Otranto and Gallipoli tour from Lecce

Otranto is the "Gateway to the East", the easternmost point of Italy, overlooking the strait that bears its name, the Strait of Otranto, connecting the Adriatic Sea with the Ionian Sea and separating Italy from Albania. Despite the destruction suffered, the Old Town is very well preserved, with its houses painted in bright colors, enclosed in fortified walls. The Aragonese Castle, the Cathedral, consecrated in 1088, and the church of San Pietro with Byzantine frescoes are the main sights of the city.

Gallipoli, from the Greek Kallipolis meaning beautiful city, is a fishing village on the coast of southern Puglia. Gallipoli old town, built on an island now connected to the mainland by a bridge is a picturesque and nice place to stroll. The 17th century Baroque Saint Agate Cathedral is in the center of the town; several interesting churches are along the perimeter of the old town, facing the sea. The walls and bastions surrounding the old town have been built in the 15th century to fend off attacks, especially from pirates. The walls were altered in the 19th century, permitting beautiful views of the sea, port and harbors.