The Scala dei Turchi, also known as the “Turkish Steps” is one of Italy’s top tourist attractions. Its natural beauty; a wave of pure white marl cliffside overlooking the sea is something completely unique. Over millions of years, the rock developed ridges that look like a stairway. A visit to a Scala makes for the perfect day trip or stop while you’re in the Valley of Temples (Agrigento region). Keep reading for everything you need to know for visiting the Scala dei Turchi.
History of the Scala dei Turchi
How did the Scala dei Turchi get its name? Back in the 1500s, the area was overrun with Saracen pirates (who were mistakenly called Turks). They used the “Scala” as a way to get to land and take over villages in the surrounding areas.
Logistics: Location, Getting there, & Parking
Located in the Southwest of Sicily in the Agrigento region, the Scala dei Turchi is technically in the town of Realmonte.
Driving time from the largest Sicilian cities:
- Palermo: ~2 hours
- Catania: ~2 hours
- Messina: ~3 hours
- Siracusa: ~2.5 hours
We used Google Maps to find the destination. Once we got there, that’s where the confusion began because there are plenty of signs that say “Scala dei Turchi” in all sorts of directions. This is because there are plenty of different entrance points from different restaurants and areas.
Parking: I recommend finding a parking lot to just park in when you arrive (they are all noted). Once you’ve parked, that’s when you can start exploring. We parked in the first lot we found at the very entrance of the area.
Finding the right spot
I’ll 100% admit that due to the lack of clear articles on where to go and what to do, we spent a lot of time walking around wondering if we were in the right spot. So here’s what you’ll want to do: view the Scala from above and from below.
View from above: There are various viewpoints from above. Once you see the signs noting “Scala dei Turchi” keep following them until you see a few different “vista point” areas. You’ll see the sign and walking path above.
View from below: To get closer look at the Scala, you’ll have to head down to the beach. Note: there’s a lot of stairs and walking to get down to the beach. Once you’re down there, make a right until you’re up close.
An important note: Due to years of tourists disrespecting the area (graffiti, trash, etc.) you can no longer climb onto the Turkish Stairway. You’ll still see a few people climbing up from the beach for the photo op which is technically illegal and can lead to a fine if you’re caught.
How to spend the day at the Scala dei Turchi
When making a visit to the Scala dei Turchi, you can either plan to spend the entire day in the area or make a quick stop while visiting the Valley of the Temples. The guide below is for spending your day at the Scala.
Breakfast: You’ll want to arrive as early as possible to beat the crowds. We arrived around 10 AM and it wasn’t too crowded. While on your way, there are plenty of little towns where you can stop at the neighborhood “bar” for a classic breakfast of a cappuccino and cornetto.
First stop: Upper View Point: Once you’ve parked, head along a mix of side walk and dirt walking paths to check out the view from above. There’s a few key photo spots (like the one below). It’s a nice walk and it’s cool to see it from different points!
Second stop: Lower View Point: After you’ve visiting the main Scala tourist area, you’ll want to walk back to all those signs that say “Scala dei Turchi.” You can pick any one of those spots to access the beach. Once you’ve gotten all your visiting out of the way, it’s time to relax!
Third stop: Beach relaxation: There are plenty of businesses along the beach that have private beach areas where you can rent a lounge chair and umbrella (my personal favorite). This is comfortable if you’re planning to spend the whole day there.
Fourth Stop: Lunch: There were so many restaurants that we discovered while walking! You really can’t go wrong with Sicilian food anywhere, so just pick the one that looks most interesting. The best beach lunch is a gelato con la brioche (gelato inside of a brioche bun). You’ll thank me later!
Tips for visiting
- Pack walking shoes: We did a LOT of walking. While you’ll ultimately end up at the beach (and want your beach clothes + sandals), pack some walking shoes. We walked at least a couple miles!
- Don’t forget sunscreen & a hat: In the summer it can get to be 90+ degrees! Dress accordingly.
- Respect nature: Follow all rules, pick up your trash, etc. (You know the drill!) We don’t want to destroy this beautiful spot.
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