The beautiful city of Lecce is a baroque masterpiece tucked away in the heel of the Italian boot! This lesser-realized diamond offers visitors a chance to experience Italian history and culture without the overwhelming crowds of more popular traveler destinations.

Bursting with stunning architecture, delectable dishes, and ancient relics, the ‘Florence of the South’ is a must-visit for anyone exploring the enchanting locale of Puglia.

With such a lot of things to do in Lecce, planning an outing can be daunting, especially if you are pressed for time. So hence, we have assembled a list of what impressed us the most when we visited there.

1. Roman Amphitheater

The Roman Amphitheater is another construction that, for a long time, lay undiscovered. Dating to the 2nd century, it was only found in 1901 when laborers started to dig the foundations for a proposed bank.

Fast forward 120 years, and it has been estimated that only a third of the amphitheater has been uncovered. The ancient design resides on the southern part of the Piazza Sant’Oronzo, and specialists believe it could have seated up to 25,000 people in its heyday.

2. Duomo di Lecce

Whenever you have seen the Basilica di Santa Croce, you should make a point of visiting the Duomo di Lecce. Both are on par with being important religious designs in the city.

Situated in the Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral was completed in the late 17th century. It features a similar Baroque design to the basilica, boasting an elegant northern façade of sculptures and stone statues. Additionally, it has a wonderful bell tower as well, which we found captivating due to its design and distinctive presence.

3. Basilica di Santa Croce

They say good things arrive at the people who wait. Well, that certainly appears to be valid for the Basilica di Santa Croce, which required almost 200 years to build!

Blessed with the most intricate detail, the magnificent cathedral boasts a jaw-dropping baroque outside that features various sculptures, including animals to saints. While its interior is defined by grandiose white columns, each of which has a striking candelabra in between them. Another fantastic feature is the magnificent rose window which is accompanied by intricate carvings.

4. Porta Napoli

While the Porta Rudiae is the oldest of Lecce’s three city gates, the Porta Napoli is its main one. It was constructed out of appreciation for King Charles V back in 1548 and is notable for its fabulous Baroque design and striking white stone esthetic.

What we most enjoy about this imposing gateway is that it is a living piece of history. We don’t know the number of people that have walked under its archway throughout the long term, yet you get a real association with your ancestors as you do so.

5. Chiesa di Santa Chiara

We have had the pleasure of seeing many churches around the world throughout the long term. In any case, hardly any made as much of an impact on us as the Chiesa di Santa Chiara did.

While many other designs are grandiose, the Santa Chiara has an intimate setting that instantly charmed us. Inside we were also immediately captivated by its striking altar, which has magnificent columns incorporated into it.

What we liked most, however, was that the Catholic church showcases several ornate sculptures and religious artworks that are beautifully decorated. Their stunning colors and intricate detailing blew our minds, and we couldn’t help but marvel at the incredible talent that the people who created it must have possessed.

6. Piazza del Duomo

One of our favorite things to do in Lecce is sit in one of its many beautiful squares, usually with a coffee, and simply people-watch.

There are lots of different places you can go to, the vast majority of which reside against a charming backdrop of splendid architecture. Nonetheless, the one we tend to gravitate to the most is the Piazza del Duomo.

Situated in the middle of the old town, we love its ambiance. The Baroque Lecce Cathedral and the quaint library add a certain grace to the area. While the square is also lined with several shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants.

7. Centro Storico

Full disclosure. Lecce’s old town was our favorite place in Puglia!

At only a couple of square kilometers, the Centro Storico is easy to explore by walking, and its real satisfaction comes from discovering something new every time you go there. We spent hours strolling through its narrow roads, marveling at the honey-colored limestone buildings and fascinating monuments that speak of Lecce’s notable past.

By day the old town is very sleepy, and people continue ahead quietly. Nonetheless, it wakes up around evening time as locals enjoy an evening stroll (which they call their passeggiata) around the Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Before having dinner or drinks at charming cafes, restaurants, and bars, beautifully illuminated with outdoor, hung lights. The atmosphere is intoxicating!