Escape Florence’s Crowds: Experience Italy’s Untouched Beauty for Less

Why does everyone flock to Florence when there are hidden gems like Lecce waiting to be discovered? It’s baffling. Sure, Florence boasts Brunelleschi’s dome and a medieval bridge that everyone and their dog photographs. But let’s be real. It’s crowded. Always. And those prices? Yikes. With average hotel rates hitting nearly $200 a night and food that’ll set you back $70 a day, it’s not exactly a budget-friendly getaway.

Consider this: Lecce, sitting quietly at the heel of Italy’s boot, offers a fascinating mix of history and culture for a fraction of the cost.

Lecce, a hidden Italian gem, blends rich history and culture without breaking the bank.

Lecce is like that underdog movie you never heard of but end up loving. Founded way back in 1200 BC, it’s got Roman ruins, like a well-preserved arena that once seated 25,000. History buffs, rejoice. The Piazza del Duomo with its 12th-century cathedral is a sight to behold. The architecture? Stunning. You won’t find a dome like Florence’s, but Lecce’s Renaissance monuments have their own charm. Think the triumphal Porta Napoli and Castle of Charles V.

Plus, the intricate Baroque stylings of the Church of San Matteo and Church of Santa Chiara are a feast for the eyes.

Let’s talk cost. In Lecce, budget hotels start at $60. Florence? You’re looking at $100 minimum. Even luxury digs in Lecce range from $70-120, compared to $130-200 in Florence.

And food? Breakfast might cost you $2.50 in Lecce. Dinner? An easy $8-12. Florence? Double that. It’s almost like Lecce is the universe’s answer to an affordable Italian vacation.

And getting there? Easier than ever. The new Espresso Salento train zips you from Rome to Lecce with no annoying changes. Stops at picturesque spots like Polignano a Mare and Ostuni along the way. It’s like a hidden gem tour on wheels.