Age: 1 year
Plants 1 new Olive tree
CO2 absorbed: 150 kg/year
Evo oil included:
Introduction – What to See in Salento?
Ready to find out what to see in Salento?
Salento, a land of sun, sea, and traditions, is one of the most fascinating destinations in Puglia. Also known as the“heel of Italy,”this small region is rich in breathtaking landscapes, idyllic beaches, and cities steeped in history and culture.
Here are the top 6 cities you absolutely can’t miss if you’re planning a vacation here.
Lecce: The Florence of the South
Lecce, the capital of Salento, is famous for the architectural style that characterizes the entire city: Baroque.
As you stroll through the streets of downtown, you’ll find yourself immersed in a unique atmosphere, where every corner tells a story.
A must-see stop that you simply can’t miss is the Basilica of Santa Croce: its richly decorated façade is well-known and photographed by all passersby (even the locals can’t help but stop to admire it when strolling through the city’s historic center). Also not to be missed isthe Roman Amphitheater, a testament to the long history of the Roman Empire in Lecce.
Given its immense and unique beauty, much like Italy’s beloved former capital, Lecce has been nicknamed “the Florence of the South.”
Lecce: The Florence of the South
Lecce, the capital of Salento, is famous for the architectural style that characterizes the entire city: Baroque.
As you stroll through the streets of downtown, you’ll find yourself immersed in a unique atmosphere, where every corner tells a story.
A must-see stop that you simply can’t miss is the Basilica of Santa Croce: its richly decorated façade is well-known and photographed by all passersby (even the locals can’t help but stop to admire it when strolling through the city’s historic center). Also not to be missed isthe Roman Amphitheater, a testament to the long history of the Roman Empire in Lecce.
Given its immense and unique beauty, much like Italy’s beloved former capital, Lecce has been nicknamed “the Florence of the South.”
Otranto: The Gateway to the East
Here in Salento, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches where you can take a dip—and even the sea itself (not to mention the Salento coastline).
One thing is certain: when someone asks,“What is there to see in Salento besides the beach?” no one from Salento would ever leave Otranto off the list of towns!
Located on the Adriatic Coast, Otranto is a city of undeniable charm.
Its cathedral, with its famous floor mosaic, the Aragonese Castle, and the bauxite quarry (located just outside the city) are just a few of the main attractions.
If you want to see the first sunrise in Italy, we recommend the Punta Palascia Lighthouse in Otranto.
Otranto is also famous for its many spectacular beaches, such as Baia dei Turchi, Laghi Alimini, and Porto Badisco, which are ideal for those who love crystal-clear waters.
Gallipoli: The Pearl of the Ionian Sea
Gallipoli, from the Greek for “beautiful city,” is one of the most popular destinations on the Ionian Coast in Salento.
The historic center of Gallipoli, located onan island connected to the mainland by a bridge, is a labyrinth of picturesque narrow streets and Baroque churches.
Near the bridge that connects the two parts of the city (the old town and the new town), you’ll be impressed by the Greek Fountain.
All built in the Baroque style, you can visit the Cathedral Basilica of Sant’Agata, the Angevin Castle, and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Canneto.
The beaches of Gallipoli, such as Punta della Suina and Baia Verde, are also among the most beautiful in the area.
Santa Maria di Leuca: Where the Seas Meet
At the southernmost tip of Salento (and Puglia) lies Santa Maria di Leuca, known for its lighthouse and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae.
Here, the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea meet, creating a spectacular view. The sea caves—which can be explored by boat—and the crystal-clear waters are a true paradise for nature lovers.
Other top attractions worth visiting include: the Torre dell’Omomorto, the Grotta del Soffio, and the Grotta delle Tre Porte.
Nardò: A Gem of History and Art
Nardò, a charming yet little-known town, is one of the towns in the Salento region that holds a true treasure trove of history and art.
In fact, its historic center boasts Baroque gems such as Piazza Salandra, the beating heart of the city with its Guglia dell’Immacolata and the Church of San Domenico. The Cathedral of the Assumption is also a must-see.
For nature and beach lovers, we recommend visiting the Porto Selvaggio Natural Park —also in Nardò—which offers breathtaking scenery thanks to its crystal-clear waters.
Porto Cesareo: A Picture-Perfect Sea
No matter where you are in the town of Porto Cesareo, you can take a photo worthy of a postcard: its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear sea, and boats moored in the harbor make for a unique and beautiful landscape.
Also not to be missed is the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve, an oasis of peace and natural beauty.
Just a short boat ride from the city, you can visitIsola dei Conigli, a little-known but truly wonderful attraction.
Finally, here’s what to visit in Salento—or rather, what to admire…
Salento is a region that enchants and surprises, with its cities steeped in history, its dreamlike beaches, its millennia-old traditions, and its unique landscapes— many of which are, or rather were, characterized by our majestic olive trees, which Xylella has taken away from us.
The greenery and shade they used to provide have turned dry and gray.
But here at OlivaMi, with everyone’s help, we’re working hard to restore it by promoting the adoption of small olive trees that are tolerant and resistant to the bacterium.
By adopting an olive tree , you’ll help restore the landscape of this region that Xylella has destroyed, but above all, you’ll be able to add“visiting the olive tree I adopted through OlivaMi” to your list of things to do.
In addition, by signing up on our website, you’ll enjoy exclusive discounts and benefits at many of our partner establishments in Salento: hotels, spas, farm stays, B&Bs, tourist services, and much more.
We hope this article has inspired you to discover the wonders of Salento: now that you know what to visit in Salento, all you have to do is book your vacation!
