Santa Maria di Leuca Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Santa Maria di Leuca with our comprehensive guide. Discover the attractions, things to do, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Santa Maria di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca is a small town located in the southernmost point of the Salento Peninsula, in the province of Lecce, Apulia, Italy. It is situated at the confluence of the Ionian Sea and the Adriatic Sea and offers stunning views of the crystal-clear waters. The town has a rich history that dates back to the Roman times when it was an important commercial port. Today, Santa Maria di Leuca is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful architecture, pristine beaches, and fantastic food.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Maria di Leuca

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Basilica of Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae: This beautiful basilica dates back to the 18th century and is located at the southernmost tip of the Salento Peninsula. It is considered one of the most important monuments in the area, and it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea.

  • Lighthouse: The lighthouse of Santa Maria di Leuca is an iconic landmark of the town. It was built in the 19th century, and it still works today. The lighthouse offers a stunning view of the sea and the surrounding area.

  • Monument to the Fallen: This monument honours the soldiers who died in World War I. It is located on the seafront and offers a beautiful view of the sea.

Natural Attractions of Santa Maria di Leuca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Punta Ristola: This is the southernmost point of the Salento Peninsula and is located on the Adriatic coast. It is a great place to enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and watch the sunset.

  • Grotta del Diavolo: This is a natural cave located on the Ionian coast near Santa Maria di Leuca. The cave is said to be named after the devil that is believed to live inside it. The cave is accessible by boat, and it is recommended to visit it at sunset when the light is more dramatic.

  • Beaches: Santa Maria di Leuca is known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches are Punta della Suina, Torre Pali, and Pescoluse. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters and soft sand.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Maria di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There are various hiking and biking routes in the area that offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • Roca Vecchia Trail: This trail is located near the city of Melendugno in the province of Lecce. It is a 7km long trail that offers beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.

  • Leuca-Otranto Route: This route is 60km long and connects Santa Maria di Leuca with the town of Otranto. It offers a panoramic view of the coastline.

Best Things to Do in Santa Maria di Leuca: Activities and Tours

Santa Maria di Leuca offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Boat Tours: Boat tours are a great way to explore the coastline and the natural caves of the area.

  • Food Tours: Food tours allow visitors to taste the local cuisine and learn about the traditional dishes of the Salento Peninsula.

  • Scuba Diving: The crystal-clear waters of Santa Maria di Leuca make it a great destination for scuba diving.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Maria di Leuca

If you are planning to spend a week in Santa Maria di Leuca, here is an itinerary that will allow you to experience the best of the town:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your hotel

Day 2: Explore the town and visit the Basilica of Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae. In the afternoon, take a boat tour to explore the natural caves of the area.

Day 3: Rent a bike and explore the Roca Vecchia Trail.

Day 4: Take a day trip to the town of Otranto and explore the Leuca-Otranto Route.

Day 5: Relax at one of the beaches near Santa Maria di Leuca such as Punta della Suina or Torre Pali.

Day 6: Take a food tour and taste the local cuisine.

Day 7: Departure from Santa Maria di Leuca.

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Maria di Leuca

Must-Try Dishes

Santa Maria di Leuca has a rich food tradition that is based on fresh seafood and vegetables. Some of the must-try dishes are:

  • Frisella: This is a traditional dish made with bread, tomatoes, and oregano.

  • Orecchiette alle cime di rapa: This is a pasta dish made with a local vegetable called cime di rapa.

  • Grilled fish: The fresh fish that is caught off the coast of Santa Maria di Leuca is grilled and served with local olive oil and lemon.

Local Beverages

The Salento Peninsula is known for its wine and its strong espresso. Some of the most popular local beverages are:

  • Negroamaro: This is a red wine that is produced in the Salento Peninsula.

  • Primitivo: This is another red wine that is produced in the Salento Peninsula.

  • Espresso: The strong coffee that is served in Santa Maria di Leuca is a must-try for coffee lovers.

Where to Stay in Santa Maria di Leuca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santa Maria di Leuca offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Hotel Terminal: This hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms and a swimming pool.

  • B&B La Punta: This guesthouse is located near the lighthouse and offers beautiful views of the sea.

  • Villa Karina: This hostel is located near the town center and offers affordable accommodation.

What to Buy in Santa Maria di Leuca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Santa Maria di Leuca is known for its ceramics, local olive oil, and wine. Some of the best places to buy souvenirs and local products are:

  • Ceramiche La Tarantella: This shop sells traditional ceramics that are handmade in the nearby town of Martina Franca.

  • Frantoio Oleario Giannelli: This store sells local olive oil that is produced in the Salento Peninsula.

  • Cantine Menhir: This winery sells local wine that is produced in the Salento Peninsula.

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Maria di Leuca

The people of Santa Maria di Leuca are proud of their Salentine culture. Some of the customs and traditions that visitors can experience are:

  • La Pizzica: This is a traditional dance that is performed during festivals and celebrations in the Salento Peninsula.

  • Taranta: This is a traditional music genre that is unique to the Salento Peninsula.

  • Festa di Santa Maria: This is a festival that takes place on August 15th to celebrate the patron saint of Santa Maria di Leuca.

Best Time to Visit Santa Maria di Leuca

The best time to visit Santa Maria di Leuca is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are at their best. However, it is also a great destination to visit during the spring and fall months when the weather is cooler, and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Maria di Leuca

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine.

  • Take a boat tour to explore the natural caves.

  • Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae.

Don’t:

  • Leave the beach before you watch the sunset.

  • Forget to bring a hat and sunscreen.

  • Drink and drive.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Maria di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca is a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take normal precautions such as not leaving their belongings unattended, not walking alone at night, and being aware of pickpockets.

Health in Santa Maria di Leuca

Medical facilities in Santa Maria di Leuca are of a high standard, and visitors can get treatment for minor injuries or illnesses. However, it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Santa Maria di Leuca: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Santa Maria di Leuca

The closest airport to Santa Maria di Leuca is Brindisi Airport, which is located approximately 120km away. Another airport that is relatively close is Bari Airport, which is located approximately 200km away.

Bus Stations Near Santa Maria di Leuca

There are regular bus services that connect Santa Maria di Leuca with the other towns in the province of Lecce. The bus station is located near the town center.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Santa Maria di Leuca by car or by train. The nearest train station is located in the town of Gagliano del Capo, which is located approximately 5km away from Santa Maria di Leuca.

How to Get Around in Santa Maria di Leuca

The town of Santa Maria di Leuca is small enough to explore on foot. However, visitors can also rent a bike or a scooter to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Santa Maria di Leuca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations that visitors can explore from Santa Maria di Leuca are:

  • Gallipoli: This beautiful town is located approximately 50km away from Santa Maria di Leuca and is known for its beautiful beaches and historic center.

  • Lecce: This stunning Baroque city is located approximately 70km away from Santa Maria di Leuca and is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural heritage.

  • Otranto: This charming town is located approximately 50km away from Santa Maria di Leuca and is known for its beautiful beaches and historic center.

Conclusion

Santa Maria di Leuca is a beautiful destination that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore the beaches, sample the local cuisine, or learn about the Salentine culture, this town has something to offer for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of Santa Maria di Leuca!

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae The Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae The lighthouse seen from the square The lighthouse seen from the square "Grotta del Drago", on the Ionian Sea