Where to stay in Lecce, Puglia
Often called 'the Florence of the South', Lecce is one of Puglia's largest towns, and somewhat of a Baroque masterpiece. The typical soft, creamy limestone pervades every nook of Lecce, especially in the town's numerous churches.
There's a lot to do and see in Lecce, so an optimum amount of time there might be around 3-4 days. It's a great base for exploring the very southern tip of Puglia: surrounded by beautiful beaches, vineyards and other small towns.
Lecce is a quintessentially Pugliese town, chock-full of piazzas, palazzi and chiesi - and a lovely Roman amphitheatre - all of which make it a fantastic place to stay in Puglia. You'll have a tough time deciding which of the many cafes, bars and restaurants to dine at, as the food here is incredible. Given its size (c.95,000 inhabitants) and that it's a university town, I always get the sense that it's a great place for a traditional passeggiata (an evening stroll, with wine and gossip!)
Discover the best hotels and places to stay in Lecce, Puglia - as rated by guests.
Best rated hotels in Lecce
Discover the best hotels in Lecce - all are a minimum 4-star stay, and rated in the top-10 by the people who have stayed there.
01 | Palazzo Charlie
“Beautiful apartment with gracious hosts Manon and Charlie. The rooftop terrace was sublime watching the sun set in a cool breeze sipping a scotch!” ~ Roberts
“Palazzo Charlie is an absolute gem. From the moment we met Charlie and Manon, to the moment we left, we really had the most wonderful experience.” ~ Joanna
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.8, 'Exceptional', by guests.
Rooms from £168 / $211
02 | Hilton Garden Inn, Lecce
Just a 15-minute walk from Lecce's historic centre, Hilton Garden Inn offers a free gym and an outdoor pool. Outdoor parking is free, and the nearest beaches are a 15-minute drive away. Hilton Garden Inn Lecce's multilingual staff can organise car rental and local tours and excursions. Relax outdoors in the swimming pool, use the 24 hour gym or unwind in the wellness centre featuring sauna and Turkish bath.
“Excellent stay, good location, comfortable beds, big room and bathroom. Very good breakfast. Enjoyed everything!” ~ Theofano, Belgium
This Lecce hotel is rated 8.1, 'Very good', by guests.
Book your stay from £86 / $110
03 | Vittoria Luxury House
“Hospitality and comfort of the rooms Well soundproofed windows. Access to the city center is within walking distance. Super spacious and comfortable family room. Breakfast is served in the room, the croissants were delicious and they were still warm! Wifi excellent. The lady Elisa who received us was very friendly and responsive in everything. Thank you." ~ Maria
“Historic building, centrally located and well soundproofed room.” ~ Francesca
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.8, 'Exceptional', by guests.
Book your stay from £133 / $167
04 | B&B Palazzo Sambiasi
“Gorgeous big rooms, huge balcony. Sumptuous breakfast served by gracious helpful hosts. Located in the heart of the old city, yet accessible by taxi. Classy restaurant on the ground floor.” ~ Doug
“A beautiful, historic property in the heart of Lecce. The hosts were very helpful and polite. The breakfasts were sublime!” ~ Stella
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.7, 'Exceptional', by guests.
Book your stay from £168 / $211
05 | Li Frati Casa Vacanze
“The welcoming attitude of Luigi and the amazing location in the middle of Lecce, close to great restaurant options and quiet enough from the hustle of the night life.” ~ Monica
“Very clean, spacious and comfortable property, had everything you may need on your break and the location was close to everything Lecce has to offer.” ~ Nancy
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.7, 'Exceptional', by guests.
Book your stay from £166 / $208
06 | Palazzo Sant'Anna Albergo Diffuso Luxury
“The staff were all so keen to offer that extra gesture of hospitality- they made us feel like guests in a beautiful private palazzo, not a hotel.” ~ Loretta
“I rarely leave reviews because I stay in 100s of hotels but I have to say how brilliant it was and it was the staff which made such difference. Warmly, caring, funny, insightful.” ~ Sarah
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.6, 'Exceptional', by guests.
Book your stay from £260 / $327
07 | Dimora Storica Muratore
“Beautiful gated villa, gorgeous terrace and gardens ideally situated within the walls of old town Lecce. Our suite was spacious, immaculately clean and very nicely outfitted.” ~ Barbara
“A magnificent property with a garden and swimming pool in town. Great location, very quiet and comfortable. The owners and the staff are so lovely, you’d think you’re staying with friends.” ~ Sabine
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.6, 'Exceptional', by guests.
Book your stay from £210 / $264
08 | Le Nicchie luxury rooms
“We've had the perfect stay in the old city of Lecce with the best host! We had the deluxe double room with spa bath, was beautiful, had a very comfortable bed and amazing bathroom.” ~ Esmer
“Beautiful suite hosted by Aldo. He was amazing. Situated in the old town. Aldo suggested a private car park nearby, which was excellent. Plentiful breakfast on the terrace.” ~ Josie
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.6, 'Exceptional', by guests.
Book your stay from £118 / $148
09 | Attico Barocco
“The location in the old part of Lecce was just perfect! A really interesting city! Lots of bars, restaurants and shops close by. Also not too long a walk from the main rail station.” ~ Peter
“It’s charming. And Gianni is just the best host and also charming. Top location to see the Old Town by foot. Character comfort and convenience. Highly recommended.” ~ Noreen
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.4, 'Superb', by guests.
Book your stay from £100 / $126
10 | Chiostro dei Domenicani - Dimora Storica
“Beautiful monastery turned into a hotel. Loved the breakfast space and the breakfast and the pool area. One of the best breakfasts we had during our stay. The staff were lovely.” ~ Frieke
“Beautiful restored monastery, everything was to a high standard. Rooms were large with a huge bathroom with toiletries included. The room had a kettle with tea and coffee. The swimming pool was beautiful...” ~ Lesley
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.4, 'Superb', by guests.
Book your stay from £183 / $231
11 | PALAZZO MARINI B&B DI CHARME
“Absolutely exceptional in all respects. Nicoletta couldn’t do enough for us. Early check in, really comfortable bed, spotless, lovely breakfast. Gorgeous roof terrace. Outrageous value.” ~ Joe
“Absolutely beautiful place with the most gorgeous roof terrace. Staff (Nicolette) were amazing and couldn't have done more for us. Highly recommend.” ~ Sharon
This Lecce hotel is rated 9.3, 'Superb', by guests.
Book your stay from £103 / $130
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Why Lecce should be on your next Puglia holiday itinerary
Are you dreaming of an unforgettable holiday in Italy, but want to explore something beyond the usual spots like Rome, Venice, or Florence? Then, get ready to be amazed by Lecce, a stunning city in the heart of Puglia, Italy's heel. Known as the "Florence of the South," Lecce is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create a magical experience.
Let's dive into the reasons why Lecce should be at the top of your travel list!
A city of rich history and stunning architecture
Lecce is a treasure trove for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The city's streets are lined with incredible examples of Baroque architecture, a style known for its intricate details, elaborate decorations, and grandeur. The Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo are just two of the architectural marvels that await you. Walking through Lecce feels like stepping back in time, with each building and monument telling its own fascinating story.
Sun-kissed beaches and natural wonders
Just a short drive from Lecce, you'll find some of Italy's most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax or an exciting place to try water sports, the coastline near Lecce has it all. Don't miss the chance to visit the stunning Alimini Lakes or the breathtaking Porto Selvaggio Natural Park, where nature's beauty is on full display.
Delicious cuisine and mouthwatering delights
No trip to Italy is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and Lecce is no exception. Puglia is known for its delicious, fresh produce and traditional dishes that will leave you wanting more. From homemade pasta like orecchiette served with a hearty tomato sauce to the crisp, savoury goodness of the local "pucce" sandwiches, your taste buds are in for a treat. And let's not forget about the olive oil - Puglia's liquid gold!
Warm hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere
One of the things that sets Lecce apart is the warmth and hospitality of its people. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel welcomed and embraced by the locals. Whether you're chatting with a friendly shopkeeper or getting recommendations from a local, Lecce's people make it feel like a home away from home.
A vibrant cultural scene and exciting events
Lecce is alive with culture and hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. From traditional religious processions to lively music festivals, there's always something happening. The city's theatres and galleries also offer a wide range of performances and exhibitions, showcasing both local talent and international artists. In Lecce, every day brings a new opportunity to experience the vibrant local culture.
A haven for shopping and unique finds
If you love shopping, Lecce won't disappoint. The city is filled with charming boutiques, artisan workshops, and lively markets where you can find everything from handmade ceramics and jewelry to local food products. It's the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or gift that captures the essence of your trip.
Convenient location for exploring Puglia
Lecce is not only a fantastic destination in its own right but also the perfect base for exploring the rest of Puglia. You can easily take day trips to other beautiful towns and attractions in the region.
Whether you're interested in discovering more of Puglia's stunning coastline, exploring ancient ruins, or visiting traditional villages, Lecce is the ideal starting point for your adventures.
An unforgettable experience awaits!
Lecce is a city that has something for everyone - stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly locals, a rich cultural scene, and much more. It's a place where every moment is filled with discovery and wonder, and where memories are made that will last a lifetime.
So why choose Lecce for your next vacation? Because it offers an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and traditions of this extraordinary region. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Lecce in Puglia is the perfect destination.
Get ready to explore the hidden gem of Italy and create unforgettable memories in Lecce. The adventure of a lifetime awaits you in this enchanting city, where every corner holds a new surprise. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of Lecce and discover why it's a place that should be on every traveler's list. Pack your bags, and see you in Lecce!
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