Full Day Tour to Gallipoli, Galatina, Coast, Beaches and Winery
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour will take you to discover the lovely Salento towns of Gallipoli and Galatina starting from Lecce and crossing the peninsula among typical villages and vineyards, also stopping, as an optional choice, in one of the most important Salento wineries for a tasting experience. There will be no shortage of halts along the Ionian coast for fully enjoying the breathtaking views that will await you. The journey will go on heading to a wonderful beach where you can swim before the visit among narrow alleys, shops and sea views of which Gallipoli will surprise you.
In the case you’ll choose not to attend the wine tasting, or depending on the cellar unavailability, like on Sundays, we'll spend more time in the place you'll prefer or we’ll stop in Nardò to visit its nice historic center.
Available options
Gallipoli Full Day Private Tour: Coast, Beaches and Wineries
Pickup included
What's included
The tour is for your group only with flexible schedule
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Independent tour in the cities
Detailed itinerary
1
Transfer from Lecce to Galatina 30 minutes.
We’ll stop close to the main square where you can have your independent visit to the Baroque church of “San Pietro”. Nearby, the small chapel of “San Paolo” hosts a well that, according to tradition, was able to heal people bitten by poisonous tarantula spider. That's why the town is renowned for the magic and esoteric ceremonies of "Tarantismo", from which the local folk dance “Pizzica” started.
Galatina is also well known for the delicious pastries produced for generations in the local pasticcerie. In the most famous one you can delight yourself by tasting the famous "Pasticciotto”.
2
Walking along Galatina old town you can find out several aristocratic palaces until reaching the late Romanesque Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, built in 1390. The interior contains frescoes by artists from "Giotto school" making the church the second one in Italy, after San Francesco d'Assisi Basilica, for its pictorial cycles.
3
In Nardò you can choose to have an independent wine tasting in one of the most important local wineries. The cellar offers tasting experiences of wine produced from the original vineyards, paired with appetizers; Taralli and focaccia bread come with 3 glasses tasting, plus typical cheese with the 4 glasses one. The full experience with 5 glasses of wine includes a cold cuts platter too.
The cost goes from 30 to 40 euro/person and will be paid in the winery as your needs. (Advance booking is required, closed on Sundays and depending on availability).
In the case the wine tasting won't be done the time will be spent in the next halts, like the beaches, or for visiting Nardò historic center, a beautiful medieval town with lot of historical baroque buildings, the Castle, the Square and many Churches. The most beautiful is the Basilica Cathedral founded in the 11th Century, but all are unique.
4
Transfer to the Ionian coast passing by Santa Maria al Bagno with its lovely city beach and nice restaurants by the sea (possibility to stop here for lunch), the four towers fortification, built in Aragonese time to protect a drinkable water source, and the cut mountain, the coastal route heading the white beaches of Gallipoli.
5
Stop at Rivabella beach.
Here we'll stop for enjoying the place in a nice pine forest where, going through it, you can find an amazing free beach as well as private lidos, so bring your swimsuit and towels for being delighted by an amazing sea.
6
Gallipoli, the Ionian pearl, is divided between the modern city and the historic one. The ancient is located on a little island, connected to the mainland by the bridge which ends with the Greek fountain, the oldest one in Italy. Here you'll have free time to discover the historic center characterized by narrow streets with local handicraft shops, lovely baroque churches and aristocratic Palaces. Also you can walk along the castle walls, enjoying a drink in some nice terraces by the sea or tasting the typical sandwich "Puccia", dressed with sea food specialities.
What's not included
Wine tasting experience (optional) from 30 to 40 €/pax. Closed on Sundays and depending availability
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
10 reviews
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10
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Tripadvisor
5.0
28 reviews
5★
28
4★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The remaining hours of the tour will be spent on travel
Meeting point
Lecce Train Station.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
