Things To Do
in Leverano

Leverano is a charming town located in the Salento region of Puglia, Italy, known for its lush vineyards and historical architecture. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering a glimpse into traditional Italian rural life. Leverano boasts a rich cultural heritage, with ancient churches and local festivals that celebrate its history.

Visitors can enjoy a warm Mediterranean climate here, making it a delightful destination year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Leverano
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the historic center, visiting the Church of Santa Maria della Grazia, and enjoying a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby vineyards and participate in a wine tasting tour to sample some of the region's famous wines, particularly Primitivo and Negroamaro.

evening
:

Dine at a local trattoria, savoring homemade pasta dishes, followed by a leisurely walk to the town square to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the nearby Porto Cesareo for a morning at the beach, enjoying the sun and clear waters.

afternoon
:

Return to Leverano and explore the local markets, where you can shop for fresh produce and artisan goods.

evening
:

Enjoy a meal at a rooftop restaurant with views of the countryside, followed by a visit to a local bar for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20
🚌Bus Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich culinary experience with local dishes and wines.
  • Charming and less touristy compared to other Italian destinations.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and close proximity to beaches.
  • Limited nightlife options for those seeking a vibrant scene.
  • Some language barriers for non-Italian speakers.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent outside major cities.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Leverano

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of Santa Maria della Grazia

A historic church featuring beautiful frescoes and an impressive façade, perfect for architectural photography.

Vineyards at Sunset

Capture the stunning views of the rolling vineyards bathed in golden light during sunset.

Piazza della Libertà

The central square of Leverano, bustling with activity and surrounded by charming buildings, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Leverano

Leverano offers a rich culinary landscape featuring traditional Puglian dishes that celebrate fresh, local ingredients.

Leverano Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Orecchiette

A unique ear-shaped pasta often served with broccoli rabe and anchovies, a staple of Puglia.

Must-Try!

Focaccia

A soft, flat oven-baked bread topped with olive oil, herbs, and sometimes tomatoes or olives.

Ciceri e Tria

A traditional dish combining pasta with chickpeas, often served with a drizzle of olive oil.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Leverano Market

A weekly market where locals sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods, perfect for exploring local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Leverano experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters typically range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Spring and autumn provide a pleasant climate with mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common; it’s polite to greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff upon entering.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal and avoid discussing the bill until after the meal.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches; casual attire is acceptable in most other settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Leverano is considered a safe town for travelers, with low crime rates. However, typical precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's advisable to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Leverano

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving a small amount (5-10%) for good service is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is hot and lively, with many tourists visiting for beach activities and local events, so expect crowds.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler weather and the grape harvest, providing unique wine tasting opportunities.

Winter

Winter is quiet and mild, perfect for those seeking tranquility and local cultural experiences without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Leverano at Night

Leverano's nightlife is low-key but charming, featuring a mix of local bars and cafes that often host live music. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with residents enjoying evenings out in the town square. Additionally, during the summer, outdoor festivals and events create lively gatherings, while wine bars offer tastings and socializing opportunities.

Hiking in Leverano

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parco Naturale Regionale Costa Otranto

A stunning natural park featuring coastal trails, diverse flora, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.

Sentiero del Mare

A scenic hiking trail that runs along the coast, offering views of the sea and opportunities for bird watching.

Airports

How to reach Leverano by plane.

Brindisi Airport (BDS)

Located approximately 60 km from Leverano, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, serving as the main gateway to the Salento region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Leverano is quite walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other in the town center. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and walking is a pleasant way to explore the local culture and architecture. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Leverano's population consists of Italian locals who are known for their hospitality and strong community ties.

Tourists

In the summer months, the town experiences an influx of tourists drawn by its cultural heritage and scenic beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in Leverano, with local teams competing in regional leagues and community support during matches.

Cycling

With picturesque landscapes and quiet roads, cycling is a popular activity among locals and visitors, offering both leisure and competitive opportunities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Leverano is generally light, with narrow streets typical of Italian towns. Public transportation options include buses connecting to nearby towns and cities, but services may be limited, especially on weekends. It's advisable to explore the town on foot or by bicycle.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Leverano.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes are naturally vegetarian; however, it's advisable to specify your dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but some restaurants offer alternative pasta and bread.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Leverano are accessible, with a local pharmacy and medical clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals can be found in nearby cities such as Lecce. It's advisable to have health insurance that covers international travel.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide