Weekend in Gallipoli

A 17th-century Baroque cathedral with a striking Lecce stone facade, ornate altars and a wooden ceiling painted with biblical scenes. The crypt holds a 6th-century Byzantine mosaic

Tip: Look for the small side door near the sacristy—it leads to a quiet courtyard with a view of the main square. Mass at 7pm weekdays is the only time the crypt is unlocked.

A maze of white-washed alleys, baroque churches and sea-facing balconies on a limestone island connected by a 17th-century bridge. You can walk the entire circuit in an hour, stopp

Tip: Go at sunset when the light hits the cathedral facade. Enter through the Porta Terra gate and turn left for quieter streets away from souvenir shops.

A free public beach on the Ionian Sea with fine golden sand and shallow water. It sits between the town and the port, with a long promenade for walking. No loungers or umbrellas—bring your own towel.

Tip: Arrive by 9am on summer weekends to secure a spot. The water gets a bit choppier by the port end, which locals avoid.

A coastal nature reserve 8 km north of Gallipoli with pine forest trails, coves and a 500-metre pebble beach (Cala dell'Acqua). The water is crystal-clear turquoise, good for snorkelling. No shops or

Tip: The bus 34 from the main square runs hourly and drops you at the park entrance. Walk 15 minutes through the trees to find the quieter coves away from the main beach. No entry fee, but parking is €5 if you drive.

A small, low-cost museum in the bishop's palace with a collection of religious silverware, vestments and paintings from the 16th to 18th centuries. Highlights include a wooden crucifix from 1400 and a

Tip: Entry costs €4. Combine with a visit to the cathedral (same ticket for €6). Ask at the desk for the key to the rooftop terrace—usually unlocked on request.