Lecce (province) Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, food and drink scene, and transportation options in Lecce (Province), Southern Italy, through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lecce (Province)

Lecce is a province situated in the Apulia region, in Southern Italy. It is known for its baroque architecture, sun-kissed beaches, and delicious cuisine. The city of Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” is the provincial capital, and one of the most famous cities in Italy. The province boasts of centuries of history, rich culture, and warm hospitality, making it a popular destination among tourists.

This guide will take you through the top places to visit, hiking routes, activities, food and drink scene, and everything else that you need to know to have a memorable trip to Lecce (Province).

List of Places to Visit in Lecce (Province)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Basilica di Santa Croce, Lecce: A beautiful Baroque-style church embellished with intricate stone carvings, frescoes, and sculptures.
  • Castello Aragonese, Taranto: A 15th-century castle that exhibits archaeological collections, medieval art, woodwork, and ceramics.
  • Museo Civico, Galatina: A museum that showcases a rich collection of art and artifacts from the Byzantine, Greek, and Roman periods.

Natural Attractions of Lecce (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Punta Prosciutto, Porto Cesareo: A stunning white-sand beach with crystal-clear waters that offers snorkeling, diving, and sailing opportunities.
  • Grotta Grande del Ciolo, Andrano: A picturesque turquoise-blue sea cave enveloped by high cliffs that provides excellent swimming and kayaking experiences.
  • Le Cesine Nature Reserve, San Cesario di Lecce: A wildlife reserve that spans for 1000 hectares and hosts various bird species, including flamingos, herons, and storks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lecce (Province)

  • La Via degli Ulivi, Carpignano Salentino: A 10 km cycling path that passes through unspoiled olive groves and ancient fortified farms.
  • La Via Traiana, Otranto: A 25 km trail that follows the ancient Roman road, featuring formidable fortresses, coastal towers, and impressive sea views.
  • Sentiero delle Terre Rosse, Gallipoli: A 7 km hiking trail that takes you through the red clay hills of Salento, passing by olive trees, vineyards, and old frantoi (oil mills).

Best Things to Do in Lecce (Province): Activities and Tours

  • Cooking Classes, Lecce: Learn how to cook traditional Apulian recipes, such as orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and pasticciotto pie.
  • Wine Tastings, Salice Salentino: Visit local wineries and taste the region’s popular wines, such as Primitivo di Manduria, Negroamaro, and Salice Salentino DOC.
  • Boat Trips, Santa Maria di Leuca: Explore the beautiful coastline of Salento, admire the dramatic sea cliffs, and swim in secluded coves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lecce (Province)

Here’s a week-long itinerary to help you plan your trip to Lecce (Province):

  • Day 1: Explore the historical city of Lecce and visit the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo.
  • Day 2: Spend the day at Punta Prosciutto beach and enjoy water sports.
  • Day 3: Wander around the picturesque town of Otranto and visit the Cathedral and the Aragonese Castle.
  • Day 4: Discover the unspoiled countryside of Salento and go on the La Via degli Ulivi cycling route.
  • Day 5: Visit the charming old town of Gallipoli and walk along its fortified walls and beaches.
  • Day 6: Take a boat trip to explore the sea caves along the Adriatic coast and swim in the turquoise waters of Grotta della Poesia.
  • Day 7: Indulge in Apulian cuisine and take a cooking class to learn how to make pasta and local dishes.

Food and Drink Scene of Lecce (Province)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa: A pasta dish with turnip greens, garlic, chili, and anchovies.
  • Risotto alla Pescatora: A seafood risotto made with mussels, clams, shrimps, and squids.
  • Pasticiotto: A pastry filled with creamy custard and lemon zest.

Local Beverages

  • Negroamaro: A red wine with a rich flavor and velvety texture, grown in the Salento peninsula.
  • Primitivo di Manduria: A full-bodied, fruity red wine with hints of blackberry and spice.
  • Espresso: A strong and aromatic coffee that Italy is famous for.

Where to Stay in Lecce (Province): Hotels, Hostels and Guesthouses

  • Hilton Garden Inn, Lecce: A contemporary hotel located in a prime location, offering a rooftop pool, spa, and gym.
  • Palazzo De Noha, Lecce: A boutique hotel set in a restored 16th-century palace, with stylish rooms, a garden, and a terrace bar.
  • La Fiermontina, Lecce: A luxury hotel in the heart of Lecce, surrounded by a lush garden, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.

What to Buy in Lecce (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ceramics: Handmade ceramics are famous in Salento, and you can buy plates, bowls, and vases decorated with colorful motifs.
  • Olive Oil: Apulia produces some of the finest olive oil in Italy, and you can bring home a bottle of top-quality extravirgin olive oil.
  • Taralli: Savory biscuits made with wheat flour, olive oil, and white wine, are the perfect snack to munch on while travelling.

Local Culture and Customs of Lecce (Province)

  • Religious Festivals: Lecce (Province) hosts many religious festivals, such as the Feast of Saint Irene in Muro Leccese, the Saint Stephen’s Day in Galatina, and the Madonna della Coltura in Tuglie.
  • Pizzica: A traditional dance of Salento that is performed during the summer months as part of festivals and celebrations.

Best Time to Visit Lecce (Province)

The best time to visit Lecce (Province) is from May to September because the weather is warm, and the beaches and outdoor activities are at their best. The peak season is from July to August, and it’s advisable to book accommodations and transportation in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lecce (Province)

Do:

  • Enjoy the local cuisine and try different types of pasta, seafood, and wines.
  • Respect the religious customs and traditions of the local people.
  • Engage in conversation with the locals and learn about their culture and history.

Don’t:

  • Do not visit religious places dressed inappropriately, and always cover your head and shoulders while entering churches.
  • Do not litter or damage the environment while hiking or visiting natural attractions.
  • Do not eat and drink while walking on the streets, as it is considered impolite in Italy.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lecce (Province)

Lecce (Province) is a safe destination, and crime rates are low. However, it’s advisable to be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas, and to take care of your belongings.

Health in Lecce (Province)

Apulia is known for its high-quality healthcare system, and there are plenty of hospitals and medical centers in the region. Make sure to purchase travel insurance before your trip and carry any necessary medication with you.

Getting to Lecce (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Lecce (Province) is well connected to the rest of Italy and Europe, making it easily accessible through various transportation modes:

Airports Near Lecce (Province)

  • Brindisi Airport: The closest airport to Lecce (Province) that hosts domestic and international flights.
  • Bari Airport: Another major airport in Apulia that serves many airlines.

Bus Stations Near Lecce (Province)

  • Lecce Bus Station: The main bus station in Lecce that connects with many cities in Italy, such as Bari, Rome, and Naples.
  • Taranto Bus Station: Another bus station that connects with the south of Italy.

Other Options

  • Train: Lecce has a well-connected train station that connects with many Italian cities, such as Rome, Florence, and Milan.
  • Car: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Lecce (Province), and there are many car rental agencies available in the region.

How to Get Around in Lecce (Province)

The best way to explore Lecce (Province) is by car, as it gives you more flexibility and freedom to visit different attractions and towns. However, if you don’t want to rent a car, there are other transportation options available, such as buses, trains, and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Lecce (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alberobello: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient trulli (stone huts).
  • Polignano a Mare: A scenic cliffside town, birthplace of the singer Domenico Modugno.
  • Matera: A city known for its Sassi cave dwellings, one of the oldest inhabited sites in the world.

Conclusion

Lecce (Province) is a beautiful destination that offers a mix of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. By following this guide, you’ll be able to create a memorable trip to Southern Italy, full of experiences, adventure and unforgettable moments. Bon voyage!

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    Gallipoli
    Lecce
    Racale
    Santa Maria di Leuca
    Specchia
    Torre Vado