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Santa Caterina

Welcome to Santa Caterina, a charming coastal gem in Nardò, Province of Lecce! This vibrant seaside village dazzles with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and delightful cafes serving mouthwatering gelato. Stroll along the scenic promenade, bask in the sun, or explore nearby ancient ruins. Perfect for sun-seekers and history buffs alike, Santa Caterina is an Italian paradise you won’t forget!

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Recommendations

Landmark4.6/5

Torre Santa Caterina

Nardò's coastal watchtower rises among pine woods above the sea, reached by a rocky path. From the top, the coastline opens into a broad sweep of water.

Landmark4.5/5

Spiaggetta Santa Caterina

Nestled along the stunning coastline, Spiaggetta Santa Caterina captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque views, making it an iconic destination for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Landmark4.4/5

Grotta di Capelvenere

Nardò grotto tucked beside the coastal trail between Santa Caterina and Torre dell’Alto. Look up inside to see the stones and lava overhead.

Landmark4.6/5

The Dine - Guided Historical Villas

Explore The Dine - Guided Historical Villas in Nardò, where stunning architecture meets rich history, offering an unforgettable glimpse into Italy's past and an enchanting experience of timeless elegance.

Landmark4.7/5

Parco naturale regionale Porto Selvaggio e Palude del Capitano

Parco naturale regionale Porto Selvaggio e Palude del Capitano features stunning coastal cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and untouched nature, making it an iconic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking serene landscapes in Nardò.

Landmark4.5/5

Torre dell'Inserraglio (Torre Critò)

Landmark4.8/5

Torre dell'Alto

Landmark4.4/5

Torre del Fiume di Galatena (Quattro Colonne)

Landmark4.9/5

Porto Selvaggio Costa del Sud Diving Service

Landmark4/5

Porticciolo di Santa Caterina

Landmark4.7/5

Pineta di Santa Caterina

Drink4.3/5

Spiaggia Santa Caterina

Eat$$$3.5/5

Ristorante Le Terrazze

Eat$$$4.1/5

Gelateria Desideria - Nardò Santa Caterina

Eat$$$4.3/5

Barrueco

Eat$$$$4.3/5

Matam

This Italian restaurant serves seafood with a view over the water. At sunset, octopus falafels give the menu an unexpected turn.

Stays

Stay$$$4.65/5

Dimora Villa Serena Porto Selvaggio

Dimora Villa Serena Porto Selvaggio Gallipoli in Gallipoli offers recently renovated rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Each room includes a work desk, minibar, and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy a bar, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and a lounge. Additional amenities include a minimarket, coffee shop, and outdoor seating areas. A buffet breakfast is served daily, featuring Italian specialities, fresh pastries, and fruits. Gluten-free options are available. Located a 7-minute walk from Santa Caterina Beach and 1.1 km from Torre dell'Alto. Brindisi Airport is 68 km away. Nearby attractions include Parco Acquaviva and Il Castello Acquaviva.

Stay$$$$4.7/5

Villa Giulio - Dimora storica

Villa GIULIO Dimora Storica in Santa Caterina di Nardò offers a garden, terrace, and open-air bath. Free WiFi is available in public areas. Guests enjoy a hot tub, outdoor play area, and children's playground. Family rooms and private bathrooms with garden views enhance the stay. An Italian breakfast with juice is served daily. Additional amenities include air-conditioning, bathrobes, and a TV. Santa Caterina Beach is a 13-minute walk away, Torre dell'Alto 1.9 km, and Brindisi Airport 76 km distant. Scuba diving is available in the surroundings.

Stay$$$$4.25/5

Santa Caterina Resort

Set on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and a 10-minute drive from Nardò, Santa Caterina. All suites at Santa Caterina Hotel & Apartment are air conditioned and come with free WiFi, wood floors and a living area with flat-screen TV. Their balconies offer garden views. Offering a free car park with CCTV, Santa Caterina Hotel & Apartment is a 20-minute drive from Gallipoli and Porto Cesareo.

Stay5/5

Vimini Villa Marea

Nestled in the charming town of Nardò, Vimini Villa Marea is renowned for its stunning coastal views and exquisite architecture, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking beauty and tranquility in Italy.

Stay4.7/5

Santa Caterina di Nardó

Santa Caterina is a small seaside village on Puglia’s Ionian coast. Freshwater springs mix with seawater around coves below the tower, so swimming shifts between warmer and colder water.

Stay

Domusvacanza Salento

Nestled in the charming town of Nardò, Domusvacanza Salento offers a stunning blend of traditional architecture and modern comfort, making it an iconic escape to experience the beauty of Italy's coastal wonders.

Stay

Villetta a 100mt dal mare

Stay

Sea view villa in Santa Caterina, Nardò (LE)

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

7 h 15 mins

Lecce to Gallipoli E-Bike Tour with Swim, Farm Tasting +Taxi back

Your adventure begins in the heart of Lecce’s old town, where we set off on e-bikes and follow peaceful countryside roads lined with vineyards, traditional masserias, and ancient olive groves. Our first stop is at the Farmer house (Pantaleo). Here you will try Olive oil and wine while Pantaleo's wife serves us puglian snacks. Next stop is Nardò, a charming baroque town where you’ll enjoy a relaxing coffee break. Try the famous caffè leccese—espresso over ice with almond syrup—and pasticciotto pastry. From Nardò, we ride toward the shimmering Ionian Sea and reach the seaside village of Santa Maria al Bagno, whose crystal-clear waters offer the perfect chance for a refreshing swim. We then continue cycling along the scenic coastline—mostly on dedicated bike paths—until we arrive in Gallipoli, known for its historic old town set on an island and surrounded by turquoise water. From Gallipoli a private taxi (included) will take you back to your hotel in Lecce in about 35 minutes.

$192.44

5/5

4 h 30 mins

Lecce to Galatina E-Bike: Olive Mill & Wine Tasting + Taxi back

Explore the Lecce countryside on a premium E-bike along an easy flat 28 km (17-mile) route. Ride through quiet rural roads to ancient villages and discover Salento’s traditions. In Sternatia, meet Gaetano—a storyteller and poet who speaks Griko, the ancient Greek dialect of the Grecìa Salentina. With him, explore a 15th-century underground olive oil mill, hear a poem in Griko, and learn stories about lamp-oil traders, village life, and this unique cultural enclave. Continue through two villages of the Grecìa Salentina, home of the Griko people, a Greek-speaking community with 3,000 years of history. In Galatina, visit the Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, famous for its 14th-century Giotto-style frescoes. Stop at Pasticceria Ascalone, birthplace of the Pasticciotto (1740) At 1 PM, a private taxi (included) takes you back to Lecce. NOTE: Optional Primitivo wine tasting and traditional Puglian lunch (extra cost; private groups only; request one week in advance).

$169.66

5/5

Full Day Tour to Gallipoli, Galatina, Coast, Beaches and Winery

This tour will take you to discover the lovely Salento towns of Gallipoli and Galatina starting from Lecce and crossing the peninsula among typical villages and vineyards, also stopping, as an optional choice, in one of the most important Salento wineries for a tasting experience. There will be no shortage of halts along the Ionian coast for fully enjoying the breathtaking views that will await you. The journey will go on heading to a wonderful beach where you can swim before the visit among narrow alleys, shops and sea views of which Gallipoli will surprise you. In the case you’ll choose not to attend the wine tasting, or depending on the cellar unavailability, like on Sundays, we'll spend more time in the place you'll prefer or we’ll stop in Nardò to visit its nice historic center.

$146.89

5/5

3 h

Kayaking & Snorkeling: Porto Cesareo and Rabbit Island

We will explore the marine protected area of Porto Cesaereo on board our kayaks. We will move in the calm and transparent waters of the lagoon and reach the Island of Rabbits, with its small beaches in Caribbean colors. Here we will take a short walk to discover the island from a historical and naturalistic point of view and then a stop for swimming, relaxation and snorkeling. We will then reach the tower of Porto Cesareo, a defensive system dating back to the sixteenth century and we will skirt the town's promenade and its beautiful golden beaches. If the sea allows, we will have the opportunity to observe an important site of underwater archaeology: we will observe fascinating Roman columns, lost from a ship during a storm and lying on the sandy bottom of Porto Cesareo since the second century AD.C.

$62.63

5/5

8 h

Gallipoli Inland and Surroundings Full-Day Bike Tour

Gallipoli and its inland still retain traces of the wealth that the lamp oil trade generated for centuries. First stop is at Alezio for a tasting in a cheese farm, then we go on to Tuglie for the amazing Radio Museum (all the items, including telegraphs, are still in working order!) or for the Museum of Rural Life. Heading back toward the coast, in the Porto Selvaggio Natural Reserve we have a picnic lunch (not included) in the shade of the pine forest and, for those who feel like it, a refreshing swim in the cool spring waters. On the way back to Gallipoli we stop in Santa Caterina to taste one of the best ice cream of the region (they’re specialized in “salty pistacchios”, “almond and figs” and “chocolate cream”). We arrive in Gallipoli by the sunset.

$153.72

5/5

2 h

Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo

The archeological sites at the coast of Porto Cesareo tell us about a local history that was intimately bound to the rest of the Mediterranean. Indeed, the archeological remains that we will see will lead us to consider the relationships with other parts of the basin and to talk about ancient navigation, the “marble route” coming from the Aegean and deities coming from ancient Egypt. In addition, it will appear clear the relevance of physical geography shaping local history. Thus, we will talk about the main features of the Mediterranean Basin, the evolution of coastal topography and geomorphological processes. After describing and talking about the history of modern and contemporary buildings that we will see, we will try to reconstruct the evolution of the coastal landscape and the destruction of the coastal ecosystems. This tour is recommended for archeology, history, geography and culture enthusiasts, naturalists, swimmers, active tourists and adventure seekers.

$51.24

5/5

6 h

Med Fish Pasta Evoo and Rosato Wine Amaro Course in Puglia

Visit a local fish market with an expert. 'The pioneers of teaching food and wine in Puglia- The New York Times. Owner is a sommelier of wine, sommelier of extra virgin olive oil, classes are held in one of Italy's most beautiful kitchens, fitted with antique copper pots and pans and one of Italy's largest private amaro collections.

$244.82

5/5

192 h

DISCOVERY OF PUGLIA Small Group Tour: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Operated By GoinItaly For those who want to travel through history, GoinItaly's eight-day Discovery of Puglia small group tour offers a wide range of places that testify to the ancient origins of this land: from prehistory to Magna Graecia, from the Imperial Age to the Renaissance, and the Baroque splendor of Lecce. Puglia is full of surprises and delights: fabulous food, historic towns, beautiful beaches, and gracious residents. Highlights: - Visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Alberobello, Castel del Monte, and Matera. - Savor the flavors of Puglian cuisine and wine. - Admire the beautiful Baroque architecture of Lecce. - Spend two nights in a traditional “trullo” in Alberobello. - Tour Otranto, the “heel” of Italy, and visit a cathedral renowned for its collection of mosaic scenes.

$5,921.18

5/5

7 h

LECCE & GALLIPOLI from Bari or customers accomodation

discovering PUGLIA !! pick up 9,30am directly from your accomodation we will go to some of the most popular destinations in Italy!! LECCE visits the pugliese baroque city! the florence of the southern! transport to GALLIPOLI (on the way stop on beautiful beaches!!! PUGLIA is considered the Carribee of Europe! than visit of Gallipoli (the seacity) twice promenade (3000 years old) seems like "attached" to the sky... and a wonderful turquoise from the sea! Enjoy!!

$272.68

5/5

2 h

Galatina Private Tour: Amazing frescoes Giottesque in Puglia

Discover the artistic and historical treasures of Galatina, a gem of Salento, with a walking tour through the historic center, where every street tells centuries of history and tradition. Begin in Via Orsini, in front of the Basilica of St.Catherine of Alexandria, with its striking Gothic-Renaissance façade blending Romanesque, Gothic and Byzantine elements. Inside, admire the extraordinary 15th-century frescoes, along with the frescoed cloister, the museum, and the relic room. Continuing through the town’s streets, discover Palazzo Orsini, an elegant noble residence, and the Clock Tower, a city landmark overlooking the urban skyline. Then reach the Church of St.Peter & Paul, with its simple façade enriched by Baroque details and interiors featuring carved altars, frescoes, and decorations End your experience by strolling through the alleys of the historic center, among hidden courtyards and charming squares, enjoying an authentic journey through art, history, and local traditions.

$307.45

5/5

8 h

From Lecce & Brindisi: Gallipoli, Otranto & Hidden Gems

This tour lets you discover the true Salento in one unforgettable day — sea, culture, history and breathtaking nature. You’ll explore Otranto and Gallipoli, and visit two natural wonders: the Bauxite Quarry, with its emerald lake and red earth, and Punta Palascia, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. You’ll walk through historic alleys, enjoy authentic village life and, if you wish, relax on beautiful beaches and swim in crystal-clear waters. What makes this experience truly unique is the professional audio-guide device included, with stories, curiosities, local tips and food suggestions that enrich every stop. We are a fully authorized, reliable tour company. No risks, no surprises — just a smooth, safe and well-organized day. From Otranto’s Cathedral to Gallipoli’s golden shores, you’ll experience every side of Salento in total comfort. Departures from Brindisi and Lecce; other pickup points available on request.

$256.20

5/5

2 h

Catania Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems

Join us for a walking tour through the heart of Catania and discover its most iconic landmarks in one captivating walk. From the grandeur of the Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata to the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Duomo, each stop reveals the rich history and Baroque beauty that define the city. Admire the elegance of Via Crociferi, and enjoy the charm of City Hall and Piazza Università, all while learning the stories that bring Catania to life. Book now and immerse yourself in Catania’s unique heritage.

$45.00

5/5

8 h

Private Salento Tour: Galatina, Otranto, Leuca and Gallipoli

This private tour, with a fixed price for groups of 1 to 8 people, allows you to discover four of the most charming destinations in Salento aboard a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, accompanied by a professional driver who will share interesting facts, local history, and useful tips about each destination. You will visit Galatina, a true gem of art, history, and tradition; Otranto, one of Italy’s most beautiful seaside towns, located at the easternmost point of the Italian peninsula; Santa Maria di Leuca, the famous Finibus Terrae, where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea; and Gallipoli, known as the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea”, renowned for its charming historic center and crystal-clear waters. Throughout the day, you will enjoy one of Puglia’s most scenic coastal routes, crossing Salento from the Adriatic to the Ionian Sea, passing dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, picturesque fishing villages, and white sandy beaches with Caribbean-like waters.

$625.14

5/5

2 h 30 mins

Dining Experience at a local's Home in Gallipoli with Show Cooking

Immerse yourself in a private dining experience at a local's home, enjoy an exclusive show cooking and taste authentic recipes from Gallipoli treasured in family cookbooks passed down by real Italian Mammas. Feel the warmth of Italian hospitality as you connect with local people. Enjoy a 4-course menu including starter, pasta, main course with side dish, dessert with drinks included (water, selection of red and white wines from regional cellars and coffee). This experience is held by Cesarine: Italy’s oldest network of home cooks all over the country in more than 500 cities. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.

$96.79

5/5

7 h 30 mins

Lecce and Gallipoli Full-Day Heritage and Wine Tour

Indulge in a chauffeured tour and enjoy the spectacular landscape of Puglia. Savour some of the best wines and get a glimpse of some of the region's architectural gems. You'll travel in comfort and style on this tour to visit Lecce and Gallipoli.

$335.91

5/5

24 h

Bike Tour | Cave of Poetry and Arch of Lovers |

With Apulia Outdoor you don’t just rent a bike — you embark on a journey that captures the essence of Adriatic Salento. Our exclusive track Guides you along a route that touches the most iconic and suggestive places of the coast: the romantic Arco degli Innamorati di Sant’Andrea, where the sea carves the rock into legendary shapes, and the magical Grotta della Poesia, a natural pool among the most beautiful in the world, where history and nature meet in a perfect embrace. You'll ride through golden countryside, fragrant pine forests and changing landscapes at every turn, with the freedom to do so at your own pace, on perfectly equipped premium SCOTT bikes. One tour, endless emotions: the most authentic Salento DA saddle, with the poetry of the sea always beside.

$68.32

5/5

8 h

Day Tour to Alberobello and Polignano a Mare

Discover two of Puglia's most iconic destinations on a full-day tour departing from Gallipoli or anywhere in the province of Lecce. Departure at 9:30 am to reach Alberobello, a UNESCO site famous for its fairytale trulli. Stroll through the Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts, visit the Trullo Sovrano or the Church of Sant’Antonio and explore the local craft shops. Continue to Polignano a Mare, perched on the cliffs overlooking the Adriatic. Discover the old town, enjoy panoramic views and admire the picturesque beach of Lama Monachile. Don't miss a homemade ice cream or coffee specialty. Return at 17:30 to the starting point. - Departure at 9:30 from Gallipoli or from a point of your choice in the province of Lecce - Free time among shops, local flavors and picturesque streets - Visit to the trulli of Alberobello, UNESCO World Heritage Site - Explore Polignano a Mare and admire the view from the Adriatic - Planned return at 17:30

$227.74

5/5

4 h

Dining Experience at a local's Home in Galatina with Show Cooking

Immerse yourself in a private dining experience at a local's home, enjoy an exclusive show cooking and taste authentic recipes from Italy treasured in family cookbooks passed down by real Italian Mammas. Feel the warmth of Italian hospitality as you connect with local people. Enjoy a 4-course menu including starter, pasta, main course with side dish, dessert with drinks included (water, selection of red and white wines from regional cellars and coffee). This experience is held by Cesarine: Italy’s oldest network of home cooks all over the country in more than 500 cities. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.

$96.79

5/5

192 h

All Inclusive Weeklong Tour of Salento's Coasts and Countryside

Our tours are crafted to provide an authentic and genuine experience. We believe in immersing you in the true essence of Salento, showcasing its culture, traditions, and way of life. From off-the-beaten-path attractions to hidden gems known only to locals, every aspect of our itinerary is designed to offer a genuine encounter with the heart and soul of the region. One of the hallmarks of our tours is the personal connection we foster with the local community. We go beyond the surface, establishing meaningful relationships with the locals, from the lively markets to the family-run restaurants, we will bring you in close contact with the lifestyle of this place that seems frozen in time. Additionally, our tour offers a unique culinary adventure as we prioritize the use of locally sourced ingredients in all our meals.

$4,000.00

5/5

2 h 30 mins

Dining experience at a local's home in Porto Cesareo with cooking demo

Immerse yourself in a private dining experience at a local's home, enjoy an exclusive show cooking and taste authentic recipes from Varese treasured in family cookbooks passed down by real Italian Mammas. Feel the warmth of Italian hospitality as you connect with local people. Enjoy a 4-course menu including starter, pasta, main course with side dish, dessert with drinks included (water, selection of red and white wines from regional cellars and coffee). This experience is held by Cesarine: Italy’s oldest network of home cooks all over the country in more than 500 cities. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.