The amazing Scala dei Turchi Sicily: Full guide

If you’re seeking a slice of paradise in the heart of Southern Sicily, look no further than Scala dei Turchi Sicily.

It’s an unusually bright white curved cliff, that looks like it was carved by an artist, every curve and corner is polished and startlingly white like marble and its unique structure has landed it as a UNESCO world heritage site. Scala dei Turchi Sicily is known as ‘The Turkish Steps’ or ‘Stair of the Turks Cliffs’ thanks to its incredible history, yes, you’re right in thinking it was once a hideout for Turkish pirates. It is as dreamy as it looks in the pictures and the sunsets turn the world every colour of pastel you can think of.

Located near Porto Empedocle and Agrigento, Scala dei Turchi is the only place on Sicily that is a must visit; the unique cliff formations is just incredible and definitely a bucket list experience.

After you’ve finished reading the about Scala dei Turchi Sicily, you might find my other articles on Italy and Sicily of use with full guides on the amazing Saturnia hot springs Italy.

Table of Contents

Scala dei Turchi Sicily- ‘Stair of the Turks’

Scala dei Turchi Sicily stands out as one of the most unique and beautiful spots in all of Europe. The sunsets at Scala dei Turchi Sicily are some of the most beautiful things you’ll ever witness; the sunset turns the sky into beautiful pinks, oranges, blues and purples, the perfect pastel sunset of dreams.

Scala dei Turchi Sicily is known as ‘The Turkish Stairs‘, or ‘Stair of the Turks’, thanks to the incredible chalk-white rock cliffs with their naturally formed steps that resembles a incredible marble staircase.

Scala dei Turchi Sicily is named so thanks to its turbulent history; the Turkish Empire was great back in the day, and were known as ‘The Turks’. It was used as a lookout during their raids by pirates and warriors. The ice creams are delicious as ever, as are the restaurants. The food is not only delicious, but fairly budget friendly too with most meals coming in at 6-12 EUR depending on where you go.

If you’re after a tour, compare day tours on Get Your Guide or Viator.

Tours to Scala dei Turchi

Picture this: ivory-white cliffs with gentle turquoise waves of the Mediterranean lapping at the edges. This is the unique sight that awaits you at Scala dei Turchi Sicily. Named after the Turkish pirates who once sought refuge here, this beach and cliffside has fairly unusual rounded, stair-like formations that have been shaped over time by the wind, weather and water.

How to get to Scala dei Turchi Sicily

Use Google Maps to navigate your way to Scala dei Turchi Sicily and just outside parking is available at a flat fee of 5 EUR no matter how long you visit for, and during the height of summer it becomes very packed so just be aware. It’s just a stone’s throw from the picturesque town of Porto Empedocle and Agrigento, it’s easily accessible and 100% worth a visit.

If you’re after a tour, compare day tours on Get Your Guide or Viator.

Tours to Scala dei Turchi

The best tours to Scala dei Turchi

If you want to take the stress out of organising the trip to Scala dei Turchi yourself, then it is worth doing one of the tours in the region. Most tours will take you to Agrigento, valley of the temples, and there are even some boat tours that take you on rides around the coastline with a cocktail or beer in hand. Compare day tours on Get Your Guide or Viator.

Best hotels near Scala dei Turchi Agrigento

Here are some of the best hotels near Scala dei Turchi Sicily. There’s plenty to do in the area; the valley of the temples, the UNESCO heritage site, the beautiful museums with ancient artefacts and, the seafront restaurants and cafes. And of course, the ice cream parlours dotted everywhere.

I can recommend the Scala dei Turchi resort, a lovely 4 star hotel with a pool and loungers to relax on after a long day of exploring the local area.

Scala Dei Turchi Maps

Why is it called the Turkish steps?

One of the most noticeably different features of Scala dei Turchi Sicily is its unusual geological formation, essentially ‘the steps’. The layered, marlstone cliff looks just like white marble, softly scupltured into an unusually natural grand staircase, hence the name Turkish Steps. These natural “steps” are an incredible sight alongside the azure blue sea, perfect for photos and the perfect place to relax and unwind in the sun.

Scala dei Turchi Beach: The hidden gem!

While Scala dei Turchi Sicily itself is famous for its cliffs, the Scala dei Turchi beach beneath them is equally worth a visit, but you have to bear in mind that access might be a little different than usual.

The hidden beaches on the west side can be accessed but you will need to clambor over the cliffs; for the most part, the cliffs are very easy to walk along, what with its softly carved ‘steps’ into the cliff face, but it’s not the most access friendly.

The golden sands and crystal-clear waters make for a great place to lounge and unwind in the sun, bear in mind that at different times of the day there can be limited shade. You can bask in the lemon yellow Sicilian sun, take refreshing dips in the sea, or simply relax with a good book.

The Scala dei Turchi Resort nearby offers access to a private lounge beach, ensuring your comfort as you enjoy the coastal beauty.

Cultural and Historical Significance: Beyond its aesthetic allure and the hordes of tourists that flock here in the summer months in Italy, Scala dei Turchi Sicily holds some very interesting historical significance.

It is believed that the cliffs once served as a hideout for Turkish pirates ‘The Turks’, offering a vantage point for observing passing ships. This connection to maritime history is also very interesting, make sure you stop by some of the museums in Agrigento so you can learn more about Sicily’s rich past.

If you’re after a tour, compare day tours on Get Your Guide or Viator.

Tours to Scala dei Turchi

Visiting Scala dei Turchi Sicily: Practical Tips

As with any travel, it’s essential to respect the environment and adhere to guidelines set in place to preserve this natural treasure.
There are no facilities at Scala dei Turchi Sicily, so packing your essentials, including water, a towel, snacks, some food and sunscreen is a must.
The access to the beach and cliffs involves descending a steep staircase. Comfortable footwear is recommended but some people find it fine to do this in flipflops.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

It’s important to note that Scala dei Turchi Sicily and its surroundings are protected as a natural heritage site. Remember to always clean up after yourself and leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures!

Weather in Scala dei Turchi year round

Scala dei Turchi Sicily is great all year round, although bear in mind that in summer, the weather can be absolutely scorchingly hot, and it can get busy during peak tourist season, although this being said, the sunsets in summer are incredible.

Insider tip; if it is very busy during summer, consider heading to Punta Bianca, a lesser known stretch of coast that is similar to Scala dei Turchi Sicily.

After you’ve finished reading the about Scala dei Turchi Sicily, you might find my other articles on Italy and Sicily of use with full guides on the amazing Saturnia hot springs Italy.

If you’re after a tour, compare day tours on Get Your Guide or Viator.

Tours to Scala dei Turchi

Scala dei Turchi Weather in January

Average Temperature: 13°C (55°F)
Rainy Days: 7
Daylight Hours: 10
Sunrise Time: Around 7:15 AM
Sunset Time: Around 5:30 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in February

Average Temperature: 13°C (55°F)
Rainy Days: 6
Daylight Hours: 11
Sunrise Time: Around 7:00 AM
Sunset Time: Around 6:00 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in March

Average Temperature: 14°C (57°F)
Rainy Days: 6
Daylight Hours: 12
Sunrise Time: Around 6:30 AM
Sunset Time: Around 6:30 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in April

Average Temperature: 17°C (63°F)
Rainy Days: 5
Daylight Hours: 13
Sunrise Time: Around 6:00 AM
Sunset Time: Around 7:00 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in May

Average Temperature: 21°C (70°F)
Rainy Days: 4
Daylight Hours: 14
Sunrise Time: Around 5:45 AM
Sunset Time: Around 7:30 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in June

Average Temperature: 25°C (77°F)
Rainy Days: 2
Daylight Hours: 15
Sunrise Time: Around 5:30 AM
Sunset Time: Around 8:00 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in July

Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F)
Rainy Days: 1
Daylight Hours: 15
Sunrise Time: Around 5:45 AM
Sunset Time: Around 8:15 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in August

Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F)
Rainy Days: 1
Daylight Hours: 14
Sunrise Time: Around 6:00 AM
Sunset Time: Around 8:00 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in September

Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F)
Rainy Days: 3
Daylight Hours: 12
Sunrise Time: Around 6:30 AM
Sunset Time: Around 7:15 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in October

Average Temperature: 22°C (72°F)
Rainy Days: 5
Daylight Hours: 11
Sunrise Time: Around 7:00 AM
Sunset Time: Around 6:30 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in November

Average Temperature: 17°C (63°F)
Rainy Days: 7
Daylight Hours: 10
Sunrise Time: Around 7:15 AM
Sunset Time: Around 5:15 PM

Scala dei Turchi Weather in December

Average Temperature: 14°C (57°F)
Rainy Days: 8
Daylight Hours: 9
Sunrise Time: Around 7:30 AM
Sunset Time: Around 5:00 PM

If you’re after a tour, compare day tours on Get Your Guide or Viator.

Tours to Scala dei Turchi

Quick links

Here’s everything I use when I travel abroad:
Tours – Compare tour prices on Viator and Get Your Guide
Hotels – I always use Booking as the more hotels I book, I get a higher Genius discount. I also compare prices on Expedia.
E-Sims – purchase an e-sim with Airalo on your phone so you can make calls and have mobile data abroad! There’s no need to remove your current sim card!
Travel insurance – don’t ever go on vacation without travel insurance, you never know when you might need it!
Travel essentials – have a look at a full list of travel essentials that I use, including the best power bank!

Scala dei Turchi in Southern Sicily is an asbolute gem that is both beautiful and has incredible historical significance. I hope you have an amazing time, let me know how you get on.

After you’ve finished reading the about Scala dei Turchi, you might find my other articles on Italy and Sicily of use with full guides on the amazing Saturnia hot springs Italy.

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Have a look at my other Italy Travel guides below:

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The amazing Scala dei Turchi Sicily: Full guide

Scala dei Turchi Sicily- ‘Stair of the Turks’

How to get to Scala dei Turchi Sicily

The best tours to Scala dei Turchi