Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the founder of Travel Mellow. Having lived in Italy for two years, I’m excited to share my personalized 3-day itinerary for the charming city of Lecce in Puglia. This itinerary is designed to help you experience the authentic side of Lecce, away from the typical tourist traps. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning Baroque architecture, and delectable cuisine of this hidden gem in Southern Italy.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Lecce
Start your day by visiting the Basilica di Santa Croce, a magnificent Baroque church adorned with intricate stone carvings. Next, head to the Piazza del Duomo, the city’s main square, where you can admire the stunning Lecce Cathedral and the iconic Roman Amphitheater. For lunch, I recommend grabbing a panino or a slice of rustic pizza from one of the local cafes. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, soaking in the charming atmosphere of Lecce’s narrow streets and piazzas. For dinner, indulge in traditional Pugliese cuisine at Osteria del Corso, a cozy restaurant serving delicious local specialties.
Day 2: A Day Trip to Otranto and Gallipoli
Today, you’ll embark on a day trip to the coastal town of Otranto, about an hour’s drive from Lecce. Start by exploring the Aragonese Castle, a massive fortification with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Then, visit the Otranto Cathedral, known for its stunning mosaic floor depicting the Tree of Life. After a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants (I suggest Ristorante Giardino Nascosto), spend some time relaxing on the beach or strolling along the promenade. On your way back to Lecce, make a stop in the charming town of Gallipoli, where you can indulge in a delicious gelato and wander through the historic center.
Day 3: Baroque Splendor and Local Artisans
Dedicate your final day in Lecce to exploring the city’s magnificent Baroque architecture. Start at the Santa Chiara Monastery, a stunning complex with an ornate church and peaceful cloisters. Next, visit the Palazzo dei Celestini, a former convent with an impressive Baroque façade. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the historic center and visit some of the local artisan workshops, where you can watch skilled craftsmen create intricate papier-mâché figurines, ceramics, and other traditional Pugliese crafts. For your last evening in Lecce, enjoy an aperitivo at Quanto Basta, a cozy wine bar, and savor a farewell dinner at Alle Due Corti, a upscale restaurant serving refined Pugliese cuisine.
General Travel Tips for Lecce, Italy
- The best area to stay in Lecce is the historic center, where you can easily walk to most attractions and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- Three days is a comfortable amount of time to explore Lecce and its surroundings, but you could easily spend a week or more if you want to take more day trips or slow down the pace.
- Don’t miss trying the local specialties like orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and the famous Pugliese bread.
- Lecce makes an excellent base for day trips to other towns in Puglia, such as Otranto, Gallipoli, Alberobello, and Ostuni.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Lecce, where you can experience the authentic charm of Puglia and create lasting memories. Buon viaggio!