Your own private space, to enjoy Salento freely and fully. Lecce is one of the must-see destinations. Known as the “Florence of the South”, this city will captivate you with its Baroque architecture, golden alleyways, sun-drenched squares, and lively local atmosphere. And the best part? Just a few kilometers away, you can dive into some of the most beautiful beaches of Italy.
Here’s what you’ll find in this article:
- Things to see and do in Lecce
- The most beautiful beaches within 40 minutes of the city
- Helpful tips to make the most of your visit
Why visit Lecce: more than just monuments
Lecce is not just a city of art, it is an experience. Walking through its historic center feels like stepping into another world, where every wrought-iron balcony, every church, every doorway tells a story.
Unique atmosphere
The city center is compact, elegant, and easy to explore on foot. Its warm, honey-colored stones reflect the light in a unique way, especially at sunset. You can feel a blend of spirituality, beauty, and calm.
Cuisine and local traditions
Try these local specialties:
- Pasticciotto leccese with warm custard filling
- Ciceri e tria (pasta and chickpeas with crispy fried pasta)
- Rustico leccese with tomato and béchamel
- A glass of Primitivo o Negroamaro
Art and culture
In addition to churches and palaces, Lecce is home to:
- Contemporary art spaces
- Papier-mâché workshops (an ancient local tradition)
- Music and theater events all year round
Lecce’s must-see landmarks
1. Piazza del Duomo
One of the most scenic Baroque squares in Italy. Enclosed on three sides, it houses the Cathedral, the bell tower, and the Bishop’s Palace.
2. Basilica di Santa Croce
A Baroque masterpiece, adorned with hundreds of sculpted figures — cherubs, animals, twisted columns… to be admired slowly.
3. Anfiteatro Romano
A testament to ancient Lecce, it stands in the heart of the city, in Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Still used today for performances.
4. Carlo V Castel
Impressive, with art exhibitions and workshops. Also interesting for those traveling with children.
5. Via Trinchese and the old town alleyways
Perfect for getting lost on foot, among historic buildings, local artisans, and flower-filled corners. In the evening, the area comes alive with aperitifs and live music.
The most beautiful beaches near Lecce
After exploring the city, unwind by the sea. In less than a 40-minute drive, you can reach some of the most stunning beaches in Salento.
🐚 Torre dell’Orso
- Distance: 30 min
- Clear sea, light-colored sand
- Famous for the “Two Sisters,” two sea stacks that are iconic symbols of the Adriatic coast.
🌊 San Foca
- Distance: 25 min
- Less crowded, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
- Shallow waters, perfect for families.
🏝️ Punta Prosciutto
- Distance: 40 min (ionic coast)
- Wild beach with fine sand
- One of the most Caribbean-like spots in Salento
🌞 Torre Lapillo
- Distance: 35 min
- Calm and crystal-clear sea
- Services and equipped beach clubs available
🌅 Porto Cesareo
- Distance: 35 min
- Sandy beach clubs, with the option of boat trips
- Ideal for snorkeling
Practical tips
- Best SeasonThe best season
- Dove parcheggiare a Lecce: consigliati i parcheggi fuori Porta Napoli e Porta Rudiae
- Spiagge libere o lidi? Tutte le località elencate offrono entrambe le opzioni
- Abbigliamento a Lecce: scarpe comode e cappello, d’estate il sole è forte anche in città
Dove dormire per visitare Lecce e il Salento
Soggiornare nella nostra masseria ti permetterà di vivere il Salento in modo autentico: tra ulivi secolari, relax, buon cibo e ospitalità sincera.
📍 Masseria Don Agostino
💬 A soli [XX] minuti da Lecce
🍽️ Colazione con prodotti locali
🌿 Spazi immersi nella natura
Prenota il tuo soggiorno e scopri Lecce e il Salento partendo dalla quiete e dalla bellezza della nostra masseria.