Yes — Lecce is the hidden gem of southern Italy
✅ Reasons to go
- Stunning baroque architecture ("Florence of the South")
- Fraction of the crowds and prices of northern cities
- Incredible Pugliese food (pasticciotto, orecchiette, burrata)
- Gateway to the Salento beaches
- Walking the historic centre is magical
- Genuine local atmosphere — not a tourist town
❌ Reasons to skip
- Remote — 4+ hours from Rome by train
- The city is small — 1–2 days is enough
- Summer heat is intense
- Limited international flight connections
- Beach access requires a car or bus
- Some find it too quiet in the evening
💡 Pro tip: Don't miss the morning pasticciotto (custard pastry) from Alvino or Natale. It's the best breakfast in Italy.
Bottom line
Lecce is absolutely worth the journey south. Come for the baroque, stay for the food, and thank yourself for skipping another day in Florence.