Getting Around Lecce and Salento: Public Transport, Rentals, and Parking

Lecce and Salento offer a fascinating travel experience, with baroque cities, coastal villages, and stunning beaches. To fully enjoy the region, it’s essential to know the best ways to get around, from public transport to car and bike rentals, as well as parking options in the busiest areas. Here’s a complete guide to moving around with ease during your vacation.

Public Transport: Buses and Trains to Explore Salento

For those who prefer traveling without a car, public transport offers several alternatives. Lecce is well connected to the rest of the province thanks to a network of buses and trains that allow access to the main tourist destinations.

  • Urban and intercity buses: The city of Lecce has a public transport system managed by Sgm, with routes covering the historic center and suburban areas. To travel outside the city, the main intercity bus companies are Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) and STP Brindisi, which connect Lecce with other Salento towns and the most popular seaside locations.
  • The train for Salento: The Ferrovie del Sud Est also manage the local railway network, linking Lecce with key destinations such as Gallipoli, Otranto, and Leuca. However, train schedules may be infrequent, so it’s always advisable to check timetables in advance.
  • Salento in Bus (summer service): During the summer months, the province of Lecce runs the Salento in Bus service, which allows tourists to reach major attractions like Porto Cesareo, Torre dell’Orso, Gallipoli, and Santa Maria di Leuca with dedicated routes.

Car, Scooter, and Bike Rentals: The Freedom to Explore

If you prefer to move around independently, renting a vehicle is one of the most practical solutions to visit Lecce and its surroundings without time constraints.

  • Car rentals: Several car rental companies operate in the city, both at Brindisi Airport (the closest airport to Lecce) and near the train station. Having a car allows you to discover secluded beaches and Salento’s countryside, rich with historic farms and hidden villages.
  • Scooter rentals: If you want to avoid city traffic and move around more easily, renting a scooter is a great alternative, especially in the summer months when coastal roads become busy with tourists.
  • Bicycles and e-bikes: Lecce is a bike-friendly city, with a pedestrianized historic center and several cycling paths. Many visitors choose to explore the city on two wheels, taking advantage of rental services available at various central locations. For those looking to venture beyond Lecce, some companies offer e-bike rentals, perfect for countryside and coastal routes.

Where to Park in Lecce: Tips and Best Areas

If you’re traveling by car, knowing where to park in Lecce can make your visit much easier. The city offers a range of public and private parking options.

  • Free parking: Finding free parking in Lecce’s historic center is challenging, especially in peak season. However, there are free spots in more peripheral areas, from which you can walk or take public transport to the city center.
  • Paid parking: Blue-striped parking spaces are common throughout the city, with fees varying by zone. The most convenient paid parking areas for visiting the historic center include Piazza Mazzini, Via Adua, and near Castello Carlo V.
  • Secure parking lots: If you prefer to leave your car in a safe area, there are private parking facilities, some of which offer shuttle services to the city center.
  • Lecce’s ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone): The historic center has a Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL), restricting vehicle access for non-residents during certain hours. If you’re staying in a hotel within the ZTL, check whether they offer parking permits or agreements with nearby garages.

Getting Around Lecce at Night: Convenience and Safety

Lecce’s nightlife is vibrant, with bars, restaurants, and lively squares staying open until late. If you need to get around at night, the best options include:

  • Taxis and private transfers (NCC): Lecce has a 24/7 taxi service, which can also be booked via mobile apps. Alternatively, Noleggio con Conducente (NCC) services offer pre-booked transfers for those traveling to other towns without hassle.
  • Night shuttles (summer): During the summer season, some Salento municipalities operate shuttle services to help tourists move between major nightlife spots.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around Lecce and Salento?

The best transport option depends on the type of trip you’re planning. If you’re staying in Lecce’s historic center, walking or renting a bicycle is the most convenient way to get around. To explore Salento and reach its most stunning beaches, renting a car or scooter is the most practical choice. Those traveling without a vehicle can rely on public transport, though it’s essential to check schedules and connections in advance.

Regardless of how you choose to travel, Salento will captivate you with its beauty, history, and warm hospitality. Plan your movements wisely and enjoy every moment of your trip between Lecce and the wonders of the Salento coast.