Things to do in Lecce

Activities, attractions and tours

Lecce
Lecce
Lecce
Lecce
Lecce
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Top places to visit

1. Porta Napoli

The Arco di Trionfo (Triumphal Arch) is a monumental archway set at the western edge of Lecce’s old town. Its striking structure sets the scene for the many architectural treasures that line the streets of the city’s historic center. Otherwise known as Porta Napoli, the Arco di Trionfo was erected in 1548 by Gian Giacomo dell’Acaya, who also built the Castello di Lecce.
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2. Piazza Sant'Oronzo

Piazza Sant’Oronzo is an attractive public square, which boasts a cornucopia of architectural styles and is the result of centuries of craftsmanship. It takes its name from St. Orontius of Lecce, the city’s patron saint. Find a relic from Lecce’s early beginnings as a Roman settlement, spot mosaics and visit interesting churches. Piazza Sant’Oronzo is also a location for outdoor cultural events.
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3. Roman Amphitheater

Peer down into the Roman Amphitheater (Anfiteatro Romano) and envisage a time when large audiences would applaud gladiators, attend theatrical shows and watch live music performances. This ancient monument sits half-concealed beneath Piazza Sant’Oronzo. The Roman Amphitheater dates back to the A.D. 2nd century, when Lecce was a Roman settlement called Lupiae. Builders discovered it by chance in the early 1900s.
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4. Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is a spacious and stately square home to some of Lecce’s most impressive works of architecture. Unusual for a central square, it is completely enclosed by buildings and accessed via a gateway on its north side. In previous times the city’s residents would take refuge from invaders at the square. Today, Piazza del Duomo resembles an open-air museum lined with Baroque masterpieces that range from a cathedral to palaces.
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5. Holy Cross Cathedral

The Holy Cross Cathedral (Basilica di Santa Croce) is a symbol of artistic beauty. Its detailed stonemasonry and orthodox internal decorations bear testament to the talents of Lecce’s most revered artists. Gualtieri VI of Brienne laid the first stone of the Holy Cross Cathedral in the 1350s but the project was interrupted upon his passing. Work on the church resumed in 1549 and another 150 years passed before completion.
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What to do in Lecce

Popular places to visit

Porta Napoli

Porta Napoli

Start a walking tour of the city from this triumphal gateway, one of the main entrances to Lecce’s historic quarter.

Porta Napoli
Piazza Sant'Oronzo

Piazza Sant'Oronzo

A combination of Roman ruins and Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance landmarks create an impressive architectural landscape at this old town square.

Piazza Sant'Oronzo
Roman Amphitheater

Roman Amphitheater

Transport back to the days of the Roman Empire at this sunken and well-preserved ancient structure on Piazza Sant’Oronzo.

Roman Amphitheater
Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo

The Cathedral of Lecce, lavish palaces and a museum of sacred art await at this magnificent square in the heart of the old town.

Piazza del Duomo
Holy Cross Cathedral

Holy Cross Cathedral

Gaze in appreciation at the Baroque façade and Renaissance interior of this church, which is a labor of love that took over 300 years to complete.

Holy Cross Cathedral

Lecce Obelisk

You can find out about the history of Lecce with a visit to Lecce Obelisk. While in the area, you can find time to visit its cathedral.

Lecce Obelisk

Stadio Via del Mare

Catch an event at Stadio Via del Mare during your trip to Lecce. Stroll along the marina or visit the monuments in this trendy area.

Stadio Via del Mare

Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini

Find out about the history of Lecce with a stop at Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini. While in the area, you can find time to visit its cathedral.

Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini

University of Salento

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Salento during your trip to Lecce. While in the area, you can find time to visit its cathedral.

University of Salento

Areas of Lecce

Lecce Historic Center

Lecce Historic Center

5/5(32 area reviews)

Lecce Historic Center is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Piazza Sant'Oronzo and Roman Amphitheater.

Lecce Historic Center
Acaya

Acaya

Surbo, Lecce province: exterior of baroque church

Surbo

Frequently asked questions

Is Lecce worth visiting?
Lecce offers a unique blend of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or traditional food, there's a lot you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Lecce?
After you've visited major attractions like Torre Chianca Beach and Faggiano Museum, spend some time enjoying Lecce's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lecce?
Don't leave without checking out Torre Chianca Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Lecce.
Is three days enough to stay in Lecce?
You can easily tour popular sights like Faggiano Museum, Palazzo del Seminario and Palazzo Vescovile with a three-day trip to Lecce. On average, many travellers book three days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Brindisi.
Is Lecce a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to do and see in Lecce. Several top attractions, including Faggiano Museum, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through one of Lecce's vibrant neighbourhoods, Lecce Historic Centre is 0.16 kilometres away from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Lecce with kids?
Deciding what to do in Lecce with kids has never been simpler. Whether you have teenagers or toddlers, there are loads of family-friendly sights to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Lecce for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Lecce for adults including Cantina Petrelli and Lecce Town Hall.
Are there free things to do in Lecce?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Lecce is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Casa Museo Spada is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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