A guide of Salento, Italy
A guide of Salento, Italy
Salento, located in Southern Italy, is a land of diverse cultures and rich influences from near and far. A visit to Salento is always a good idea for those eager to explore a place brimming with history and heritage. Mediterranean, greek, Arab, Turkish and other traditions converge here, making Salento a fascinating destination from every perspective.
The best time to visit Salento is from April to October, when the region enjoys warm temperatures and sunny days. During this period, temperatures peak in July and August, making it an ideal time to relax on Salento's stunning beaches. Additionally, the countryside comes alive with rich seasonal produce, including the distinctive prickly pears that are typical of the region. Whether you're looking to bask in the sun or explore the lush countryside, this is the perfect time to experience all that Salento has to offer.
How to get there?
Salento is accessible via two main airports: Bari and Brindisi. While Bari serves as a convenient entry point for the wider Apulia region, Brindisi is closer to Salento’s most sought-after destinations and is therefore highly recommended.Upon arrival at Brindisi Airport, various transportation options are available, including taxis, buses, and trains that can take you directly to key cities like Lecce. However, the best way to explore Salento is by renting a car. This allows you the flexibility to make stops in small villages that fully encapsulate the culture of the region. Here, you can experience culinary traditions featuring local products and admire typical structures such as the "pajare."
Top Destinations and Attractions
Lecce
Lecce is one of the crown jewels of Salento, renowned for its stunning baroque architecture and ancient papier-mâché craftsmanship. The city is famously built with Lecce stone, which adorns baroque churches, ancient villas, and statues throughout the area. Walking through Lecce feels like stepping into a magical scene, especially with streets lined with wine bars where you can enjoy a fine glass of wine and taste local delicacies.
Galatina
Just a short drive from Lecce, Galatina is a must-visit town known for its delicious pasticciotto, a traditional Apulian pastry filled with custard. The Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Galatina boasts some of Salento's most stunning frescoes, making it a cultural treasure.
Specchia, Presicce, Ruffano, Patù, Santa Maria di Leuca, and Santa Cesarea Terme.
Patronal festivals
If you find yourself in one of the cities or towns of Salento, you may have the opportunity to attend one of the patronal festivals in which the patron saint of the city is celebrated. There are markets, fireworks, music, but above all the illuminations, lights with designs and decorations typical of these festivals. One of the most famous for this is the festival of Santa Domenica in Scorrano.
Coastal Beauties
Salento's coastline offers some of the most beautiful beaches along both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. On the Adriatic side, Torre dell'Orso stands out with its picturesque views and clear waters.
On the Ionian side, Posto Vecchio beach is renowned for its crystal-clear water and expansive sandy shores.
Spiaggia di Posto Vecchio
Food and Drink
Traditional Dishes - Breakfast: Start your day with a pasticciotto of Galatina, a local specialty pastry filled with custard.
Lunch/Dinner: Indulge in traditional dishes such as:
-Ciciri e Tria: Homemade pasta (with a portion fried) served with chickpeas.
-Cocule di Patate: Baked potato balls.
-Frisa with Tomato: Italian rusk bread topped with fresh tomatoes.
-Fresh Fish: Savor the local seafood and raw seafood. Enjoy the freshest catches in their purest form.
-Street food: Rustico leccese. It is produced by overlapping two discs of puff pastry to which is added a filling of mozzarella, béchamel, tomato and spices (pepper and nutmeg); the "Scapece", a preparation of fried fish, with breadcrumbs, vinegar and saffron, of Arab origin.
Restaurant Tips
-Lecce: Mamma Elvira Enoteca, to taste eccellent wines and to have dinner with typical food. At the end of you take coffee It will be served with a typical moka.
There is also a wide choice of Japanese cuisine restaurants both all you can eat and à la carte:
I highly recommend these two places:
-Galatina: Ascalone, an historic pastry shop famous for its pasticciotto.
-Tricase Porto: Taverna del Porto; perfect for delightful fish dishes; Caffè Oltremare, ideal for a characteristic aperitif.
-Morciano di Leuca: La Vasca 1562; experience traditional cuisine inside an ancient underground oil mill.
-Santa Maria di Leuca: Mattia Cordella cucina di mare offers breathtaking views along with seafood.
-Marina di Novaglie: Lo Scalo renowned for its seafood.
-Posto Vecchio: Lido Venere; Enjoy splendid views while dining.
-Gagliano del Capo: Petra highly recommended for all forms of fish dishes and Petracca grill house:
-Marittima - Cala dell'Acquaviva: Anam
-Ruffano: Farmacia dei Sani
-Gallipoli: Trésor
Local Producers of Wine and Olive OilVineyards and Olive Groves:
Visit to taste and purchase high-quality regional products. Duca Carlo Guarini Cellars in Scorrano: Highly recommended for a true taste of Salento.
Hotels
Morello Beach Hotel:
Located in Marina di Pescoluse, about 100 meters from the stunning beaches known as “The Maldives of Salento”. This hotel offers tranquility and modern comforts, having opened in 2018.
Apartments and Residences
Residence Orizzonte Blu:
Situated in Torre Vado, this residence offers several apartments right in front of the sea, perfect for those seeking greater freedom during their holiday.
Masserias
Masseria Santu Lasi:
Located in Salve, this authentic masseria has been transformed into an accommodation while maintaining its historical charm. Staying in a masseria provides a unique experience of Salento’s countryside tranquility and history.
If you want to visit a small town near Lecce you can book in some masserie immersed in the greenery, like in Caprarica di Lecce
In Supersano:
General Tips
Prefer accommodations close to the sea for convenience and scenic views. Staying in a countryside masseria is highly recommended to fully appreciate the traditional architecture and history of these structures.
For an aperitif by the sea with a breathtaking view and sunset I recommend "Mivida" in Gallipoli
7-Day Itinerary in Salento
Day 1: Arrival and Lecce.
Arrive at Brindisi Airport and take the train to Lecce.
Visit Piazza Sant'Oronzo, not far from the station, and explore the typical streets of the city. Visit the Cathedral of Lecce and enjoy a tasting at one of the eateries near the Basilica of Santa Croce.
Day 2: Galatina
Visit Galatina and taste the pasticciotto in its place of origin. Admire the Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria with its beautiful frescoes. Explore the origins of the "Taranta" phenomenon.
Day 3: Beaches and Otranto.
Relax on the beaches of Torre dell'Orso and San Foca. Visit the "Grotta della Poesia" in Roca and then head to Otranto. Walk along the Otranto seafront and dine on fresh fish at a typical restaurant. A few steps from Otranto there is a Bauxite quarry that attracts attention for its red color that makes it a unique landscape.
Day 4: Ionian Beaches and Historical Villages
Head towards the south of Salento and visit the beaches of the Ionian Sea, like the "Maldives of Salento." Visit the historic center of Gallipoli. Explore historical villages such as Specchia, Presicce, and Ruffano.
Day 5: Explore More Historic Centers.
Continue exploring historical centers and partake in countryside walks to fully immerse in local culture.
Day 6: Santa Maria di Leuca.
Visit Santa Maria di Leuca, swim near the cliffs, and enjoy the local bars and summer markets. Visit the lighthouse and the Sanctuary of "Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae".
Day 7: Coastal Route Back to Lecce.
Practical Tips
Safety
Avoid carrying valuables with you to reduce the risk of loss or theft.
Language
While many locals understand English, learning a few Italian phrases can be useful and appreciated, such as "Buongiorno, come stai?" (Good morning, how are you?). Southern Italians are very friendly, and a simple smile can often lead to a pleasant conversation.
Useful Information
Eating at restaurants in small towns can be more affordable and often offers better food quality compared to tourist spots. Be cautious of overpriced meals on the beach.
Conclusion
Salento attracts visitors with its historical charm, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage influenced by different parts of the world. This vibrant region offers something magical and memorable for every traveler. The sun, scenic landscapes, delicious food, and good wine are only part of what makes Salento special—the real treasure is the warmth and positive energy of its people. Come and experience the heart of Southern Italy!
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