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Things to Do in Lecce

Things to Do in Lecce

Lecce Puglia, Italy Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

The Salento region around Lecce has several opportunities for outdoor adventures, especially for those who enjoy active exploration.

Land & Water Exploration

Hiking & Trekking

Coastal trails near Lecce offer scenic routes. Parco Naturale Regionale Porto Selvaggio has trails winding through pine forests.

Water Sports

Swimming, snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boat tours. Popular during warmer months in coastal towns like Porto Cesareo.

Adventure Sports & Wildlife

Limited adventure sports directly in Lecce. Birdwatching enthusiasts find opportunities in coastal wetlands and nature reserves.

Cycling & Outdoor Tips

  • Cycling routes: Explore flat terrain through olive groves and small villages.
  • Coastal cycling paths are popular, especially from Otranto northwards or around Porto Cesareo.
  • Many rental shops in Lecce offer bicycles. Helmets are recommended.
  • Rent a bicycle to explore the flat countryside around Lecce. Pedal through ancient olive groves and visit small, charming villages at your own pace.

Olive Groves

  • Scenic routes.
  • Peaceful exploration.
  • Ideal for leisurely walks.
  • Immersive nature experience.

Crystal-Clear Coves

  • Accessible via trails.
  • Good for swimming.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery.
  • Refreshing dips.

Boat Tours

  • Explore coastline.
  • Discover sea caves.
  • Access secluded beaches.
  • Enjoy coastal views.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Check weather conditions before heading out, especially for coastal activities.

Cultural Immersion

Lecce features many opportunities for cultural immersion. You can connect deeply with local traditions and arts.

Workshops & Classes

  • Puglian cooking classes: learn to make handmade pasta and local desserts.
  • Paper-mâché (Cartapesta) workshops: learn this traditional Lecce craft.
  • Olive oil tasting sessions: distinguish qualities and flavors of local oil.
  • Wine tasting experiences: explore local wineries and sample Primitivo and Negroamaro wines.

Performances & Events

Pizzica Dance

Pizzica, a traditional folk dance, is often performed at festivals (Sagre) and summer events.

Cultural Festivals

The Festa di Sant'Oronzo (Aug 24-26) is the main annual celebration. Lecce Art Week highlights various art events.

Community & Language

Community-based tourism initiatives, often in Masserias, offer farm activities. Private Italian language tutors might be available.

Traditional Dance

Attend a Pizzica dance performance for an energetic cultural display. Look for the "Notte della Taranta" festival in August.

Religious Processions

During Holy Week (Easter) and patron saint festivals (like Sant'Oronzo), deep-rooted traditions and community spirit are on show.

Local Sagre

Numerous local Sagre (food festivals) occur throughout the year, especially in summer, celebrating specific regional products.

Relaxation & Wellness

Lecce and its surroundings offer various options for relaxation and wellness, whether you seek a tranquil escape or a refreshing break.

Spa & Nature Retreats

  • Spa and wellness centers: Some luxury hotels in Lecce have facilities.
  • Masserias in the countryside have well-appointed spas and wellness programs.
  • Treat yourself to a spa day at a Masseria in the countryside. Many offer tranquil settings, pools, and wellness treatments for relaxation.
  • Yoga and meditation retreats are growing, often offered by Masserias or rural accommodations.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Coastal Lidos

Numerous Lidos (beach clubs) are on the nearest coasts, like San Cataldo or Porto Cesareo.

Hotel Pools

Many hotels and Masserias have swimming pools. A refreshing option for relaxation without leaving your accommodation.

Natural Hot Springs

Not directly available in Lecce. You would need to travel to other regions of Italy for such experiences.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music & Theater

Bars and pubs in the historic center often host live music. Teatro Politeama Greco hosts classical concerts, opera, and plays.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs mostly on the coast (e.g., Gallipoli) in summer. Lecce's historic center is the main bar district for a relaxed atmosphere.

Late-Night & Aperitivo

Bars stay open late, especially on weekends. Enjoy an Aperitivo at a bar in the historic center, often with complimentary snacks.

Shopping & Markets

Lecce offers traditional markets, artisan workshops, and unique souvenirs.

Traditional Markets

  • Mercato Coperto (Covered Market) on Via Nazario Sauro: Mon-Sat mornings for fresh produce and local specialties.
  • Mercato di Porta Rudiae: Outdoor market for fruits, vegetables, and household goods. Authentic local experience.
  • Occasional antique and flea markets: Check local listings for dates.
  • Artisan workshops and crafts: A highlight of shopping in Lecce.

Local Crafts & Souvenirs

Cartapesta Paper-mâché

Numerous workshops in the historic center. Artisans make religious figures and contemporary art.

Hand-painted Ceramics

A Puglian tradition. Many shops sell colorful pieces.

Other Crafts

Look for traditional lace, embroidery, and olive wood products.

Souvenirs

  • Miniature paper-mâché statues.
  • Local olive oil and wine.
  • Hand-painted ceramics.
  • Taralli and other local food products.

Luxury & Boutique

  • Via Vittorio Emanuele II for boutiques.
  • Fashion, jewelry, local designer items.
  • Piazza Mazzini for modern, high-end brands.
  • Different shopping experiences.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans directly.
  • Buy from their workshops.
  • Purchase food from local farms.
  • Avoid mass-produced souvenirs.

Shipping & Customs

International Shipping
  • Inquire with vendors for larger items like ceramics.
  • Vendors have experience arranging this.
  • Be aware of home country customs regulations for food, alcohol, animal products.
VAT Refund
  • Non-EU residents may qualify for VAT refund.
  • For purchases over €154.94 from participating stores.
  • Ask for "Tax Free" forms at purchase and process at the airport before departing the EU.

Shopping Tip

Visit an artisan Cartapesta (paper-mâché) workshop in the historic center. You can observe the craftspeople at work and purchase unique, handmade souvenirs.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor & Active

  • Coastal hiking trails available.
  • Water sports at nearby beaches.
  • Cycling through olive groves.
  • Birdwatching opportunities in nature reserves.

Cultural & Relaxed

  • Cooking classes for local cuisine.
  • Spa and wellness at Masserias.
  • Live music and aperitivo in the historic center.
  • Explore artisan workshops and local markets.