Things To Do
in Veglie
Veglie is a small town in the Apulia region of Italy, near Lecce, known for its fertile farmland and olive groves. It sits inland just a short drive from the Ionian coast, offering rural charm and a touch of Salento history. The historic center features whitewashed lanes, churches, and a warm, welcoming pace of life that reflects local culture.
Visitors often use Veglie as a gateway to the surrounding coast and the Baroque sights of the Lecce province.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Veglie, taking in the rustic architecture and vibrant local life. Visit the beautiful Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, renowned for its stunning frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, savoring a cornetto and a cappuccino while watching the town come to life.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the nearby archaeological site of the ancient Roman city of Egnazia. Wander through the ruins and discover the rich history of the region, including ancient mosaics and remnants of Roman villas. Conclude your afternoon at a local winery, where you can tour the vineyards and taste some of the finest wines from the Salento region.
As the sun sets, head to a local trattoria for dinner, where you can indulge in traditional Puglian dishes like orecchiette with broccoli rabe. Enjoy the warm ambiance of the restaurant, filled with locals sharing stories and laughter. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town square, where you can enjoy a gelato while soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Spend your morning at the stunning beaches of Porto Cesareo, located just a short drive from Veglie. Relax on the soft sand and take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline and hidden coves.
After a morning of sun and surf, enjoy a seaside lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun, playing beach volleyball, or snorkeling among the colorful marine life. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the beach promenade to enjoy the beautiful views.
As the day winds down, return to Veglie and freshen up before heading back to Porto Cesareo for an evening out. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the sunset views while feasting on a grilled fish platter. Finish the evening with a walk along the shore, feeling the gentle breeze and listening to the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥖Groceries (weekly) | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $6-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to beaches
- Delicious Salento cuisine and olive oil culture
- Limited public transport in rural areas
- Nightlife is quieter than in bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Il conto, per favore." - The check, please.
Places to Visit in Veglie
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming square framed by stone buildings and a traditional church, ideal for golden hour shots.
Exterior and façade details with arches and local stone, best photographed in the soft morning light.
Quiet country roads around Veglie offer long lines of olive trees and whitewashed cottages.
Dramatic coastal scenes with turquoise water, white cliffs, and fishing boats at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Veglie
Veglie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pasta with turnip tops, garlic, and olive oil; a quintessential Apulian comfort dish.
Must-Try!
Friselle topped with ripe tomatoes and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.
A sweet custard-filled pastry native to Lecce, perfect with espresso.
Creamy fava beans with bitter greens, a hearty, traditional staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, olive oil, and local specialties.
Fritti di pesce, taralli, and other regional snacks sold by local vendors in market squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Ciao; dress modestly when entering church or religious sites.
Speak in a respectful tone; Italians appreciate politeness and a bit of warmth.
Safety
Tipping in Veglie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but round up the bill or leave small tips for good service; many restaurants include a service charge.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors and markets; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, dry days with coastal breezes; mornings are mild but can reach the mid-30s C by afternoon.
Mild temperatures with slower tourism; ideal for olive harvests and autumn produce.
Cool but usually dry; occasional rain; crowds thin and prices lower.
Flowering countryside and pleasant temperatures; great for outdoor cycling and hiking.
Veglie at Night
Hiking in Veglie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal marshes and dune landscapes with gentle walking trails and wildlife viewing.
Cliffside trails and pine forests with scenic coastal views a short drive from Veglie.
Airports
How to reach Veglie by plane.
Closest international airport; about 60-90 minutes by car to Veglie.
Larger international airport about 1.5-2 hours by car; good for flights from other European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Veglie and nearby rural communities; family-friendly events are common.
Agricultural activity and a quiet retiree population are common in the area.
Some residents commute to Lecce or other towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed; local clubs and regional leagues.
Flat coastal routes and rolling hills are popular for recreational rides.
Sea swimming, sailing, and kayaking along the coast near Lecce.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Veglie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy pasta with vegetables, friselle, tomatoes, olives, and fresh cheeses; ask for olive oil-based sauces and avoid meat-based broths.