Discover the beautiful Italian city of Lecce. There are plenty of attractions to explore here. It’s a charming romantic city with white architecture where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll. The baroque style is evident throughout the city, giving it an elegant appearance. You can take stunning photos here, just as you can of the picturesque coastline with the azure sea right next to the city.
Want to explore Lecce yourself? Book a bike tour now
Tip: Buy your tickets quickly and safely online. This way, you can avoid long queues and spend more time truly experiencing the highlights of Lecce.
Experiencing Lecce: A unique journey through culture and hospitality
When I visited Lecce, in the Puglia region of Italy, I discovered that the city has much more to offer than the beautiful architecture of its baroque buildings. It was the lively festivities and warm encounters with the locals that truly made this trip unforgettable for me.
A highlight was attending the Notte della Taranta festival, one of the largest music festivals in all of Europe, celebrating traditional Puglian music and dance. The streets came alive with the energetic sounds of the tarantella, a local dance, and the crowd was thrilled by the music. Here, I truly felt the essence of Lecce’s vibrant culture for the first time. More information about this amazing festival can be found [here].
While strolling through the old town, I came across a small, family-run bakery. The smell of freshly baked bread lured me inside, and I was greeted by an elderly man with a friendly smile. His name was Luigi. He proudly told me about the centuries-old recipes he used, passed down from generation to generation. He insisted I try his famous ‘pasticciotto’, a traditional local pastry. This encounter was a reminder of the genuine hospitality and culinary heritage of Lecce.
There are several Lecce attractions you absolutely must not miss. Curious about what they are and why? In this blog, these must-sees will be further explained!
What are the must-see Lecce attractions?
- Roman theaters
- Anfiteatro Romano
- Duomo Cathedral & Basilica di Santa Croce
- Castello Carlo V
Roman theaters
This world city boasts no less than two Roman theaters. One Roman theater is hidden among the narrow alleys in the center. Lecce attractions like these are very special, and this particular theater is very well preserved.
A highlight dating back to the 2nd century AD, it was only rediscovered in 1929. As many as 4,000 spectators could watch from these stone benches, and they still can! The fun part is that plays are still performed here. Additionally, there’s the Amphitheater where about 15,000 spectators can sit. It’s an impressive find, and taking a look is truly worthwhile.
Tip: Discover these two gems with a professional guide on a bike. This way, you’ll get more inside information about these unique structures. In just 2 hours, you’ll see the best of the city during the Lecce Highlights Bike Tour. In short, the perfect introduction to your stay!
Anfiteatro Romano
The Anfiteatro Romano in Lecce feels like a step back in time. On Piazza Sant’Oronzo, you’re surrounded by the silent witnesses of Lecce’s Roman grandeur.
The amphitheater is a milestone, built in the 1st or 2nd century AD—historians are still debating. When new, it could accommodate about 25,000 spectators—a testament to Lecce’s importance at the time.
The most intriguing part is how it was discovered. In the early 20th century, during construction work, it emerged. Since then, it has been carefully excavated, but we only see a third of its original size. The rest remains underground, hidden beneath the modern city.
The amphitheater in Lecce is still full of life. It provides a stage for theatrical performances and events, allowing you to take a dive into the past. It’s a fascinating blend of old and new and absolutely worth a visit when you’re in Lecce.
Duomo Cathedral & Basilica di Santa Croce
Classic structures you shouldn’t miss are the cathedral and the basilica. These buildings stand out so much that it’s impossible to miss them. The Duomo Cathedral is a sublime church that also stands on the beautiful square of the same name. An abundance of baroque decorative elements that perfectly complement each other. In the evening, the cathedral is beautifully lit, so you can enjoy it even in the dark. The Basilica di Santa Croce is even more richly decorated in the baroque style and also features a stunning rose window, as seen in the image here.
Tip: Between the centrally located Lecce attractions, enjoy the famous and delicious Baldo Gelato ice cream. A must during your visit to the city, as these people truly know what good ‘gelato’ is. Try the latest flavors like the popular caramel sea salt, amarena cherry & crema Baldo!
Castello Carlo V
It’s actually a somewhat modest castle with refined decoration in the right places. Opinions about this attraction are divided. It’s grand, but you shouldn’t expect too much. Otherwise, you might find it a bit disappointing. There are underground rooms and a beautiful courtyard. Additionally, there are often surprising exhibitions to be found. Castello Carlo V is a typical defensive fort from the past that you must see when visiting Lecce. Attractions with a historical character like this are, of course, always interesting!
Cycling in Lecce
Want to explore Lecce attractions while staying active? You can! During the Lecce Highlights Bike Tour, you’ll discover all the city’s highlights in just two hours while getting some exercise.
A local guide will accompany you and share everything you want to know about the attractions of this southern Italian city. The guide will also show you the city’s hidden gems and offer personal tips. If you take the tour at the start of your trip to Lecce, you can use these tips throughout the rest of your stay. Join the ride and discover the fascinating heritage of baroque and Roman architecture!
Lecce is something you truly need to experience. Immerse yourself in the local culture, taste the authentic cuisine, and enjoy warm encounters with the people. You’ll find that your trip to Lecce is much more than a vacation; it’s an experience that will stay with you forever.