Wine tourism in Salento
Wine Tourism in Salento: Destination Information, How to Move in Salento, Top Wine Experiences, Itineraries and Tours
The Salento wine region is located in the southernmost part of Apulia region (Puglia in Italian), forming the "heel" of the Italian boot. This area is known for its long history of viticulture, with wine production dating back to ancient times, influenced by the Greeks and Romans. Salento's warm Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, is ideal for grape cultivation, particularly for robust, full-bodied red wines.
Salento is renowned for its indigenous grape varieties, most notably Primitivo and Negroamaro, which produce rich, intense wines with deep colors and strong, fruity flavors. Primitivo is closely related to Zinfandel and is known for its high alcohol content and bold character, while Negroamaro offers earthy, spicy, and slightly bitter notes, often used in blends to add complexity.
If you're already familiar with Salento and its exceptional wines, feel free to skip this guide and start your search for Salento wine experiences available on winedering.com.
The Destination: Salento
The Salento wine region, located in the southern part of Apulia, is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate robust reds like Primitivo and Negroamaro. This region, characterized by its hot, dry summers and mild winters, benefits from its proximity to both the Adriatic and Ionian seas, creating an ideal climate for growing grapes. Over time, Salento has transitioned from a producer of bulk wines to a region recognized for its high-quality, distinctive wines, with this transformation taking off in the late 20th century.
The history of winemaking in Salento dates back millennia, influenced by ancient Greek and Roman traditions. While the region has always been known for its wine production, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that Salento began to gain recognition for its fine wines, thanks to the efforts of forward-thinking winemakers who embraced modern techniques while respecting traditional methods.
Today, Salento’s vineyards cover vast areas, particularly around the provinces of Lecce, Brindisi, and Taranto, and are a testament to the region’s dedication to quality winemaking. Visitors to Salento can not only enjoy its wines but also the stunning landscape dotted with olive groves and historic towns.
Before diving into the recommended wine experiences, let’s explore how to best reach and enjoy the Salento wine region.
How To Reach Salento
When planning a trip to Apulia and Salento Wine Region, consider these three main travel routes to make the most of your journey.
Route 1: Salento Wine and Coastal Heritage Tour
Begin your journey in Lecce, often referred to as the "Florence of the South," renowned for its Baroque architecture and vibrant cultural scene. From Lecce, head to Otranto, a charming coastal town with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and a rich history dating back to ancient Greece. Next, travel to Gallipoli, a beautiful seaside town known for its crystal-clear waters, historic center, and delicious seafood.
After exploring Gallipoli, make your way to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique trulli houses—whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs that create a fairytale-like atmosphere. Stroll through the narrow streets of Alberobello and immerse yourself in its distinctive charm.
Finally, continue your journey to the heart of Salento’s wine region in the countryside around Manduria. Here, you can explore the renowned Primitivo vineyards, visit traditional wineries, and enjoy tastings of robust, full-bodied wines. This route offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, coastal beauty, architectural marvels, and exceptional wine experiences.
Route 2: Grand Tour of Southern Italy
Incorporate Salento into your grand tour of Southern Italy. Start your journey in Naples, exploring its ancient ruins, vibrant streets, and rich culinary heritage. Head southeast to Matera, famous for its ancient cave dwellings and unique landscape. Continue your journey to Bari, the bustling capital of Puglia, known for its historic old town and coastal charm. From Bari, travel down to Lecce and immerse yourself in its stunning Baroque architecture before heading to the Salento countryside. In Salento, unwind among the vineyards, savor the robust Primitivo and Negroamaro wines, and explore the historic towns of Nardò and Copertino. This route provides a comprehensive experience of Southern Italy’s history, culture, and wine traditions.
Route 3: Scenic Wine Tour of Puglia and Basilicata
For a blend of Puglian and Lucanian (from Basilicata) experiences, start your journey in Bari, Puglia's capital, where you can explore its historic old town and waterfront. From Bari, head south to the Itria Valley, visiting the picturesque towns of Alberobello, famous for its trulli houses, and Locorotondo, known for its white wines and charming streets. Continue your journey to Matera in Basilicata, with its extraordinary cave dwellings and UNESCO World Heritage status. Finally, make your way to Salento, where you can explore the scenic vineyards around Manduria and Cellino San Marco, tour traditional wineries, and experience the local culture and cuisine. This route offers a delightful mix of Puglia’s and Basilicata’s unique architecture, history, and wine traditions.
Flights
Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS) is the closest airport to Salento, located about 40 km (25 miles) from Lecce, making it an ideal gateway to the region. The travel time to Lecce is approximately 30 minutes by car, and from there, you can easily reach other Salento destinations like Otranto, Gallipoli, and the surrounding wine regions. Car rentals and shuttle services are readily available at the airport.
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) is another convenient option, located about 150 km (93 miles) from Lecce. The travel time to Lecce is around 1.5 hours by car. This airport is well-connected to major European cities and offers car rentals and shuttle services, allowing easy access to Salento’s vineyards and coastal towns.
Alternatively, you can fly into Naples International Airport (NAP), which is about 350 km (217 miles) northwest of Lecce. The travel time to Lecce is approximately 4 hours by car. Although further away, Naples offers a variety of international connections and the possibility of exploring the beautiful Amalfi Coast before heading to Salento. Car rentals and shuttle services are available at the airport, and train options are also available to reach Puglia.
For those looking for a scenic drive, Rome's airports, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino Airport (CIA), are located about 600 km (373 miles) northwest of Lecce. The travel time by car is approximately 6 hours, providing a beautiful journey through central and southern Italy. Car rentals and shuttle services are available at both airports, with options to explore other Italian regions along the way before arriving in Salento.
Whether you arrive through Brindisi, Bari, Naples, or Rome, accessing the Salento region is straightforward, with plenty of options for car rentals and shuttle services to explore the stunning coastline, historic towns, and renowned wine regions of Puglia.
Car / Ncc
From Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS): The drive to Lecce, the gateway to Salento, takes approximately 30 minutes. Exit the airport and follow the SS613 southbound towards Lecce. This straightforward route will take you directly into the heart of the city. From Lecce, you can easily continue your journey to other Salento destinations like Otranto, Gallipoli, and the surrounding wine regions.
From Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI): The drive to Lecce takes around 1.5 hours. Exit the airport and take the SS16/E55 southbound towards Brindisi. Continue on the SS613 towards Lecce. Once in Lecce, you can explore the city or head further south into the Salento region to visit its beautiful coastal towns and vineyards.
From Naples International Airport (NAP): The drive to Lecce is approximately 4 hours. Start by taking the A16 eastbound towards Bari. At Canosa di Puglia, switch to the A14 southbound towards Taranto. From Taranto, follow the SS7 towards Brindisi and then take the SS613 towards Lecce. The route offers a scenic journey through southern Italy, bringing you into the heart of Salento.
From Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO): The drive to Lecce takes about 6 hours. Begin by taking the A1 southbound towards Naples. At Caserta, take the A16 eastbound towards Bari. Continue south on the A14 towards Taranto, then follow the SS7 towards Brindisi, and finally take the SS613 to Lecce. This longer drive offers the opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of central and southern Italy.
Tolls apply on the A14 and other major motorways, so be prepared with cash or a credit card. It's recommended to use a GPS or a reliable navigation app for real-time traffic updates and route optimization, ensuring a smooth journey to Salento's stunning coastlines, historic towns, and renowned vineyards.
Trains
Reaching Salento by train is a convenient option, with the region being well-connected to the main Italian cities through Italy’s extensive rail network. The primary train station serving the Salento region is Lecce, which is accessible from major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Bologna via high-speed trains such as Frecciarossa and Italo.
From Rome: The journey from Rome to Lecce by train takes approximately 5 to 6 hours on a direct Frecciargento or Frecciarossa service. Trains depart regularly from Rome’s Termini Station.
From Florence: The train ride from Florence to Lecce takes approximately 7 to 8 hours. High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo provide direct services, making the journey smooth and efficient.
From Bologna: The journey from Bologna to Lecce by train takes around 7 to 8 hours. Direct high-speed services are available, allowing for a comfortable trip to the south of Italy.
Upon arrival at Lecce, you can continue your journey into the heart of Salento by renting a car or booking a private transfer. Local trains and buses also connect Lecce with other towns in the Salento region, such as Otranto, Gallipoli, and Nardò, but renting a car is often recommended for greater flexibility and convenience when exploring the region’s scenic vineyards, coastal towns, and historic sites.
Salento is best accessed by car due to its rural location and limited public transport connections. Here are the best ways to visit Salento and its renowned wineries:
Driving to Salento
Renting a car is the most convenient and flexible way to explore the Salento region. Major car rental companies operate from airports like Brindisi (BDS), Bari (BRI), and even Naples (NAP). The drive through Puglia offers stunning views of the region's olive groves, coastal scenery, and historic towns, giving you the freedom to visit vineyards, beaches, and villages at your own pace. The winding roads and picturesque landscapes make driving in Salento an enjoyable and immersive experience.
Private Transfers
For a stress-free visit to Salento's wineries and coastal towns, hiring a private driver is an excellent option. This allows you to fully enjoy wine tastings and local attractions without the hassle of navigating the roads. A private transfer is perfect if you want to relax and soak in the beauty of Salento while leaving the driving to someone else.
Salento in a Nutshell
Lecce Street Food
Guided experience through the historic streets of Lecce, Italy. Participants explore the city's Baroque architecture while tasting traditional street foods at five different stops. The tour includes professional guidance, tastings of typical products, and drinks. It is available in English and Italian, and booking in advance is required. The tour highlights Lecce's rich culinary traditions and vibrant local culture.
Duration: 2,5h
Ideal for: couples, small groups up to 15 participants
Wine & Food in Salento
Salento, situated in the southern part of Italy's Puglia region, is celebrated for its diverse and distinctive wines. The region's hot, dry climate and fertile limestone-based soil create ideal conditions for viticulture.
Among the most prominent wines from Salento is Primitivo del Salento IGT, a full-bodied and rich red wine made entirely from Primitivo grapes. Known for its intense flavors of ripe berries, plums, and hints of spices like black pepper, this wine has a deep ruby color and smooth tannins, making it a perfect match for rich meat dishes, game, and aged cheeses.
Negroamaro is another key grape variety in Salento, used primarily in red and rosé wines. These wines are recognized for their dark, almost black color and flavors that blend ripe dark fruits with earthy and herbal notes. The rosé version is particularly popular for its fresh, fruity profile, with notes of cherry and strawberry, making it an ideal pairing for Mediterranean cuisine.
Salice Salentino DOC is one of the most well-known appellations in the area, focusing primarily on red and rosé wines, though some white wines are also produced. These wines are primarily made from Negroamaro, often blended with Malvasia Nera. Salice Salentino wines, particularly the Riserva, are aged for at least 24 months, including six months in oak barrels, resulting in complex flavors of cherry, plum,and spices, with herbal undertones that pair well with pasta, red meats, and aged cheeses.
Malvasia Nera is frequently blended with Negroamaro to add aromatic complexity and softness, contributing floral and spicy notes that complement the boldness of Negroamaro. Additionally, Salento IGT represents a broad category that includes red, white, and rosé wines made from a variety of grapes, such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, and international varieties like Chardonnay and Merlot. This designation allows for a wide range of wine styles, from fresh and fruity whites and rosés to robust reds, catering to diverse tastes and occasions.
Apart from the well-known Negroamaro, Primitivo, and Malvasia, Salento also produces a variety of other wines, including white varieties such as Bombino Bianco, Chardonnay, Fiano, Garganega, Moscato, Pinot Bianco, Sauvignon, Verdeca, and Vermentino, as well as red varieties like Aleatico, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Lambrusco. Salento's wines reflect the region's terroir, combining traditional Italian winemaking with the unique characteristics of local grape varieties. Whether you're enjoying a hearty Primitivo or a refreshing Negroamaro rosé, these wines are a perfect match for the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine.
Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa
Orecchiette with Turnip Greens paired with Negroamaro Rosato: This classic Apulian pasta dish, made with orecchiette and sautéed turnip greens, garlic, and anchovies, pairs beautifully with a Negroamaro Rosato. The rosé's bright acidity and fruity notes complement the bitterness of the greens and the savory anchovies.
Bombette di Martina Franca
Small pork rolls stuffed with cheese and herbs paired with Primitivo del Salento (red): The rich and intense flavors of Primitivo del Salento, with its notes of ripe berries and spices, are a perfect match for the savory and juicy bombette.
Frittata di Cipolle
Italian Onion Omelette paired with Salice Salentino Bianco: This simple yet flavorful onion frittata pairs wonderfully with a Salice Salentino Bianco, a white wine often made from Chardonnay or Malvasia Bianca. The wine's fresh and citrusy profile balances the sweetness of the onions.
Tiella di Riso, Patate e Cozze
Rice, Potatoes, and Mussels Casserole paired with Fiano del Salento: This traditional Apulian dish, with its layers of rice, potatoes, and mussels, offers a delightful combination flavors. Fiano del Salento, a white wine with floral and citrus notes, brings a fresh acidity that balances the richness of the dish while enhancing the subtle flavors of the mussels and potatoes.
Polpo alla Pignata
Octopus Stew paired with Negroamaro del Salento: This hearty octopus stew, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and red wine, pairs excellently with Negroamaro del Salento. The wine's robust structure and earthy notes complement the tender octopus and the rich tomato sauce.
Pasticciotto Leccese
Apulian pastry filled with custard, paired with Primitivo Passito: the sweetness of this dessert wine enhances the richness of the custard and adds a touch of complexity with its flavors of dried fruits and spices.
Top 5 Salento Wine Experiences
Here are our top 5 recommendations for Salento wine experiences, carefully selected by Winedering, the world's most popular wine and food experiences marketplace. These experiences, favored by thousands of customers, are highly recommended for creating unforgettable moments.
Premium Tasting of Apulian Wines at the Domenico Russo Winery
Guests are welcomed at Russo Winery to a guided tour of the winery, where they explore the vineyards and the wine production process. The highlight of the experience is a premium tasting session featuring four of the winery's best wines, expertly paired with traditional Apulian delicacies. Visitors appreciate the warm hospitality, the beautiful setting, and the opportunity to learn about Apulian winemaking traditions from knowledgeable hosts. Reviews emphasize the high quality of both the wines and the overall experience.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type: Vineyard and cellar visit & tasting
Ideal for: couples, friends, families
Picnic in the Vineyard of Cantina Petrelli in the Heart of Salento
Guests enjoy a delightful picnic set among the vines, featuring a selection of local wines and traditional Salento dishes. The experience includes a guided tour of the vineyard, where visitors learn about the cultivation of the vines and the winemaking process at Cantina Petrelli. Visitors praise the serene setting, the quality of the local products, and the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely meal in a beautiful natural environment. Reviews highlight the unique blend of nature and gastronomy.
Rating: 4,9/5
Experience type: Vineyard, cellar visit & tasting
Ideal for: Couples, families, groups
Wine Tasting and Tour at Castel di Salve in Salento
This tour provides an authentic experience in the heart of Salento. Guests are taken on a guided tour of the historic Castel di Salve winery, where they explore the winemaking process and the rich history of the estate. The tour is followed by a tasting session featuring a selection of four wines, showcasing the unique flavors of the Salento. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the stunning architecture of the winery.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type: Winery, vineyard visit & tasting
Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups
Wine Tasting & Winery Tour at Tenuta Corallo
Guests are welcomed to a guided tour of Tenuta Corallo, where they explore the vineyards and the winemaking process in detail. The tour is followed by a tasting session of the estate's finest wines, paired with local products that highlight the flavors of the region. Visitors appreciate the passion and expertise of the hosts, the picturesque setting near the sea, and the opportunity to learn about Salento's winemaking traditions. Reviews highlight the exceptional quality of the wines and the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type: Winery, vineyard visit & tasting
Ideal for: Couples, families, groups
Selection Wine Tour Experience at Conti Zecca
The experinece at Conti Zecca provides a luxurious and immersive journey into the winemaking traditions of Salento. You will explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and delve into the rich history of the estate. The experience culminates in a selection wine tasting, featuring three of the finest wines produced by Conti Zecca, paired with local delicacies. Visitors praise the elegance of the setting, the expertise of the guides, and the exceptional quality of the wines.
Experience type: Vineyard & cellar visit, tasting
Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups
Itineraries and Wine Tours in Salento
For inspiration for your next trip or to enhance your current plans in Salento, explore our top two itineraries recommended by Winedering for the Salento wine region. The Winedering team has carefully curated these tours to provide an outstanding experience.
Tour #1: Half day Salento Wine Tour near Lecce
Experience the essence of Salento with a Half-day journey that combines the richness of local wines and the beauty of the Apulian landscape. Begin with the "Two Kings of Salento" tasting at Masseria Torleanzi, where you'll explore the bold flavors of Negroamaro and Primitivo paired with traditional delicacies. Then, unwind with a sunset walk through the vineyards at Vigneti Reale, culminating in a tasting of exquisite local wines amidst the stunning backdrop of the golden-hour landscape. Perfect for those seeking an immersive and sensory-rich adventure in wine and nature.
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2.50 pm
At 2.3o pm, depart from Lecce by car or private driver.
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5.00 pm
Arrival to
Masseria Torleanzi
for a premium experience "Two Kings of Salento", during which you will discover the narrative and the tradition laying behind these two important Apulian wines. The tasting of four wines is complemented by local delicacies, such as taralli, cheese and cured meat.
At 5.20 pm, transfer to Vigneti Reale, located less than 20 minutes away from Torleanzi.
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4.30 pm
Arrival to Vigneti Reale: con clude your day with a walk in the vineyards and a wine tasting. Stroll along the rows of Negroamaro and Chardonnay vines. The walk will be followed by a tasting of 3 Protected Geographical Indication label, paired with a selection of local products.
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8 pm
Transfer back to Lecce. Total duration: 5,5h
Tour #2: Full day Salento Wine Escape from Lecce or Otranto
Discover the rich flavors of Salento's wines on this day tour, featuring three wine tastings. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscape of the Apulian countryside and enjoy a curated selection of local wines and delicacies. Perfect for a relaxing and authentic Italian experience.
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10.40 am
Depart from Lecce or Otranto by car / personal driver. The drive is about 40 minutes from both cities.
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12.40 pm
At 12.40 pm, transfer to Cantina Duca Carlo Guarini. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes.
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2.30 pm
At 2.30 pm head to Otranto for a coffee and pasticciotto break. The drive from the winery to Otranto takes about 20 minutes. At 3.45 pm drive to your next stop. The drive takes about 10 minutes.
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6.30 pm
Arrival to Corallo Winery for the last tasting of the day, where you'll begin with a guided tour of the vineyards, winery, and barrique cellar where their wines are aged. End this memorable experience with a tasting of 3 wines paired with olives, taralli, friselline, cheeses, and cold cuts.
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7 pm
Return to Otranto or Lecce.
Total duration: 9 hours.
Enjoy Wine Experiences in Salento
With detailed itineraries and insider tips, your adventure through the Salento wine region will be both seamless and enriching.
Remember to take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and soak in the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and residents. Here's to many memorable wine experiences in Salento, that you can easily book online on Winedering.com, the best online wine tourism marketplace worldwide.
Buon viaggio and cheers to an unforgettable Salento adventure!