Things To Do
in Cavallino

Small ear-shaped pasta tossed with bitter rapini (turnip tops), garlic and anchovies; a Puglia classic available in trattorie and home-style restaurants.

Must-Try!

A baked pastry filled with custard (or ricotta/fruit variations), a beloved Salento breakfast treat found at local bakeries.

Dried bread soaked and topped with tomatoes, olive oil, oregano and sometimes tuna or mozzarella — a refreshing light dish, common as a snack or antipasto.

Local catches prepared simply — grilled, baked or in a seafood risotto — especially fresh in coastal restaurants around Porto Cesareo.

Use formal greetings (Buongiorno/Buonasera) when entering shops and polite forms (Lei) with people you don’t know; a friendly handshake or light kiss on the cheek among acquaintances is common.

Dress modestly when visiting churches (covered shoulders and knees) and speak quietly; photography rules vary — follow signs or ask permission.

Meals are social; don’t expect rushed service. If invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift (wine, sweets) and be punctual but flexible with timing.

Respect quiet hours in residential areas (often late evening) and avoid loud behavior late at night, especially in small towns.

Tipping in Italy is modest: rounding up the bill, leaving 1–3 EUR for good service in cafés or small restaurants, or 5–10% in more formal establishments is appreciated but not obligatory. Bartenders and servers don’t expect large tips; for exceptional guided tours or private drivers, a small tip is customary.

Cash (EUR) is widely used in small towns; carry some cash for markets, cafés and small shops. Credit/debit cards are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants and shops, but verify acceptance before ordering. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly supported in larger venues.

High season: hot, sunny weather, lively beaches and many festivals. Expect crowds at popular beaches, busy roads on weekends and most businesses open late. Book accommodation early; pack sun protection and plan beach time early or late to avoid midday heat.

Pleasant temperatures, blooming countryside and fewer tourists — excellent for sightseeing, hiking and photography. Many seasonal businesses reopen and local festivals begin to appear.

Mild weather with calm seas early in the season; olive harvests and food festivals make this a delicious time to visit. Some beach facilities close but restaurants and towns remain active.

Cooler, quieter and more authentic — many seaside venues are closed but towns and Lecce are calm and good for cultural visits. Expect occasional rain and chilly evenings; some services may have reduced hours.

Long-established residents who often run family businesses, farms and restaurants; community-oriented and proud of local traditions.

Domestic Italian holidaymakers and European visitors who flock to the coast in summer for beaches and festivals.

Like many rural Italian towns, Cavallino has a significant older population, with family ties and slow-paced daily life.

Lecce’s students and young professionals visit for culture, nightlife and dining, boosting activity in the region.

Vegetarian options are plentiful (pasta, vegetable-based primi, salads, cheeses). Ask for dishes without anchovies or meat; many places will adapt pasta sauces and salads.

Vegan choices are possible but more limited in small towns: focus on vegetable dishes, legumes, bruschetta/frisella and salads. Carry snacks for flexibility.

Awareness of gluten-free needs is growing; some restaurants and bakeries supply gluten-free pasta or bread, but inform staff in advance and prefer larger towns (Lecce) for more reliable options.

If you have serious food allergies, bring an Italian translation card describing the allergen and notify staff before ordering; small kitchens may have cross-contact risks.