Salento is the southernmost part of Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. While the Valle d’Itria and its trulli have captured the spotlight in international travel magazines, Salento remains more of a hidden treasure – known and loved by Italians, but still undiscovered by many foreign visitors.
This travel guide will help you plan your trip to Salento, showing you how to get there, the best times to visit, where to stay, and insider tips that make all the difference.
Why Visit Salento?
- The Beaches: From Gallipoli’s white sands to Otranto’s dramatic cliffs, Salento is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Italy.
- The Culture: Lecce, the “Florence of the South,” blends baroque architecture, art, and vibrant street life.
- The Lifestyle: A slower pace, fewer foreign tourists, and authentic traditions make Salento feel like another world compared to northern Puglia.
- The Diversity: Salento is defined by contrasts – two seas, rugged countryside shaped by the olive tree disease, and even its own dialects distinct from the north.
How to Get to Salento
- By Plane: The nearest airport is Brindisi (BDS), only 30 minutes from Lecce. Bari Airport (BRI) is further north, around 2 hours by car or train.
- By Train: High-speed trains run to Lecce from major Italian cities. From Lecce, regional trains connect to Gallipoli, Otranto, and the coast.
- By Car: Renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore beaches and small villages at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit Salento
- Spring (April–June): Warm, fewer crowds, wildflowers in bloom.
- Summer (July–August): Hot, lively, full beach-club season. Advance reservations essential.
- Autumn (September–October): Still warm, sea perfect for swimming, harvest season.
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Quiet and authentic. Not a beach season, but ideal for culture and food.
Where to Stay
- Lecce: A perfect cultural base with restaurants, nightlife, and day trips.
- Otranto: History meets Adriatic beaches.
- Gallipoli: Island old town, lively atmosphere.
- Countryside Masseria: Authentic farmhouses with rustic charm and boutique comfort.
How Long to Stay
- 3 Days: Lecce + one beach day + Otranto or Gallipoli.
- 5 Days: Add villages like Specchia or Presicce and a winery visit.
- 7+ Days: Combine culture, coast, and true slow living at a relaxed pace.
Insider Tips
- Shops close for siesta between 13:00–17:00 – plan sightseeing in the mornings.
- Always check the wind to choose the best beach for the day. Tramontana = Ionian coast. Scirocco = Adriatic coast.
- Book restaurants and beach clubs in summer, especially weekends.
Salento is a region of contrasts – rugged landscapes, stunning seas, ancient towns, and timeless rhythms. If you take the time to discover it, you’ll experience a side of Italy that still feels authentic, diverse, and deeply alive.
