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If you’re planning a day trip to Lecce with kids, get ready for a laid-back, visually stunning adventure through one of Southern Italy’s most charming cities. We visited Lecce with our young daughter while spending a month in Puglia (our home base was in Monopoli), and instantly fell for the city’s unique food scene, golden Baroque architecture, and relaxed energy.
Lecce is compact, kid-friendly, and full of small pleasures—like sipping iced coffee sweetened with almond syrup at a sunny café or wandering through quiet, sandstone alleyways that glow in the afternoon light. While you won’t find a long list of “must-sees,” that’s precisely why it’s perfect. Lecce invites you to slow down and savor the moment. It’s walkable (even for strollers), family-friendly, and full of easygoing charm year-round—ideal if you’re visiting outside of beach season. Here’s how to spend one fantastic day in Lecce with kids, including the best things to do in Lecce, Italy, plus where to eat and where to stay.
Where is Lecce, Italy?
Lecce is a beautiful city in southern Italy, located in Puglia (the region that makes the “heel of the boot” in Italy). The city is also the central hub of the Salento sub-region, known for its sunbaked landscapes, olive groves, and coastal charm (though, Lecce is located inland and not on the sea).
Lecce is about a 40-minute drive from the city of Brindisi, which is home to the nearest airport. Bari is less than 2 hours by car, and Monopoli (our home base in Puglia) is just over an hour’s drive. Finally, the famous town of Alberobello, known for its iconic trulli, is about 75 minutes by car.
A day trip to Lecce with kids is a great way to explore its walkable historic center, filled with ornate Baroque buildings and open piazze (perfect for little ones to roam and explore freely!). With its stroller-friendly streets, family-friendly restaurants, and proximity to other towns in Salento, Lecce also makes a great base for longer stays while exploring the region. Plus, Lecce is filled with fun, laid-back things to do with kids!
READ NEXT: 6 Fantastic Cities in Puglia (Italy) for Families with Kids
How to Get to Lecce with Kids
Getting to Lecce with kids is easy and flexible, whether you’re planning a road trip or a day trip with kids from elsewhere in Puglia. With direct routes from cities like Bari and Monopoli, Lecce is also much more accessible by train than many other towns in Puglia.
While Lecce doesn’t have its own airport, nearby Brindisi (approximately 40 minutes away) and Bari (less than 2 hours away) offer direct flights from major Italian and European cities. From either airport, you can reach Lecce by train, bus, or rental car. Flying into Bridisi? You can also book a Private Transfer from Brindisi (BDS) Airport to Lecce.
Once you arrive, Lecce with kids is best enjoyed on foot, thanks to its stroller-friendly streets and compact centro storico. Taxis are also available, but they typically don’t have car seats. Car seats are also not required in taxis in Italy.
By Car—the best option for multi-city itineraries in Puglia with kids
Driving is a great option if you’re creating a multi-city itinerary in Puglia. We opted to drive from Monopoli to Lecce, and added Alberobello and Ostuni as stops along the way.
Just be aware that Lecce’s city center is mostly pedestrian-only, so arranging parking through your accommodation is helpful. Otherwise, plan to find street parking outside of centro storico and expect to pay for it.
By Train—the most direct option with kids
If you’re coming by train, high-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains connect Lecce with Rome in about 5.5 hours. Many other Italian cities also offer routes to Lecce. Within Puglia, you can also take a train from most major cities like Monopoli, Bari, and Brindisi.
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Tips for Visiting Lecce with Kids
Exploring Lecce with kids can be as simple as wandering the historic streets or as packed with churches and museums as you’d like. The city offers a family-friendly vibe and a great atmosphere, especially for those who love art and architecture.
Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit to Lecce with kids:
- Take it slow! Like much of Puglia, Lecce is best enjoyed without a huge plan for the day, though there are more churches and museums here than in other surrounding towns.
- The centro storico is compact and easy to stroll through, boasting some of southern Italy’s best baroque architecture. Centro storico is pretty stroller-friendly, too!
- Cities in Puglia observe a riposo (“siesta” period, also called pausa), and many things are closed from 1ish to 4ish. This is a great time to check into hotels, relax at a nearby park, or move between cities.
- Parking can be really difficult to find near centro storico. Arrive early and expect to pay for parking for the day. Driving is not allowed inside centro storico (unless special permission is granted because of the hotel you’ve booked).
Fun Things to Do in Lecce with Kids
Alright, let’s dive into planning a day trip to Lecce with kids! This charming southern Italian city is packed with Baroque beauty, family-friendly piazze, and plenty of places to grab a gelato (or two!). Lecce is one of those cities best explored on foot and without a strict agenda, making it perfect for traveling with little ones in tow.
While Lecce may not have theme parks or endless kid-specific attractions, there are still plenty of fun and engaging things to do in Lecce, Italy, as a family. From peeking inside ornate churches and spotting quirky sculptures to learning about papier-mâché, Lecce with kids will be a memorable experience for everyone. If you’re wondering how to fill your day, here are a few ideas from our family day trip to Lecce to help get you started.
READ NEXT: How to Spend 1 Day in Ostuni, Italy, with Kids
Walk through Porta Napoli
One of the first things to do in Lecce, Italy, is to walk through the towering Porta Napoli. This impressive arch, built in the 1500s as a triumphal gateway, marks a grand entrance into the city’s historic center. It’s the perfect entrance to a fun day trip to Lecce with kids!
It was our first glimpse of Lecce’s centro storico after parking. It felt like stepping into a whole new world as we walked through! My daughter lit up walking beneath the arch—it added a surprising sense of wonder to our day in Lecce.
Of Lecce’s original four gates, three still stand: Porta Napoli, Porta Rudiae, and Porta San Biagio. Each one offers a fun and photo-worthy moment, especially for families wandering centro storico. Porta Napoli, in my opinion, is the most striking, but don’t miss the older Porta Rudiae or Porta San Biagio.
Check out the Roman Amphitheater
One of the coolest stops in Lecce with kids is the Roman Amphitheater in Piazza Sant’Oronzo. It’s wild to stumble upon ancient ruins right in the heart of a city—but you can in Lecce! This was our first stop after walking through Porta Napoli. We were on a mission to find a local coffee (more on that in a minute!).
Built in the 2nd century BC, this partially excavated arena once held up to 25,000 spectators who came to watch gladiators and animal hunts. It was even discovered by accident while working on a nearby building!
My daughter loved imagining what it might have looked like, full of cheering crowds and roaring lions. While it’s not as grand as the Colosseum, it’s still a great intro to Roman history for kids.
You can see most of it for free from above, which makes it an easy and fun stop on a day trip to Lecce with kids. Most walking tours will also cover the Roman Amphitheater and its history if you want to learn more about it.
Enjoy a Caffè Leccese in Piazza Sant’Oronzo
About that mission to try Lecce’s famous coffee. Located in Piazza Sant’Oronzo, Caffè Alvino is one of the best spots to try a traditional Caffè Leccese. This refreshing Italian espresso drink from the Salento region is one of the only *iced* coffee drinks you’ll find in Italy! It’s made with strong espresso and sweet almond syrup, and it’s heavenly!
Caffè Alvino is a little bit of everything—a pastry shop, gelateria, café, and aperitivo spot—so it’s a great first stop whenever you arrive in Lecce. Whether you’re stopping for a morning espresso or an afternoon treat, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy a slice of daily life in Lecce. Order inside, then find a table outside to enjoy views of Piazza Sant’Oronzo and the Roman Amphitheater.
If you’re there for breakfast (like we were!), I highly recommend ordering a pasticciotto (another local specialty) to enjoy with your Caffè Leccese.
Admire the Architecture in Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo is one of the most breathtaking spots in Lecce. The piazza is grand yet peaceful, ornate yet intimate. It’s undoubtedly worth at least a quick stop to enjoy its unique architecture. Or, a longer inspection if you’re kids are interested!
Surrounded on three sides by stunning Baroque architecture, the piazza opens dramatically to reveal the Duomo. The cathedral was originally built in the 12th century. And later, it was transformed in the 1600s with a striking 70-meter bell tower. Kids and parents alike will appreciate the drama of the enclosed square.
The Bishop’s Palace and Seminary add to the grandeur, while the warm Lecce limestone glows in the sun. Every detail gives the whole piazza a golden glow and a charming feeling. If you’re enjoying a day trip to Lecce with kids, take time to rest here, do a little people-watching, and soak in the atmosphere—it’s one of the most rewarding sights and things to do in Lecce.
Visit One of the Many Churches
If churches pique your interest, there are several to choose from across Lecce. The city’s tourism office even offers bundled tickets to see them all! Visiting one or more of the many historic churches in Lecce is a great way to spend a day trip visiting the city with kids!
Lecce is known for its ornate Baroque architecture, and the city’s churches are prime examples of this style. Don’t miss the Basilica di Santa Croce, with its intricate animal-filled façade that kids will love! The Duomo itself sits in a stunning enclosed piazza (see above for more info on this one!). Meanwhile, the Church of Saints Niccolò and Cataldo features a Norman design with a little Baroque flair. Finally, the Chiesa di Santa Chiara has a papier-mâché ceiling that is so realistic, you’d never guess it wasn’t carved from wood.
The LeccEcclesiae pass offers access to four of Lecce’s top churches, including Santa Croce, the Duomo, and Chiesa di Santa Chiara. Whether you explore one or several, visiting a church or two is one of the best things to do in Lecce with kids.
Add a Museum to Your Day
Add a museum to your day in Lecce with kids! These smaller, interactive stops are a great way to break up time spent sightseeing and spark curiosity about the city’s layers of history. Not to mention, get out of the afternoon sun!
Museo Faggiano is a standout! What started as a plumbing project in a private home led to the discovery of an archaeological goldmine. Kids will love exploring the hidden staircases, underground chambers, and glass floors revealing Roman crypts, medieval walls, and even traces of the Knights Templar.
For a quieter, more reflective stop, visit the Palazzo Taurino Jewish Museum, located in Lecce’s medieval Jewish quarter. It offers an important look at the city’s lesser-known Jewish history. Exhibits feature information on ancient ritual baths and remnants of a synagogue hidden beneath a former church.
Both museums are compact, engaging, and ideal for families exploring Lecce with kids.
Grab a Gelato (or Two!) to Beat the Salento Sun
Lecce has no shortage of incredible gelato stops—and honestly, grabbing a scoop (or two) is one of the best things to do in Lecce, Italy, with kids! Whether you’re cooling off after exploring a Baroque church or simply need a sweet break during your day trip to Lecce with kids, centro storico is full of options.
For classic Italian flavors in an elegant setting, head to Caffè Alvino. This is our top pick for its views of the Roman Amphitheater and central location. Gelateria La Romana is a local favorite with creamy, rich flavors and generous portions (they also have locations in Rome!). Fior di Gelato offers fresh, inventive options, while Gelatario Gelateria Naturale is known for using all-natural ingredients. If you’re wondering where to eat gelato in Lecce with your kids, any of these spots will keep everyone in your crew smiling and enjoying the day.
A Few More Things to Do in/near Lecce with Kids
If you have more time to explore the city, here are a few more ideas for fun things to do in Lecce with kids:
- Take a walking tour of the historic old city.
- Indulge in a kid-friendly food tour or cooking class.
- Need a break? Enjoy the grassy areas and fountains at Giuseppe Garibaldi Public Gardens. It’s just outside the centro storico area.
- Enjoy a ride aboard the Tourist Train. During the tourist season, it typically departs every hour, from about 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, from Castello Carlo V.
- Shop for papier mâché and other local crafts. Lecce is known for its papier-mâché, making it a great souvenir or gift! There are tons of shops that offer papier-mâché throughout centro storico.
- Parco Avventura Salento Adventures is about 20 minutes from Lecce (by car) and is great for adventurous kids!
- Carrisiland Resort is approximately 30 minutes from Lecce by car. It offers a thrilling water park for visitors of all ages!
Where to Eat in Lecce with Kids
There are many incredible options if you’re wondering where to eat in Lecce with kids!
Like many towns in Puglia, Lecce’s cuisine is delicious, featuring seasonal, fresh, and regional ingredients. Here are a few options to consider when looking for restaurants in Lecce with kids:
- Caffè Alvino for a traditional Caffè Leccese.
- La Vecchia Osteria da Totu was our lunch stop, and it was delicious!
- If you’re looking for a great pasticciotto, try Caffè Alvino, Pasticceria Pinti, or Natale Bakery. This is a local sweet that’s not to be missed!
- Also recommended to us: 00 Doppiozero, La Sapore, Boccon Divino, and La Cucina di Mamma Elvira.
- Maglio Cioccolato for locally-made chocolates.
Where to Stay in Lecce with Kids
After exploring Lecce for the day, we stayed in a nearby town called Cellino San Marco. I absolutely adored the hotel we stayed at (it had a wonderful spa—much needed for this travel sore mama!), but the city was pretty sleepy.
We stayed at PlazaCarrisi Hotel. And, we had some of the best sandwiches of our lives (according to my husband) at L’angolo. It’s a short walk from the hotel, and a great spot for dinner. Staying here also gives you easy access to Carrisiland Resort, a seasonal waterpark that kids will love!
If you want to stay in Lecce, consider booking a room at:
- Hilton Garden Inn Lecce
- L’Orangerie d’Epoque
- Grand Hotel di Lecce
- Torre del Parco
- La Fiermontina | Luxury Home
- Search for Kid-Friendly Lecce Vacation Rentals on Vrbo
Enjoy Exploring Lecce with Kids!
A day trip to Lecce with kids offers enchanting adventures and incredible architectural sights as you meander the Florence of the South. The city offers several fantastic churches, museums, and other sights for families. During your visit, be sure to try the local delicacies as well! A caffè leccese definitely hits the spot on a hot summer day! We truly enjoyed meandering through the ancient streets, taking in the stunning churches and historic architecture throughout the old city. I hope you have a blast exploring Lecce with your kids, too!
Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.