One of Southern Italy’s prettiest spots, the historic town of Gallipoli has an alluring choice of accommodation options to pick from.
(Photo: Hotel Palazzo del Corso / Courtesy Booking.com)
Occupying a small island ringed by 14th-century walls in the historic region of Salento, the town is awash with Baroque architecture and narrow lanes that take you down to the shores of the Ionian Sea. A sprinkling of medieval landmarks and a fishing port bear testimony to the town’s maritime heritage, while a stonework bridge connects to the mainland and the modern borgo. A wide range of hotel options can be found in both the old and new parts of Gallipoli – and we’ve picked out five of the best below.
Hotel Palazzo del Corso
Two historic palaces house this five-star hotel, located a hundred metres away from the old centre of Gallipoli. Open sea views across the harbour are afforded from the panoramic terrace, where there’s also a rooftop restaurant and a hydromassage pool. The ‘Ravenna’ building is home to elegant rooms decorated with frescoes and classic finishings, while more modern options are available at the ‘Provenzano’ palace. The interiors still include original details from the 1800s, adding to the hotel’s character and charm. From €156 per night.
Hotel 33 Baroni
(Photo: Hotel 33 Baroni / Courtesy Booking.com)
The result of an elegant revamp of a historic palace, Hotel 33 Baroni stands out in the borgo of Gallipoli with its bright colours and modern façade. A minimal and stylish design ethos can be seen throughout the hotel, which includes high-tech conference rooms and a large terrace with views spanning both the northern and the southern gulfs. A variety of guest rooms and suites are available, as well as more options at the sister hotel Palazzo Piro, which opened in 2014 in the higher part of the burg, only 50 metres from the original Hotel 33 Baroni. From €75 per night.
Masseria l’Antico Frantoio
Masseria l’Antico Frantoio offers a ideal chance to soak up the local traditions in a relaxing and tranquil setting. It’s housed in a renovated oil mill dating back centuries, surrounded by nature and only a kilometre from the beach. Each of its seven rooms have independent access and an adjoining garden, while the imperial suite sits in a privileged position with stunning views over the coast. A restaurant and a SPA are also available, the latter featuring a small pool carved into the stone. From November to March, guests can join the hosts in collecting oranges from a nearby grove, to then turn them into delicious jams and pastries. From €111 per night.
Xilhotel
(Photo: Xilhotel / Courtesy Booking.com)
Xilhotel was thoroughly renovated in 2019 to provide each guest room with an exclusive feel and unique character. Minimalist decor and high-tech details enrich the nine available rooms, eight of which include either a balcony or a small private terrace overlooking the harbour. Another scenic spot is the communal terrace on the top floor, which is ideal for enjoying a buffet breakfast or sipping a sunset aperitivo. This waterfront hotel is located around the corner from the lively Corso Roma, while the bridge leading to the charming alleys of the old town is just five minutes away. From €80 per night.
Palazzo Presta
With its mix of modern elegance and coastal charm, this boutique four-star hotel, just steps from the beach, is a true urban oasis. Guest rooms come with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free WiFi and ensuite bathrooms. Elsewhere in the hotel, guests can avail themselves of an artisanal breakfast each morning, while inventive Italian dishes are served at the in-house restaurant and the trendy rooftop lounge is ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap. Notable landmarks like Sant’Agata Cathedral and Castello di Gallipoli are all close by and the hotel also runs a complimentary shuttle to and from the local airport. From €86 per night.