Cancellation with conditions
Explore the city of Lecce, nicknamed "the Florence of the South" in the company of a private guide!
You'll meet your guide under the Porta Napoli, a triumphal arch erected in honour of Charles V, who defended the Terra d'Otranto against the Turkish invaders. Once you enter the historic centre, you'll walk along Via Palmieri, where you'll find grand, intricately decorated palaces. You'll then arrive at the majestic, theatrical Piazza del Duomo. Admire the skills of the local workforce that created this incredible site, including the 18th-century Palazzo del Seminario.
You'll pass by the Cathedral, with its 70-metre-high bell tower, which takes up a large part of the square. First built in the 12th century, it was later modified in the 17th century.
You'll continue your guided tour at Piazza Sant'Oronzo, fondly referred to as the city's "living room". It's named after the patron saint of Lecce, and you'll find a bronze statue of him on one of Via Appia's columns that line the square. You'll also see the ruins of a 1st century Roman amphitheatre, the 16th century Palazzo del Sedile, as well as the small church of San Marco which is just nextdoor.
The magnificent church of Santa Croce rounds off the tour. This beautifully-decorated church dates back to the 16th century and the facade depicts the town's history at that time. Next to this church you'll find the Palazzo dei Celestini, a former Celestine fathers' convent, now used as local government offices.
Finally, the tour would not be complete without tasting Pasticciotto, a typical local dessert, as well as trying a Lecce coffee, made with almond milk.
With this guided tour, you'll be plunged into the culture and history of Lecce, one of the most beautiful cities of southern Italy.
