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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I don't think Venice is really about the major tourist spots or places in which you have to pay to get in. I personally think you can stay here in Venice and just wander the alleys during the day and night, taking in the different scenery and not spending too much money. It's mainly about the atmosphere. Obviously you have to pay for food and accommodation, so that will be very pricey if you stay and eat in the city.

I wasn't too concerned about visiting many places as I just wanted to photograph the landscape and water. When I was in St Mark's Square I thought it would make sense to pop in to Doge's Palace later in the evening and take a few photos of this palace built in the Venetian Gothic style as I had seen it once on TV before. I suppose this is one of the main landmarks, a building connected to the St Mark's Basilica that was created by the brothers Giovanni and Bartolomeo Bon in the mid-1400s.

I think you can capture Doge's palace better from the water at the back of the property, but it's not easy to capture so I stuck to taking pictures of details inside and outside. It was a nice experience to walk around and admire all the fantastic paintings both on the walls and the ceilings. Amazing how this kind of thing was a fashion back in the day. This is not really my personal taste in architecture, as I prefer more modern styles, but you still have to appreciate the construction methods and how they were able to build such properties back in the 14th or 15th century. Here are some photos, I hope you enjoy them.

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Exploring Venice - A Walk Around Doge's Palace

I don't think Venice is really about the major tourist spots or places in which you have to pay to get in. I personally think you...

Exploring Venice - A Walk Around Doge's Palace

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Today in this article I would like to tell you about the monastery of Astino which, as I indicated in the map in the first photo, is located right near the city of Bergamo.

The monastery was founded in 1070 by some monks and is located in a truly peaceful place where nature dominates the landscape and most likely it is for this reason that this area was chosen to build it.

This monastery has had a very troubled life because it both wants to close at the end of the 1700s and then hand over to various owners who let it go into decay but fortunately it was bought by a private foundation that managed to recover it and make it reopen for visits in 2015.

When I visited it, it housed a restaurant and a brewery on the ground floor.

The other floors and other spaces are not yet occupied by practically anything but the foundation intends to allocate them to the University of Bergamo where an ad hoc faculty will most likely be created to deal with tourism.

Not everyone agreed to host a restaurant and a brewery inside let's say this sacred place but the foundation needs income as they told me and therefore with the rent they take from this business they manage to maintain the restoration of this place.

inner courtyard of the monasteryinner courtyard of the monasterySara where meetings are heldSara where meetings are held

For heaven's sake, in the end, this place has now been deconsecrated also because the internal rooms are occasionally rented for meetings or business meetings.

So if you are near Bergamo I suggest you visit this complex which among other things is free admission but you have to consult the opening hours on the official website and I also recommend you take a walk in the woods surrounding the monastery because it is really worth it. worth it.

paintings that are insidepaintings that are inside

When I was there I was unable to visit it entirely because part of it was being restored. It must also be understood that these places are always an open construction site because these paintings always need to be treated.

the monastery is also connected by public transport departing from Bergamo or it can be reached by car but you have to park it a few kilometers away in a paid parking lot.

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The monastery of Astino

Today in this article I would like to tell you about the monastery of Astino which, as I indicated in the map in the first photo, is locat...

The monastery of Astino

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My visit of Venice is what I share with you today. I do not know which adjective for a town which does not have roads for cars but only canals among more than hundreds islands. What could I say about Venice? Well has different names but the most famous one is Serenissima ( the most serene). A name which probably has origin from the doge (the duke) the major chef during the Repubblic the Venice but there are not enough evidence about that.

The agglomeration around the VI a.C was inhabited by fisherman and farmers who escaped from Longbard invasion. In the following centuries Venice developped its trades and sea power and nowaday is a town which always astounds visitors in particular during the warmest months.

From the mainland to the railstation began my exploration of this floating city built on wooden platform. The building are not based on islands but into pillings which support the platform and the whole structure from the sea bottom to the top. But the wood does not rot on the water ? These pilings are completely immerged on the water. The lack of oxigen and the salt water have preserved these woods.

This is a reason why Venice an authentic ensemble of not only these buildings but also bridges,canals and gondolas. Someone says it is a romantic location to visit. Actually I do not have further definition for this beauty on the water. Firstly I head to Saint Mark square the core of Venice.

On the way I passed below the Rialto with its market. Probably to most famous bridge in Venice. And stop in Punta della dogana. To see Saint Mark square from another corner. And finally reach the core of Venice.

The weather become hot and going inside to the Doge Palace. And began to visit part of the heritage of this attractive square. Looking at its façade it has been rebuilt in the XV century preserving its old style and on one side the Gothic Porta della Carta (Paper Gateway) on the waterfront the Porta del frumento (Grain Gateway). This building was not only the residence of chef Doge but also seat the government for some hundreds of years. It preserves the history, art, economy of Venice

The famous bridge of Sighs made of white limestone which connect palace to the prisons in the other side of the canal.

And then Saint Mark basilica an architectural masterpiece, a mix between Romanesque-Byzantine and Gothic style with some Arabic influence.

The name of Patriarch of the city related to history of two Venetian merchants who found the relics of Mark the Evangelist found in Alexandria where he died. Its decorative narthex is impressive and look made of gold.

The interior is Greek cross plan with five domes situated in the middle of the buildings. There are mosaics which represent Apostles Evangelists, part of Old Testament.
Just a tour and a short description of the basilica and then went to the bell tower to see the views on its top.

Close to Saint Mark square is situated the Hard Rock Café I usually collect T-shirt and at least visit inside to see the different instruments inside the wall. In some of them I have also eaten.

In the afternoon I walked from the Saint Mark Square area to head to Fondamenta nova. Here the wharf where I caught the ferry to Murano. Another group of island part of Venice famous for their glassmakers and a museum dedicated to it. I did not take photos inside due to my low battery. The visitor can find a range of colourful glasses and different tecniques to obtain original results.

(The glass Museum)

The origin of Venetian glass industy is still uncertain. There is theory which mention some Venetian people in some Roman empire colonies somewhere in the coast of Adriatic Sea. They learn to technique of glassmaking from Romans. In the X century a document which certified the production of type of hollow glasses to make up bottles. The only evidence are through some glass fragments found in 1960's. More documents certified that the attivity of making enamel glasses the end of XIII century. A procedural guideline began to rule who was involved in the glassmaking.

This area is full of glass retailers who continue this old tradition. Whoever comes to Venice, should not miss it.
I came back to Fondamenta nova and walk through between he narrow streets and the canals to reach the Rialto bridge and take a look around his market.

I would conclude the post with a photo of a church close to the bridge named San Giacomo di Rialto (Saint James of Rialto) I just pass on the way head to the main railstation I found attractive its façade and its clock. It looks a particular and unique Gothic style

Time to come back to the mainland and leave this town buoyed up on the water.

Anyway, I suggest you to pay for a Venice card if you want to have admissions with a discount.

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A visit to Venice the Italian floating city

My visit of Venice is what I share with you today. I do not know which adjective for a town which does not have roads for cars but only cana...

A visit to Venice the Italian floating city

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