Morning: Enter the historic center through Porta Napoli and reach Piazza del Duomo. It's an enclosed square, almost an intimate courtyard, where the Cathedral and the Bishop's Palace create a unique baroque theater scene, especially when the stone reflects the sun. Lunch: It's time for a quick Rustico Leccese (a pastry filled with béchamel, mozzarella, and tomato), followed by a warm Pasticciotto (shortcrust pastry filled with custard). Afternoon: Stroll to Piazza Sant'Oronzo, the commercial heart, where the remains of the Roman Amphitheater, half buried under the modern city, stand out. Observe the column of the Patron Saint and the Renaissance seat.

Morning: Head to the Basilica of Santa Croce: its façade is the epitome of Lecce Baroque, so rich in detail—flowers, animals, and mythological figures carved into the soft stone—that it's breathtaking. Visit the adjacent Palazzo dei Celestini. Lunch: Sit down at a trattoria to enjoy "Ciceri e Tria" (fried pasta with chickpeas), an ancient dish that blends Arab and local culture. Afternoon: Wander the narrow streets of the historic center ("le giravolte") and visit the workshops of master papier-mâché artists. The art of papier-mâché in Lecce is a very noble tradition; you'll see how sacred statues are created using only paper, glue, and fire.

Morning: Visit Charles V Castle, a mighty 16th-century fortress right outside the city center, which often hosts art exhibitions. Take a stroll along the restored city walls to understand the city's defensive structure. Lunch: Sample a Puccia, a traditional soft semolina bread filled with grilled vegetables, cheeses, and local cured meats. Afternoon: Spend your last few hours relaxing in the public gardens or visit the small but precious Faggiano Museum, a private home where, while digging to repair a pipe, layers of history from the Messapians to the Knights Templar were uncovered. Conclude with a Caffè Leccese (iced coffee with almond milk) to take home the sweet taste of Salento.