Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” is a gem in the heart of Salento, known for its breathtaking baroque architecture and rich history. If you’re a wine lover wanting to explore the beauty of this city, you’re in the right place! Here, you can admire architectural wonders like the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheater. Lecce also serves as the perfect starting point to discover Puglia’s top wineries, where you can taste local wines like Primitivo and Negroamaro. Get ready to uncover all the must-see spots in Lecce!
Things to do in Lecce: Attractions worth visiting
Below are some of the best spots to discover in this antic Italian city and the best itinerary to uncover all of the city’s baroque gems.
Stroll through Lecce’s Historic Center
The historic center of Lecce is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with stunning stone buildings that tell the city’s story. As you walk, take in the intricate carvings on the facades of churches and palaces—true masterpieces of Lecce’s baroque style. Don’t miss the vibrant squares like Piazza Sant’Oronzo, where you can relax with an outdoor coffee and absorb the local ambiance. Lecce’s old town is perfect for a leisurely walk, offering a mix of art, history, and daily life that promises unforgettable moments. For a more convenient discovery of the city, you can also opt for a walking tour. Don’t miss Piazza del Duomo either!
Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce
The Basilica di Santa Croce, Lecce’s baroque icon, captivates with its richly detailed facade adorned with mythological figures, angels, and fantastical creatures. Inside, the expansive nave is bathed in natural light, highlighting side altars and delicate decorations. This basilica is not only a place of worship but also a journey through time, offering a glimpse into Lecce’s artistic heritage.
Explore the Roman Amphitheater
Located in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, Lecce’s Roman Amphitheater is a fascinating relic of the ancient Roman civilization. Discovered in the 20th century, this amphitheater once hosted thousands of spectators who came to watch gladiatorial contests. Walking through the stone steps and central arena, you can almost hear echoes of the past. This site is both historically significant and a lively cultural venue, hosting events and performances throughout the year.
Discover the Church of Saints Niccolò and Cataldo
Just outside Lecce’s historic center, the Church of Saints Niccolò and Cataldo blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Founded in the 12th century by the Normans, this church is known for its ornate facade and fascinating interior adorned with frescoes and mosaics. Surrounded by an ancient cemetery, it exudes a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for reflection and a unique glimpse into Lecce’s spiritual past.
Admire the Teatro Paisiello
Teatro Paisiello is one of Lecce’s hidden treasures. Named after the famous composer Giovanni Paisiello, this 18th-century theater combines neoclassical architecture with an intimate ambiance and excellent acoustics. If you get the chance, attend a performance here, or simply visit to appreciate the historical decor and charming atmosphere.
Discover Contemporary Art at the MUST
The MUST (Historical Museum of Lecce) is a vibrant venue for contemporary art lovers. Housed in a historic building, the museum bridges tradition and modernity with exhibitions by Italian and international artists. Visitors can explore current artistic trends while enjoying workshops and cultural events. The MUST adds a fresh, dynamic dimension to Lecce’s art scene, appealing to both art connoisseurs and curious explorers.
Explore the Sigismondo Castromediano Museum
The Sigismondo Castromediano Museum, Puglia’s oldest museum, offers a deep dive into the history and culture of Salento. The museum’s vast collection spans from prehistoric to Roman times, with exhibits of medieval and Renaissance art as well. A visit here provides valuable insight into Lecce’s roots and the region’s cultural heritage.
Marvel at Porta Napoli
Porta Napoli, built in 1548 in honor of Charles V, is one of Lecce’s grand historic entrances. Once the main gateway to the city, it now welcomes visitors to explore Lecce’s baroque architecture and history. Starting your city tour from here, you’ll pass iconic churches, historic squares, and timeless beauty that make Lecce unforgettable.
Stop by Museo Faggiano
Museo Faggiano offers an unexpected journey through over 2,000 years of history, discovered during a home renovation. Walking through its rooms, you’ll find ancient wells, cisterns, crypts, and traces of a Franciscan convent. This family-run museum provides an intimate, unique experience for history enthusiasts, revealing Lecce’s rich archaeological layers.
Explore Carlo V Castle
Carlo V Castle, a 16th-century fortress in the center of Lecce, showcases the city’s military past. With imposing walls, a moat, and architectural details, the castle hosts exhibitions and cultural events. Take time to explore the frescoed rooms and climb the walls for panoramic views of Lecce.
Savor a Pasticciotto Leccese
No visit to Lecce is complete without tasting the pasticciotto leccese, a traditional pastry filled with creamy custard. Fresh from the oven, this treat embodies the essence of Lecce’s culinary heritage. Try it in a historic café for the authentic experience, perhaps with a cappuccino.
Walk to Piazza Duomo
Piazza Duomo, one of Lecce’s most charming squares, is an architectural marvel. Stroll through cobblestone streets to reach this serene space, where you’ll find Lecce Cathedral, the Campanile, and the Bishop’s Palace. Each building showcases Lecce’s unique baroque style, offering an atmosphere perfect for reflection and photographs.
Things to Do Around Lecce
Explore Alberobello and the Itria Valley
The Itria Valley, about an hour from Lecce, is famous for Alberobello’s trulli—whitewashed houses with cone-shaped roofs. Wander through the neighborhoods of Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, home to over 1,500 trulli. Don’t miss the Trullo Sovrano, the town’s largest trullo, and enjoy a wine tasting of local white varieties like Verdeca and Fiano.
Visit Locorotondo
One of Italy’s most beautiful towns, Locorotondo features “cummerse” houses with sloping roofs. Stroll through its narrow streets, explore historic churches, and savor the locally produced white wine, Locorotondo DOC.
Discover Ostuni
Known as the “White City,” Ostuni’s whitewashed buildings overlook the Adriatic Sea. Its narrow streets, Gothic-Romanesque cathedral, and scenic beaches make it a perfect blend of history and relaxation.
Admire the Cliffs of Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and azure waters. Visit the iconic Lama Monachile beach, nestled between rocky outcrops, and enjoy seafood dishes that capture the flavors of the Adriatic.
Day trip to Gallipoli and Salento Beaches
Just 40 minutes from Lecce, Gallipoli offers a historic center on an island and golden beaches like Baia Verde and Punta della Suina. The town’s Angioino Castle and vibrant summer nightlife make it a must-see.
Marvel at Matera’s Sassi
About two hours from Lecce, Matera’s ancient cave dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a captivating sight. Wander the Sassi neighborhoods, visit rock-hewn churches, and enjoy Matera’s unique Lucanian cuisine.
Wine Tasting in Puglia’s Wineries
Puglia is renowned for its robust wines like Primitivo and Negroamaro. Many family-run wineries offer guided tours where you can walk among vineyards, learn about traditional production methods, and taste wines paired with local delicacies.
Visit a traditional appulian Masseria
At Masseria Torleanzi, you’ll find the passion and dedication of Giuseppe and Luigi Ciotola, agricultural entrepreneurs who have turned the winemaking vocation inherited from their ancestors into not just a profession, but an art. The estate is dominated by the impressive, historic 15th-century “Torre Leanzi” (from which “Torleanzi” takes its name) and spans nearly one hundred hectares. It’s an authentic setting to explore the wine tradition of Puglia.
Book your experience now with Winalist:
Enjoy a Tasting at Masseria Altamura
Masseria Altamura is located within the renowned DOC Primitivo di Manduria wine-producing region, one of Italy’s most esteemed areas for high-quality viticulture. This unique estate includes a 17th-century masseria, carefully restored with respect for the environment and original architecture, along with a contemporary winery designed according to the latest principles of bioarchitecture.
Indulge in the finest wines of Puglia by booking your experience now on Winalist.
Good to Know Before Visiting Lecce, Puglia
What are the best traditional restaurants to eat in Lecce?
La Vecchia Osteria – A must for classic dishes like orecchiette with turnip greens and fava bean purée.
Le Zie Trattoria Casereccia – A cozy spot with farm-style dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
L’Ostrica Ubriaca – A seafood restaurant celebrated for its fresh flavors and simple preparations.
What are the best places to stay in Lecce?
– Risorgimento Resort – A luxury 5-star hotel in the city center, combining elegance and modern amenities.
– Palazzo Rollo – A historic residence turned boutique B&B, offering personalized service.
– Patria Palace Hotel – Elegant rooms with stunning views of Lecce’s architectural treasures.
Lecce promises a journey through history, art, and culinary traditions that enriches every visitor’s experience. Enjoy your travels!
How to get to Lecce?
Lecce is accessible by various modes of transportation:
– By Plane: The nearest airport to Lecce is Brindisi Airport (Aeroporto del Salento), about 40 minutes away by car. From Brindisi, you can take a train, bus, or rent a car to reach Lecce. Alternatively, Bari Airport is about a 2-hour drive from Lecce and offers additional flight options.
– By Train: Lecce has a central train station with regular connections to major Italian cities, including Rome, Milan, and Naples, as well as regional services from Brindisi and Bari. Trenitalia and Italo are the main train operators serving Lecce.
– By Car: If you prefer driving, you can reach Lecce via the A14 highway from northern Italy, connecting to the SS613 road from Brindisi to Lecce. Renting a car provides flexibility to explore the surrounding Puglian countryside.
– By Bus: Several bus services operate routes to Lecce from Brindisi, Bari, and other cities in southern Italy. Companies like FlixBus offer budget-friendly options for reaching Lecce by bus.
Each option provides a convenient way to reach Lecce, making it easy to enjoy the beauty and culture of this historic city.
