Embark on a stress-free excursion starting from Lecce, where we'll explore the captivating towns of Galatina and Gallipoli. These enchanting destinations are conveniently close to each other and easily accessible by a slow but direct train, making it effortless to visit both in just one day.

Galatina

We started our day by taking a short and easy train ride from Lecce to Galatina, a charming town that is conveniently located along the same railway line as Gallipoli. The journey only took us 45 minutes, and as soon as we stepped off the train, we were immediately drawn to the town's mini Lecce-like ambiance.

Galatina welcomed us warmly as we explored its streets, which were adorned with centuries-old buildings that had a rich history. One particular highlight on our itinerary was the magnificent Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria.

Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria

The Basilica, built in 1383, impressed us with its exquisite artistry and religious significance. Stepping inside, we were immediately struck by a sense of awe. The walls were adorned with intricate frescoes that took us on a fascinating journey through time, depicting scenes from biblical stories and the lives of saints.

The artistry displayed in these frescoes was truly remarkable, showcasing the talent and devotion of the artists who created them so many years ago. We were amazed by the vibrant colors that still retained their brilliance. It felt as though we had entered a living museum, where history came alive before our eyes.

What made our visit even more special was that admission to the Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria was based on donations, making it accessible to visitors from all walks of life.

Chiesa Madre dei Santi Pietro e Paolo

Continuing our exploration of Galatina, we stumbled upon another architectural gem - Chiesa Madre dei Santi Pietro e Paolo, also known as the Mother Church. Its grand façade enticed us to step inside and discover its hidden treasures.

Upon entering, we were greeted by a serene and reverent atmosphere. The ornate decorations adorning the altar and walls showcased Galatina's rich religious heritage. We took our time to admire the intricate details carved into every surface, a testament to the craftsmanship of those who built this magnificent structure.

Try out the Pasticciotto

Make sure to try the pasticciotto in Galatina, where it originated. This shortcrust pastry with a creamy filling is a local specialty which you can also find in most cafes in Salento. We had a delicious one from a bakery near the Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria. It's a delightful treat that perfectly complements your visit to the basilica and allows you to experience Galatina's culinary heritage firsthand.

Where to Stay in Galatina?

The old town is pretty relaxed so if you want a quiet base then this is the place for you. I recommend staying in the center.

For mid-range, Casa Vacanza Vico Maroncelli is central and nicely decorated.

For luxury, check out the highly rated Amira 1899 Luxury Suite where you can pamper yourself in a hot tub or relax in a sauna.

Gallipoli

After our delightful time in Galatina, we hopped on a short train ride to reach the coastal town of Gallipoli. As we arrived, the refreshing scent of the sea filled the air, setting the stage for a culinary adventure.

Seafood in Gallipoli

Gallipoli is a seafood lover's paradise, thanks to its location on the Ionian Sea. We couldn't resist trying the local specialties at Trattoria Santa Monaca, a renowned restaurant in the old town. One dish that stood out was the succulent purple prawns cooked in salt. You can also have it simply grilled as it can be too salty. These local delicacies boasted a delicate flavor and vibrant color, offering a memorable taste experience.

To complement our prawns, we savored a flavorful fish soup brimming with mussels, clams, and squid. The broth was skillfully infused with herbs and spices, creating a symphony of flavors that delighted our palates.

Our meal at Santa Monaca, including drinks, came to a total of EUR 62, a reasonable price for the quality and quantity of food served. Portions were so huge that we didn't have space for dessert.

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Basilica Concattedrale di Sant'Agata

Also known as the Gallipoli Cathedral, it holds deep religious importance in this town and is dedicated to their patron saint Saint Agatha. Its history dates back several centuries, and as we wandered through its hallowed halls, we couldn't help but feel a connection to those who had come before us.

Hooded Penitents

While exploring one of the churches by the coast, I was shocked to see a hooded mannequin as I entered one of the churches simply because I wasn't expecting that and didn't do much research prior our visit. This is just a model of the hooded penitents that parade barefoot during Lent and are covered to protect their identity.

We found this at the Church of the Holy Crucifix just along the coastal road. They also have some photos of the penitents during Holy Week.

There are a few more churches that you can explore within the old town but these two are what I found most fascinating.

Left: hooded statue

Right: church interior

Take it Slow at a Café

When in Italy, take it slow. We settled into our seats and ordered comforting cappuccinos – creamy concoctions topped with delicate foam. As we sipped our drinks, we savored both their rich flavor and the relaxed atmosphere surrounding us.

Fontana Greca

The Greek fountain, believed to be built around 3rd century BC, is just located outside the fort of the old town so we visited this as we headed back to the train station.

We were here in the late afternoon and also watched fishermen and locals transact by the shore. There's also a church that you can visit from here.

Santuario di Santa Maria del Canneto

Where to Stay in Gallipoli?

Coastal towns in Italy tend to be pricey but you can still find a place on a mid-range budget. Check out Centro Storico Casa Nel Cuoro

If you're feeling luxurious, check out the 4-star Palazzo Presta in the center of the old town.

https://www.youtube.com/watch/4yqARfS5ybU

Conclusion

Our day trip to Galatina and Gallipoli from Lecce proved to be a rewarding journey filled with historical marvels, tantalizing flavors, and the ease of travel. Thanks to the convenient train connections, we seamlessly ventured from one town to another, immersing ourselves in their unique charms.

If you want something more convenient and you do not have your own car, getting a private transfer is the way to go. Check out this full day tour of Galatina and Gallipoli. They provide a comfortable airconditioned car with a private driver from Lecce which really makes a difference especially during the hot peak summer season and saves you the long trip in the slow train. You still have the independence to get around and explore on your own. Combine this with the itinerary we have provided above. Have fun!

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Galatina and Gallipoli Day Trip Itinerary from Lecce, Puglia, Italy

Embark on a stress-free excursion starting from Lecce, where we'll explore the captivating towns of Galatina and Gallipoli . These ench...

Galatina and Gallipoli Day Trip Itinerary from Lecce, Puglia, Italy

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Just yesterday that I was thinking about what to do this summer and if I can go somewhere now that finally there are fewer restrictions in my country, these photos have emerged that I had stored in the hardisk.

so I wanted to share them with you not only to share the photos I took this summer but also to share the experience I had on this island that I think is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

I still remember that I took a fast hydrofoil from Naples without booking, usually there are two / three in the morning and within 20 minutes I arrived on the island, then to reach the center of Capri I took the funicular otherwise yes you can use a taxi but the cost goes up significantly.

What I recommend from my experience is to go to Capri in the spring or at the end of summer not only for a matter of heat which in any case is never so excessive but for a matter of crowding of people because in the high season the island is very busy and so it becomes really difficult to shoot it in peace.

is what I also recommend is to take a tour around the island, perhaps for the more experienced it is more convenient to rent a boat or take advantage of the many excursions that the island offers.

There is the possibility to visit the famous blue grotto where you can only enter with rowing boats and when there is high season and you can also wait several hours but the beauty is also to go around the square and here too the prices are quite enough. high precisely because Capri tends to attract a medium-high clientele so in restaurants and bars you will certainly find a menu that is not suitable for all budgets.

In the famous square you will also find many shops of famous brands in the world but nearby there is also a beautiful museum called the Caprese center Ignazio Cerius where at a cost of only 3 euros you can visit a beautiful museum where all the finds are kept archaeological sites that have been found on the island over the years.

I hope I have been able to give you as much information as possible for a future visit to the island of Capri.

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Memories of this summer: the island of Capri

Just yesterday that I was thinking about what to do this summer and if I can go somewhere now that finally there are fewer restrictions in...

Memories of this summer: the island of Capri

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Today I want to talk to you about a place I visited, one of my favorite places in my beloved Tuscany, in the heart of Maremma, one of the areas richest in history and culture in the region, Pitigliano is much loved for its characteristic layered appearance and for its ancient places. There are really cute corners and lots of things to see. Pitigliano is also called the little Jerusalem because it was home to a large Jewish community. Furthermore, it is also called the city of tuff because it is literally built on tuff rocks, it was precisely for this reason that it was important for the construction trade, the tuff rocks are literally the heart of the town that supports the inhabited areas. The Etruscans lived here and in the past built the vie cave, that is, inside the quarries that led to the necropolis. Pitigliano has an ancient and long history closely linked to the Jewish community but also to its quarries. Today there are many caves and ravines and it is one of the most beautiful and particular villages in Italy. Visiting Pitigliano is a pleasure, there are many streets to see, shops for tourists (there is a lot of tourism especially in summer) and many places of interest. There are various churches and also obviously a synagogue, but for me the most beautiful place to see is the town itself and also the tuff, unfortunately we could not enter the caves but a visit to the caves would also have been really interesting, there are also many archaeological sites that can be visited.

Also characteristic of Pitigliano are the alleys that end on the precipice and the various panoramic stops that the road to get there offers to visitors. In the past many noble families followed one another on this place, it was much disputed and coveted and having visited it I understand why, not only is its position excellent for defending itself from possible enemies but also for trade, furthermore in addition to the quarries it also has woods and arable land that made it attractive. If you come to Tuscany I recommend taking a walk in Pitigliano, even better than visiting it for a few days, I myself only had a few hours to see it and unfortunately they are not enough to explore everything this place has to offer. However, it remains a beautiful and particular village!

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Cerca LoginRegistrati Esplora Tutti i Posts Comunità Mio Profilo Mio Portafoglio

Today I want to talk to you about a place I visited, one of my favorite places in my beloved Tuscany, in the heart of Maremma, one of the ...

Cerca LoginRegistrati Esplora Tutti i Posts Comunità Mio Profilo Mio Portafoglio

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The Basilica of San Marco (St Marks) in Milan is one of the many churches in Europe that double as concert venues due to their impressive acoustics and declining congregation numbers. So, it was concert duties that found me visiting and working in this wealthy northern area of Italy.

The Basilica dates originally from around the 14th century, however, this front section (facade) dates from much later (late 19th century) and showcases a completely different construction and architectural aesthetic than the original Gothic style.

The church is located just outside of the inner ring of Milan, and so it is a bit a short walk (or public transport ride) from where most of the tourist (and shopping) attractions are located.

The interior is a clearer depiction of the original Gothic style, with high columns and arches. The depth of the church is not really apparent from the outer facade, but the church is incredibly long (as you can see from the photo above). Unfortunately, due to the windows being located quite high up, the lighting in the church is pretty dark (especially in the winter-time which is when I was here!).

The high arched dome roof was home to some impressive painting and decorations. I would find myself in the rehearsal craning my head upwards to see as much detail as possible!

The front of the church between the congregation pews and the altar area was converted this evening into a stage for the orchestra and choir which I was working with.... complete with the lighting and recording equipment that was needed for the performance and broadcast.

Coming closer to the front of the church reveals the ornate altar which is quite common in most Catholic churches. Catholic places of worship tend to be much more ornate than their Protestant cousins, an offshoot of the differing ideals of the Reformation versus the Vatican.

Despite the fact that most Catholic churches tend to be packed with ornate signs of wealth and artifacts, some of them can be quite questionable in taste. One such strange display was this depiction of the baby Jesus (?)... on an ornately decorated weigh scale? It's a bit freaky looking... and definitely historically inaccurate in so many ways!

I prefer the various Baroque artworks that adorned the walls... that sort of "treasure" are pieces of art that really speak to me in a more intimate way than the strange artifacts that are treasured by other people. That said, these pieces would benefit from being displayed in a better way with more direct lighting. The dark lighting of the church made them look quite dull...

The exit to the church is much more impressive looking and tastefully decorated than the Romantic era entrance facade... the difference in styles is a testament to the (unintentially) destructive intentions of the Romantic age, where so many buildings, sites, artworks and instruments were "restored" and "improved" in a way that completely overwrote or destroyed their original aesthetics and design.

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San Marco Basilica (Milan, ITALY)

The Basilica of San Marco (St Marks) in Milan is one of the many churches in Europe that double as concert venues due to their impressive ...

San Marco Basilica (Milan, ITALY)

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First of all this being my first post this year I wish you all a Happy New Year, good health and peace in the world so you can enjoy life to the fullest and also ride your bike to new destinations using EuroVelo, the world’s largest cycle route network! In this post I'll try to give you some inspiration from my last trip I did in Italy back in the autumn of 2022 following the EuroVelo 7 north of Peschiera del Garda towards the Alps.

Woke up early this morning as I usually like to do when I'm on the road to fully enjoy my limited days of bike touring I have available this year, from dawn till dusk.

And I'm not aloneThe iconic Fiat 500 always in trendThese vanilla/pistachio cream filled croissants were amazing

Calories are not a problem while touring, for sure I'll burn more cycling uphill all day today, so I spoil myself when I have the chance by indulging in a second croissant.

My summer residence in Peschierra del Garda for about 11 EURO/night

While preparing for checking out I noticed my bike was looking a bit sad this morning :) Luckily I came prepared for situations like this which are perfectly normal for a long distance cyclist.

Houston we have a problem!My lucky red patch did the job with styleClean facilities are always nice to see in a campingThey even have a washing machine so no excuse to stink while touring

Eurocamping Pacengo was a nice camping to spend a night in, great location near the lake with a good restaurant facing the little port, clean facilities, decent prices and a friendly receptionist which even borrowed me a cable extension to charge my devices overnight, all added to a very nice overall experience for me here.

Arrivederci Eurocamping!

Left the camping and followed the pedestrian route close to the lake mostly because I was curious to see more of this beautiful lake front, but the official bike route follows the paved roads a bit further away.

The suspended pedestrian walkway passes directly over this nice marina Slowed down to admire some really cool boats on display todayThumbs up for EuroVelo 7 in ItalyPeace in 2024!This beach looks perfect for a swim break don't you think?And for a refreshing drink on a hot day like thisCan't get enough of this view

Spend about an hour on this nice sandy beach by the lake Garda which felt like I was somewhere by the seaside only the water was not salty which is even better, right?

Ok, now I think it's time to continue our route towards those gorgeous mountains I see far away in the distance.

Well-tended vineyardsLunch time

Really nice to ride through all these vineyardsThis canal feeds from Adige River upstream and runs in paralel with itCruising along the beautiful Adige Valley on a weather like this is such a joyExcellent infrastructurePassing through small villages like this along the wayBeautiful valley indeedEntering the autonomous province of Trento

Trentino, is an autonomous province of Italy in the country's far north. Trentino and South Tyrol constitute the region of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, an autonomous region under the constitution. The province covers an area of more than 6,000 km2 (2,300 sq mi), with a total population of 541,098 in 2019. Trentino is renowned for its mountains, such as the Dolomites, which are part of the Alps.

Agriculture plays an important role in the local economy here and all these vineyards right and left are well known for their quality of grapes. Trento DOC (Denominazione di origine controllata) is an appellation for white and rosésparkling wine made in Trentino, Italy. Trentinos developed this appellation, the second in the world after Champagne, to ensure quality and distinction. Only Chardonnay, Pinot noir, and Pinot Meunier with Pinot blanc are permitted, and they must be grown in a well-defined area within the Province of Trento. I should taste a glass later to confirm.

But tourism remains the main economic activity here and I am a happy contributor

The Gross domestic product (GDP) of the region was 20.5 billion euros in 2018, accounting for 1.2% of Italy's economic output. Don't regret a cent spent in Trentino so far :).

All these grapes need a lot of water to grow and this must be itHydro infrastructure made for irrigation? I think so.Good water, good wineLove this route!Adige natural river bedPassing by RoveretoNo 3925821784 happily transiting RoveretoIt's getting late but I should arrive soon to my destination in Calliano

Today was one of those perfect days for bike tourism considering the weather, scenery and infrastructure that made me fall in love with bike touring on EuroVelo years ago and still recall me back every year to this day.

Pizza and a glass of local wine for dinner. Cheers!

Arrived in Calliano by night time which is a bit too late indeed but I found a really nice place to spend the night, in an agritourism guesthouse owned by a local wine producer, but that's another topic for another day coming up soon in the next post.

Day 2 map: Peschiera del Garda to Calliano 83 km

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EuroVelo 7 - Peschiera del Garda to Calliano 83 km

First of all this being my first post this year I wish you all a Happy New Year, good health and peace in the world so you can enjoy life to...

EuroVelo 7 - Peschiera del Garda to Calliano 83 km

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