GemmaIf you’re dreaming of wandering through narrow streets lined with baroque facades, indulging in delicious Italian pastries, and feeling like you’ve stepped into a living museum, Lecce’s Old Town is calling your name. Nestled in the heel of Italy’s boot, Lecce is often called the “Florence of the South” because of its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural life. But beyond its Instagram-worthy façades, Lecce Old Town offers experiences that make every step unforgettable. From my own personal experience, wandering its labyrinthine streets can feel like a romantic rendezvous with history itself—sometimes with a gelato in hand.
Here’s a detailed guide to the 10 things you truly need to do in Lecce Old Town.
1. Marvel at the Basilica di Santa Croce
Start your journey with the crown jewel of Lecce’s baroque architecture: the Basilica di Santa Croce. Its intricate façade is a marvel of stone carvings, angels peeking out from every corner, and floral motifs that seem impossibly delicate for stone. From my own personal experience, standing in front of it can be overwhelming in the best way—you’ll find yourself craning your neck, snapping photos, and wondering how human hands created such detail without a modern tool.
Inside, the basilica’s peaceful interior contrasts sharply with its ornate exterior. The sunlight filters through stained glass windows, illuminating frescoes and marble that feel almost magical. Don’t rush—spend a moment appreciating the artistry and, if you’re lucky, catch a choir rehearsal or local mass to experience the acoustics, which are sublime.
2. Explore Piazza del Duomo
Next, head to Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Lecce’s Old Town. This square is one of those rare places where you can sit and simply soak in centuries of history without feeling rushed. Surrounded by the Lecce Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace, and charming cafes, the piazza is perfect for people-watching, sipping espresso, or just planning your next adventure.
One fun thing you’ll notice is the contrast between the majestic buildings and the small details—like wrought iron balconies overflowing with flowers or the playful sculptures tucked in corners. From my own personal experience, it’s a perfect spot for a morning coffee or an evening aperitivo while watching the golden light bounce off the stones.
3. Wander the Streets of Via Vittorio Emanuele II
To truly feel Lecce, you need to wander its streets without a strict itinerary. Start with Via Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the city’s main arteries. Lined with artisan shops, gelaterias, and small boutiques, this street offers a glimpse into daily life.
Take your time exploring. Peek into workshops where artisans carve the famous “Lecce stone” or browse shops selling traditional ceramics and textiles. The charm of Lecce isn’t just in the landmarks—it’s in these small, unexpected encounters. From my own personal experience, some of my favorite discoveries were tiny courtyards with orange trees, tucked-away cafes, or a street musician whose tunes perfectly matched the city’s historic vibe.
4. Visit the Roman Amphitheater
Lecce’s history isn’t all baroque; it stretches back to Roman times. The Roman Amphitheater, hidden beneath Piazza Sant’Oronzo, is a fascinating reminder of that era. Although it’s smaller than the famous Colosseum, it once held thousands of spectators for gladiatorial games and performances.
Exploring the amphitheater is like peeling back layers of history. You can imagine ancient crowds cheering, merchants selling snacks, and the energy of a city alive even 2,000 years ago. It’s a striking contrast to the baroque elegance of the streets above, and a must-see for anyone curious about the city’s origins.
5. Discover Piazza Sant’Oronzo
Speaking of Piazza Sant’Oronzo, it’s impossible to miss this lively square, named after Lecce’s patron saint. Here you’ll find the impressive column topped by a statue of Sant’Oronzo himself, as well as a Roman column that hints at the city’s ancient roots.
The piazza is surrounded by shops, cafes, and gelaterias, making it a perfect place to stop for a treat. From my own personal experience, this is also the square where Lecce feels most alive: street performers, tourists, locals, and the occasional fountain splash all come together to create an energetic atmosphere that’s uniquely Italian.
6. Admire the Baroque Palaces
As you wander, make sure to keep an eye out for Lecce’s baroque palaces. Buildings like Palazzo dei Celestini or Palazzo Adorno showcase elaborate balconies, sculpted columns, and artistic flourishes that make every corner a photo opportunity.
One of the best ways to experience them is simply to stroll slowly, looking up. From my own personal experience, it’s often the little details—the carved faces peeking from balconies or delicate floral motifs—that linger in your memory long after you leave.
7. Stop for Traditional Cuisine
No visit to Lecce is complete without tasting the local food. Old Town is packed with trattorias, osterias, and cafes offering dishes like orecchiette pasta with turnip greens, spicy salami, or pasticciotti—a local custard pastry that’s dangerously addictive.
From my own personal experience, trying a pasticciotto fresh from the oven at a small family-run bakery is one of life’s simple pleasures. Pair it with a cappuccino, and you’ll feel like a true Lecce insider. Don’t rush—meals here are meant to be savored, not hurried.
8. Visit the Church of Sant’Irene
The Church of Sant’Irene is often overlooked by tourists but is a gem worth visiting. Its baroque façade is stunning, and inside, the intricate stuccoes and frescoes tell stories of the city’s religious heritage.
What makes it special is the quiet, contemplative atmosphere. From my own personal experience, stepping inside felt like entering a different world—peaceful, sacred, and far removed from the bustling streets outside.
9. Discover Hidden Courtyards and Passageways
One of Lecce’s secrets is its hidden courtyards and narrow passageways. Take time to wander without a map and see where curiosity leads you. You’ll find charming gardens, tiny fountains, and doors with peeling paint that hint at centuries of life inside.
These quiet spots are perfect for taking a break, snapping unique photos, or simply imagining the lives of those who walked these streets long before you. From my own personal experience, some of my most memorable moments were simply sitting on a stone bench in a quiet courtyard, watching sunlight filter through vine-covered walls.
10. Enjoy Evening Aperitivos
End your day in Lecce with an evening aperitivo. This Italian tradition of enjoying small bites with a drink before dinner is both relaxing and social. Old Town has plenty of bars offering local wines, spritzes, and snacks.
From my own personal experience, there’s something magical about sipping a glass of Primitivo while watching the streets come alive with locals laughing, children playing, and the golden lights reflecting off baroque buildings. It’s the perfect way to cap off a day of exploration and truly feel part of Lecce’s rhythm.
Final Thoughts on Lecce Old Town
Lecce Old Town is more than just a collection of historic sites—it’s a living, breathing city with character, charm, and surprises around every corner. Whether you’re marveling at baroque architecture, discovering hidden courtyards, or savoring traditional pastries, the city invites you to slow down, explore, and immerse yourself in its beauty.
From my own personal experience, the best way to enjoy Lecce is without a strict itinerary. Wander, let curiosity guide you, and allow yourself to get lost in the streets—you’ll find that Lecce reveals its secrets most beautifully when you least expect it.
Visiting Lecce Old Town is like stepping into a storybook where every street, square, and building has a tale to tell. It’s a place where history meets daily life, and where even a simple stroll can feel like a journey through time. So grab a gelato, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready to fall in love with Lecce—you won’t regret it.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.