Lecce is a photogenic city filled with elegant Baroque architecture. You can gaze up at lavish cathedrals, descend into subterranean tombs and discover over a millennium of history. Lecce is a haven for foodies, home to traditional trattorias, chic cafes and sleek wine bars.
Things to do in Lecce
Thanks to its beautiful Baroque architecture, Lecce is often crowned the most beautiful city in Italy. Basilica di Santa Croce is the city's crown jewel, designed by legendary 17th-century architect, Giuseppe Zimbalo, and adorned with intricately carved cherubs and gargoyles. The Lecce Cathedral, meanwhile, is topped by a 70-metre-high bell tower.
In Lecce's historic centre all roads lead to Piazza del Duomo, a spacious square flanked by lavish Baroque buildings. Highlights include the magnificent Palazzo Vescovile, which once hosted Neapolitan royalty. Narrow side streets branch off the piazza and are lined with cafes, boutiques and gelaterias.
Housed in a historic 12th-century building, Museo Faggiano recalls the city's fascinating past. Inside you'll find a treasure trove of Roman crypts, Knights Templar artefacts, Jewish emblems and Messapia weapons. You can also descend into a network of subterranean tombs, cisterns and passageways.
Lecce boasts some of Italy's top places to wine and dine, including the beloved Trattoria Il Rifugio della Buona Stella. The family-run restaurant is housed in a beautiful sandstone building and serves authentic Pugliese fare like homemade pasta, grilled swordfish and wild mushrooms. Wash down your meal with a glass of full-bodied Negroamaro wine.
Getting around Lecce
Lecce's pedestrian-friendly streets and plazas are easy to get around on foot or by using bicycles. The city is also serviced by local buses and taxis. Lecce's main train station is one kilometre south-west of the historic centre and offers regular services to Rome, Venice, Milan and Naples.