
Program Price

$ 5,495 per person, based on 2 guests in a 5 Star Super Luxury Villa.

For Single Guests: If you are traveling on your own, please call us for the best group price. We are happy to welcome you into an already scheduled group.

*Prices start at an additional $300 per person per program for a suite or jr. suite. Call for availability and pricing.

Check Availability

2025 Dates: This program is available throughout the year. Check in and start your cooking program on any day of the week. Rates are subject to change, based on currency exchange. Call for updated rates. Airfare not included.