Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History worth booking?
Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History is a 6-hour experience in Lecce, Italy, from $166 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 16 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 71 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (16)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $166 per person
This tour will take you to discover 2 important cities of Salento peninsula such as Galatina, with its fascinating late Romanesque church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, built in 1390, full covered with stunning frescoes by workers from Giotto school. Castro, which was an ancient Messapian town about 20 kilometers south of Otranto, where we'll be heading driving along the best coastal route for enjoying the breathtaking cliffs. It is said that it was the place where Aeneas, the ancestor of the founders of Rome, first landed in Italy following his escape from Trojan war. Here you’ll visit the Castle which houses the archeological museum inside with several finds of Greek colonies, and spot of the mythic temple of the goddess Minerva. Down the amazing cliff of Castro you'll have a stunning experience visiting the "Zinzulusa Cave" where we'll even stop for swimming in the clearest azure sea you've ever seen.
What you get
About this experience
This tour will take you to discover 2 important cities of Salento peninsula such as Galatina, with its fascinating late Romanesque church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, built in 1390, full covered with stunning frescoes by workers from Giotto school. Castro, which was an ancient Messapian town about 20 kilometers south of Otranto, where we'll be heading driving along the best coastal route for enjoying the breathtaking cliffs. It is said that it was the place where Aeneas, the ancestor of the founders of Rome, first landed in Italy following his escape from Trojan war. Here you’ll visit the Castle which houses the archeological museum inside with several finds of Greek colonies, and spot of the mythic temple of the goddess Minerva. Down the amazing cliff of Castro you'll have a stunning experience visiting the "Zinzulusa Cave" where we'll even stop for swimming in the clearest azure sea you've ever seen.
What's included
Included
- The tour is only for your group with flexible schedule
- All Fees and Taxes
- Ticket of Zinzulusa Cave
- Ticket of Castro Archeological Museum
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Independent tour in the cities
Not included
- Lunch
What you'll see and do
Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria
Transfer from Lecce to Galatina 30 minutes. You'll visit the late Romanesque church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria built in 1390 by Raimondello Orsini del Balzo, count of Soleto. The interior contains frescoes by artists from "Giotto school", that make the church the second in Italy, after San Francesco d'Assisi Basilica, for its pictorial cycles.
30 minutes here
Centro storico di Galatina
Walking along the old town you can find out several aristocratic Palace built when Galatina was part of Soleto county with "Giovanni Antonio" the Son of Raimondello and Maria d'Enghien, Queen of Naples Kingdom from 1406 to 1414. Close the main square there is the Baroque church of San Pietro rebuilt from 1633 on a previous Byzantine (Greek-rite) edifice. Nearby is the small Chapel of San Paolo who houses a well which, according to tradition, was able to heal people bitten by poisonous tarantulas (those bitten were called tarantati or pizzicati in the local dialect, from which starts the famous Italian folk dance). Galatina is also known for the pastries produced for generations in the local pasticcerie. In the most famous one you can delight yourself by tasting the "Pasticciotto" with inside the delicious cream.
30 minutes here
Guglia di Raimondello Orsini
Transfer from Galatina to Soleto with a short stop along the way to visit the Raimondello Orsini Spire.
10 minutes here
Faro di Punta Palascia
Transfer from Soleto to Palascia lighthouse 30 min. The tall white cylindrical lighthouse on the easternmost point of Italy. Walking along the path you can enjoy the splendid view of Otranto cost. From here we'll transfer driving along the stunning cliff, passing by tipical villages like Porto Badisco e Santa Cesarea Terme, heading to the Zinzulusa Cave (30 minutes about).
20 minutes here
Grotta Zinzulusa
The Grotto's name comes from the "rags" in local dialect "zinzuli", because the stalactites resemble many hanging rags. The visit is divided into three parts: "La Conca" which is characterized by stalactites and stalagmites; "The Duomo" with its vault about 25 meters high; "Il Cocito" with very clear waters flow through it in which there are stratifications of fresh water at the top and brackish water at the bottom. It’s a true natural spectacle. The cave is not suitable for people with limited mobility. There are several steps to get into the grotto, sometimes narrow, wet and slippery so it needs to wear comfortable shoes. The grotto visit lasts 30 minutes and the waiting to go into depends on the queue. Here you can also have your independent lunch in the close restaurants with their lovely terraces by the sea.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Castello Aragonese e Museo Archeologico Castro
Transfer form Zinzulusa cave to Castro historic center 5 min. The town's name derives from Castrum Minervae (Latin for "Athena's castle"), which was ancient Messapian town with a temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva. It’s said that it was the place where Aeneas, the ancestor of the founders of Rome, first landed in Italy following his escape from Trojan war (as also published by the Independent in April 2007). Here you’ll visit the little historic center and the Castle which inside host the archeological museum with several finds of Greek colonies, and spot of the mythic temple with the latest discovery of a female statue dating back to the 4th century BC, presumably depicting the goddess Minerva. In downstair room a large panel will show you all the stages of Aeneas' journey, recounted by Virgil in the Aeneid, before you will be heading up to the tower for enjoying the amazing view.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Lecce
Train station.
Meeting point
Lecce
Below Triumphal arch (Naples gate).
Meeting point
Lecce
In front of Hotel Tiziano.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Train station.
Ends at
Below Triumphal arch (Naples gate).
Ends at
In front of Hotel Tiziano.
Options you can book
English and Italian languages
Pickup included
Tour in Italian language
Online Translator Available: You'll be accompanied by a guide who speaks Italian and will be able to have conversation in other languages via Translator. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, it
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Sat
- Group size
- Up to 4 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- A casa delle Salentine
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wear comfortable shoes
- The remaining hours of the tour will be spent on travel
- The visit to "Zinzulusa Cave" is not recommended for travelers with back problems.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 16 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
5 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
16 verified traveler reviews for Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Wonderful!
We had a wonderful relaxing day with Bob and his wife Sandra touring the Southern Otranto Coast. Bob was very flexible and kind giving us plenty of time to explore and view the coast. He gave us plenty of hints for our time in Lecce also. Grazie Roberto
via Tripadvisor
An excellent day out with an excellent guide
My fiancée and I booked a tour with Bob and had a fantastic day out. As our hotel was a little out of the way, Bob offered to adjust the itinerary to make things easier which we really appreciated. He took us to the beautiful towns of Otranto and Castro, both of which are a must see for anyone interested in history. Along the way, he told us so much about the history and culture of the area as he knows the area like the back of his hand. On top of this, his friendly and enthusiastic attitude made it impossible not to enjoy the day. We would thoroughly recommend this fantastic trip to anyone visiting the area.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing! Just do it!
We had a wonderfull time with Bob our Tour guide. We went along the Coast. Where He showed us the most beautyful places along the adriatic Coast. Due to us not beeing hungry we got even more to see than we expected. Also he recommended a lot of places where you can habe very good food in lecce. Overall 12/10 experience. Would book again. Thank you Bob
via Tripadvisor
It was very convenient to...
It was very convenient to have a private driver who was very knowledgeable of the hystory of the places we visited.
via Viator
Turquoise sea in Salento
Traveling the territory between Lecce and Santa Maria di Leuca on the east coast is an adventure filled with scenic views and astonishing experiences… Roca Vecchia, Grotta della Poesia, Torre dell’Orso, i Faraglioni di Sant’Andrea, Castro, Otranto… So if you need a transport service from or to different cities of Salento, the best way to enjoy your vacation is asking Bob to organise your immersive tour coast to coast, with no shortage of halts, including some wine tasting or swimming in turquoise Mediterranean beaches for fully enjoying the amazing landscapes that will blow your mind. I customised our trip with Bob and we had an amazing weekend. I do suggest you try this lovely experiece.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Sat
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by A casa delle Salentine, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 71.1.
See everything A casa delle Salentine runsWhy this scores 71
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Lecce.
How much does Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History cost?
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Prices start at $166 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Lecce usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History take?
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Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Lecce is not rushed.
Is Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 16 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Lecce, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Lecce can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Lecce and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Lecce within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Lecce?
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On Outty we rank every Lecce experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 3 hours - Boat Tour to the Caves of Santa Maria di Leuca, Understand Lecce: History & Local Stories | Small Group Tour, Tour to 4 Towns of Salento: Otranto, Leuca, Gallipoli, Galatina. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Lecce?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Lecce?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History?
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Included: The tour is only for your group with flexible schedule; All Fees and Taxes; Ticket of Zinzulusa Cave; Ticket of Castro Archeological Museum; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 48 listed pickup locations in and around Lecce. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History offered in?
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It is offered in English and Italian. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History?
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Across 16 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Galatina, Castro e Zinzulusa. Full Day of sightseeing and History?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including English and Italian languages, Tour in Italian language. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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