Vacation with Kids in Puglia's Salento Region: 5-Day Itinerary
In the southernmost tip of Puglia, the Salento region serves up an enticing family vacation filled with ancient history, living traditions, and pristine coastlines – one of Italy's lesser-known gems, brimming with unique experiences. Framed by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, this underappreciated destination houses Greek-Roman ruins, medieval castles, Baroque cities, and child-friendly beaches galore.
On this five-day journey, families will uncover a powerful connection to the past, as well as opportunities for soaking up the sun, learning, and play.
Day 1: Lecce – A Baroque Spectacle Meets Scientific Marvels
Start your adventure in the heart of Salento – Lecce, affectionately known as "The Florence of the South." Inspired by the region's wealth during the 17th and 18th centuries under Spanish rule, Lecce's distinctive Baroque architectural style bloomed, adorning the city with intricate ornamentation.
Drop by the Basilica di Santa Croce, a testament to the Catholic Counter-Reformation's vision of communicating awe through visual narratives, with its elaborate façade featuring griffins, lions, cherubs, and exotic flora. Kids will delight in spotting hidden animals and faces in the stone.
Just beside, the Roman Amphitheater in Piazza Sant'Oronzo offers a glimpse into Lecce's ancient Roman roots, serving as the city of Lupiae. Although only a portion of it remains visible today, the amphitheater once hosted over 25,000 spectators for gladiatorial fights and sea battle reenactments.
In the afternoon, visit Lecce Children's Museum, an interactive science and discovery center for children aged 0 to 10. The Reggio approach from the museum encourages inquiry-based and child-centered learning, touching on basic physics principles, human biology, and real-world environments like markets and farms.
Indulge in a locals-loved dinner of orecchiette with turnip greens or grilled Adriatic seafood. To satisfy that sweet tooth, dig into the heavenly pasticciotto – a delightful pastry filled with custard cream, dating back to the 18th century.
With the night still young, retire at a nearby masseria (fortified farmhouses transformed into boutique accommodations) or a family-friendly B&B in Piazza Duomo.
Day 2: Torre Lapillo & Porto Cesareo – Calm Waters and Coastal Wonders
Embark on a day of seaside romance and marine exploration on your second day. Torre Lapillo beach, nestled in the Protected Marine Reserve of Porto Cesareo, promises a serene escape for the whole family. Its gentle waters, soft sand, and supervised areas provide an idyllic spot, even for little Beach Bums.
The beach's name derives from a 16th-century watchtower known as "Torre della Lapide" (Stone Tower), constructed as part of a defensive chain against Ottoman and Saracen pirates. Keep an eye out for these iconic towers dotting the coastline, each with their own rich historical significance.
Make a brief pitstop at Porto Cesareo and take a glass-bottom boat tour. Navigate the crystal-clear waters to discover the local marine life, seagrass meadows, and even the endangered guttate seahorse. Porto Cesareo belongs to Italy's largest marine protected zones – a sanctuary teeming with underwater wonders.
For lunch, sit down to a delicious meal at a family-run trattoria, sampling spaghetti with seafood or gratinated mussels – a mouthwatering twist on the classic mussels au gratin.
Later, venture out to the Isola dei Conigli, a tiny islet known for its military training past and now a protected wildlife area, accessible by kayak or small boats.
Choose to return to Lecce or stay in the area, settling into a family-friendly resort like "Le Dune Suite Hotel", offering luxurious facilities welcoming families with swimming pools, beach access, and kid-friendly menus.
Day 3: Otranto – Byzantine Magnificence and Coastal Fortresses
On day three, head east to the enchanting city of "Otranto". Boasting a rich history as a Greek, Roman, and Byzantine settlement, it later became a Norman stronghold in the 11th century.
Trace the footsteps of its storied past by marveling at the Otranto Cathedral, consecrated in 1088; its stunning mosaic floor, completed in 1163 by the monk Pantaleone, depicts a captivating Tree of Life with tales from the Old Testament, medieval bestiaries, and even King Arthur – engaging kids with a giant fairy tale book feel.
Don't miss the Chapel of the Martyrs, which proudly houses the bones of the 813 Otrantini who were killed in 1480 by Ottoman invaders after refusing to convert to Islam. Their recent canonization makes this chapel an essential religious pilgrimage site.
Find a sweet escape at a gelateria in town, then head to Baia dei Turchi, where tradition tells us Turkish ships once landed during the 1480 siege. Today, this idyllic bay is part of the "Riserva Naturale degli Alimini", with pine forests, sandy dunes, and breathtaking Adriatic views.
Delta over to Torre dell'Orso, with its iconic twin rock formations, "Le Due Sorelle", and a wide sandy beach welcoming families seeking modern comforts.
Savor dinner in Otranto, with delicious options like pesce al cartoccio (fish baked in parchment) or a pizza with a sea view. Retire for the night at a historic hotel, such as "Palazzo Papaleo", steps away from the cathedral.
Day 4: Gallipoli – Greek Roots, Markets, and Water Parks
Cross over to the Ionian coast for a day full of Greek heritage, local markets, and splashing fun in Gallipoli. Its name, "Kallípolis", means "beautiful city," shaped by the Messapi, Greeks, and Romans throughout history.
Explore the Old Town, perched on a limestone island linked by a 17th-century bridge. Kids and grown-ups alike can enjoy discovering churches, palaces, and the bustling Antica Pescheria (fish market) – a feast for the senses showcasing the daily catch of octopuses, swordfish, and sea urchins.
In the afternoon, reward your family's adventurous spirits with a trip to the "Splash Waterpark", inaugurated in 1989 as one of the first large water parks in southern Italy. Let the thrills of slides, pools, and shaded resting areas unfold for an unforgettable afternoon.
Sleep soundly at a nearby masseria or choose a family-friendly hotel like "Palazzo del Corso," with vistas of the bay.
Day 5: Santa Maria di Leuca – Meeting of the Seas and Historical Landmarks
Save the best for the last day, as you make your way to "Santa Maria di Leuca". This charming town signifies the point where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, once thought by the Romans as the end of the world.
Stop by the Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, built on the remnants of a pagan temple. The current church emerged in the 18th century, serving as a popular stop along the Via Francigena, an ancient route linking Canterbury to Rome and the southern Italian ports.
Scaling the lighthouse stairs grants a breathtaking view of the cliffs and seascape, while the artificial waterfall and monumental staircase capture the children's imagination.
On your way back to Lecce or Brindisi, spare a moment to visit quaint towns like Specchia or Presicce-Acquarica, both recognized as "The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy" for their preserved medieval architecture.
If you're traveling in July or August, mark your calendars for the patronal festivals in local villages. These celebrations, adorned with fireworks, brass bands, and traditional lighting installations, affirm the living traditions of the Salento.
Cherish Your Family Adventure in Salento
The Salento region extends beyond its sun-kissed beaches and promises a rich tapestry of memories for your family vacation. Whether traversing centuries-old churches or dipping toes into the azure waters, the mix of ancient architecture, living traditions, and everyday ease fosters a magical setting for captivating stories shared by all ages.
As you watch a child's joy unfold under a dome or share a gelato in a lamplight-drenched square, the Salento leaves its mark – a destination that seizes the heart, as every remarkable vacation should.
- Embrace the tantalizing fusion of history and awe-inspiring architecture as you stroll around the Science Museum for Children, found in the bewitching town of Lecce, where kids can learn about scientific principles in an engaging manner.
- Letter your taste buds travel as you experiment with recipes from different countries during a food-and-drink workshop organized in one of the coastal villages. Who knows, you may even discover a new passion for culinary arts!
- Expand your knowledge beyond the borders of Italy with educational sessions on the history and cultures of various countries – be it Africa, Asia, or the Americas – held in local libraries and cultural centers across Salento.
