5 Top Areas from Experience + Hotels
Nicknamed the Florence of the South, this town is the ultimate holiday spot. If you’re planning a trip there, jump on this guide on where to stay in Lecce, Puglia.
I’ve visited Lecce a few times and I always fall in love with it a bit more! To help you make the most out of your trip, I included the top areas below. You’ll also find some of the best hotels for all budgets and plenty of hidden gems that I found during my trips.
In short, the Historic Center is the best area to stay in Lecce, Italy, as all the major attractions are set there. However, if you’re looking for something more affordable or less crowded, check the other neighborhoods too.
Definitely book your hotels in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the summer (June, July, August) as this city gets so many tourists and it’s better to secure your spot early.
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a short list of the best places to stay in Lecce for those of you who are in a rush and can’t read the whole post. All are set in the Historic Center:
Keep track of all the areas that I’ll be talking about in this post with this super useful map that I’ve included below:
1. Historic Center – where to stay in Lecce for the first time
Once you arrive, drink your espresso and head to Lecce’s Historic Center!
This is my favorite area in town and it’s absolutely packed with gorgeous Baroque buildings, historical sites and narrow streets which you’ll never get tired of exploring.
That’s what I did all day long every time I was in Lecce, and loved it.
Lecce really transports you to another era, especially with its attractions that you’ll find here, like the Lecce Cathedral, Piazza del Duomo (map), Basilica di Santa Croce, the Roman Amphitheatre. You should also check out Palazzo Vernazza which has under its grounds an ancient Isis temple.
I’ve got a whole post on the best things to do in Lecce, so definitely check it out if you need some guidance!
PRO TIP: While you’re exploring this part of Lecce, look for hidden shells in all the walls. Once you see one, it’ll be easy to spot them all! If you’re looking for some souvenir shops, make sure you stop by Manufactus (map), a stationery store that sells unique notebooks and other things.
Luxury hotel
Pollicastro Boutique Hotel, Historic Center
This fabulous hotel is set within walking distance of all the attractions, and it features incredible modern rooms with stone walls, vaulted ceilings, stylish furniture, and air-conditioning. They also have this amazing roof terrace from where you can admire the city views!
Other accommodation options in Historic Center
mid-range
This hotel that has a good location, a bar, a restaurant, and a terrace
airbnb
A lovely place in the city center with only three rooms, amazing views from its balcony, and a kitchen
Things to do in Historic Center
- Visit the Lecce Cathedral and its bell tower
- Grab a pastry and coffee from Caffe Alvino (map)
- Snap a pic of the Roman Amphitheatre (map)
- Explore Piazza Sant’Oronzo (map)
- See Isis’s temple at Palazzo Vernazza
- Buy a souvenir from Manufactus
- Check out Porta San Biagio (map)
- Admire the architecture of the Basilica di Santa Croce
2. Mazzini – best place to stay in Lecce on a budget
Listen, I know that staying somewhere like Lecce’s Old Town is super dreamy but not so cheap, especially if you’re traveling during the high season.
PRO TIP: If it’s possible I’d personally avoid visiting Lecce during the summer months. It’s so hot you can barely be outside, plus it is very crowded.
When I visited Lecce for the first time, I also booked a hotel outside of the Historic Centre as it was much more affordable and there was just a 15 min walk to get there.
If you’re in the same situation as me, then check out this area which is set within walking distance of central Lecce! Literally, just 7 minutes away.
Mazzini is a small area near Piazza Mazzini, with a more residential feel, which has lots of stores, bars, and even some clothing shops.
It’s the perfect place where you can find some affordable Lecce hotels that are just a short walk away from the main attractions like Santa Croce Church and Santa Chiara Church.
Luxury hotel
A gorgeous hotel that comes with spacious rooms that have modern furnishings, a private bathroom, and air-conditioning. The accommodation offers breakfast, a terrace, and a hot tub where you can relax!
Other accommodation options in Mazzini
mid-range
This small hotel offers a chic design, rooms with a balcony, private parking, and a yummy breakfast
airbnb
Perfect for couples, this condo has a great location, air-conditioning, and a private hot tub
Things to do in Mazzini
- Go for a walk in Piazza Mazzini (map)
- Grab a drink at Raphael 78 (map)
- Check out the vintage store Casual Bay (map)
- Eat some local sweets at Pasticceria Citiso (map)
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
3. Leuca – where to stay in Lecce for families
Planning a family trip to Lecce?
Then I’m guessing you’ll probably want to stay in an area that isn’t as crowded as the Old City while at the same time is set near it.
In that case, check out the Leuca neighborhood which is a 15 min walk away from the Historic Center.
With a more residential feel, Leuca offers a tranquil environment where tourists can relax and get a peek inside the life of Lecce’s locals!
Although there are not any attractions here, you will find a handful of restaurants and bars where you can grab a bite and a drink after a day out exploring Lecce’s attractions! There are no luxury hotels in Leuca since it’s such a small area, and there are only a few options. But if you really want to stay in a fancy place, then check out Palazzo San Lazzaro, which is set in Mazzini (section #2 of this post).
Other accommodation options in Leuca
mid-range
A great hotel that offers family rooms with tea and coffee makers, breakfast and parking
budget
Perfect for budget travelers, this hostel comes with a terrace, an airport shuttle, and free Wi-Fi
airbnb
You’ll love this home which is great for families as it has a lot of space, a hot tub, a kitchen, and TV
Things to do in Leuca
- Grab a family dinner at Trattoria Fiori di Zucca (map)
- Take the kids to Lu Furnu te Petra di Bergamo S. (map)
- Join a cooking class in Lecce
- Head to the Historic Center to visit some attractions
4. San Pio – best place to stay in Lecce for relaxation
Right near Porta Napoli (map), an old arch from the 16th century, which served as the city wall gate, you’ll find the San Pio area.
It’s a residential area right near the city’s Historic Center. San Pio is great for people who want to lay low this holiday and not stand in the middle of the crowds all day long!
I’ve walked around San Pio, and it’s so interesting how once you pass through the gate from the Old Town to San Pio, it’s like you’re in a whole other world, the real one, I would say, where modernism reigns!
You’ll definitely find more affordable accommodations here, a few restaurants, and some shops where you can get groceries.
If you’re staying for more than a few days you might consider getting an apartment or an accommodation that has a fridge or a small kitchen and eat at home. You can save some euros by doing that and trust me, you can prepare some yummy dishes with food from the store.
That’s what I did, and I managed to save a few euros.
There’s also the Villa Reale Park (map) where you can go for a walk and spend some time out in nature.
Now, let’s check out the hotels.
Luxury hotel
What a gorgeous Palazzo that has a great location near the Historic Center and a lovely terrace where you can relax! All the rooms feature a beautiful design, simple yet with taste! The accommodation also offers an airport shuttle and a buffet breakfast.
Other accommodation options in San Pio
mid-range
A great hotel with spacious rooms, bikes to rent out, and a spa center where you can relax
budget
This modern yet super affordable place offers rooms with a balcony, a terrace, and breakfast
airbnb
Such a cool studio that comes with a kitchen, free parking, and a private balcony
Things to do in San Pio
- Try some local dishes at Capoccia’s (map)
- Go for a walk in Villa Reale Park
- See the olive trees in Parco di Belloluogo (map)
- Snap a pic at Porta Napoli
- Head to the city center to visit the attractions
5. Ferrovia – where to stay in Lecce near the train station
If you’re planning a trip to Lecce, then I’m sure you’re thinking of visiting other towns in Puglia as well.
And although I would recommend renting a car as you can’t reach all the places by using public transport (telling you from experience), I know that option isn’t affordable or convenient for everyone!
During my trip, I only used trains to get around, and it was ok, especially from Lecce, where they’ve got a bigger station. This brings us to this area, Ferrovia, where the train station is located.
From Lecce Railway Station (map) you’ll find trains to Gallipoli, Ostuni, Bari, and many other spots in the region.
Ferrovia is about a 15 min walk from the Historic Center, which is not too bad.It has some stores, a few restaurants and some cool museums like the Railway Museum of Puglia and Museo Sigismondo Castromediano (map).
Luxury hotel
Relax in the spa center of this amazing accommodation which has a great location and such a stylish design! I love the wood furnishings and the rooms, which are beautifully decorated, and some even have a terrace. Start your morning with some yummy Italian pastries and espresso, and head out to explore the city!
Other accommodation options in Ferrovia
mid-range
Offering some amazing city views, this hotel provides family rooms, breakfast, and free Wi-FI
budget
If you like antique furniture, then this place is for you! It offers an airport shuttle and breakfast
airbnb
You’ll never want to leave this gorgeous place that offers so much space, unique furnishings, and a balcony
Things to do in Ferrovia
- Visit the Railway Museum of Puglia
- Grab a drink at Bar Kennedy (map)
- Join a walking tour of Lecce
- Take a day trip to Gallipoli to chill on the best beaches
BONUS: Best boutique hotels in Lecce
The city has lots of villas and palazzos and most of these have been transformed into chic boutique hotels that many of you will definitely like!
That’s why I made this short bonus with the top 3 boutique hotels in Lecce.
All the hotels are luxury and I listed them from most to least expensive:
- Palazzo Maresgallo Suites & Spa – relax in the of this unique palazzo after a day of visiting attractions like Santa Croce Church and taking cooking classes! The boutique hotel features rooms adorned with artwork, a garden, and a swimming pool.
- Palazzo Guido – if you like history and staying in old buildings furnished with antique pieces, check out this accommodation that features views of the Santa Croce Church. Set in the home of a 16th-century nobleman, that hotel offers a terrace, rooms with garden or city views and breakfast.
- Palazzo De Noha – enjoy the Puglian sun by the outdoor pool of this accommodation that offers spacious rooms with stone walls and a terrace. Start your morning with breakfast on the terrace, and then head out to explore Lecce and its wine bars!
- Patria Palace Hotel – set in an 18th century mansion, this beautiful hotel offers rooms with beamed ceilings, and a panoramic rooftop terrace where you can enjoy breakfast and a bar.
FAQs about where to stay in Lecce
🏛️ Which part of Lecce to stay in?
The Historic Center is one of the best areas to stay in Lecce, Italy as that’s where you’ll find all the attractions and great hotels like Pollicastro Boutique Hotel.
📅 How many days should I stay in Lecce?
I would recommend spending 2 to 3 days in Lecce. That way you’ll have time to visit all the attractions and maybe take a day trip too!
🤔 Is it better to stay in Bari or Lecce?
The cities are super different! Bari is a port city with an urban atmosphere, while Lecce is smaller and super historic. I’d recommend visiting both cities as they’re super close.
🏨 Which are the best hotels in Lecce?
🛤️ Is Lecce a good base to explore Puglia?
Yes, Lecce can be a great base to explore Puglia, Italy for those using public transport and a car.
🏖️ Does Lecce have nice beaches?
No, Lecce doesn’t have any beaches, as it’s not set on the coast. But you can easily reach nearby beach towns like Gallipoli.
💃 Is Lecce a party town?
Not really, Lecce is a pretty quiet town.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Lecce
Who’s feeling super excited to visit Lecce?
I hope this post on where to stay in Lecce, Italy, helped you plan your trip!
Definitely book your hotels here in advance, as this is a super popular destination in Puglia.
If you’re not sure which ones to pick, here are my top-rated 2 favorite ones, both set in the Historic Center:
I wish everyone a fantastic trip, and once you arrive in Lecce, just let yourself be carried away by the city’s magical atmosphere!
As always, I’m around for any questions, just drop them below, and I’ll answer ASAP!
Safe travels,
Victoria
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