What to see in and around Lecce: 8 must-see destinations

Lecce is rich in history, art and culture. Known as the Florence of the South, the Apulian centre offers a variety of attractions ranging from its famous Baroque buildings to its fascinating churches and charming alleys. Not to mention the numerous events that take place throughout the summer. The capital of Salento is the ideal place to spend your summer holidays and more. In case you are planning a trip to Puglia, here is what to see in Lecce.

What to see in Lecce in a few hours: tour of the historic centre

Entering through the city gates, one immediately has the feeling of being in an extraordinary place, where every element has something to tell.

• Among the main attractions is undoubtedly the Cathedral of Lecce. This majestic building, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, is located in Piazza del Duomo. It is a perfect example of the Lecce Baroque style, with its richly decorated façade and majestic interior.
• No less fascinating is the Basilica of Santa Croce, another example of Baroque architecture. Its façade, adorned with a myriad of sculptural details, is a true artistic masterpiece. Inside, the basilica is equally impressive, with its frescoed ceilings and gilded altars.
• In addition to its religious buildings, Lecce boasts a number of historical monuments of great interest. Prominent among these is the Roman Amphitheatre, an imposing structure dating back to the 2nd century A.D., which could once seat up to 25,000 spectators.
• Don't forget to take a stroll along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the city's main shopping streets. It is also very pleasant to walk around this area when the sun goes down: it is definitely one of the things to see in Lecce at night.

Of course, it is advisable to explore the city slowly, and above all on foot, to fully enjoy the narrow streets, sounds and scents. To create a fond memory and desire to return in the future.

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Lecce and surroundings: what to see in 3 days

As soon as you have explored the wonders of Lecce, you can broaden your horizon and discover the beauty that the Salento offers in its surroundings. You might dedicate the first day to visiting Lecce and then explore the surrounding towns.

• Otranto, for example, is a coastal city with a fascinating historic centre and a spectacular cathedral.
• Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Grotta della Poesia, a natural pool carved into the rock that is considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy.
• Another place of interest is Gallipoli, with its historical centre located on an island and connected to the mainland by a 17th century bridge.
• If you are a nature lover, you should definitely visit the Porto Selvaggio Regional Natural Park. This park offers a variety of paths and trails, ideal for walking or cycling, and a spectacular view of the Ionian Sea.

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Eating in Lecce: dishes to savour

Gastronomy is an indispensable element of Lecce and Salento culture. Typical dishes are the result of a unique combination of local ingredients, centuries-old traditions and influences from other cultures.

• One of the most representative dishes is pitta di patate, a savoury pie stuffed with potatoes, onions, tomatoes and cheese.
• Equally tasty are mashed broad beans, served with cooked vegetables.
• And don't forget the famous rustico leccese, puff pastry filled with mozzarella, tomato and béchamel sauce.

But the gastronomy of Lecce is not just food. The local wine, such as Negroamaro and Primitivo, is appreciated worldwide for its intense taste and quality. And to end on a sweet note, don't miss the pasticiotto leccese, a small pastry filled with custard, the symbol of Salento pastry making. At the end of the meal, try a Lecce iced coffee with almond milk.

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Unusual things to see in Lecce

In addition to the main monuments for which Lecce is universally famous, there are also some unusual attractions that will even arouse the curiosity of children. These include:

• Visit the largest tree in Lecce: the Sant'Anna Conservatory is home to the city's largest Ficus tree, a good 18 metres tall and about 400 years old.
• Learn to dance the Taranta: among the most interesting activities to do in Lecce is to take a quick course in taranta, in order to discover an ancestral Salento tradition.

Living in Lecce

Lecce is a place to be admired at all times and in all seasons. Its temperate climate and location in the heart of Salento make it the perfect place to decide to move to or spend your holidays. With idealista you can discover and choose the house that best suits your interests:

• Houses for sale in Lecce
• Houses for rent in Lecce
• Holiday homes in Lecce