UNESCO Gems Tour with Hotel Pickup From Lecce

Lecce , Italy

UNESCO Gems Tour with Hotel Pickup From Lecce

Active

10h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover a world built out of stone in Matera, one of the world's oldest cities still inhabited. Explore Sassi di Matera, a fascinating maze of culture and history made up of rock-hewn chapels and ancient cave homes.

Alberobello, a charming town in the Puglia region of southern Italy, is world-renowned for its unique Trulli—traditional dry-stone dwellings with conical roofs. These iconic structures, concentrated in the Trulli di Alberobello – World Heritage Site, represent an exceptional example of vernacular architecture and have earned the town a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1996.

Your journey begins with Matera, capturing breathtaking views over the Sassi districts and strolling the atmospheric alleys.
Then drive to Alberobello for the trulli houses of Rione Monti and Aia Piccola. Your driver allows flexibility for ideal lighting at each location before returning to Lecce.

Available options

UNESCO Gems Tour with Hotel Pickup From Lecce

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

Private driver & air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Sassi di Matera are two districts of the Italian city of Matera, Basilicata, well-known for their ancient cave dwellings inhabited since the Paleolithic period.

Sasso Barisano is one of the two ancient districts (the other being Sasso Caveoso) that make up the historic heart of Matera, in southern Italy. Together, they form the iconic Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.

Stop 3

The Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana is a breathtaking natural and archaeological gem located just outside the city of Matera in southern Italy. This regional park spans a rugged landscape of deep ravines, limestone cliffs, and open plateaus covered in Mediterranean vegetation. I

Stop 4

Located in the Itria Valley in southern Italy, Alberobello is a small town which is famous for its distinctive cone-roofed stone buildings, known as trulli.

This quiet and calm area is great for photos. The name derives from the ancient custom of beating wheat in the square.

One of the most iconic and picturesque districts in Alberobello, and a key part of why the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's the largest concentration of trulli—those famous whitewashed, conical-roofed houses unique to the region.

A small yet historically and spiritually significant church located near the edge of Rione Monti in Alberobello, Puglia. Overlooking the famous trulli district from an elevated position, this church offers not only a place of quiet reflection but also one of the best panoramic views of the town.

What's not included

Food & drinks

Gratuities

Entry tickets (museums, attractions, etc.)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Lecce

Lecce is a stunning city in the Puglia region of southern Italy, known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is often referred to as 'The Florence of the South' due to its architectural splendor and artistic heritage.

Top Attractions

Basilica di Santa Croce

This stunning Baroque church is one of Lecce's most iconic landmarks. Its intricate facade and ornate interior are a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Roman Amphitheatre

Discovered in 1901, this ancient Roman amphitheatre could once seat up to 25,000 spectators. Today, it's an impressive archaeological site and a popular tourist attraction.

Historical 1-2 hours €4 (combo ticket with other archaeological sites)

Castle of Charles V

Built in the 16th century, this imposing fortress offers panoramic views of the city and houses several museums, including the Provincial Archaeological Museum.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €4 (combo ticket with other archaeological sites)

Piazza del Duomo

This beautiful square is home to the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Bishop's Palace. The square is a great place to relax and soak in the city's Baroque architecture.

Historical/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome for the cathedral)

Porta Napoli

This grand Baroque gate marks the entrance to the historic center of Lecce. Built in the 16th century, it's a symbol of the city's rich history and architectural prowess.

Historical/Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Orecchiette

A traditional pasta shape from Puglia, often served with cime di rapa (turnip greens) or tomato sauce.

Main dish Vegetarian (if made without anchovies)

Burrata

A creamy, fresh cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with bread and local olive oil.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Pasticciotto

A sweet pastry filled with custard, similar to a cream-filled croissant.

Dessert Vegetarian

Negroamaro

A full-bodied red wine from the Salento region, known for its rich flavor and deep color.

Drink Vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in the countryside Cycling tours Water sports in nearby beaches Beach relaxation Spa treatments Wine tasting Historic sightseeing Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The summer months are the busiest and hottest, with numerous festivals and outdoor events. The weather is perfect for beach trips and exploring the city's historic sites.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lecce is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Brindisi Airport • 40 km from Lecce
Bari Airport • 150 km from Lecce

By train

Lecce Station

By bus

Lecce Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system covers the city and surrounding areas. Buses are affordable and frequent, but schedules can be irregular.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico San Biagio Arnesano

Day trips

Otranto

30 km from Lecce • Half day to full day

Otranto is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic castle, and stunning cathedral. It's a great day trip from Lecce for those looking to combine history and relaxation.

Gallipoli

50 km from Lecce • Full day

Gallipoli is a historic seaside town known for its stunning beaches, medieval old town, and rich cultural heritage. It's a great day trip from Lecce for those looking to explore more of the Puglia region.

Alberobello

120 km from Lecce • Full day

Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique trulli houses. It's a great day trip from Lecce for those looking to explore the unique architecture and cultural heritage of the Puglia region.

Festivals

Fiera di San Oronzo • August 25-26 Festival della Taranta • August Sagra del Pasticciotto • July

Pro tips

Visit Lecce's historic sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
Try the local specialty, orecchiette, a traditional pasta shape from Puglia, often served with cime di rapa (turnip greens) or tomato sauce
Explore the city's narrow streets and hidden courtyards to discover the true charm of Lecce's Baroque architecture
Take a day trip to the nearby coastal towns of Otranto and Gallipoli for a mix of history, culture, and relaxation
Visit the local markets, such as the Mercato di San Oronzo, for a glimpse into the daily life of Lecce's residents and to sample the city's fresh, local ingredients