The Salento is one of the most captivating destinations in Puglia, famous for its enchanting beaches, historic villages, and traditional cuisine. If you have 5 days to explore this beautiful region, you're in the right place! In this guide, we propose a complete itinerary that will allow you to discover the main attractions of Salento, enjoy its dream beaches, immerse yourself in its culture and traditions, and experience a unique journey between the sea, history, and gastronomy.
Day 1: Explore Lecce, the Capital of Baroque
1. Visit to the Historic Center of Lecce
Lecce, the capital of Salento, is known as the “Florence of the South” for its magnificent Leccese Baroque. Start your adventure by exploring the historic center, where you'll find incredible monuments such as the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Lecce Cathedral, and Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Walk through the cobblestone streets and stop by one of the local cafés to enjoy a delicious caffè leccese.
What to See in Lecce:
Piazza del Duomo: one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, featuring the Cathedral and the Bell Tower.
Basilica di Santa Croce: a masterpiece of Leccese Baroque.
Anfiteatro Romano: a testament to Roman Lecce.
2. Discovering Local Traditions
In the afternoon, visit one of the craft shops where you can buy the famous Leccese papier-mâché, a traditional art that makes Lecce famous worldwide. If you're a food enthusiast, don't miss the opportunity to try a pasticciotti tasting, the typical Salento pastry.
Tip: Join a gastronomic tour to discover local specialties such as orecchiette and pitta di patate.
3. Sunset at Porto Cesareo
To end the day, head to Porto Cesareo, a charming seaside village that will enchant you with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place for a sunset stroll.
Day 2: The Beaches and Coastal Villages
1. Otranto and the Cathedral
The second day begins with a visit to Otranto, one of the most charming villages in Salento. Otranto is famous for its Catedral, with the famous floor mosaic representing the Tree of Life, and the Aragonese Castle, which offers a spectacular view of the sea.
What to See in Otranto:
Cattedrale di Otranto: famous for the mosaic of the Tree of Life.
Castello Aragonese: a medieval fortress with a panoramic view.
Borgo Antico: picturesque little streets and postcard-worthy views.
2. Otranto Beaches and Baia dei Turchi
In the afternoon, enjoy the Salento sea at the beaches of Otranto. Baia dei Turchi is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, famous for its turquoise waters and fine sand. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim or a walk along the coast.
3. Seafood Dinner
In the evening, stop at one of the typical restaurants on the Otranto waterfront for a dinner of fresh fish. Don’t miss the mixed fried seafood and local specialties such as gratinated mussels.
Day 3: The Beaches and the Ionian Coast
1. Santa Maria di Leuca
After a typical breakfast, dedicate your time to visiting Santa Maria di Leuca, the point where the Ionian Sea meets the Adriatic Sea. The town is famous for the Santuario di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, overlooking the sea, and the Leuca Lighthouse, one of the tallest in Italy. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the coastline.
What to do in Santa Maria di Leuca:
Visit the Santuario di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae.
Stroll to the Leuca Lighthouse to admire the view.
2. Boat Tour to the Sea Caves
In the afternoon, join a boat tour to visit the sea caves of Leuca, such as the Grotta del Soffio and the Grotta delle Tre Porte. These excursions will allow you to explore the natural wonders of the Salento coastline and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
3. Stroll in Gallipoli and Traditional Dinner
In the evening, head to Gallipoli, another charming seaside village. Visit the Historic Center, a pedestrian area with typical narrow streets overlooking the sea, and admire the Gallipoli Castle. In the evening, stop at one of the restaurants in the historic center to enjoy Salento cuisine, with dishes such as rice and mussels or grilled seafood.
Day 4: Beaches and Villages of South Salento: Pescoluse and Torre Vado
1. Pescoluse Beaches
The fourth day is dedicated to exploring some of the most beautiful beaches of Salento. Start with Pescoluse, famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place for a day of relaxation by the sea.
Recommended Beaches:
Spiaggia di Pescoluse: also known as the “Maldives of Salento,” one of the most iconic beaches.
Spiaggia di Torre Vado: a peaceful area with shallow waters and crystal-clear seas, perfect for families.
2. Visit to Torre Vado and the Altopiano delle Serre
In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Torre Vado, an ancient fishing village. You can also explore the surrounding areas such as the Altopiano delle Serre, known for its lush vegetation and breathtaking views.
3. Dinner by the Sea
In the evening, enjoy a dinner of fresh fish, perhaps with a sunset by the beach. Pescoluse offers excellent seaside restaurants that serve local fish dishes and typical Salento specialties.
👉 For an unforgettable experience, book a vacation home in Pescoluse or Torre Vado and discover the true Salento in total comfort.
Day 5: The Villages and Traditions of Salento
1. Specchia: A Village to Discover
Dedicate the last day to Specchia, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved villages in Salento. Stroll through its medieval streets, visit the Castello Risolo and the Palazzo Colosso, and stop for a coffee in the Piazza del Popolo.
What to see in Specchia:
Castello Risolo: a medieval fortress with stunning views.
Palazzo Colosso: an elegant noble palace.
2. Explore Rural Salento
In the afternoon, explore the Salento hinterland, where you can discover historic farmhouses, ancient olive mills, and breathtaking rural landscapes.
3. Final Dinner
Conclude your journey with a typical Salento dinner at one of the local restaurants, where you can enjoy dishes such as orecchiette with turnip greens and grilled fish.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Adventure in Salento
In 5 days, Salento offers a variety of experiences ranging from the history and culture of Lecce to the beauty of its beaches and villages. Whether you’re looking for relaxation by the sea, immersions in local culture, or simply an opportunity to enjoy Salento’s cuisine, this itinerary will allow you to experience the best of Puglia.
