Discover the top 9 best things to do in Lecce and experience everything this beautiful Italian city has to offer. From exploring the Roman Amphitheatre to tasting traditional Salento dishes, this guide will show you the most interesting things to do for your trip!
Often called the "Florence of the South," this destination is famous for its architecture and culture. With Lecce's largest variety of tours and activities, you can delve into its past and present. Many experiences also include workshops, tastings, or artisan visits that let you connect with local traditions.
If you're thinking about where to stay during your trip, you can choose from the widest selection of hotels and accommodations in Lecce that have both luxury and budget-friendly options available to suit your needs. These choices will make your stay more convenient and comfortable.
Along with a pleasant retreat, you can also enjoy easy travel, as Lecce's best-priced car rental marketplace is readily available. They allow you to visit the top attractions and hidden gems in the surrounding area. Keep reading to learn about the best things to do in Lecce and how to experience the city like a local!
Popular Tour Types in Lecce
Lecce is well known for its Baroque-style buildings, called "Lecce Baroque," which feature detailed designs and stone carvings. You can see it in churches, palaces, and old landmarks, showing history and heritage.
Many tours are available that will help you enjoy this and other offerings. You can explore charming streets, visit important sites, or join cultural activities. For a broader experience, road trips in and around Lecce let you discover the nearby countryside and coastal towns beyond the city limits.
You can start your adventure by participating in cooking classes in Lecce. These hands-on sessions let you dive into Salento cuisine, where you'll learn traditional techniques and enjoy a delicious meal. Ideal for food lovers, this experience can be made even better with a wine tasting to match the flavors.
Aside from cooking classes, you can take walking tours in Lecce. As you stroll, admire its Baroque architecture and visit popular landmarks like the Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazza del Duomo.
For those seeking a more thrilling activity, consider guided day trips from Lecce to Santa Maria di Leuca, where you can explore the famous sea caves by boat. Located at the southern tip of the Salento Peninsula, they are among the region’s natural highlights.
List of the 9 Best Things To Do in Lecce
Get excited to discover how to spend your time when you arrive in Southern Italy! Here’s a detailed list of the best things to do in Lecce to help you plan your trip easily.
If you're considering Lecce’s short city breaks or organizing a longer stay, this guide will steer you toward the best options. Let’s dive straight in and explore the must-do activities in Lecce!
9. Discover the Waters of Salento
Experience the natural beauty of southern Puglia by taking a boat party around Salento. This area, called the heel of Italy, has a beautiful coastline where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas come together. Sailing past caves, cliffs, and hidden beaches is one of the top things to do near Lecce in Salento.
Popular departure points include Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca, and Otranto, each showing a different part of the shoreline. Some tours include drinks or stops at quiet bays for swimming. Taking a 7-hour boat trip in Salento is a peaceful option to experience the water during your vacation.
As one of the most refreshing things to do near Lecce, this lets you relax and enjoy the sea in a special way. But be sure to bring swimwear, a towel, and sun protection for a comfortable day out on the waves.
8. Go on a Kayak Tour in Porto Selvaggio
Another way to enjoy Salento’s coastline is by joining a guided kayak tour in Porto Selvaggio. You can paddle on clear lagoons and past limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and pine trees in this protected park near Lecce. The activity usually stops for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing in quiet bays that you can only reach by boat.
A kayak tour in Porto Selvaggio is one of the most immersive nature activities you can have in the region. The gentle waters in the area usually make it suitable even for beginners, so you can confidently enjoy the experience.
If you’re worried about trying this, don’t be. Guides provide safety instructions and support throughout. If you want to try one of the best water activities near Lecce, these kayak tours are perfect, thanks to the calm sea conditions.
7. Take a Historical Tour of Lecce
Step back in time with a 2-hour walking tour of Lecce, where you’ll explore its Baroque architecture and Roman heritage. Wander through the old town’s narrow streets, uncover hidden corners, and discover ancient ruins while learning about local legends and time-honored traditions.
For something different, try a guided bike tour through the historic attractions in Lecce. Ride past landmarks like the Roman Amphitheater, the Basilica of Santa Croce, and Piazza del Duomo. Don’t miss a tour that includes the underground Jewish Museum for a deeper insight into the city’s multicultural past.
Visiting these important sites is one of the best things to do in Lecce. Wear comfortable shoes because the cobblestone streets can be uneven, especially in older areas. For a more enriching experience, consider joining one of the popular historical tours in Lecce.
6. Join a Cooking Class in Lecce
Step into the heart of Puglian life with a home cooking class in Lecce, where food and heritage are closely connected. Learn how to prepare beloved dishes like orecchiette, focaccia, or pasticciotto with the help of a local chef in a welcoming setting or countryside kitchen.
You might also love a workshop course in a 1400s-era courtyard in the center of Lecce. You'll hand-make traditional pasta, then sit down to enjoy your creations with a glass of wine. It's a fun, immersive way to experience the heritage in a historic setting.
Another option is Lecce’s orecchiette cooking class with a drink pairing. This activity lets you connect with locals and learn regional recipes. It is one of the best culinary adventures in Lecce.
5. Experience Lecce's Street Food Scene
If you'd rather focus on savoring local delicacies while exploring the city, join a guided food stall tour in Lecce. This experience lets you sample a variety of traditional snacks and pastries while learning about the area's culinary heritage. Along the way, you’ll discover some of the most interesting things to see in Lecce.
Meanwhile, a street food tasting combined with a walking tour in Lecce offers more than just flavors. It’s a journey through vibrant spots and rich history. This delicious cultural experience is one of the best activities to try in Lecce.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring your appetite because there will be a lot of walking and eating. It’s ideal to arrive a little hungry and carry a water bottle, especially when it’s warm.
4. Visit the Lecce Duomo
Join a guided tour that includes a visit to the Lecce Duomo. This must-see landmark represents the city’s beautiful architecture. Situated in the picturesque Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral boasts a stunning Baroque facade and an intricately decorated interior.
Attend a service or simply admire the artistry of the frescoes and sculptures, among the top things to do in Lecce. If accessible during your trip, don’t miss climbing the bell tower, which offers panoramic views of the city and a unique vantage point for photography. This experience is perfect for weekend getaways in Lecce.
For a peaceful visit, arrive early in the morning when the cathedral is less crowded, allowing you to appreciate its details in a calm atmosphere. This landmark is especially captivating for travelers interested in Baroque architecture and religious history.
3. Enjoy a Day Trip to Santa Maria di Leuca
Venture beyond Lecce by joining a mini-cruise tour to the caves of Santa Maria di Leuca. Embark on a small group boat trip to explore the hidden grottos and swim in the crystal-clear waters.
A Santa Maria di Leuca sea caves tour takes you on a fun and educational experience. You’ll learn about the area’s natural beauty and marine life. There are also chances to snorkel and paddleboard, which are great for adventure seekers.
Book a group tour by boat to the caves of Santa Maria di Leuca at least two to three months in advance, especially during peak summer months. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning vistas.
2. Discover the Roman Amphitheater in Lecce
Step back in time with a private tour of Lecce and its Roman Amphitheater, an impressive remnant from the second century A.D. Located in the heart of the city at Piazza Sant'Oronzo, this old structure once hosted gladiator games and public events. Today, it serves as a testament to the area’s rich history.
Explore the landmark's preserved sections and imagine the vibrant life of ancient Lecce. Guided walks are available to provide insightful narratives of its cultural significance and architectural prowess.
The amphitheater is best visited in the early morning when it is less crowded, as this offers a peaceful setting for photos and quiet exploration. History enthusiasts can gain deeper insights by joining city sightseeing tours in Lecce, which often include this spot.
1. Explore Lecce’s Baroque Architecture
Discover Lecce’s beautiful Baroque buildings on a walking tour. Strolling through narrow streets, you’ll admire the detailed facades of the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Church of St. Irene, made from the unique Leccese stone. Exploring these remarkable structures is definitely one of the best things to do in Lecce.
A tour focusing on the city’s architectural gems will guide you through the historic center and reveal the fascinating stories behind each building. Be sure to book at least two to three months in advance to secure your spot, particularly from June to August.
For the best photo opportunities during your cultural tours in Lecce, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light enhances the beauty of the stone facades. A peaceful walk is a must-do in Lecce for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Unforgettable Things to Do in Lecce, Italy
Lecce is a charming city filled with history, culture, and great food. Its beautiful Baroque buildings and lively streets make it a great place to explore. From visiting churches to trying local dishes, there are many enjoyable things to do in Lecce.
To make the most of your visit, consider the top places to stay in Lecce. You’ll find options near the main sights or in quieter areas, suitable for every budget.
For a stress-free experience, check out the standout travel packages in Lecce. These deals often include guided tours, food tastings, and transportation. They are a great way to enjoy the city without organizing everything on your own. Start planning today and immerse yourself in the best things to do in Lecce.
