If you want to experience Italian beauty, food and history without facing the big crowds, swap Rome for a hidden gem in the southeastern corner of the country.
Rome is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, thanks to its history, architecture, climate and style.
But for those of us who are tired of walking through the tourist crowds to catch a glimpse of the Fontana di Trevi or queuing for the best restaurants, there is an alternative.
In the southeastern part of Italy is home to the district of Lecce, which has many baroque buildings and the same historical beauty that draws millions to the Capital.
Named the “Florence of the South” for its unique style, Lecce has a rich history that is still visible today in the form of landmarks such as the Church of the Holy Cross (Chiesa di Santa Croce), built in 1353 and completed in 1695, and the Church of Saints Niccolo’ and Cataldo, originally built in 1180.
You will also find convents, the Column of St. Oronzo – built to mark the end of the plague – a large Roman amphitheater, three archaeological museums, and the Arc de Triomphe of Lecce (Arco di Trionfo), said to stand over the tomb of St. Giusto.
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You will also find the magnificent castle – Il Castello di Carlo V – where tourists can enjoy cultural tours and seasonal events, built by Charles V in the 1500s.
If you like to experience the city by walking around it, you are spoiled for choice of where to go in Lecce. The city center is full of large sand-colored piazzas, – the largest of which is the Piazza del Duomo – ruins and ornate baroque buildings that line the preserved streets of Rome.
Visitors also enjoy the southern Italian tradition of the evening passeggiata, when families take a stroll at dusk to mark the end of the work day.
It is a city founded on its artistic tradition, with olive oil and wine being Lecce’s main exports. That reflects local food and products, making local food accessible and fresh. For a real taste of Lecce, visit the Mercato di Piazza Libertini, a delightful central market.
You can also enjoy wine tours, cooking classes, and olive oil sampling, known to turn skeptics into enthusiasts.
Other delicacies include pasticciotto – pastries filled with custard, ricotta, or, in Lecce, vanilla. You will easily find them in the many bakeries spread out in the center, reviewers highlight Pasticceria Natale and Caffè Alvino.
And if you can explore the whole area and still have time to yourself, the guides recommend taking a bus to the nearby beaches of San Cataldo, Porto Cesareo or Punta Prosciutto, which can be reached in just 40 minutes.
To enjoy the perfect weather in Lecce, avoid June, July and August – as temperatures can easily reach 40C – but don’t worry about any other month, as temperatures range from 14C to 28C all year round. Avoiding cloudy skies is easy, as it usually doesn’t rain for more than a week in a month, but you’ll be very lucky in May, September and October.
When looking for a place to stay, many prefer to enjoy Lecce while staying in luxury villas that offer a luxurious experience at a slightly higher price – from £415 per night. If you’re on a budget, you can still have a great experience in local hotels for as little as £60 a night.
In general, Lecce is less expensive than the major Italian regions but offers the same rich atmosphere, culture and cuisine.
To get to Lecce, fly from London to Brindisi Airport, a journey of about three hours. From Brindisi, Lecce is about 30 minutes away by direct bus or car that can be booked in advance.
Once you arrive in the city, you will be able to reach many places on foot, but public buses are available to help tourists travel to and from neighboring towns.
Return flights between London Stansted and Brindisi can cost as little as £30 per person in the colder seasons. If you fly from London City Airport or Gatwick, fares usually start at £200.
If you are already planning a trip to Italy, Lecce is a great day trip option, as frequent trains connect Lecce to major Italian cities, making access easy.
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