Lecce: to-do list
Lecce, located in the heart of Salento, is one of the most fascinating and historically rich cities in Puglia thanks to the important historical-artistic testimonies of its buildings and monuments. Not only that, Lecce also lends itself to the organization of numerous itineraries thanks to its privileged position, close to the beaches of the Salento coast and characteristic villages. If you are planning a visit, here are the main activities to do in Lecce and its surroundings to best experience this enchanting city.
In this article, we recommend some excellent structures for your stay; while in this article, some itinerary ideas in Puglia depending on the days at your disposal.
1. Walk in the historic center of Lecce
Enter the pulsating heart of Lecce through one of its main “gates”: Porta Rudiae, Porta Napoli and Porta San Biagio and lose yourself along the narrow streets of the historic center. Explore the most hidden squares and stop in the numerous artisan shops that sell ceramics, fabrics and typical products of Salento. Every corner of Lecce is a small masterpiece to be discovered. In this article we recommend the most important monuments to visit in Lecce.
2. Tasting typical dishes: Salento cuisine
Salento cuisine is another reason to visit Lecce. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste typical dishes such as “puccia” (a sort of Salento focaccia filled with cured meats and other condiments), “rustico“, “pasticciotto“, the most famous dessert of the city, accompanied by the typical “caffè leccese” with almond milk. Don’t miss the “frisa” and “taralli“.
3. Visit the “underground Lecce”
Perhaps not everyone knows that there is an underground Lecce, formed over the centuries, nymphaeums, oil mills, cisterns, granaries, Roman roads and escape routes are just some of the places hidden under the streets of the city. There is also a small river that flows under the historic center and you can partly see it by visiting some of Lecce’s buildings. The tour includes a visit to the hypogeum of the Duomo, the ancient Roman cisterns, the underground Roman amphitheater and numerous secret tunnels and passages that connect different areas of the city.
4. Trekking at the Costa Otranto-Santa Maria di Leuca Regional Natural Park
If you want to take a break from the city and immerse yourself in nature, the Costa Otranto-Santa Maria di Leuca Regional Natural Park is the perfect choice. It is located a short distance from Lecce and offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, breathtaking views and a crystal clear sea that will captivate you.
5. Relaxing day at the seaside
You can’t visit Lecce without taking a trip to the beautiful beaches of Salento. The Lecce coast is famous for its crystal clear waters and golden beaches. The towns of Torre dell’Orso, San Foca and Melendugno are just some of the ideal destinations for a relaxing day at the seaside. Not to be missed if you come to Puglia in the summer!
6. Discover the Salento villages
Salento, a land rich in history and traditions, offers numerous charming villages to discover around Lecce. Among these we recommend Otranto, with its medieval historic center and splendid cathedral; Galatina, famous for the Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria; Nardò, with its baroque architecture and evocative old center; Acaya, a small but picturesque village that boasts a well-preserved castle and a timeless atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful stroll.
7. Take a Salento cooking class
Instead of simply eating, try cooking with a Salento cooking class. Several local cooking schools offer hands-on lessons where you can learn to prepare typical dishes such as orecchiette, purée di fave or pasticciotto, the famous Lecce dessert. An engaging and tasty experience!
8. Papier-mâché workshop
Lecce is famous for its artisan tradition linked to papier-mâché. Many of the city’s workshops allow you to closely observe the process of creating these works, which range from traditional masks to artistic sculptures. Some artisans also offer workshops where you can try to create your own unique piece.
