Lecce
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About Lecce
“The Florence of the South” and “A Baroque Masterpiece” are common strap-lines for Lecce, describing its architectural curlicues in pale, local limestone in just a grab of words. But elaborate architecture does impact everything here, including the accommodation on offer, because even the most contemporary hotels, and there are a few, are built with an eye for architectural unity — they may not have all the fancy details, but you can still expect vaulted ceilings, graceful arches and pale stone. Of course, if you want to you can stay in one of the grand palazzos themselves — these are some of the best places to stay in Lecce if you feel like a treat. Lecce also has a good collection of B&Bs, converted mansions and villas, and traditional hotels too.
If you’re looking for the epicentre of fancy architecture in Lecce head for the top of the hill, and the Duomo. The majority of Lecce’s architectural highlights can be found in the spider’s web of narrow streets leading outwards from the Duomo, and this is undoubtedly the best place to base yourself for the city’s history. The Roman triumphal arch style Porto Napoli is worth adding to any bucket list of Lecce, as well as an excavated Roman amphitheatre, and the 12th century castle, which was ‘jazzed up’ in the 16th century because it wasn’t ornate enough.
Lecce is also a fantastic destination for foodies. Surrounding it are olive farms and vineyards, and many of Lecce’s restaurants, cafes and bars take full advantage of the fantastic local produce. The sea, and a great sandy beach, are only ten kilometres away along a quintessentially straight Roman road. The charming place really does it have it all!
However if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Lecce during the peak summer months, get organised and book well ahead. This is one popular place!
The Best Places to Stay in Lecce
For the Photo Album
- The Palazzo Bozi Corso is a grand, 18th century palazzo with wonderfully decorative original features, now converted into their most chic. The ceilings are very high, with delicate coving and panelling, the pale-coloured parquet is beautiful throughout, the French windows have elegant wrought iron balconies, and the doors and windows are huge. Add to that a contemporary art collection, a contemporary colour scheme and contemporary furniture, and you have a very stylish, centrally located palace — worthy of the fussiest guests. Even children. The courtyard garden is idyllic, and while there’s no restaurant, they do offer breakfast and snacks.
For a Special Occasion
- La Fiermontina offers a surprisingly peaceful haven in the centre of Lecce, in the form a small hotel with a large garden complete with a swimming pool and olive trees. The hotel shows the hallmarks of local architectural design, featuring high, vaulted ceilings, elegant arches, tiled floors and plenty of pale stone. There are just 16 rooms and suites, all unique, and decorated with contemporary design-style furnishings. The food is gourmet, and the art is impressive, making it ideal for a special treat.
For Traditional Charms
- The Patria Palace is perfect if you like traditional comforts, space and quite a lot of flair. For many years this wonderful hotel, with its frescoes, fancy stucco work and cherry wood furniture, was the only decent place to stay in Lecce. There are now other options, but this is still the place to stay if you're looking traditional five star hospitality and comfort. The spa is small, but good; the restaurant is small, but lovely; the views from the roof terrace are unbeatable, and the location, right opposite the wonderful basilica, can't be topped either.
- The Santa Chiara is a small, and very elegant, hotel in the centre of Lecce, with a spectacular roof terrace overlooking some of the city’s best known historic sights. It has just 21 rooms and suites, but they’re huge — many have double height, vaulted ceilings, and living space; all have big marble bathrooms and creamy decor. The communal spaces are gracious and spacious, plus there’s a piano bar, and breakfast terrace with a view.
For Romance
- Mantatelure is a gorgeous 16th century mansion turned six room hotel, tucked away in a quiet corner of Lecce. Hidden behind the pale sandstone walls of the mansion is an expansive garden terrace, complete with citrus trees and a hot tub, plus the six elegant rooms and suites. The decor is contemporary and neutral in colour. There’s no restaurant, but there is a bar, and they offer a freshly made Italian breakfast. Mantatelure is well located for cafes, restaurants and local shops and markets too.
- The Palazzo de Noha is a stylishly converted villa in the historic heart of town. Each room is bright and spacious, with simple white-on-white style, and lots of detail to admire. The roof terrace offers views, a stylish place to sit, and a plunge pool. Adults only.
For City Style
- Lecce is known for its Baroque architectural treasures, but if your preference is for tech. wizardry and clever contemporary design then the Risorgimento Resort is a good option. It’s a beautifully simple building, by Lecce’s standards, converted into a stylish, contemporary, 47 room hotel. Original features, like tall widows and vaulted ceilings, have been retained but have been given a modernist makeover, with clever alcove lighting, crisp angles and a warm colour scheme. The spa is good, there’s a small gym, the roof terrace has wonderful views and there's both a restaurant and a bistro.
For Families
- L'Orangerie d'Epoque is a beautifully converted family palazzo, with a beautiful, citrus-filled courtyard garden, and large, welcoming rooms, that make it an excellent choice for families or groups. There are only three rooms and a suite, which sleeps four. Two rooms have their own kitchenettes, and direct garden access, and one room has a huge working fireplace. The building itself is airy and graceful, with impressive vaulted ceilings and is filled with objets that have been collected by the family who have owned the palazzo for hundreds of years.
For Great Value
- The Palazzo Rollo is a small, and idyllically positioned B&B, inside a triangle made by three of Lecce’s more beautiful churches, and beside the bell tower of the Duomo. Its collection of rooms and self-catering apartments are simple, and traditionally decorated, with wonderful floor tiles, traditionally patterned fabrics and antiques. Plus there's a fabulous roof terrace, and a charming breakfast room. Ideal for small groups.
Best B&Bs
- The Palazzo Gorgoni is an elegant palazzo turned four bedroom B&B, just off Sant'Oronzo Square in central Lecce. The rooms have traditional vaulted ceilings, exposed stone and huge windows, and are sparely furnished with elegant antiques. This is a family-friendly pick too.
For a Private apartment or villa
- If you think a self-catering option would best suit your needs then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.
Travel Information
- Lecce’s closest international airport is Brindisi Airport, about half an hour away by road, or 40 minutes by public transport. It’s also possible to arrive by train, usually via Milan or Rome.
- If you plan to hire a car, which we would advise if you want to get out and explore further afield, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
- Lecce’s Mediterranean climate means there’s not really a bad time to visit as far as the weather is concerned. It’s hot in summer, but only really 30°C+ hot in July and August, and it does rain in the winter, but not so much as to swear you off visiting. Summer, and August especially, is the most popular time to visit, but that’s because Puglia is a summer beach holiday destination for many, rather than this being the optimum time. If you’re planning to walk or cycle during your Lecce visit spring is our recommendation, for the orchids and cyclamen, and other colourful flowers.
Still not sure where to stay?
- You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Puglia
- Or you could expand your search to consider some of Puglia’s other charming centres, like Gallipoli or Otranto, on either side of the ‘boot’, Alberobello, famed for its trulli dwellings or nearby Nardo
- Refine your search by the kind of accommodation you’re looking for: see just the best boutique hotels in Puglia, the most romantic hotels in Puglia or the best for Families
- Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
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Best Hotels in Lecce
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Palazzo Guido Lecce (Puglia) 5 rooms from AU$530
City Style - A beautifully restored palazzo crammed with antiques and period pieces to create an aura of days gone byGroups - The larger two bedroom apartment is ideal for small groups seeking a more independent baseLocal exploring - Excellent central location; you can explore Lecce on foot from hereSpa - Small subterranean wellness area with hot tub and saunaA fabulous restored palazzo turned luxe B&B in the heart of Lecce. Individually designed suites boast opulent antique furnishings, high-end linens and smart modern bathrooms. Plus there is an apartment, a lovely roof terrace and a small wellness area with a hot tub and sauna. A sophisticated haven. See More
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Palazzo Rollo Lecce 6 rooms from AU$114
Local exploring - Set in the heart of historic Lecce beside the tower bell of the Duomo and with most of the city's sights within walking distanceGroups - The self catering apartments are ideal for small groupsCooking classes - Take a cooking class at the Awaiting Table Italian Cooking SchoolSights nearby - Piazza del DuomoCharacterful B&B. Unique rooms have tiled floors, traditional fabrics and antique furniture. There is a charming breakfast room, lounge room and rooftop garden terrace. Ivy clad facade, a very welcoming stay at excellent value. See More
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Palazzo Gorgoni Lecce, Puglia 4 rooms from AU$114
Local exploring - Set beside the Sant'Oronzo Square in the historical quarter, most of Lecce's historical sites are a walk awaySights nearby - Visit the old Greek Theatre and the Benedictine Monastery (the oldest Monastery of the city)Great walks - Take a stroll through the pretty gardens, the Villa Comunale di LecceLocal markets - Good for local colour.Graceful B&B near Sant'Oronzo Square in the centre of Lecce. Huge, light-filled bedrooms with sandstone walls feature parquet floors and elegant furniture. A great value spot, and family friendly too. See More
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L'Orangerie d'Epoque Lecce 3 rooms from AU$147
Families - The suite sleeps four plus there are self-catering facilitiesValue chic - Stylish, relaxed accommodation at a great priceLocal markets - Visit charming local craft marketsGreat walks - Guided tours availableThree pretty bedrooms and a gorgeous garden in a family palazzo. Antique furniture, stone fireplaces and period vaulted ceilings - two bedrooms have kitchenettes and access to the garden. Plus there is a larger suite ideal for families. A great value choice. See More
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Patria Palace Lecce 63 rooms from AU$165
Local exploring - Boasting an enviable location infront of the Santa Croce Church, with most of the major attractions a stroll awayCity Style - Fantastic service, elegant rooms and historic charm in the heart of LecceGreat walks - Take a stroll through the pretty Sant’Oronzo squareSights nearby - Visit the nearby Santa Croce BasilicaTraditional comforts and great hospitality in the heart of town. Behind the lovely Lecce stone facade the bedrooms contain frescoes, stucco work, cherry wood furniture and rich fabrics. A lovely little restaurant, small spa and gorgeous roof top terrace with views of Lecce. See More
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Santa Chiara Lecce 21 rooms from AU$187
Local exploring - Situated opposite Must gallery and close to the Cathedral, hotel has a romantic roof terrace bar to enjoy an apertif and viewsSights nearby - Roman Amphitheatre; Cathedral of LecceCooking classes - In town- hotel can adviseOpulentElegant hotel in city centre. Rooms feature wooden floors, creamy fabrics and big marble bathrooms. Roof terrace, gym and bar. Minutes from historical city sights; ideal for exploring as a city break. See More
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Mantatelure Lecce (Le Palmeraie S.r.l.) 6 rooms from AU$257
Romantic Break - Featuring romantic rooms, a courtyard hot tub (where prosecco is served) and a grown-up feel, this is perfect for couplesLocal exploring - Well located near the iconic Baroque Basilica Santa Croce yet in a quiet untouristy neighbourhoodSights nearby - Visit the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce on Via UmbertoLocal markets - Explore local coffee shops and street marketsRecommended by - I EscapeRefined sixteenth century mansion in a quiet corner of stunning Baroque Lecce with six modern, elegant rooms. Guests can enjoy a freshly baked Italian breakfast or sip glasses of prosecco in the exclusive garden terrace beneath the citrus trees, or relax in the hot tub. The perfect romantic getaway. See More
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Risorgimento Resort Lecce 47 rooms from AU$254
City Style - A chic hotel with panoramic rooftop views of Lecce’s Baroque historic centre.Spa - Featuring a hammam calidarium with Turkish bath, multisensory showers plus beauty center for a range of body and face treatmentsGreat walks - The Botanical Garden on Via Provinciale LecceLocal markets - Visit local craftsmen on Via PalmieriRecommended by - Kiwi CollectionHigh-tech luxury and stylish contemporary design in a lovely old building. The five-star hotel combines earthy hues and local materials with sleek modernism. Elegant roof top restaurant serves local dishes, and has great city views. Spa and meeting facilities. City style for the mainstream. See More
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Palazzo de Noha Lecce 10 rooms from AU$310
Local exploring - Set in the heart of the city with many of the main attractions within walking distanceCity Style - A stylish design hotel filled with antiques and artworksSights nearby - Visit the 17th century Basilica di Sante Croce and admire its stunning Baroque facadeSwimming Pool - Small plunge pool on the roof terraceA boutique property in the heart of historic Lecce. The old building has been renovated by its art-loving owners and now also boasts a superb contemporary art gallery. Rooms are spacious and bright with a simple white-on-white-style, and there's the added bonus of a roof terrace with plunge pool. See More
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La Fiermontina Lecce 16 rooms from AU$538
Total relaxation - A modern retreat in the heart of town - an urban idyllRomantic Break - A great escape to take a loved oneSights nearby - Within five minutes walk of Basilica of Santa Croce, Roman Amphitheatre and Duomo Square.Local markets - Browse the local markets of Lecce.Recommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithA small corner of tranquility in central Lecce. Bearing distinctive local architecture, the hotel's minimalist aesthetic is complimented by pinnacled ceilings and tasteful modern art. Relax by the swimming pool, surrounded by olive groves, and enjoy some delicious Pugliese cuisine. See More
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Palazzo Bozzi Corso Lecce 10 rooms from AU$717
Local exploring - Lecce is steeped in rich Puglian culture, step out the door and explore the city by footFoodies - There is no shortage of fine foods and wines to be sampled in LecceSights nearby - There is an abundance of Renaissance architecture to see in Lecce, particularly the Santa Croce church and Lecce CathedralCooking classes - Your hosts offer to arrange cooking classes with a private local chefRecommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithThis 18th-century palazzo has retained its original grandeur. The elegant rooms feature high ceilings, fireplaces and simple modern furniture with french windows overlooking the palazzo courtyard. The contemporary artworks are a nice touch. Historically rich and very central. See More
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Palazzo Luce Lecce (Puglia) from AU$1356
Cooking classes - Master regional culinary arts in the vibrant kitchen, where Puglia's flavours come alive in a hands-on cooking classTotal relaxation - Rejuvenate with bespoke spa treatments using luxurious Biologique Recherche products, tailored to your skin's needsArtworks - Immerse in creativity at a 14th-century art house, showcasing unique pieces and modern twistsRomantic Break - Rediscover romance amid antique charm, artistic elegance, and serene Mediterranean viewsRecommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithA 14th-century palazzo transformed into a vibrant art and design haven in the heart of Lecce. Modern creativity meets historical grandeur with art-infused suites and bold interiors. Guests can indulge in a fabulous breakfast, or unwind in the library or lush Mediterranean garden. A unique getaway. See More