Embark on an unforgettable street food adventure through the enchanting streets of Lecce, where history and gastronomy blend into an experience rich in flavors, culture, and tradition. Led by a passionate local food expert, this walking tour will take you through the city's charming baroque center, where you’ll stop at 4 to 5 carefully selected venues to savor the authentic street food of Salento.
As we stroll through Lecce’s picturesque alleyways, we’ll uncover the secrets of traditional Salentino cuisine, tasting a variety of local delicacies that have been enjoyed for generations. From sweet treats to savory delights, each stop will introduce you to a new layer of Lecce’s culinary heritage.
Whether you’re a food lover, history enthusiast, or simply curious to explore the flavors of Puglia, this tour will take your taste buds on a journey through the soul of Lecce.
Caffè Leccese & Pasticciotto or Fruttone – We begin our journey with a classic Caffè Leccese, an irresistible combination of espresso and almond syrup served over ice, perfect for refreshing your senses. Alongside, you'll indulge in Pasticciotto, a warm, crumbly pastry filled with velvety custard cream, or a Fruttone, its cocoa-infused cousin with a heart of almond paste and fruit preserves.
Next, we’ll stop to enjoy one of the city’s most iconic street snacks, the Rustico Leccese. This golden, flaky puff pastry is filled with béchamel, tomato, mozzarella, and a hint of black pepper, making it an irresistible savory bite, perfect for any time of day.
Puccia con Carne di Cavallo (or Vegetarian Alternative) – Time for something hearty! We’ll visit a traditional pucceria to try Puccia, a rustic, wood-fired bread stuffed with succulent horse meat stew—a centuries-old specialty in Salento. If you prefer, there will be delicious vegetarian alternatives, such as grilled vegetables, local cheeses, or creamy burrata with sun-dried tomatoes.
Pittule – No visit to Lecce is complete without trying Pittule, deep-fried dough balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Whether served plain, or flavored with tomato, olives, or anchovies, these irresistible bites are the perfect example of how simple ingredients create incredible flavors.
Gelato Artigianale – To conclude our tour on a sweet note, we’ll stop at one of Lecce’s best artisanal gelato shops, where you can choose from a variety of seasonal and classic flavors, all made with local, high-quality ingredients.
Meeting in front of Porta Rudiae to then enter the city centre (arrive at the meeting point 5min before the tour)
Please inform us of any food intolerances/allergies at the moment of booking.
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.
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.
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.
Built in the 16th century, this imposing fortress offers panoramic views of the city and houses several museums, including the Provincial Archaeological Museum.
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.
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.
A traditional pasta shape from Puglia, often served with cime di rapa (turnip greens) or tomato sauce.
A creamy, fresh cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with bread and local olive oil.
A sweet pastry filled with custard, similar to a cream-filled croissant.
A full-bodied red wine from the Salento region, known for its rich flavor and deep color.
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.
Euro (EUR)
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
230VV, 50HzHz
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.
Lecce Station
Lecce Bus Station
The bus system covers the city and surrounding areas. Buses are affordable and frequent, but schedules can be irregular.
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Car, Bike, Scooter
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 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 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.
Price varies by option