Paestum Tour: Best Preserved Temples in the World (UNESCO)

Exploring the ancient ruins of Paestum is a must for any history buff or architecture enthusiast. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts three exceptionally well-preserved Greek temples, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. With a guided tour, visitors can uncover the captivating stories behind these architectural marvels and gain insights into the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable destination. From the mighty Temple of Poseidon to the enigmatic Tomb of the Diver, there’s much to discover in this remarkable corner of Italy.

Contents show

About Your Stay

The Paestum Tour offers a guided exploration of three well-preserved Greek temples, including the Temple of Hera, the oldest dating back to the 6th century BCE.
The tour provides an engaging experience to learn about the religious and cultural practices of ancient Greeks in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Paestum.
Visitors can explore the majestic Temple of Poseidon, the largest of the three temples, and the modest yet exceptional Temple of Ceres.
The tour includes a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, which features the renowned Tomb of the Diver with stunning figurative frescoes.
The tour is available in multiple language options, ensuring a comprehensive and insightful understanding of the historical significance of Paestum’s ancient Greek temples.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Paestum Tour: Best Preserved Temples is a captivating experience that takes visitors on a journey to explore the UNESCO-recognized ancient Greek archaeological site.

Priced at $312.28 per group of up to 25 participants, this 2-hour guided tour offers excellent value. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without immediate payment.

The tour features knowledgeable guides who provide insights in multiple languages, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and architectural wonders of Paestum’s well-preserved temples, Roman forum, and amphitheater.

Looking for more options in Paestum? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Guided Tour Details

What makes the guided tour of Paestum so captivating? The live tour guides are fluent in several languages, including Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian, ensuring visitors can fully enjoy the experience. The highlights of the tour include the awe-inspiring Temples of Hera, Poseidon, and Ceres, as well as the Roman Forum and Amphitheater. Plus, the National Archaeological Museum features the renowned Tomb of the Diver, decorated with remarkable frescoes. The tour provides an enriching and engaging exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site, offering exceptional value for money.

| Language Offered | Duration |

| — | — |

| Spanish | 2 hours |

| English | 2 hours |

| French | 2 hours |

| German | 2 hours |

| Italian | 2 hours |

Historical Significance of Paestum

Originally called Poseidonia, Paestum was an ancient city of Magna Grecia, a region of southern Italy colonized by the ancient Greeks.

The city boasts three well-preserved Greek temples dedicated to Greek deities. The oldest, the Temple of Hera (Basilica), dates back to the 6th century BCE and exemplifies the Doric architectural style.

The Temple of Poseidon (Neptune), built in 460 BCE, is the largest. The Temple of Ceres, dedicated to Athena, is more modest but equally exceptional.

These magnificent temples provide insight into the religious and cultural practices of the ancient Greek civilization that thrived in this region.

Temples of Greek Deities

Though Paestum was originally an ancient city of Magna Grecia, it’s the three well-preserved Greek temples dedicated to various deities that draw visitors today.

The impressive Temple of Hera, or "Basilica," is the oldest and largest, built in the Doric style around 550 BCE. Next is the majestic Temple of Poseidon, constructed in 460 BCE and dedicated to the god of the sea.

Finally, the modest but exceptional Temple of Ceres, honoring the goddess Athena, completes the trio. Together, these awe-inspiring structures offer a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural heritage of ancient Paestum.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Temple of Hera (Basilica)

The Temple of Hera, also known as the "Basilica," stands as the oldest and largest of the three impressive Greek temples in Paestum. Constructed in the 6th century BCE, this Doric-style temple displays the grandeur and architectural prowess of ancient Greece. Visitors marvel at its immense scale, with towering columns and a commanding presence. Let’s explore the temple’s features in more detail:

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | Limestone and travertine marble |

| Architectural Style | Doric, with 6 x 15 columns |

| Dedication | Originally to the Greek goddess Hera |

| Significance | Oldest and largest temple in Paestum |

The Temple of Hera offers a captivating glimpse into the past, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the majesty of ancient Greek civilization.

There's plenty more to explore in Paestum

The Temple of Poseidon (Neptune)

Towering majestically atop the Doric columns, the Temple of Poseidon stands as the largest and most impressive of the three ancient Greek temples in Paestum.

Built in 460 B.C.E., this grand structure dedicated to the sea god Neptune impresses with its sheer scale and well-preserved state.

Some key facts about the Temple of Poseidon:

Measures 60 meters long and 25 meters wide, making it the largest temple in Paestum.
Features 6 columns across the front and 14 along the sides, a classic Doric design.
Constructed with local limestone, now weathered to a golden hue.
Remains one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world.

The Temple of Ceres

Situated just northwest of the towering Temple of Poseidon, the Temple of Ceres stands as a more modest yet exceptional example of ancient Greek architecture. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, this temple’s simplistic design and proportions showcase the refined aesthetic of the Doric order. Though smaller in scale, the Temple of Ceres impresses with its well-preserved state and intricate carved details.

| — | — | — | — |

Visitors can marvel at the temple’s harmonious proportions and appreciate the skill of its ancient builders, who created a lasting monument to the Greek pantheon.

Highlights of the National Archaeological Museum

Though the Paestum Tour showcases the remarkably preserved Greek temples, the site’s National Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection that further illuminates the region’s rich heritage.

Highlights include:

The Thirty-three metopes from the Temple of Hera Argiva, offering a glimpse into ancient sculptural traditions.
The imposing Statue of Zeus, a testament to the reverence for the king of the gods.
The intricate Crater with the Rape of Europe, a captivating mythological scene.
The renowned Tomb of the Diver, adorned with stunning figurative frescoes that provide a window into Paestum’s funerary customs.

Questions About Your Stay

Is There an Audio Guide Option Available for the Tour?

No, there’s no mention of an audio guide option in the provided information. The tour only mentions a live tour guide available in multiple languages to lead the group through the historical temples and museum.

Can I Visit the Site Independently Without a Guided Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore Paestum independently without a guided tour. The archaeological site is open to the public, and self-guided visits are possible. However, a guided tour provides more in-depth insights and historical context about the well-preserved Greek temples.

What Are the Accessibility Options for Visitors With Disabilities?

The site offers wheelchair-accessible pathways and facilities. Visitors with disabilities can explore the ruins independently or request a specialized guided tour. Advance notice is recommended to ensure the best experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the Paestum tour, but it’s best to check with the guide as some areas like the museum may have restrictions. The guide can provide guidance on appropriate photography etiquette throughout the tour.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Refreshments at the Site?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs and refreshments at the Paestum site. There are gift shops and cafés available where you can find local products, handicrafts, and light snacks to enjoy during your visit.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Paestum Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the world’s best-preserved archaeological sites. Visitors can enjoy the awe-inspiring Greek temples, gain insights into the region’s rich history, and discover captivating artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this guided tour promises to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: