Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo worth booking?
Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo is a 2-hour experience in Lecce, Italy, from $51 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 16 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (16)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $51 per person
The archeological sites at the coast of Porto Cesareo tell us about a local history that was intimately bound to the rest of the Mediterranean. Indeed, the archeological remains that we will see will lead us to consider the relationships with other parts of the basin and to talk about ancient navigation, the “marble route” coming from the Aegean and deities coming from ancient Egypt. In addition, it will appear clear the relevance of physical geography shaping local history. Thus, we will talk about the main features of the Mediterranean Basin, the evolution of coastal topography and geomorphological processes. After describing and talking about the history of modern and contemporary buildings that we will see, we will try to reconstruct the evolution of the coastal landscape and the destruction of the coastal ecosystems. This tour is recommended for archeology, history, geography and culture enthusiasts, naturalists, swimmers, active tourists and adventure seekers.
What you get
About this experience
The archeological sites at the coast of Porto Cesareo tell us about a local history that was intimately bound to the rest of the Mediterranean. Indeed, the archeological remains that we will see will lead us to consider the relationships with other parts of the basin and to talk about ancient navigation, the “marble route” coming from the Aegean and deities coming from ancient Egypt. In addition, it will appear clear the relevance of physical geography shaping local history. Thus, we will talk about the main features of the Mediterranean Basin, the evolution of coastal topography and geomorphological processes. After describing and talking about the history of modern and contemporary buildings that we will see, we will try to reconstruct the evolution of the coastal landscape and the destruction of the coastal ecosystems. This tour is recommended for archeology, history, geography and culture enthusiasts, naturalists, swimmers, active tourists and adventure seekers.
What's included
Included
- Family or friends accompaning tour participants can join the tour's parts occuring on land FOR FREE
- Swim buoy with 5 or 10 l waterproof bag (participants are welcome to bring theirs).
- Goggles (participants are welcome to bring theirs)
- Waterproof bag for phone for putting inside the 5 or 10 l bag for extra protection from water
Not included
- Participants bringing WATER SHOES will walk easier and safer on slippery and sharp rocks.
- Participants should use SOLAR PROTECTION.
- You may bring small waterproof bags for extra protection of personal belongings (keys, wallet, etc)
- Organizers can't assume any responsability on participants belongins' safeness or dryness.
- We suggest participants to bring the strictly necessary and leave the rest in the car or hotel
- You may bring an underwater phone case or a waterproof camera to take photographs underwater.
What you'll see and do
The meeting point is at the shade of the tower. There, the characteristics and structure of the tour will be explained, the geography and the history of the region will be introduced and we will get prepared for swimming.
20 minutes here
Area Marina Protetta Porto Cesareo
From the Tower of Santo Stefano, we we will reach the following archeological sites swimming: - underwater Roman columns (circa 80 m from the shore and 5 m depth). Due to water trasparency these columns can be seen already putting the head under the water. So, it is not necessary to dive deep for seeing them. - underwater tombs (circa 60 m from the shore and 2 m depth). SWIMMING: The minimun distances to be swimm are: 1) from the tower to the Roman columns and back = ca. 160 m, and 2) from the tower to underwater tombs and back = ca. 120 m. In case the participants will prefer swimming over walking, the swimming distance reached during the tour could be extended to circa 500 m. The participants have to consider that the swimming conditions are strongy related to waves, streams and atmospheric conditions. These conditions will be assessed before departing. In case of dangerous swimming conditions the tour will be cancelled.
50 minutes here
Spiaggia di Torre Chianca
Walking along the coast we will reach the following archeological sites: - ancient necropolis - WWII bunker The sites that will be visited on the coast are not farder than 300 m from the Tower of Santo Stefano. The walking will occurr partly on sandy beaches and partly on rocks, which can be slippy or sharp. Thus, it is important that participant consider to bring water shoes.
50 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Lecce
Coming from Porto Cesareo you need to reach Via dei Bacini. Go along that street for around 1.5 km and turn left in Via Mar Tirreno. Follow that street for 50 mt and turn left into Via Mar Jonio, which is the street that leads to Torre di Santo Stefano (or Torre Chianca), our meeting point.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Coming from Porto Cesareo you need to reach Via dei Bacini. Go along that street for around 1.5 km and turn left in Via Mar Tirreno. Follow that street for 50 mt and turn left into Via Mar Jonio, which is the street that leads to Torre di Santo Stefano (or Torre Chianca), our meeting point.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, it, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 4 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Zeitlos Tours
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Advised against people with motility problems that do not allow them to swim and/or to move in a rocky coast.
- The use of a swim buoy during swimming is compulsory.
- This tour is for persons that can swim well. All participants have to be able to swim at least 200 mt in the sea without difficulties.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 16 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
16 verified traveler reviews for Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Superlative experience!
This was a fantastic and one-of-a-kind experience. An interesting and dynamic activity that immediately captivated our two children, aged 17 and 12. Essential for understanding not only the Porto Cesareo area, but all of Salento. Doing this experience is like visiting an open-air museum with the possibility of moving between one artifact and another by sea or by land. Mauricio, our guide, is a person with a very broad culture who moves from one topic to another with surprising ease but with a humility that only people who truly know things possess. With him, we immediately created a rapport that allowed us to structure the excursion to our liking. Excursions of this type should be more numerous. Truly well done! Silvia, Leonardo, Massimiliano, and Olga from Pisa
via Viator (translated)
Another point of view
Wonderful experience. Mauricio is a very careful and meticulous person in explaining and managing the group. Discover places and places you might not normally see.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
that is sustainable
who doesn't just want to consume the salento, goes on a tour with mauricio. there is much to see and learn about above and above all underwater - an unforgettable experience that makes us see the nature and history of the region with more alert eyes and more appreciation!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
History, sea and passion: Salento told by Mauricio
A really great experience! 🌊 A path rich in history and stories, immersed in the authentic beauty of the Salento sea. The water was crystal clear and with a perfect temperature, even on September 22. The buoys provided by Mauricio allow you to rest at any time, making the experience pleasant and safe. What really makes the difference is the knowledge and passion that Mauricio puts into his work: he manages to convey enthusiasm and love for his land in every detail. Highly recommended!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Among the secrets of the sea
This is a guided tour that is undoubtedly out of the box and, for this reason, worth experiencing. An immersion in the literal sense of the term between geography of the territory and ancient history, but this time kept on the seabed near Porto Cesareo: a seabed accessible to anyone, even the less experienced swimmers. Thanks to Mauricio, guide and creator of this excursion between sea and land, we discovered hidden, unknown realities... we came into direct contact with a place attentive to university research for its precious value and charm. Roman civilization and, with it all the greatest civilizations of the ancient world, will never cease to amaze us as well as give us beautiful emotions.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $51 to $60
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Lecce.
How much does Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo cost?
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Prices start at $51 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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo take?
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Plan for about 2 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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo?
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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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo?
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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 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo 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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo?
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Included: Family or friends accompaning tour participants can join the tour's parts occuring on land; Swim buoy with 5 or 10 l waterproof bag (participants are welcome to bring theirs); Goggles (participants are welcome to bring theirs); and Waterproof bag for phone for putting inside the 5 or 10 l bag for extra protection from wa. Not included: Participants bringing WATER SHOES will walk easier and safer on slippery and sharp rocks; Participants should use SOLAR PROTECTION; You may bring small waterproof bags for extra protection of personal belongings (keys, wal; and Organizers can't assume any responsability on participants belongins' safeness or dryness. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo?
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Coming from Porto Cesareo you need to reach Via dei Bacini. Go along that street for around 1.5 km and turn left in Via Mar Tirreno. Follow that street for 50 mt and turn left into Via Mar Jonio. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo offered in?
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It is offered in English, Italian and Spanish. 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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo?
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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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo 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 Swimming and Coastal Tour of Archeological Sites at Porto Cesareo?
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Across 16 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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