Luggage Storage Lecce

More about Lecce

About Lecce

With nearly 100,000 inhabitants, Lecce is the capital of its province and one of the biggest cities in the region. The Baroque architecture of the city’s historic center has seen it called the Florence of the South, and its university and reputation as a haven for artists keep this ancient city lively and vibrant to this day.

Lecce began as a stronghold of the Messapian tribe that has been linked to ancient Crete. The city had strong links with Greece back when Rome was just a provincial town. However, Lecce came under the control of the Romans in the third century BC. In the second century A.D., the town was moved two miles north from its previous location to connect to a nearby port.

Lecce's location on the Adriatic Sea made it strategically important, and following the fall of the Roman Empire, it passed through the hands of many different rulers. Goths, Saracens, Lombards, and Hungarians all occupied Lecce at one point or another. Eventually, the city fell into the hands of the Holy Roman Emperor, and it was during this period in the 16th century that the town center was rebuilt into the Baroque masterpiece it remains today.

Lecce is a long way from the typical Italian tourist destinations of Rome, Florence, and Venice. But its long history and coastal location make it a fascinating place to visit, and more and more tourists are discovering this southern Italian jewel for themselves.

Things to do in Lecce

Visitors to Lecce can't help but be impressed by the well-preserved Baroque town center with its elaborate churches and monuments. However, there's more to the city than Renaissance architecture. Look a little closer, and you'll find plenty to keep you busy.

• See a Baroque masterpiece at the Basilica di Santa Croce. This stunning church, like many of the cities old buildings, is made from famous Lecce stone, and its elaborate decorations and statues make it an unforgettable sight.

• Take in the atmosphere at the Piazza Sant'Oronzo. Surrounded by impressive buildings, the central square is also home to the remains of the city's Roman amphitheater. Grab an outside table at one of the many cafés and restaurants and watch the world go by.

• Explore Lecce's military history at Lecce Castle. Built by Emperor Charles V in the 16th century, this well-preserved fortification was intended to protect the city from attacks from both sea and land. The museum inside the formidable walls explains the history of the castle and the town.

• Find dozens of things you didn't know you were looking for at Lecce Street Market. Held outside the walls of the castle, this market offers a little bit of everything, from local produce to vinyl records to clothes to leather goods. Wander through the eclectic stalls and experience Lecce street life like a local.

• See a unique side of history at the Faggiano Museum. This ancient house is a testament to the long history of the city. Excavations here have turned up remnants of the legendary Knights Templar and an ancient burial site. Operated by a local family, the museum offers a very personal glimpse into Lecce's past.

Transit options in Lecce

• The nearest airport to Lecce is in Brindisi, which can be reached by train in around half an hour. There is also a larger airport in Bari, which can be reached by train in about two hours.

• Lecce train station is a few minutes walk from the city center. Trains connect the city with Naples, Rome, and other Italian cities. However, train journeys can be long as they cross the mountains of central Italy. Night trains are often a good way to maximize your time.

• Long-distance buses also connect the city with other towns in the area. Once inside Lecce, you'll find that many of the narrow streets are unsuitable for vehicles and that walking is not only the best but often the only way to get around.

Luggage storage in Lecce

With an urban layout that long predates motorized vehicles, Lecce is quite literally a city made for walking. Traveling on foot allows you to take in the stunning Baroque architecture of the city and stop wherever you like for a drink or a bite to eat or enjoy the town's lively atmosphere. Bounce can help make your journey easier by giving your place to store heavy bags. No matter how many bags you have or how heavy they are, Bounce can help you find a place to store them safely while you explore.

Activities and attractions near Lecce

• Otranto: Around half an hour's drive from Lecce, the beautiful coastal town of Otranto is the perfect day trip from the city. Famous for its 15th-century castle, the city offers enchanting views of the Adriatic Sea and has a gorgeous harbor where you can dine on fresh seafood at family-owned restaurants. The city also has a great beach where you can soak up the sun and refresh yourself with a swim in the warm Adriatic Sea. To make your journey easier, don't forget to drop off your bags at a luggage storage service in Lecce before you go.

• Gallipoli: Another coastal town well worth exploring, Gallipoli occupies a stretch of coastline and an adjacent island. The island is especially charming, with its quaint narrow streets and old buildings. It's the perfect place to wander and try some of the specialties of the region at one of the many restaurants in the area. Leaving your bags at a luggage storage locker in Lecce will make it easier to explore this fascinating town.

• Ostuni: An hour's drive north from Lecce brings you to Ostuni. This is another beautiful town full of Baroque architecture, and has a vibrant nightlife based around the many bars set up in the old buildings. From here, it's also easy to visit the inland village of Alberobello. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its Trulli, ancient stone houses found only in this specific region of Italy and easily identified by their conical shape. Before visiting this fascinating place, don't forget to drop off any heavy bags at a Lecce luggage storage shop first.