Puglia’s Baroque City

Lecce, Puglia is a beautiful city with unmistakable style. It’s known for its Baroque architecture, Roman monuments and ancient amphitheater. The historic center is enchanting. You will find beautiful seventeenth-century buildings adorned with ornate details. Not to mention, there are architectural surprises around every corner. Everything was built with local ‘Lecce Limestone’. This stone bathes the town in glowing shades of cream and golden depending on how the sun hits it. Lecce Italy, nicknamed ‘The Florence of the South’, is definitely worth a visit.

Moreover, there are many main attractions to see in the historic center of Lecce Italy. The highlight of these being the Roman Amphitheater located in the main piazza of old town. Remarkably, this spectacular theater was buried under the earth for centuries while structures were built above. Its hidden existence was discovered in 1901, when it was unearthed while excavation began to build a bank. The amphitheater is surrounded by other ancient ruins including a Baroque triumphal arch, all seen in one sweeping view!

Things to do in Lecce

Lecce is small enough to walk everywhere. There are so many unique things to see. Here are some things to see in Lecce.

* Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. It is in the Piazza del Duomo, one of the most beautiful squares in Lecce. Perfect for people watching and enjoying the ambiance.
* Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce. It is a superb example of the most intricate Baroque works in Italy. Moreover, it possesses hidden stories and words on its facade.
* Visit Progetto, which is a contemporary art gallery. By appointment only

Getting to Lecce

Lecce is only a 40 minute drive from the Brindisi airport.
I definitely recommend renting a car. The area is very easy to drive and towns are close to each other. Additionally, you will always find parking nearby.
Puglia is a wonderful region of Italy. You will fall in love with it, as I did. It is truly beautiful and unique. I suggest staying at least a week. This will allow you to see all its splendor. It will also let you soak up the wonderful culture and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Other great towns to visit are Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Locorotundo, Ostuni. In addition, Matera (in the region of Basilicata) is amazing.

Great news is that Neos Airlines will soon be running non-stop New York to Brindisi flights

Best Restaurants in Lecce Puglia

Lecce Puglia has a lively and bustling atmosphere. Day and night, the city will delight you with its elegant alleyways and delicious restaurants.

One of our absolute favorite spot is Doppio Zero 🏆. The food is consistently amazing, and the service is warm and exceptional.

If you’re looking to explore more local gems in Lecce, here are a few must-try recommendations from two of our favorite locals—my daughter and her boyfriend! Be sure to check out these fantastic places while you’re in town.

🍝 Restaurants

• Trattoria dall’Antiquario – Cozy and flavorful with authentic dishes.
• I Latini – Perfect for a traditional taste of Lecce.
• Zio Pesce – A seafood lover’s paradise.

☕️ Coffee & Pastries

• Café Alvino – The best spot in town for coffee and pastries. Don’t miss the Rustico and Pasticiotto, a Lecce specialty!

🍷 Aperitivo & Cocktails

• Quanto Basta – A must-visit for crafted cocktails.
• Barroccio – Casual, relaxed, and perfect for spritz and aperitivo.
• Caffè Cittadino – Enjoy your drinks with a beautiful view of Piazza Oronzo from their upstairs terrace.
• Miro Coffee Bistrot – Great for a laid-back vibe and creative cocktails.

🍦 Gelato

• Martinuccio or Natale – Indulge in some of the best gelato in Lecce.

Hotels in Lecce Italy

We stayed at a terrific place in Lecce named Alvino Suite & Breakfast. It offered a sweeping view from the Amphitheater to the Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Our room was huge and beautiful with a balcony to view it all. Furthermore, directly downstairs is a delicious Pasticceria & Gelateria. You should try a Pasticciotto Leccese – a famous custard cream-filled pastry of southern Puglia.

Another gem we absolutely adore is Airbnb La Casa del Mare(k). This charming, one-bedroom condo boasts sleek, modern decor and an inviting, chic atmosphere. Immaculately clean and thoughtfully equipped, it offers everything you need for a seamless stay – including the added bonus of a parking spot. Conveniently situated just outside the historic old town, La Casa del Mare is only a few steps away from all the action! It’s no wonder it’s a guest favorite and consistently ranked as one of the top B&Bs in the area. I highly recommend it!

 Looking for popular meeting places? Head to Piazzetta Santa Chiara and Porta San Biagio. This is especially recommended in the evening. There are plenty of restaurants, pubs, and clubs.

Lecce, Puglia is definitely worth a visit as it is a beautiful city. Not to mention, there are many beautiful Salento beaches you can visit by car from here.

Other must see charming Puglian towns are Ostuni, Locorotondo, Polignano a Mare and Alberobello! It is only a 1 hour drive to Ostuni and 1.5 hour drive to either Locorotondo or Polignano.

Lecce Picture Gallery