Lecce isn’t just about its stunning baroque architecture; it’s a city alive with artisan crafts, lively markets, and delicious food. For travelers who love to shop for authentic souvenirs or enjoy local flavors, Lecce offers some excellent options. Our favorites include a rickshaw shopping tour, which combines sightseeing with boutique browsing, and private cooking experiences that bring you straight into the kitchens of local homes. These tours give you a taste of Lecce’s craftsmanship and culinary traditions in a way that’s both fun and meaningful.
The list below features a variety of shopping and market tours, from guided rickshaw rides exploring historic sites and artisan shops, to intimate culinary classes in local homes. Whether you want to hunt for papier-mâché figures, learn how to make authentic pasta, or simply enjoy a guided market walk, these experiences highlight what makes Lecce so special. Dive in to see which tour fits your interests and travel style best.
1. Lecce Shopping Tour by Rickshaw
At number 1, the Lecce Shopping Tour by Rickshaw hits the sweet spot for combining sightseeing and shopping. This 3-hour experience offers a unique ride through Lecce’s historic center on a rickshaw, allowing you to see landmarks such as Santa Croce Basilica and Piazza Sant’Oronzo while browsing the city’s artisan boutiques.
What makes this tour stand out is the blend of cultural exploration and retail therapy. You’ll visit luxury boutiques and ateliers specializing in papier-mâché figures, as well as other traditional crafts. The tour ends with a relaxing Italian aperitivo, including prosecco—an authentic way to unwind after a day of exploring. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5 out of 5 from 21 travelers, praising the knowledgeable guide and charming ride.
For those who enjoy a combination of sightseeing and shopping, this tour offers a relaxed pace and intimate insights into Lecce’s craft scene. The 3-hour duration makes it manageable even on a busy day, and the rickshaw ride adds a fun, eco-friendly touch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to see Lecce’s main sights while shopping for handmade souvenirs, all with a local guide and a relaxing beverage.
2. Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Lecce
Ranking second is the Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home, which offers an immersive taste of Lecce’s culinary delights. This 4.5-hour experience begins with a guided walk through a local market, where your host reveals the regional ingredients that define Puglia cuisine.
Afterward, in a private home, you’ll help prepare three traditional dishes—from pasta to tiramisu—guided by your host’s expert instructions. This hands-on approach means you’re not just watching but actively participating in the creation of authentic regional food. The meal is then served with local wines, making it a true feast.
Reviewers give it a perfect 5-star rating, emphasizing the personalized atmosphere and the fun of cooking alongside locals. One guest described it as “fantastic and educational,” with the market visit allowing a behind-the-scenes look at regional produce. The only potential downside is the price—too high for some, but worth it for those craving an authentic, personal experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want to learn traditional recipes and enjoy a home-cooked meal in genuine Lecce surroundings.
3. Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Lecce
The third option is the Small Group Market Tour and Cooking Class, offering a comprehensive culinary adventure in Lecce. This five-hour experience begins with a guided visit to local markets, where you’ll discover regional ingredients and get tips on what makes Pugliese cuisine special.
From there, you move into a local’s home for a hands-on cooking lesson focused on making pasta and tiramisu from scratch. You’ll learn techniques directly from your hosts, then sit down together to enjoy your culinary creations paired with local wines. The tour has received a perfect 5-star rating from five reviews, with many praising the warmth of the hosts and the delicious food.
What sets this experience apart is the focus on learning specific skills—from pasta shapes to tiramisu layers—and the chance to enjoy all the food you prepare. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic, interactive cooking experience without the tour feeling rushed or commercialized.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a comprehensive food experience, combining market exploration and hands-on cooking in a friendly setting.
How to Choose
When deciding which Lecce shopping and market experience to try, consider your priorities. If you want a quick, scenic overview with boutique shopping, the Rickshaw Shopping Tour may be best. For those eager to learn traditional recipes in a personal setting, the Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home offers depth and an intimate atmosphere. If you prefer a more comprehensive culinary day, combining market walks and full cooking lessons, the Small Group Market Tour and Cooking Class is a great choice.
Think about your budget, available time, and what excites you most—whether it’s browsing artisan crafts, learning to cook, or both. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the private classes, which tend to fill up quickly.
The Sum Up
Lecce offers a variety of engaging shopping and culinary experiences that showcase its artisan crafts and delicious food. For a fun, relaxed introduction to Lecce’s sights and souvenirs, the Rickshaw Shopping Tour stands out. If you’re passionate about food and want to learn authentic recipes directly from locals, the private cooking class and small group culinary tour are both excellent options.
For travelers seeking a rich, hands-on experience that combines market exploration with cooking, Lecce’s tours won’t disappoint. Whether you choose a quick shopping ride or an immersive culinary day, these tours are a wonderful way to deepen your connection with this beautiful city. Be sure to book early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
