Lecce, the second-largest city in Italy's Puglia region, is often called the 'Florence of the South' for its exquisite Baroque architecture and historic charm, but without the overwhelming crowds that flock to its northern counterpart.
Visitors are advised to experience the city by walking around looking up, as much of its beauty is built into its architecture. The cobbled streets are steeped in history, and every Baroque-era building tells a story.
A quieter alternative to Florence
Florence attracts millions of tourists each year, drawn by world-famous masterpieces like frescoes by Giotto, canvases by Botticelli, and sculptures by Michelangelo. While visiting last summer, the experience was wonderful but suffocatingly busy, prompting a search for a quieter side of Italy.
Arriving from Brindisi Airport, about 40 minutes by taxi, the city's quiet charm and yellow stone-washed buildings were immediately striking. In the final days of August, temperatures soared well over 40°C, with locals calling it the hottest days of the year. The blazing heat made the 'golden city' more beautiful, with its stone glowing beneath the sun.
Historic sights and local cuisine
Lecce sits in the Salento peninsula, and its honey-drenched limestone is a dominant feature. The city is never far from a church, with unassuming facades hiding incredible duomos inside. Lecce Cathedral, built in the 12th century in the Piazza del Duomo, features pillars with cherubs, gold-carved altars, and a version of The Last Supper painted by Giuseppe da Brindisi on the ceiling.
The Basilica di Santa Croce is the crown jewel of Lecce, a perfect example of pure Baroque style. After exploring, visitors can retreat to the five-star Tivoli Palazzo 1880 Lecce Hotel, a renovated 19th-century palazzo steps from the ruins of the Roman Amphitheatre. The hotel features a cave turned spa pool and a rooftop terrace with views of the cathedral bell tower.
For dining, Pizzeria da Michele offers 'true Neapolitan pizza', while the hotel's Godot Restaurant serves Salentine cuisine with a view of the Roman Amphitheatre. Cafe Alvino is known for its decadent gelatos, including the Croccantino Al Rhum.
Getting there and staying
British Airways, Ryanair, and easyJet fly direct to Brindisi from the UK. Standard room rates in October start from €250. The city is 48km from Brindisi Airport, 1km from Lecce train station, and a 1hr40min drive to Bari Airport.
The Tivoli Palazzo 1880 Lecce Hotel, opening in May 2026, has 48 rooms and suites, including a presidential suite with a terrace overlooking the Roman Amphitheatre. It offers three dining areas, a rooftop bar, and a wellness area with a heated salt-water pool, steam room, sauna, and gym.
