Located on the heel of the Italian boot, in one of the least explored regions of the country, this historic port city boasts a rich cultural heritage.
Florence can be incredibly crowded regardless of the season, to the point that it ruins its magic, and secondly, prices are rising year by year.
As noted by Traveloffpath, the average cost of a night’s accommodation in Florence is currently a staggering $197, and food expenses are expected to reach $70 per day in 2025.
However, as the publication emphasized, for budget travelers, the southern counterpart of Florence, dotted with Renaissance landmarks, is 30-50% cheaper to visit.
Located on the heel of the Italian boot, in one of the least explored regions of the country, Lecce is a historic port city with a history dating back to ancient times. It has a cultural charm and architectural richness.
Founded in 1200 BC, it has been influenced by many civilizations, including the Roman Empire.
In the heart of the historic center, you will find a well-preserved Roman arena that could accommodate over 25,000 people and was used for gladiator games. Nearby is an equally impressive ancient theater that was once used for performances and concerts.
Piazza del Duomo, or Cathedral Square, is home to some of the most impressive buildings in Lecce. These include the 12th-century cathedral, the bell tower, and the bishop’s and seminary palaces.
Several old buildings in the labyrinthine Old Town of Lecce were rebuilt in the Baroque style in the 17th century. Notable examples include the Church of San Matteo, known for its wave-like facade, and the ornate Church of Santa Chiara.
However, the real charm of Lecce lies in its rich collection of Renaissance monuments, which seem more interesting than the soaring dome of Florence. These include the triumphant Porta Napoli, a commemorative arch built in 1548; the late medieval Castle of Charles V, which is notable for its geometric design and impressive bastions; and the Palazzo dei Celestini, a 16th-century palace.
How much cheaper is Lecce than Florence
Lecce is much more affordable than Florence, so if you’re traveling to Italy on a budget, you can expect to spend significantly less here.
Take a look at the table based on data from Numbeo and Booking.com:
Category Lecce Florence
- Budget hotels or guesthouses: $60–90 vs. $100–150;
- Mid-range hotels: $90–130 vs. $160–220;
- Luxury hotels: $70–120 vs. $130–200;
- Breakfast (coffee and pastries): $2.50-4 vs. $4-7;
- Lunch (panino or pasta): $6–10 vs. $10–15;
- Dinner (pizza and drink): $8–12 vs. $14–18;
- A 3-course dinner: $20–30 vs. $35–50.
Lecce has long been overlooked by most travelers, but the recently launched railway route is likely to bring it back to the map of tourist routes.
