5 Days: Salento & Cilento Coast, Italy

When it comes to exploring Puglia, few regions rival the beauty of Salento. Think dramatic seaside cliffs, turquoise waters, Baroque towns, and authentic cuisine. Our itinerary blends coastal drives, hidden coves, and charming villages for a perfect Pugliese escape.

Torre Sant'Andrea

Overview

• Day 1: Lecce & Torre dell’Orso

• Day 2: Drive the heel of Italy

• Day 3: Otranto & Torre Sant’Andrea

• Day 4: Drive to Palinuro (Cilento Coast)

• Day 5: Cilento Coast to Salerno

Day 1: Lecce & Torre dell’Orso

Having spent four days in Valle d’Itria, we were ready to explore the southern region Puglia. Number one on our bucket list was a visit to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South”. The drive in was quick and easy, we parked just outside of town and set out by foot to explore its Baroque architecture and lively piazzas.

Basilica di Santa Croce

We wandered through the historic center, stopping for multiple photos of Piazza del Duomo, the impressive Lecce Cathedral, the ancient Roman Amphitheater, and the intricate façade of the Basilica di Santa Croce. We perused the local markets with authentic locally made products (I got a lovely hand made necklace with carved wood pendant). After a tasty informal lunch of 'polpette' at Prendici Gusto, we stopped for typical iced “Caffè Leccesse” with a yummy pasticciotto (Italian pastry filled with cream) at Caffè Della Lupa before heading out.

Torre dell'Orso

In the afternoon, we made our way to Torre dell'Orso, a coastal gem known for its dramatic cliffs and the iconic “Due Sorelle” rock formations rising from the sea. After a beautiful walk along the cliffs, we cooled off with a swim and relaxed on the wide sandy beach listening to the waves roll in.

We topped off our day by checking in to our amazing masseria in the countryside of Borgagne. This place was the highlight of our trip. I loved spending time here, it was a peaceful base, with a beautiful plunge pool surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, and perfectly located to explore the region.

Day 2: Driving the Heel of Italy

This was one of the most scenic days of our trip—a coastal drive tracing the very edge of Italy’s “heel.” We started at Faro di Punta Palascia, the easternmost point in the country, where we took a hike and appreciated the endless views across the Adriatic Sea.

From there, we made it to one of the highlights of the day, Santa Cesarea Terme. Known for its thermal baths and unique architecture blending Moorish and Art Nouveau styles, we loved exploring the town’s streets and terraces with incredible views over the water.

Santa Cesarea Terme

From there, we followed the coastline south, stopping Cala dell’Acquaviva, a small, secluded cove tucked between rocky cliffs for a quick swim where we were surprised at how busy it was, so we had just a quick dip! 

Continuing along, we passed through smaller towns like Tricase, where we stopped for lunch with a view of the sea and a 'Crema di Caffé' , before arriving at Santa Maria di Leuca. Located at the very tip of the heel, Leuca is where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. With its lighthouse, coastal views, and relaxed atmosphere, it was the perfect place to pick up some fresh peaches at a local shop and stretch our legs for a walk along the coast to take it all in before heading back.

Day 3: Otranto & Torre Sant’Andrea

On day three, we drove to Otranto, one of Salento’s most beautiful coastal towns. Its old town is a maze of narrow streets filled with lovely cafés, boutiques, and artisan shops.

We saw the Otranto Cathedral, famous for its intricate mosaic floor depicting the Tree of Life, and explored the Castello Aragonese, which offers sweeping views of the sea. After a nice waterfront lunch, we took a swim right in center of town in its crystal clean turquoise waters. 

Lover's arch, Torre Sant'Andrea

That afternoon we headed off to Torre Sant'Andrea, known for its dramatic white limestone cliffs and striking sea stacks rising from vivid turquoise water. It’s an incredible spot for swimming, cliff jumping, snorkelling, or simply taking in the views. We were so happy to have seen the famous “Lover's arch” before it unfortunately collapsed ironically on Valentine's Day in 2026.

Day 4: Palinuro (Cilento Coast)

On day 4 we said goodbye to beautiful Puglia, and made our way west to Palinuro, marking the transition to the Cilento Coast. The four hour drive was rewarding, gradually shifting from the flatter landscapes of Salento to more rugged, mountainous terrain of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Palinuro is a relaxed seaside town known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear water. After arriving, we unwinded by walking along the beach, and having a swim at the local beach. After a quick shower in our accommodation with a view  we made our way through this authentic town to the port for dinner with a perfect view the town in the distance. After dinner we strolled the quaint city streets and shops and stopped for coffee and gelato to people watch and enjoy the relaxed beach side vibe.

Tip: For those looking to explore more in Palinuro, boat tours to the famous Blue Grotto and surrounding sea caves are a popular option and a great way to experience the coastline from the water.

Day 5: Cilento Coast to Salerno

After a relaxed breakfast, we set off for the beautiful drive along the Cilento Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unspoiled beauty and charm. The road winds along dramatic cliffs, passing quiet beaches, rolling hills, olive groves, and small villages that feel untouched by time. 

We stopped for lunch in Agropoli, the largest town in Cilento and home to a charming historic center. We took the time to climb up through narrow alleys and lively piazzas, to reach the hilltop Castello di Agropoli, where we were rewarded with sweeping views of the coastline making for a perfect midday pause for lunch.

Just outside of Agropoli lies Paestum, one of Italy’s most important archaeological sites, known for its remarkably well-preserved Greek temples. While we didn’t have time to visit, it’s worth factoring into your itinerary if time allows.

Continuing north, the landscape gradually shifts from rugged and rural to more urban as you approach Salerno. By mid afternoon, we arrived in this lively port city—an ideal gateway to the Amalfi Coast thanks to its ferry connections and transport links.

Tips: 

• Staying at a Masseria offers a truly authentic experience—peaceful, rustic, and immersed in nature.

• The best time to visit is spring or fall to avoid peak summer crowds and the Mediterranean heat.

Staying a little longer? Check out 4 Days in Valle d’Itria: The Heart of Puglia and 7 Days on the Amalfi Coast & Rome