35 European Cities with Easy Same-Day Flights from America

28. Lecce, Italy: The Florence of the South

While travelers often focus on Rome, Venice, or Florence, Lecce—tucked away in Italy’s heel—is a dazzling Baroque masterpiece that delivers all the Italian charm without the inflated prices. Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is filled with intricately carved limestone churches, grand piazzas, and winding alleyways that invite exploration. The local cuisine is rustic and satisfying, with trattorias serving orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood, and Puglian wines at a fraction of the cost you’d pay in northern Italy. Spend your days admiring the Basilica di Santa Croce, relaxing in the atmospheric Piazza del Duomo, or taking a short drive to the white-sand beaches of the Adriatic coast. Lecce’s warm climate, authentic vibe, and affordability make it an Italian escape that feels luxurious—without the luxury price tag.