Top 10 Things to Do and See in Lecce

Known as the Florence of the South, the Capital of Baroque, and the Jewel of Salento, Lecce is a city that enchants every traveler. Its enchanting streets and rich history offer a unique experience that captivates even the most discerning visitors. Are you ready to discover everything that Lecce has to offer?

Start your journey by wandering aimlessly through the historic center. Here, between charming alleyways and grand palaces, you'll uncover the secrets that make Lecce so famous. This city is a vibrant tapestry of styles and epochs, where you might find yourself in a quaint, time-forgotten area, only to suddenly stumble upon a majestic palace, a Roman theater, or a delightful restaurant wafting enticing aromas. Lecce is truly a beautiful world of its own.

10 must-visit places in Lecce

Now, let's delve into the 10 essential places and experiences that you cannot miss. While ideally, you would spend at least one night in Lecce, we managed to explore the city in a single day during our one-week itinerary in Puglia. It was enough to get a taste of its charm.

1. Piazza Sant'Oronzo

Your first stop should be Piazza Sant'Oronzo, widely regarded as the heart of Lecce. This monumental square is packed with surprises. The most striking feature is the Roman Amphitheater from the 2nd century, a significant part of which remains hidden beneath the plaza's surface.

But that's not all. In the square, you'll also find the Column of San Oronzo, a towering 29-meter structure topped with a statue of the city's patron saint (San Oronzo di Lecce). Don’t miss the beautiful Palazzo del Seggio (also known as "il sedile") and the charming Churches of San Marco and Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Pro tip: If you're feeling peckish, head over to Caffé Alvino, located in the plaza. Treat yourself to their famous pasticciotto (a cream-filled pastry) and a refreshing almond milk coffee. Simply delicious!

2. Roman Theater of Lecce

Next, make your way to the Roman Theater of Lecce. Unfortunately, we couldn't visit it due to COVID-19 restrictions during our trip, but it is said to be a remarkable site. Discovered by chance in 1929, it dates back to the 1st century A.D. You can explore this historical gem for an entrance fee of €4.

3. Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta

A highlight of your visit should be the stunning Duomo (Cathedral) of Maria Santissima Assunta, located in the picturesque Piazza del Duomo. This cathedral is not only the main religious building in Lecce but also a masterpiece of architecture, featuring two facades and a 72-meter bell tower. Inside, be sure to admire the ornate organ and the intricately carved wooden ceiling of the main nave.

For accommodation, consider staying at the Dimora Storica Torre Del Parco 1419, a unique hotel housed in a medieval tower, conveniently located near the historic center.

4. Basilica of Santa Croce

While the Cathedral is undoubtedly important, many argue that the most beautiful religious building in Lecce is the Basilica of Santa Croce. This basilica is one of the most stunning examples of Lecce's Baroque style, filled with intricate details that reflect opulence yet maintain an air of elegance.

The facade is a true marvel, divided into three distinct sections: the lower section in Renaissance style, the central area featuring a spectacular Romanesque rose window, and the upper section adorned with the Holy Cross. Don't miss this gothic jewel; it’s one of the most memorable sites in Lecce.

5. Castle of Charles V

Did you know there’s a castle in the heart of Lecce? The Castle of Charles V was built by the king to enhance the previous fortress and prepare it for potential attacks from the Turks. You can explore parts of the castle for free, but a complete visit requires an entrance fee of €3.

6. Church of San Niccolò dei Greci

Another church worth visiting is the Church of San Niccolò dei Greci, built in the 18th century in honor of the Greek merchants who frequented Lecce. Today, it serves as a gathering place for the Orthodox community, and its neoclassical aesthetics provide a refreshing contrast to the more ornate churches in the city.

Don't forget to bring your Revolut card or your N26 card to avoid foreign transaction fees while traveling.

7. Porta Napoli

A fascinating historical stop is Porta Napoli, one of the ancient gates to Lecce's historic center. This impressive structure resembles an Arch of Triumph and was built to honor Charles V, the Spanish king who defended the city during its time as part of the Kingdom of Naples under the Aragonese dynasty.

8. MUSA (Museum of Historical Archaeology)

If you have more time and a keen interest in archaeology, visit the MUSA (Museum of Historical Archaeology of the University of Lecce). This museum showcases archaeological artifacts spanning from prehistory to the Middle Ages, enriching your understanding of the city's history.

9. Savoring Lecce’s Gastronomy

No trip to Lecce would be complete without indulging in some of Apulia’s culinary delights. After exploring the city, treat yourself to a feast featuring some local dishes, including:

• Ciceri e tria (pasta with chickpeas),
• Orecchiette with meat sauce,
• Rustico leccese (a savory pastry filled with cheese and tomato),
• If you're in the mood for something simpler, grab a slice at Pizza&Co, renowned for serving the best pizza by the slice in Lecce.

✓ Discover more traditional dishes to try in Puglia here.

10. Explore Salento

Since you're in the capital of Salento, make sure to explore some of the region's stunning landscapes. Although Lecce itself doesn't have beaches, the coast is just a short distance away. If you have a few days, we recommend visiting the eastern coast (from San Pietro in Bevagna to Santa Maria di Leuca), with two must-see beaches: Punta Prosciutto, where we stayed, and Pescoluse Beach (often referred to as the Maldives of Salento). If time allows, don't miss the western coast either!

As we reminisce about our trip to Lecce, we can't help but feel a longing to return! We hope you've jotted down some fantastic plans for an amazing day in this charming Southern Italian city. Of course, there are many more places to visit, such as the Faggiano Museum, the Pinacoteca of Franciscan Art, the Carafa Palace, or the Paisiello Theater. However, these 10 things to see and do in Lecce are perfect for a first visit.

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