Have you ever wondered what sits at the heel of Italy? While everyone flocks to the resorts around Naples and Capri, Italians have reveled in the glorious handmade food and blessed, lush nature and seashores in this part of the country for years. If you only have a day to discover Lecce foodie scene, here a few options from breakfast to dinner.

Breakfast in Lecce

Start your day with a Lecce style breakfast. Order a pasticciotto with a cappuccino or Coffee in Ice at Caffe’ Alvino. In the heart of the city, Alvino is located in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, very popular with locals. Here, you find fresh pasticciotti both in the classic version - with cream only - and in delicious variations, such as the one with cereals and figs.

Morning Sightseeing in Lecce

Continue the morning with some cultural activities. Starting at the Old Town Centre, which begins at Porta Napoli, you can explore the churches, portals, monuments, and beautiful historical buildings. Within this area, there is the famous Chiesa di Santa Maria della Provvidenza and Chiesa di Santa Maria di Constantinopoli. A visit to the Basilica of Santa Croce should not be missed, as it is the symbol of Lecce and the city's Baroque architecture.

Lunch in Lecce

When the hunger from all the sightseeing arises Alex Ristorante will be happy to welcome you. One of the best fine dining locations in Lecce, Alex Ristorante serves timeless traditional Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, and is an exquisite address for a tasty lunch. Try one of the traditional and homemade pastas or some seafood from the Adriatic Sea.

Quick Lunch in Lecce

Quick but delicious lunch? Ristorante Dall'Antiquario! Great location, extremely welcoming staff and good vegetarian options. Simple but very good food.

Afternoon Sightseeing in Lecce

Take the afternoon to immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant culture that all the monuments in Lecce bring to the town. Feel how the area embraced the influences from near and far to develop itself into what it is today.

Dinner in Lecce

Lastly, before you sign off the day and head back to the station, enjoy dinner and drinks in this beautiful city. Head to Ristorante Blu Notte, known for its scrumptious Mediterranean seafood. Ask for an outdoor table or cuddle up to Italian hospitality and admire the original stonewalls and dim lighting. This is a perfect way to end a Lecce day trip.

Lecce is one of our favorite destinations in Southern Italy. A storied city filled with art, architecture, and food. Whatever your interests, our local travel designers can create and book the perfect trip with activities and experiences that cater to all age ranges. All you have to do is tell us about your dream vacation by filling out a Trip Inquiry. We’ll then match you with one of our specialists who will work with you to customize a tour package—designed just for you.