Lecce is definitely one of our favorite spots in all of southern Italy! It’s nestled in the heart of the Salento region, right at the southern edge of the Apulia region, literally in the “heel” of the boot, surrounded by the Adriatic and Ionian seas.
Lecce is often called the “Florence of the South” because of its amazing Baroque architecture. Unlike many Italian cities known for Renaissance buildings, Lecce’s style is mostly Baroque—think ornate facades, detailed stone carvings, and those warm honey-colored buildings that really shine in the southern Italian sun.
We stayed in a hotel near the center of Lecce’s old town, and we spent a few days just wandering its charming streets and piazzas. Every corner seemed to have another Baroque church, palace, or courtyard.
Here’s what I discovered: the food in this area, especially in Lecce, is probably the best in southern Italy. Why? The hot sun (note: the summers are quite brutal) and the calcareous soil create some of the most delicious tomatoes, grapes, and olives. We did a private wine tasting and the wine, especially the Primitivo, Negromaro Rosato, and (my favorite), Susumaniello, is incredible. Like many wine regions, the best wines in Lecce usually stay right there. So, you really have to go there to find them!
Lecce, originally called Lupiae, grew into a significant Roman city, and you can still see its Roman roots in the Amphitheater right in the heart of the city. Back in its heyday (the 16th and 17th centuries), Lecce really flourished, and the local artisans used the lovely golden limestone called “pietra leccese” to build stunning churches and palaces. Most of the city’s famous buildings come from the 1600s and 1700s. You can’t miss Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazza del Duomo!
Recommendations (I never do paid promotions):
Stay close to the center of old city, everything is walkable. We stayed at: https://www.mantatelure.it and liked it!
Go to Caffé Alvino (Piazza Sant’Oronzo, +39 0832 246748), right across from the Roman amphitheater for “Lecce coffee” and the world famous “Pasticciotto” a local favorite (get chocolate covered!).
The best restaurant in town where all the locals dine is Signuria Restaurant (reservations suggested): https://social.quandoo.com/en/groups/signuria-restaurant-caffe-101442
Take a wine tour with: Dr. Stephano Spagnolo @ +39 320 218 9741 or on Instagram at: linktr.ee/stephawine. This tasting was the highlight of our adventure! Please tell him Marco from Maui sent you! Always end your day with Mirto, a traditional deep colored liqueur from Sardinia!
Sights and a few places you can walk to:
Basilica of the Holy Cross
Roman Amphitheater
Cathedral of Saint Orontius
Porta Napoli
Porta San Biagio
Chiesa di San Matteo
Piazza del Duomo
Church of Santa Chiara