Discover the best of Salento in a long weekend

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Salento, get ready to experience a journey through crystal-clear seas, historic villages, and authentic flavors. With this guide, you’ll discover the must-visit spots for a long weekend filled with beauty and tradition.

Day 1: Lecce and the Adriatic coast

Your journey begins in Lecce, the capital of Salento’s Baroque architecture. Spend the morning exploring the historic center, visiting Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the Cathedral, and the stunning Basilica of Santa Croce. Strolling through the stone-paved streets, you’ll admire historic palaces and artisan shops.

After a lunch featuring local specialties like the **puccia salentina**, head towards the Adriatic coast to visit some of the region’s most beautiful beaches:

• Torre dell’Orso, with its golden sands and the famous sea stacks, Le Due Sorelle.
• Baia dei Turchi, a hidden cove surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation.
• Otranto, Italy’s easternmost town, home to a stunning cathedral and the Aragonese Castle.

End the day with dinner along the Otranto waterfront, savoring **pittule** or a fresh seafood grill.

Day 2: Gallipoli and the Ionian coast

The second day of your 3-day itinerary in Salento is dedicated to the Ionian coast, known for its turquoise waters and golden beaches. Start your day exploring Gallipoli, the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” wandering through its charming old town located on an island connected to the mainland.

In the afternoon, unwind at one of the area’s most spectacular beaches:

• Punta della Suina, known for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters.
• Baia Verde, a hotspot for beach lovers and trendy clubs.
• Punta Prosciutto, a paradise with white sand dunes and pristine waters.

After a day at the beach, enjoy a sunset aperitif at a **beach bar**, followed by a seafood dinner in one of Gallipoli’s renowned restaurants.

Day 3: Salento’s countryside and masserie

The last day of your trip is dedicated to the authentic inland side of Salento. Begin your morning exploring Specchia and Presicce, two picturesque villages filled with history, underground oil mills, and noble palaces.

For lunch, immerse yourself in the local culture with an authentic dining experience at a masseria relais in Salento, where you can enjoy farm-to-table dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. In the afternoon, dive into Salento’s traditions with:

• A tasting of extra virgin olive oil, one of the region’s finest products.
• A wine tour to discover Primitivo and Negroamaro wines.
• A traditional pasta-making class to learn how to craft orecchiette by hand.

Wrap up your 3-day itinerary in Salento with an evening stroll through a charming illuminated village, soaking in the magical atmosphere of this unique land.

A long weekend of sea, culture, and authentic flavors

In just three days, you can explore the best of Salento, from breathtaking beaches to historic towns and delicious cuisine. A 3-day itinerary in Salento is the perfect way to enjoy an unforgettable experience filled with beauty, flavors, and relaxation.