Agira
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Latest page update: 15 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Agira
Agira, an inland town in the Province of Enna, is known for its historic centre and views over the surrounding hills. Accommodation in the town itself is limited to smaller residences, so for established hotels it is better to look to nearby Enna.
In Enna, Federico II Palace Hotel provides resort-style facilities with a pool, spa and panoramic views, consistently praised for comfort and services (€€€). Also in the town, Hotel Riviera offers straightforward accommodation with a restaurant, regularly noted for value and convenience (€€). Another option is Hotel Sicilia Enna, a central property in the historic part of Enna, highlighted by guests for its location and welcoming atmosphere (€€).
In Enna, Federico II Palace Hotel provides resort-style facilities with a pool, spa and panoramic views, consistently praised for comfort and services (€€€). Also in the town, Hotel Riviera offers straightforward accommodation with a restaurant, regularly noted for value and convenience (€€). Another option is Hotel Sicilia Enna, a central property in the historic part of Enna, highlighted by guests for its location and welcoming atmosphere (€€).
Where is
Where is Agira?
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The hill town of Agira is situated within the Province of Enna, around 36 kilometres from Enna itself. Agira is characterised by its numerous churches and an Arab-Byzantine castle that stands in an elevated position above the town.
The layout of the town with its churches spread out in different areas means it's best to park the car and spend some time walking to the areas of interest. |
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The roads at the top of the town are extremely steep and narrow so either enter with caution if you don't want to walk.
Just beyond the town is Lake Pozzillo behind which you can see Mount Etna spewing its volcanic matter. There are lots of other hill towns within a short drive from here as well: Gagliano Castelferrato is a particular favourite of mine while nearby Nicosia and Leonforte are also worth a visit.
Visiting Agira (at least to get there) is best done by car as public transport in the area isn't the best. Although Agira itself does have a few accommodation options, a good place to base yourself to explore this area is the provincial capital Enna, a 45 minute drive way.
Just beyond the town is Lake Pozzillo behind which you can see Mount Etna spewing its volcanic matter. There are lots of other hill towns within a short drive from here as well: Gagliano Castelferrato is a particular favourite of mine while nearby Nicosia and Leonforte are also worth a visit.
Visiting Agira (at least to get there) is best done by car as public transport in the area isn't the best. Although Agira itself does have a few accommodation options, a good place to base yourself to explore this area is the provincial capital Enna, a 45 minute drive way.
Comune di Agira
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Province: Enna
Region: Sicily Population: 7,593 (in 2024 - source) Size: 163 km² Elevation: 650 metres Close by: Lake Pozzillo, Gagliano Castelferrato, Leonforte, Troina Recommended accommodation: Rocca dei Saraceni (16 km) By train: nearest station - Dittaino - 19 km
By bus: buses run from the Dittaino outlet centre (19 km) to Enna |
What People Ask About Agira, Sicily
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Discover
Discover Agira
Agira is a historic hill town in the Province of Enna, set among the rolling uplands of central Sicily. Built on a ridge overlooking the Salso Valley, it is characterised by steep streets, stone-built houses, and wide views that extend across the island’s interior as far as the surrounding mountain chains. Its elevated position has shaped both its defensive past and its distinctive appearance, with the historic centre layered across successive terraces.
The town preserves traces of Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish influence, reflected in landmarks such as the Castello di Agira, the Chiesa di San Filippo, and several richly decorated churches. Agira is also home to a prominent Second World War cemetery, a reminder of the fierce fighting that took place in central Sicily during the Allied advance of 1943. Positioned between Enna and Adrano, it forms part of an inland route linking the island’s mountain landscapes with the fertile valleys and historic settlements of the wider region.
The town preserves traces of Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish influence, reflected in landmarks such as the Castello di Agira, the Chiesa di San Filippo, and several richly decorated churches. Agira is also home to a prominent Second World War cemetery, a reminder of the fierce fighting that took place in central Sicily during the Allied advance of 1943. Positioned between Enna and Adrano, it forms part of an inland route linking the island’s mountain landscapes with the fertile valleys and historic settlements of the wider region.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Agira
- Historic centre of Agira is a hilltop town in Sicily known for its medieval streets, stone buildings, and religious architecture. The narrow alleys and small piazzas reflect a rich history shaped by Norman and Byzantine influences. Elevated positions offer views over the surrounding countryside and valleys.
- Chiesa Madre di San Filippo is the town’s main church, featuring a Baroque façade and an interior decorated with frescoes and religious artworks. It remains a focal point for community worship and local festivals. The church’s presence adds to Agira’s historical and cultural identity.
- Piazza Duomo serves as the social heart of Agira, lined with cafés, shops, and historic buildings. The square hosts markets and community events, providing a lively space for locals and visitors to gather. It offers a chance to experience daily life within a historic setting.
- Surrounding countryside walks lead through rolling hills, farmland, and olive groves typical of the Sicilian interior. These trails provide opportunities to explore the rural landscape and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Walking here reveals the agricultural traditions that shape Agira.
- Guided cultural and historical tours explore Agira’s churches, medieval centre, and local traditions. Knowledgeable guides share stories about the town’s past, architecture, and festivals. These tours often include tastings of regional food and wine, offering visitors a full cultural experience.
Tours and Activities
Agira Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Agira Photo Gallery
Sicily Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Agira
By Rail: Agira does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is Dittaino, about 15 kilometres away, on the Palermo–Catania line operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect Dittaino to Catania in around 1 hour and to Palermo in approximately 2 hours. From the station, local buses and taxis provide regular connections to Agira.
By Road: Agira is located in central Sicily, about 35 kilometres east of Enna. The drive takes around 40 minutes via the A19 motorway and SS121. From Catania, the distance is approximately 70 kilometres, with a journey time of about 1 hour via the A19. From Palermo, the drive is roughly 150 kilometres, taking around 2 hours. The town is well connected by regional roads, with parking available near the centre and close to the main viewpoints overlooking the Salso River valley.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Agira is located in central Sicily, about 35 kilometres east of Enna. The drive takes around 40 minutes via the A19 motorway and SS121. From Catania, the distance is approximately 70 kilometres, with a journey time of about 1 hour via the A19. From Palermo, the drive is roughly 150 kilometres, taking around 2 hours. The town is well connected by regional roads, with parking available near the centre and close to the main viewpoints overlooking the Salso River valley.
Nearest International Airports:
- Catania Fontanarossa Airport: Situated about 75 kilometres southeast of Agira, with a drive of roughly 1 hour via the A19 motorway. This is the most convenient airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
- Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport: Located approximately 155 kilometres northwest, taking around 2 hours and 10 minutes by car via the A19 motorway. It provides extensive national and European connections.
- Comiso Airport: Around 120 kilometres south, with a journey time of about 2 hours via the SS117bis and SS121. It offers several Italian and European routes.
Private Transfers
Agira Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and efficient way to reach or depart from Agira, with a professional local driver providing direct, door-to-door service. It’s an ideal option for those wishing to avoid the need for car hire or the complexities of public transport in Sicily’s inland areas.
Transfers can be arranged from Catania Fontanarossa Airport or Palermo Airport, both offering frequent national and international connections. Private transfers also operate between Agira and nearby destinations such as Enna, Nicosia, and Caltanissetta, allowing you to travel at your own pace and enjoy a smooth, reliable journey through central Sicily.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Transfers can be arranged from Catania Fontanarossa Airport or Palermo Airport, both offering frequent national and international connections. Private transfers also operate between Agira and nearby destinations such as Enna, Nicosia, and Caltanissetta, allowing you to travel at your own pace and enjoy a smooth, reliable journey through central Sicily.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
