Lecce is a city built for exploring on two wheels. Its charming streets, stunning baroque architecture, and scenic surroundings make it an ideal place for bike tours. Whether you prefer a guided ride with local stories or renting a bike to explore on your own, Lecce has options to suit every type of cyclist. We especially love the Lecce: City Highlights Guided Tour by Bike, which combines history, architecture, and lively anecdotes—all in just two hours. It’s a superb way to get your bearings and see the city’s highlights, like Piazza del Duomo and the Basilica di Santa Croce, while enjoying the sun and fresh air.
Lecce’s terrain and compact layout lend themselves well to biking, making even longer or more adventurous tours accessible. From leisurely city rides to immersive countryside explorations, you can cover a lot of ground without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The options range from quick rental days to full-day excursions, some with unique experiences like olive mill visits or coastal swims. Keep reading for a detailed look at the best bike tours Lecce offers.
1. Lecce: City Highlights Guided Tour by Bike
At number 1, the Lecce: City Highlights Guided Tour by Bike is a perfect introduction to Lecce’s baroque grandeur. Priced at $40 per person, it lasts about 2 hours and is highly rated with 4.8/5 from 232 reviews. The tour takes you through Vico de Argenteris to the main sights like Piazza del Duomo, Porta Napoli, and the Roman Amphitheatre. It’s a guided experience—either private or shared—which means you get expert explanations and amusing anecdotes along the way.
This tour is ideal if you want a quick, rundown of Lecce’s architectural marvels and vibrant atmosphere. The guide’s engaging commentary makes the city’s past come alive, with stops at must-see spots like the Church of the Holy Cross and Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Reviewers praise guide Mattia for his knowledge and humor, and Antonio for his deft navigation through pedestrian traffic. It’s suitable for most fitness levels and offers a great balance of sightseeing and storytelling. Bottom line: a lively, informative intro perfect for first-timers wanting to see Lecce’s highlights in a fun, eco-friendly way.
2. Lecce Bike Rental
If you prefer exploring at your own pace, the Lecce Bike Rental offers a flexible, convenient way to see the city and beyond. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 54 reviews, the rental costs just over $40 for a day. You pick your bike type—whether a standard, trekking, or e-bike—and set your own schedule.
This option is best if you like planning your own route and want to explore Lecce’s streets, squares, and nearby villages without constraints. The rental includes safety gear and is centrally located, making it easy to hop on and off. Riders have used it to visit Lecce’s famous churches or venture further to the countryside and coast. Reviewers mention the helpful staff and well-maintained bikes, making it a stress-free way to discover the region at your leisure. Bottom line: a flexible, no-hassle way to explore Lecce and surroundings on your terms.
3. Lecce: E-Bike tour to Galatina with old olive mill & wine taste
For around $172, the Lecce E-Bike tour to Galatina is a memorable full-day experience blending scenic riding with authentic regional flavors. This 6-hour guided tour takes you through olive groves, Masserias, and the Grecìa Salentina villages of Sternatia and Galatina. Notably, you’ll visit an underground olive oil mill, taste the local “Caffè Leccese,” and sample Pasticciotto at the famous Pasticceria Ascalone.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of culture, including a visit to a traditional olive mill and tasting regional delicacies. The riding is moderate—about 18 km before the olive mill, then more exploring on foot. Reviewers comment on the knowledgeable guide Marco and the quality of the bikes, making it suitable for those comfortable with several hours of riding. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper dive into local traditions while enjoying the countryside. Bottom line: a rich, flavor-filled day perfect for culture and food lovers.
4. Otranto and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour
Number 4 on our list is the Otranto and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour. Priced at $157.28, this 8-hour tour takes you through prehistoric ruins, a Byzantine crypt, and the turquoise bay of Porto Badisco. It’s a scenic ride that covers a lot of ground—perfect for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
Highlights include a visit to the Crypt of Sant’Angelo, the medieval town of Casamassella, and time for swimming or canoeing at Porto Badisco. The tour also visits the Le Constantine weaving center and offers regional lunch and iced coffee. The guide offers in-depth knowledge about each site, making it an engaging experience. Reviewers, like one who called it “one of their most enjoyable days,” praise the mix of history, scenery, and local flavors. It’s suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive day combining culture and coastal relaxation. Bottom line: a well-rounded tour for those who want to see the coast and countryside in one go.
5. Gallipoli Inland and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour
At number 5, the Gallipoli Inland and Surroundings Tour offers a scenic ride through Ionian Sea views and historic towns. Costing about $160, it’s an 8-hour day exploring Porto Selvaggio Natural Park, Alezio, Galatone, and Sannicola.
The route includes stopping at an underground olive mill, swimming at San Foca, and sightseeing around Norman castles and baroque churches. Cyclists praise guide Gonzo’s friendliness and knowledge, making it a relaxed, informative day. The combination of natural parks, seaside swimming, and visits to small towns makes this ideal for those looking for variety. Reviewers appreciate the gentle pace and the chance to explore remote areas. Bottom line: excellent for active travelers wanting a mix of nature and history without feeling rushed.
6. Cycling Across Salento: Capo di Leuca 4-Hour Bike Tour
Number 6 is the Cycling Across Salento: Capo di Leuca, a 4-hour trip covering just over 9 miles. For $146, this ride takes you through villages like Giuliano and Barbarano, along paths inaccessible by car. It’s perfect for those who want a shorter, easygoing ride with stunning coastal views.
Highlights include stopping at the medieval hamlet of Giuliano, the Sanctuary of Leuca Piccola, and the Castle of Giuliano. This tour is designed for all fitness levels and offers the chance to see hidden corners of Capo di Leuca. Reviewers note how accessible and scenic the ride is, making it a great choice for families or casual riders. Bottom line: a compact, scenic ride suitable for a half-day adventure along Italy’s southern coast.
7. Lecce to Cesine Protected Natural Reserve Full-Day Bike Tour
Number 7, the Lecce to Cesine Reserve Tour, is an 8-hour journey for about $164. It’s perfect for nature lovers wanting to experience Puglia’s landscapes up close, including a visit to Acaya Castle and the Le Cesine wetland.
This trip features a stop at a medieval town, a swim in San Foca, and scenic country lanes back to Lecce. It’s geared toward cyclists comfortable with several hours of riding, and the inclusion of a local “Caffè leccese” adds regional flavor. Reviewers mention how well-organized and scenic this tour is. It’s best suited for travelers seeking an active day with diverse scenery. Bottom line: a comprehensive day for those wanting a mix of history, nature, and coastal views.
8. Lecce: Top Quality E-Bike Rental
If you want the freedom to explore Lecce and its surroundings without a formal guided tour, the Top Quality E-Bike Rental offers a premium experience. Priced at $52, it includes Hibike German-made e-bikes with an 85 km battery and full equipment—lock, helmet, panniers. This is perfect for those who prefer to set their own pace, whether just around the city or venturing further afield.
This rental is ideal for independent travelers who want the flexibility to explore at leisure. It’s a straightforward way to cover more ground, especially if you’re comfortable on a bike. The reviews highlight the quality of the bikes and the support from staff. It’s a great option for spontaneous explorations or extended days riding. Bottom line: top-tier equipment for autonomous adventurers.
9. Lecce: e-bike tour at dawn towards the sea with brunch at Acaya Castle
Number 9 offers a unique experience with the Dawn E-Bike Tour to the Sea. For $89, you start early from Lecce to witness the sunrise, cycling through olive groves to reach the coast and the castle of Acaya. The highlight is enjoying a local brunch, tasting regional specialties after a peaceful dawn ride.
This tour is perfect for early risers and those seeking a tranquil, scenic ride with a delicious reward. Using top-of-the-range e-bikes, you experience both the quiet beauty of the Lecce countryside and the coast. Reviewers appreciate the experience of cycling at sunrise and the quality of the food. It’s best suited for active travelers willing to start early and enjoy a relaxing, picturesque adventure. Bottom line: a peaceful, scenic start to your day with a tasty local meal.
$89 per person
10. Salento by E-Bike from Lecce to Santa Maria di Leuca
For a full-day, all-encompassing ride, the Salento E-Bike Tour to Santa Maria di Leuca covers the entire southern coast. At $348 per person, it’s an 8-hour journey along major highlights like Roca, Otranto, and Castro—a comprehensive way to see the best of Salento on two wheels.
The route includes stops at natural pools, the Ciolo, and various towns, with a focus on coastal scenery and small villages. It’s ideal for experienced cyclists seeking a full immersion. The itinerary promises a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural stops. Since it’s a long day, it’s best suited for seasoned riders with a good level of fitness. Bottom line: an ambitious, all-in-one coastal tour for dedicated cyclists.
$348.44 per person
11. Lecce: Bike Rental (City, Trekking, E-Bikes)
If you’re looking for a more flexible, multi-day experience, the Lecce Bike Rental offers options from $24 per day. Choosing between city bikes, trekking bikes, or E-bikes, you can tailor your exploration to your schedule and interests.
This is the best choice for travelers who want to mix and match routes—perhaps a city ride one day and a countryside trip another. The rental includes suggestions for must-see spots and local events, giving you the freedom to design your own adventure. Reviewers appreciate the affordable prices and helpful staff. Bottom line: versatile rental for self-guided adventures over multiple days.
12. MTB Bike Tour: Otranto, the Bouxite Quarry, and the Idro Valley
Finally, for mountain biking enthusiasts, the MTB Bike Tour in Otranto offers a 3-hour guided adventure with top mountain bikes. At $70, it’s a more technical ride through the Otranto-Leuca Natural Park and Idro Valley, supported by expert guides.
It’s perfect if you enjoy challenging trails, scenic views, and learning about local geology and nature. The reviews praise the guide’s support and the quality of bikes, though the trip’s difficulty level makes it less suited for casual cyclists. Bottom line: a rewarding option for mountain biking fans wanting rugged terrain and expert guidance.
$69.81 per person
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour in Lecce
When deciding which tour fits best, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For a quick city overview, the Lecce: City Highlights Guided Tour by Bike provides a great starting point. Want the freedom to explore? The Lecce Bike Rental or Top Quality E-Bike Rental are ideal for flexible adventures.
If you’re into cultural experiences and local food, the Galatina E-Bike Tour or Lecce to Cesine Reserve combine scenic riding with authentic regional flavors. For those seeking a coastal adventure, the Capo di Leuca 4-Hour Ride or the Salento by E-Bike to Santa Maria di Leuca offer stunning sea views and longer routes.
Booking early is recommended, especially for guided tours with limited spots or seasonal high demand. Most tours are suitable for various fitness levels, but check the itinerary if you have specific needs.
Lecce’s bike options are as diverse as its architecture. Whether you want a quick city snapshot, a deep dive into local traditions, or an all-day coastal ride, there’s a perfect match waiting. For a memorable experience, consider combining a guided tour with independent exploration on a rental bike. Get your gears ready—Lecce on two wheels is a wonderful way to see this beautiful corner of Italy.