Salento attractions: things to do

The beaches around Leporano are among the most beautiful on Puglia’s Ionian coast. Fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and shallow waters make them ideal for both those who want to relax under an umbrella and those who prefer swimming and snorkeling.

You can choose between fully equipped beaches with bars and services or free stretches of beach surrounded by nature. From Saturo to Porto Pirrone, every corner of the coast has its own unique charm.

Seeing Salento from the sea is an experience worth the entire vacation. You can rent a small boat and independently explore hidden coves and cliffs inaccessible from the mainland, or join a guided tour along the coast.

Some excursions take you to the island of San Pietro in Taranto, where you can spot dolphins in their natural habitat. An unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Salento offers moments of authentic tranquility that are hard to find elsewhere. Strolls along the seafront at sunset, with the sky turning orange over the Ionian Sea, are among the most beautiful memories you’ll take home. The Torre Colimena nature reserve and the Salina dei Monaci offer nature trails immersed in the Mediterranean scrub.

For those simply seeking relaxation, the sea-view terrace of Taranto or the coves of Porto Pirrone are perfect places to unwind.

Combining beach and culture is the best way to truly experience Salento. Taranto, just 12 km from Leporano, boasts the Aragonese Castle, the MArTA—one of Italy’s most important archaeological museums—and the Old Town with its unique atmosphere.

Nearby, it’s worth visiting Grottaglie, famous for its artisanal ceramics, and Manduria, the capital of Primitivo wine and the Messapian walls. Each village has a story to tell and local cuisine to discover.

Apulian cuisine is one of the unmissable pleasures of a holiday in Salento. Seafood restaurants along the coast serve mussels, sea urchins, octopus, and freshly fried fish every day. Don’t miss orecchiette with turnip greens, Altamura bread, fossa cheeses, and traditional desserts like pasticciotti leccesi.

Pairing a fine Primitivo di Manduria wine with a dinner overlooking the sea is an experience that captures the essence of Salento.

As evening approaches, Salento transforms and comes alive with lights, music, and activity. Along the coast, summer events, concerts, festivals, and patron saint festivals multiply, bringing every town to life throughout the summer. Seaside venues offer sunset aperitifs, evenings with live music, and captivating atmospheres.

Those who prefer tranquility can enjoy a stroll through Taranto’s historic center or an evening in one of the many traditional restaurants overlooking the sea.

Salento is one of the most suitable destinations for family vacations. The beaches between Leporano and Torre Colimena have shallow, calm waters, perfect for children. Excursions to the Salina dei Monaci nature reserve, home to pink flamingos and migratory birds, are an activity that excites both adults and children.

The Saturo Archaeological Park, just minutes from the residence, is ideal for a light, outdoor cultural visit, suitable for the whole family.

Salento adapts perfectly to any travel style. Those seeking relaxation will find quiet beaches and nature reserves far from the hustle and bustle. Culture enthusiasts will find museums, castles, and charming historic villages.

More active travelers can choose from boat excursions, birdwatching, and bike tours among the olive groves. Families with children will find the calm sea and outdoor activities ideal for creating unforgettable memories.