What to visit in Lecce

Visiting Lecce means getting lost in a magical city. In the heart of Salento, this city is famous for its Baroque style and its extraordinary works of art made of local stone with its characteristic blond color.
Lecce’s historic center will allow you to discover the city’s millenary history, where you cannot miss:

1. Basilica of Santa Croce;
2. Roman Amphitheatre;
3. Castle of Charles V.

Lecce is not only a city rich in history and culture, but it also offers the pleasure of the sea and beaches. Just a few kilometers from the city center you will find some of the most enchanting beaches of Salento, with their crystal-clear sea and wild charm.

What truly makes Lecce unique is its lively and sparkling atmosphere at any time of the day. During the day, you can enjoy the sun on the beaches or stroll through the elegant alleys of the historic center. In the evening, the city comes alive thanks to its many venues, restaurants, and bars, where you can taste the delicious specialties of Salento cuisine.

Let’s discover together what to visit in Lecce and how to appreciate this city full of beauty and ready to offer you an unforgettable experience.

The Roman Amphitheatre of Lecce is a must-see for anyone wishing to visit this wonderful city. Discovered in the early twentieth century, this ancient building seems to have survived several historical events, becoming a true symbol of Lecce.

Built during the Augustan period to host gladiator fights and shows, the Roman Amphitheatre of Lecce was later used as a fortress during the Middle Ages. Today, visitors can admire the remains of this building, located in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, surrounded by other historical structures.

Although the original structure has been reduced in size, the Roman Amphitheatre is still a magical and evocative place. The original decorative elements are still visible, including magnificent marbles placed along the balteus. These show bas-reliefs depicting hunting scenes and fights between animals, testifying to the Romans’ passion for such spectacles.

The Amphitheatre is not only a place to visit but also an exceptional venue for shows and concerts. We highly recommend attending one of these events—an unforgettable experience that will make you feel part of the city’s history.

This exciting place will leave you speechless.

If you are looking for a fascinating site to visit in Lecce, you cannot miss the Castle of Charles V.
Also known as the Castle of Lecce, this imposing structure was commissioned by the Count of Lecce, Riccardo Normanno, and later expanded by Emperor Charles V in 1537.

The Castle of Lecce is the largest in Apulia and consists of two parts: the inner area, dating back to the Norman period, and the outer area, built by the famous architect Giangiacomo dell’Acaya under Charles V’s rule.
Over the centuries, the Castle has served various functions, from a defensive fortress to a courthouse and barracks, but today it is a place of great historical and cultural value.

Thanks to the project “Atraverso il castello” promoted by the Archaeological, Fine Arts and Landscape Superintendency for the provinces of Brindisi, Lecce, and Taranto, together with the cultural associations “34° fuso” and “The Monuments People”, visitors can discover the history of the Castle through guided and multimedia tours that allow exploration of prisons, the Chapel of Santa Barbara, the Paper Mâché Museum, and the Walkways.

We are sure that the Castle of Charles V will fascinate you with its beauty and history. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit it and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this enchanting place.
The site is open daily, and the visit costs little more than a coffee.

In Lecce, we also recommend visiting the Basilica of Santa Croce.
The Basilica is one of the most fascinating architectural treasures of Lecce. It is the result of the great creativity of the local architects of the time and the extraordinary skill of the stone carvers in the area, who were able to shape the stone, creating a timeless masterpiece.

This basilica, together with the adjacent former convent of the Celestine Fathers, represents the most iconic complex of the Leccese Baroque style, common to most churches and palaces in the capital city of Salento.
Its construction lasted 150 years. The majestic and richly decorated façade displays fine carvings of rare beauty, which frame the church’s interior.
Inside the Basilica, you can admire the golden wooden coffered ceiling, which houses the painting of the Holy Trinity, and the side altars richly decorated with carvings and sculptures. The church symbolizes the triumph of Christianity over pagan myths, of Heaven over Hell, of Good over Evil.

After your visit, stopping inside to appreciate the grandeur of the architectural complex and the richness of detail in the altar decorations will allow you to breathe the air of sacredness that fills its vast spaces—an experience that remains engraved in memory and heart.
The Basilica is open every day and it is possible to book tickets online or directly at the ticket office.

If you are thinking of visiting Lecce and organizing your travel schedule, be aware that visiting times can be very flexible, depending on how deeply you want to explore the city and its wonderful monuments and Baroque masterpieces.

If you only have a few hours or one day available, we recommend hiring a guide to make the most of everything Lecce has to offer. But if you are among the lucky ones who can stay for 2 or 3 days, you can discover every corner of this open-air museum-city simply by walking around.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the churches and the amphitheatre, and taste the delicious food that Lecce offers. And if you love the sea, remember that Lecce is very close to the most beautiful beaches of Salento.

The time needed for your visit depends only on your needs. With a few more hours available, you can also take part in a food-and-wine tour or explore the history of this splendid city more deeply. However you decide to experience your visit, Lecce is a wonderful city that will surprise you at every step.