The 11 Best Full-Day Tours in Lecce
Lecce is a city that invites exploration beyond its charming streets and baroque architecture. Its proximity to coastlines, historic towns, and lush countryside makes it a prime base for full-day adventures. Whether you prefer tasting local wines, wandering ancient streets, or hopping between beaches, Lecce offers something for every traveler. We’ve sifted through the options to find the best full-day tours, highlighting those with a mix of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and authentic experiences. For instance, the Gallipoli Full Day Private Tour: Coast, Beaches and Wineries offers a perfect blend of history, wine, and seaside chill, all in a flexible private setting. Or, if coastal scenery is your priority, the Otranto City and its Amazing Seacoast will take you to stunning beaches and historic landmarks. Whether you’re after a leisurely bike ride, a cultural deep dive, or beach hopping, Lecce’s full-day tours promise memorable adventures.
Quick Overview
Our list features full-day tours with diverse focuses: from scenic coastal drives and beach visits to historic town explorations and bike adventures. Some tours include wine tastings and regional cuisine, like the Salento Wine and Food Tour, while others offer biking through natural parks, such as the Lecce to Cesine Protected Natural Reserve Bike Tour. For a mix of history and seaside scenery, the Otranto and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour is a top pick. For those wanting an immersive, private experience, the Gallipoli Private Tour stands out with its tailored itinerary. Now, let’s explore each of these tours in detail.
1. Gallipoli Full Day Private Tour: Coast, Beaches and Wineries
At number 1, the Gallipoli Full Day Private Tour ranks high for its flexibility and personalized approach. For around $137, you get a private guide and transportation that take you through the historic town of Gallipoli, its beautiful beaches, quaint villages like Santa Maria al Bagno, and a visit to a local winery. This tour shines because it allows you to escape the crowds and set your own pace—perfect if you want a tailored experience. You’ll explore the Baroque architecture and the Basilica Cathedral while enjoying the scenic drive along the coast. The highlight for many is the opportunity to sip Italian wine at a local cellar (additional cost), paired with regional snacks like taralli and focaccia.
Guests consistently praise Roberto and Sandra for their attentive service and local knowledge, and the flexibility of the itinerary means you can prioritize beaches, wine, or historic sites. The 7-8 hour day offers a comprehensive look at Gallipoli’s charms without feeling rushed—ideal for travelers who want an intimate, customized adventure.
Bottom line: This private tour is great for those seeking a flexible, personalized day that combines history, scenery, and wine.
2. Full Day Tour of Otranto City and its Amazing Seacoast from Lecce
Number 2 on our list, the Otranto City and its Amazing Seacoast is perfect for travelers eager to explore Italy’s eastern coast without the hassle of driving. For about $138, you’ll enjoy a driver-guide, ample free time to wander Otranto’s cathedral, castle, and ancient walls, and a visit to Punta Palascia Lighthouse for spectacular views. The tour includes stops at Torre Sant’Andrea and Torre dell’Orso, two of the most photogenic beaches in the region, with options for swimming and sunbathing.
Guests love the mix of sightseeing and beach time, with one reviewer calling it “an amazing day” that exceeded expectations. The itinerary’s flexibility means you can relax at the beaches or explore the historic core at your own pace. With convenient pickup and drop-off, it’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive coastal day without the logistics hassle.
Bottom line: If you want a well-rounded coastal experience with free time for swimming and sightseeing, this tour hits the mark.
3. Otranto and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour
Number 3 is the Otranto and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour, priced at just over $157. This guided ride takes you through dramatically different landscapes—from prehistoric ruins and Byzantine crypts to the turquoise waters of Porto Badisco, where swimming and canoeing are options. The tour’s focus on off-the-beaten-path sites makes it perfect for active travelers who appreciate historical sites like the Megalithic centers of Salento.
Guests rave about the “beautiful scenery,” “delicious regional lunch,” and knowledgeable guide Giulia. The tour includes stops at Le Constatine, a traditional weaving center, and offers a chance to enjoy fresh regional food. The cycling is manageable, with plenty of opportunities for breaks, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom line: This bike tour offers a chance to cover a lot of ground, combining history, nature, and regional cuisine, ideal for active, curious travelers.
4. Full Day Tour to Otranto Coast Most Beautiful Beaches from Lecce
The Otranto coast beaches tour is perfect if your main goal is beach hopping. For around $153, you’ll visit Otranto’s historic center, enjoy shopping along the waterfront, then head to Turks’ Bay, one of Italy’s most pristine beaches, for sunbathing, swimming, or exploring hidden coves. The tour also includes time at Torre Sant’Andrea, where you can relax on rocks or take a dip.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and small-group feel, with many noting the crystal-clear waters and quiet beaches. The tour is suitable for travelers who want a relaxed day with ample swimming and photography opportunities. Pickup and drop-off are included, so no stress about transportation.
Bottom line: Ideal for beach lovers who want to combine a cultural walk in Otranto with relaxing seaside stops.
5. Gallipoli Inland and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour
Number 5, the Gallipoli Inland and Surroundings Bike Tour offers a scenic ride through the Ionian Sea landscapes. For about $160, you’ll cycle through Porto Selvaggio Natural Park, visiting Alezio, Galatone, and Sannicola with stops at an underground olive mill and Norman castle. The highlight is the Porto Selvaggio park, where you can swim in crystal waters or relax on the beach.
Guests note the “beautiful countryside,” and the guide’s local insights make the history come alive. The tour is suitable for those comfortable on a bike, with a focus on natural beauty and historical sites. It’s a well-balanced mix of nature, history, and leisure.
Bottom line: This tour suits active travelers wanting a combination of coastal scenery and inland cultural sites.
6. Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of Sightseeing and History
Number 6 takes you through Galatina, Castro, and the famous Zinzulusa Cave. For about $158, this 6-7 hour trip includes a beach-side lunch and visits to Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, with its stunning frescoes, along with Castro’s cliffside views and the Zinzulusa Cave. Guests value the private driver, who provides local insights, making it a personalized experience.
It’s ideal for travelers interested in art, architecture, and local cuisine, with enough time to relax on the beach afterward. The tour balances cultural exploration with leisure, making it suitable for families or couples.
Bottom line: Best for history and art lovers who also want some beach time and authentic regional food.
7. Lecce to Cesine Protected Natural Reserve Full-Day Bike Tour
The Lecce to Cesine Reserve Bike Tour is perfect for nature lovers. For $164, you’ll cycle from Lecce to the Le Cesine Nature Reserve, a rare wetland habitat, passing through Acaya’s castle and San Foca’s beaches. The route features scenic country lanes, eucalyptus groves, and the chance to swim at San Foca.
Guests love the up-close experience of the landscape and the guide’s extensive regional knowledge. The tour suits those comfortable on a bike and interested in birdwatching and coastal ecosystems.
Bottom line: For eco-conscious travelers or those wanting a full immersion in the natural beauty of Puglia.
8. Val d’Itria Full Day Tour: Cisternino, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare
Number 8, the Valley D’itria Full Day, offers a classic Pugliese experience. For $301, you visit Alberobello’s trulli houses, enjoy a 4-course lunch at La Cantina, and explore Polignano a Mare’s dramatic seaside cliffs. The tour is perfect for photography lovers, with plenty of picturesque spots.
One guest called it “an unforgettable day,” highlighting the unique architecture and delicious food. The guided aspect ensures you see the best spots efficiently, making it suitable for those who want a taste of all the iconic sites.
Bottom line: Excellent for first-timers wanting a comprehensive taste of Valle d’Itria and coastal scenery.
9. Lecce and Gallipoli Full-Day Heritage and Wine Tour
Number 9, the Lecce and Gallipoli Heritage and Wine Tour, combines historic city walking with wine tasting. For $342, you’ll explore Gallipoli’s Old Town and Lecce’s baroque streets, then visit local wineries for tastings of Primitivo, Negromaro, and more. It’s a great pick for those who enjoy culinary experiences with cultural context.
Guests often note the professional guides and the chance to buy local wine and products directly from wineries. The full-day format makes for a rich, immersive experience.
Bottom line: Suited for wine lovers who want cultural sightseeing paired with regional tastings.
10. Full-day Salento Wine and Food Tour
Number 10, the Salento Wine and Food Tour is all about regional flavors. For around $370, you visit two award-winning wineries, learn about the grapes like negroamaro and malvasia, and enjoy a light regional lunch. Optional stops include Porto Cesareo, perfect for a quick swim.
Guests rave about the spectacular winery grounds, the friendly guides, and the chance to taste and purchase local wines. It’s best suited for culinary-focused travelers who want a relaxed, informative day.
Bottom line: Perfect for those eager to deepen their appreciation of Salento’s viticulture and cuisine.
11. Otranto and Castro Full-Day Tour
Finally, the Otranto and Castro Full-Day Tour combines seaside sightseeing with local lunch. For approximately $301, you’ll explore Otranto’s Cathedral and Castro’s cliffside village with a guide. This 9-hour trip emphasizes coastal scenery, archaeological sites, and regional stories, with plenty of free time for wandering or relaxing at the seaside.
Guests appreciate the easy hotel pickup and the insight from a knowledgeable guide, making this trip suitable for those who want a balanced mix of culture and coastal leisure.
Bottom line: Well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring Puglia’s seaside towns.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lecce Full-Day Tour
When selecting among these options, think about your interests and pace. If you love history and artisan culture, the Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa offers a nicely balanced experience. For beach aficionados, the Otranto coast beaches or full-day beach tour will satisfy your sun and swim cravings.
If you’re interested in wine and regional cuisine, the Salento Wine and Food Tour or the Heritage and Wine Tour combine cultural sights with tastings. For active travelers, the Bike Tours or Cesine Reserve blend nature and exercise.
Booking early is recommended, especially in summer, to secure spots on popular tours like the private Gallipoli trip or the wine tastings.
Final Thoughts
Lecce is full of possibilities for day trips that reveal both its cultural richness and stunning scenery. Whether you want a relaxed beach day, a bike adventure through ancient sites, or a deep dive into regional wines, the options are plentiful. For a personalized experience, consider the Gallipoli Private Tour. If coastal scenery and beaches are your priority, the Otranto coast will not disappoint. For those seeking active exploration, the full-day bike tours and Cesine Reserve are excellent choices.
No matter your style, Lecce’s full-day tours promise enriching and memorable experiences. We recommend booking early, especially if you want a tailored private tour or popular coastal spots, so you can enjoy these gems without missing out.