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Santa Cesarea Terme

Nestled on the stunning Salento coast, Santa Cesarea Terme is a charming gem where crystal-clear waters meet natural mineral springs. Stroll through delightful whitewashed streets, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and savor fresh seafood delights. With its breathtaking views and vibrant local culture, this coastal escape is perfect for sunseekers and adventure lovers alike. Dive in and explore!

From the Community

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Recommendations

Landmark4.4/5

Santa Cesarea

Landmark4.5/5

Grotta Gattulla

Landmark4.5/5

Sulfur Cave Santa Caesarea

Landmark4.8/5

Villa Sticchi

Landmark4.5/5

Palazzo Sticchi

Santa Cesarea Terme's Moorish-revival palazzo stands above the Adriatic, its architecture echoing North African forms. From the promenade, it rises against the sea.

Culture4/5

Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo

Church in Vitigliano, Italy.

Culture4.5/5

Chiesa del Sacro Cuore

Landmark4.6/5

Torre Minervino

Landmark4.4/5

Torre Specchia di Guardia

Santa Cesarea Terme's small round coastal tower stands on a plateau above the Adriatic. From here, the coast opens into a long sea view.

Shop5/5

Il Mercatino Salentino

Drink$$4.7/5

Garden

Square-side bar in Cerfignano for coffee, Aperol spritzes and bruschetta. People-watching on the village square comes with it.

Drink$$$4.5/5

En-pló

Eat$$$4.3/5

Il Triangolo Azzurro

Eat$$$4.1/5

Moresco caffè

Eat4.3/5

Bagno Marino Archi

Eat$$$4.5/5

Tatanzinu

Drink$$4.7/5

Bar Tabacchi

Eat$$$$4.3/5

Terrazza Paradiso

Stays

Stay$$$4.2/5

Hotel Aurora e del Benessere

Just 200 metres from the Adriatic Sea, Hotel Aurora e del Benessere & Spa offers a seasonal outdoor pool and free WiFi throughout. The Terme di Santa Cesarea thermal baths are 3 minutes' walk away. All air conditioned, rooms here feature a minibar and a satellite flat-screen TV. The private bathroom has a hairdryer and free toiletries. Some rooms have sea views. You can start your day with a sweet and savoury buffet-style breakfast. The traditional restaurant specialises in regional cuisine. A wellness centre is also featured at the hotel, and you can book sessions there. Hotel Aurora e del Benessere is a 20-minute drive from Otranto. Santa Maria di Leuca is 34 km away.

Stay$$$$3.45/5

Albergo Palazzo - Terme e Centro Benessere

Offering a typical restaurant, Albergo Palazzo is located in Santa Cesarea Terme, with direct access to the nearby local thermal baths. It offers air-conditioned rooms, free private parking, a buffet-style breakfast and WiFi is free in rooms and shared areas. Featuring a classic décor, the rooms are provided with a TV, and an en suite bathroom. At the Palazzo Albergo you can start the day with a buffet featuring both sweet and savoury products. The restaurant serves typical regional and Mediterranean cuisine. Otranto is 16 km from the hotel, while Lecce is less than a 45-minute drive away. You can purchase transfers to Lecce, Brindisi and Poggiardo.

Stay5/5

I Tre Bacili Dimora Salentina

This Spongano hotel has spacious rooms, a garden, terrace and pool. Breakfast tables sit among the garden greenery, and some rooms have private rooftop patios.

Stay4.9/5

Stella di Mare - Casa Vacanza Otranto

Comfortable vacation house near the seafront, with the beach and Otranto’s historic center a short walk away.

Stay2.25/5

East Santa Cesarea Terme

Stay$$$4.15/5

Hotel Santa Lucia

Set in Santa Cesarea Terme on the coast of Salento, Santa Lucia offers 3000-m² garden with swimming pool. You will have a free gym and outdoor hot tub at Hotel Santa Lucia. Children have their own area. Boat trips and tours can be arranged at reception. Rooms are bright and comfortable. They have a modern design with tiled floors and are all air conditioned. You will have a flat-screen TV, mini fridge and private bathroom. A buffet breakfast is served each morning in the breakfast room. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas and free parking is provided. Otranto is 16 km away and you can reach Lecce in 40 minutes by car. Please note that animal that weight more than 10 kg are not allowed in the property

Stay4.3/5

Hotel a Otranto sul mare - Palascìa Wellness Relais

This Otranto hotel is a short walk from the sea. You can have breakfast here all day, including homemade pastries and cakes.

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

Full Day Tour to Otranto coast most beautiful Beaches from Lecce

Our trip will take us to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Otranto coast, enjoying the whole journey surrounded by a lovely Mediterranean scrubland. I'll drive you to the Otranto city first where you can have an independent tour in the amazing old Town. Then we'll go to one of well rated bakery shop for an independent shopping of typical gluttony that you might enjoy in the first beach we'll stop along the waterfront of Otranto. The next transfer will take us to the Turks’ bay, the wildest beach you could ever seen. Here you can enjoy your time as you prefer, getting a swim or walking around the pine path discovering the amazing coves that the place offers. In Torre Sant’ Andrea, our next halt, you could find out the clearest water you’ve ever seen in Puglia. The tour is just for you, so we don’t need hurry and your visit time will be very flexible.

$146.89

5/5

4 h

Exclusive Private Tour: San Foca - Otranto by Boat (4 Hours)!

One of our customers' most popular and appreciated tours – the 4-hour complete tour to Otranto is the ideal all-inclusive experience for those who want to discover the Adriatic coast of Salento without sacrificing anything. Departure from the port of San Foca with an expert captain and a comfortable boat, just for your group (max 7 people). Itinerary: • Torre dell'Orso – swimming stop under the Le Due Sorelle sea stacks • Sant'Andrea – swimming stop in the Baia del Bastimento bay • Conca Specchiulla (wild coast) – panoramic passage • Frassanito (wild coast) – panoramic passage • Baia dei Laghi Alimini – panoramic passage • Baia dei Turchi – panoramic passage • Baia del Mulino d'Acqua – swimming stop, bay with a cave accessible by swimming, white sand *Swimming stops approximately 20-25 minutes* Included: • 3 swimming stops in total • Experienced captain • Fresh water • Basic fuel • Souvenir photo • 100% reliability Experience the authentic Salento: sea, nature, and unique moments. Book now.

$956.50

5/5

3 h 30 mins

Bike Tour of Italy's Megalithic Garden and the Idro Valley

This tour takes place in the Idro Valley and the Giurdignano area. Both of these regions are characterized by a picturesque landscape, rich in nature and olive groves, and by a wealth of archaeological and historical sites, spanning from prehistory to the modern era. Menhirs, dolmens, churches carved in the stone, and graffities are just some of the traces of past civilizations scattered throughout these territories. To explore these areas, a bicycle is the best mode of transportation because it allows you to reach places inaccessible by car. The first part of the route heads up the Idro Valley to reach Giurdignano. From there, we head toward the Massi della Vecchia and then return to Otranto. Along the way, we will make a few stops to visit natural and archaeological sites. This is a cultural and active tour, designed for people interested in nature, history, archaeology, and outdoor activities. It is intended for anyone in good physical condition who is comfortable riding a bicycle.

$102.48

5/5

2 h

Otranto Private Tour: scenic town overlooking Adriatic sea

Described as the “Gateway to the East” and the most eastern of Italy’s cities, Otranto was founded thousands of years ago by Greeks from Crete. Explore this fascinating history through its main attractions. Discover the Otranto Cathedral, consecrated in 1088 and still the largest Romanesque building in Apulia. Admire the mosaic floor, made of thousands of tiles depicting scenes from the Old Testament and figures from Breton legends. Observe the columns believed to come from a Temple of Minerva and the bones and relics of the Martyrs of Otranto, killed during the 15th-century siege. Also admire the 42 marble columns supporting the crypt. Continue to the Church of St. Peter and the Aragonese Castle, reinforced by Frederick II and rebuilt by Alphonso II of Naples between 1485 and 1498, featuring an irregular five-sided plan and a moat surrounding the entire perimeter. Finally, enjoy the panoramic sea views: on clear days you can see the coasts of Greece and Albania across the Adriatic

$359.83

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 to Otranto E-Bike Tour + Swim and Taxi back

Discover southern Puglia on a 47 km e-bike tour from Lecce to Otranto. Ride through quiet country roads, olive groves, and whitewashed villages, stopping to enjoy local treats like Pasticciotto, Rustico, and Caffè Leccese. The route includes the spectacular Grotta della Poesia and the Faraglioni di Sant’Andrea, where you can also swim in the crystal-clear sea. An optional wine tasting and lunch experience is available. Your journey ends in Otranto, where you can explore the old town, admire the Cathedral’s mosaic, shop in local boutiques, enjoy lunch by the sea, and take another refreshing swim. A taxi ride back to Lecce is included for a comfortable return.

$226.60

5/5

4 h 30 mins

Lecce: Hike to Otranto with town visit – Half Day Trekking +Taxi

Experience one of Puglia’s most beautiful coastal walks on this 7 km (about 1.5 hours) guided hike from the Cava di Bauxite to Otranto. Your adventure begins at the extraordinary Cava di Bauxite, where bright red earth surrounds a striking emerald lake—one of Salento’s most unique natural landscapes. From here, follow scenic seaside trails to the unspoiled Baia delle Orte, a quiet bay of crystal-clear water where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and a relaxing coffee break right by the sea. Continue along the cliffs to the historic Torre del Serpe, a medieval watchtower wrapped in local legend and offering sweeping views over the Adriatic. Your hike ends in the charming coastal town of Otranto, where you’ll have free time to explore the old town, visit the famous Cathedral with its 12th-century mosaic floor, swim, shop, or enjoy fresh seafood. When you're ready, your private taxi will bring you comfortably back to Lecce.

$181.05

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

Private Tour in 2 Towns: Lecce and Brindisi

We warmly invite you to join us on a private tour of Lecce and Brindisi, where history and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony. Discover Lecce’s exquisite Baroque architecture, ancient ruins, and charming streets, followed by a visit to Brindisi’s stunning coastline, historic cathedral, and archeological site with the Trajan roman road and roman columns close to Virgil's home. Enjoy a personalized, relaxed experience crafted just for you. Kindly book your unforgettable journey through the heart of Puglia with us. We look forward to welcoming you.

$363.24

5/5

9 h 30 mins

Motor boat rental in Castro

Live the Salento sea in total freedom with an unforgettable experience in Castro Marina! Rent a motor boat and become the protagonist of your day, even without a boat license. After a brief initial briefing, you will receive a 5.95 meter boat with a 40 hp engine, easy to drive and equipped with sunbathing, awning and ladder. Sail north and admire spectacular sea caves, including the Blue Grotto, Palombara Grotto and Zinzulusa Grotto. You can stop in quiet coves and swim in crystal clear waters. The experience lasts about 9 hours and 30 minutes (from 9: 00) and is suitable for groups of up to 7 people: the boat is approved for 7, but a maximum of 5 is recommended for greater comfort. Fuel excluded, to be paid according to consumption. Book now and experience a day of beach and relaxation! ☀️

$193.58

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 Hours Private Walking Tour with Certified Guide of Otranto

You will retrace the Greek, Roman and Byzantine history of Otranto with a walking tour: you will explore the main sites of the "Gateway to the East", discovering the Norman Cathedral with the floor mosaic and admire the bones of the Martyrs of Otranto. Visit the Castle of Otranto to enjoy a panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea. Finally, enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the sea and in good weather, your view will extend across the Adriatic to Greece and Albania.

$341.61

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

5 h

Tritone Tours Otranto Exclusive Boat Tours

Tritone Tour accompanies you to discover the marine coasts of Otranto: Natural wonders and beautiful color contrasts, perfect for photographs of which you will be proud! Comfort on board Tritone, relaxation, music and a typical aperitif interspersed with dives and swims in the most beautiful sea of Salento! The Expert skipper is at your disposal to guide you to the discovery of these dream places. Your holiday will be The Unforgettable Day!

$740.15

5/5

3 h

Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Otranto

Dive into the regional traditions of everyday Italy and discover the secrets of Otranto's cuisine. Learning how to cook in a local home is a wonderful way to gain insight into Italy's real culture. What could be a better souvenir than cooking knowledge to last a lifetime? Learn how to prepare 3 local recipes from scratch with your Cesarina, and discover the secrets of regional Italian cuisine. The pleasure of conviviality goes far beyond good food and wine. Our guests take part in an experience which is so much more than just a cooking class. Learning and dining with a Cesarina gives you the chance to be welcomed in like one of the family and live like the Italians do. Cesarine is Italy’s oldest network of home cooks. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.

$165.11

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

24 h

Day Tour in Gravel Bike

With Apulia Outdoor you don’t just rent a gravel bike — you experience the most authentic Puglia, cycling along one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in Italy. Our experience is tailor-made: after Reservation, a Local Guide will contact you to create the perfect itinerary for you, DA 30 or 60 km, through Salento countryside, historic villages and breathtaking sea views. Upon delivery you will receive a personalized GPS track, ready to guide you through the most iconic places of Salento: the Grotto of Poetry, the Arch of Lovers of Sant’Andrea, Roca Vecchia and the small villages of Grecìa Salentina. Our fully equipped premium SCOTT bikes guarantee comfort and performance on any terrain, while our local team is always ready to assist you. A unique way to discover Puglia: authentic, safe and unforgettable.

$56.93

5/5

2 h 30 mins

Yacht Tour with Skipper Along the Salento Coast from San Foca

Experience the authentic charm of Salento with an exclusive yacht charter with skipper and discover the coast from a unique perspective. Aboard a comfortable private boat you will sail through crystal clear waters, sea caves, hidden coves and spectacular cliffs, accompanied by an Expert skipper who will guide you along some of the most picturesque stretches of the coastline. During the excursion you can relax in the sun, admire breathtaking views and make stops to swim in the beautiful turquoise waters of Salento. This private experience is ideal for couples, families or groups of friends who want to experience the sea in total relaxation and away from the crowds. You can choose between three different durations: a 2.5-hour excursion, perfect for a short discovery of the coast; a half-day tour to explore more coves and caves; or a full-day excursion to enjoy the Salento sea without haste.

$1,547.48

5/5

4 h

Small Group Market tour and Dining Experience at a Cesarina's home in Otranto

Would you like to discover the most authentic side of Italian gastronomy and share it with other enthusiasts of the “cucina italiana”? Enjoy this shared Market tour and typical Dining experience. Visit the vibrant local market and learn about the seasonal produce and secret ingredients. Then, head to your Cesarina’s house to enjoy a 3-course dining experience, showcasing the authentic regional dishes stored in the cookbooks of your host. You will take part in an experience which is so much more than just a lunch or dinner. You will make new friends, feel like one of the family and live like the Italians do.