Lecce: Exclusive Tour to Gallipoli & Apulian Treasures

Your experience starts with a private pickup directly from your hotel (or from a pre-arranged meeting point), where your dedicated driver — fluent in Italian and English — will welcome you on board. This exclusive service combines the comfort of a luxury transfer with the freedom of a self-guided tour, giving you complete independence throughout the day. The absence of a tour guide is not a limitation, but a true advantage: you are free to explore what interests you most, spend more time where you feel inspired, take photos without rush, and shape each stop according to your personal pace within the agreed schedule.

Travel through the picturesque Salento countryside, surrounded by centuries-old olive groves and traditional dry-stone walls, until reaching Galatina. Here you will discover the remarkable Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, one of Southern Italy’s most extraordinary artistic landmarks. This Gothic-Angevin masterpiece preserves an exceptional 14th-century fresco cycle inspired by Giotto and the Sienese school. Explore the basilica independently, taking your time to admire the vivid scenes from the Old and New Testament that unfold across the walls in rich color and intricate detail.

The journey continues toward the Ionian coast and the timeless charm of Gallipoli, dramatically set on a limestone island and connected to the mainland by a historic bridge. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the historic center entirely on your own terms.

Cross the iconic Ponte Seicentesco (Bridge of Twelve Arches) and wander through a maze of whitewashed alleyways shaped by Greek, Roman, and Spanish influences. Visit the imposing Castello Aragonese di Gallipoli, a centuries-old fortress guarding the harbor, and step inside the baroque splendor of the Cattedrale di Sant’Agata, whose richly decorated interiors reflect the city’s deep maritime heritage and devotion.

Beyond its monuments, Gallipoli reveals its true essence through the sea. The Ionian coastline offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden reflections, and breathtaking sunsets, where fishing boats gently sway in the harbor and the fresh sea breeze accompanies every step. The authentic seaside atmosphere creates a striking contrast with the baroque elegance of Lecce, completing a day rich in art, history, and coastal beauty.

At the agreed time, your private driver will be waiting at the designated meeting point to escort you comfortably back to Lecce. Throughout the day, you benefit from the perfect balance between structure and freedom: a professional private driver ensuring seamless logistics, and the flexibility to experience each destination exactly the way you prefer.

Included:

• Private tour with Luxury car/van transport and Professional driver
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Lecce
• Private driver fluent in Italian and English
• Stop in Gallipoli and explore the town on a self-guided tour
• Gallipoli historic center
• Stop in Galatina and explore the town on a self-guided tour
• Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria
• Historic Bridge of Twelve Arches – Ponte Papa Giovanni Paolo II
• Aragonese castle Gallipoli ( external visit )
• Sant’Agata cathedral

Not included:

• Licensed tour guide
• Tickets to museums/palaces/churches (optional, not included)

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Water
• Sun hat on hot days

Meeting point: