The window on the Cathedral

See all properties

Apartment

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5100 sq m

Popular amenities

Washer
Fireplace
Barbecue grill
Kitchen
Outdoor space
Air conditioning

Explore the area

Lecce, Puglia

Lecce Obelisk
‪4 min walk‬
Piazza del Duomo
‪4 min walk‬
Piazza Sant'Oronzo
‪6 min walk‬
Brindisi (BDS-Papola Casale)
‪48 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Single Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bidet · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Kitchenette

Office

Balcony

Dining area

About this property

General Description
Our two-bedroom apartment in the sixteenth century Palazzo Spada is situated in the very heart of the historical centre of Lecce, renowned as ‘The Florence of the South’ for its beautiful Baroque architecture. It overlooks Piazza Duomo and other key sights such as Basilica Santa Croce, Piazza Sant’Oronzo and the Amphitheatre are just a few minutes’ walk away, while the railway station is 10 minutes on foot. The apartment is situated on the second floor which affords it wonderful views of the Duomo and the old town at large. However, as there is no lift, please note it is not appropriate for guests with mobility issues (there are 62 steps).
The apartment, which has been in our family for generations, is very light, airy and peaceful and tastefully furnished with both antique pieces and custom-built items. There is a stunning view of the Piazza Duomo from the large living room, which in addition to its comfortable lounge furniture, also contains a characteristic ‘Pietra Leccese’ fireplace.

The apartment can comfortably sleep up to 5 guests. There is a king-size double-bed in the main bedroom with ensuite bathroom and a large fitted wardrobe. In the other bedroom, there is a bed (which can be easily converted into a double) and a large chest of drawers. Guests staying in this room may use the second bathroom (on the raised level next to the fitted and fully furnished kitchen) and the large, fitted wardrobe/ cupboard in the hall. The day-bed in the living room can also be used as a fifth (single) bed for guests who are not too tall (bed-length 1’80 x 90cms width). Both of the bedrooms and the living room have air-conditioning. In addition, the windows in all the rooms are soundproof, allowing the guests to stay in a quiet home while being in the very heart of the historical centre.

The French doors of the kitchen extension open-out onto a large terrace (with bamboo awning, a large table and deck-chairs) where guests may enjoy relaxing and dining al-fresco while enjoying the beautiful roof-top view.

Your hosts, who live nearby, are always happy to help and to provide further informations about the many wonderful places to visit in and around Lecce.

Languages

English, Italian

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Barbecue grill

Have a question?

Beta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Ask a question

Similar properties

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 18

Check out before 10:30 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17

SCALA INTERNA PRIVA DI CANCELLO DI SICUREZZA

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Possibile fumare sul terrazzo

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

This property accepts cash

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a deadlock

Property Registration Number LE07503591000013683, IT075035C200049002

We should mention

All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport

Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Lecce

Located by the sea, this apartment is in Lecce Historic Center, a neighbourhood in Lecce. Paisiello Theatre and Faggiano Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include City Walls and Chruch of Sant'Anna. Railway Museum of Puglia and Azienda Olearia Schirinzi are also worth visiting. With scuba diving, snorkelling and waterskiing nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water.

Lecce, Puglia

What's nearby

Porta Napoli - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Lecce Obelisk - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
Piazza del Duomo - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
Piazza Sant'Oronzo - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
Roman Amphitheater - 7 min walk - 0.6 km

Getting around

Lecce (LCZ-Lecce Rail Station) - 14 min walk
Brindisi (BDS-Papola Casale) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

‪Caffè Paisiello - ‬2 min walk
‪I Latini - ‬1 min walk
‪Ristorante Antica Corte - ‬3 min walk
‪Maccheroni - ‬1 min walk
‪Bar Martinica - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The window on the Cathedral pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The window on the Cathedral?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The window on the Cathedral?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is The window on the Cathedral located?

Located in Lecce Historic Center, this apartment building is within a 5-minute walk of Paisiello Theatre, Porta Napoli and City Walls. Museo Diocesano Lecce and Church of Sant'Irene are also within 5 minutes. Lecce (LCZ-Lecce Rail Station) is 14 minutes by foot and Lecce Station is 14 minutes.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly D.

11 March 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Spot in Lecce

A beautiful apartment in a perfect location! We stayed for 18 days, and really felt like we had a home away from home. Everything that we needed was provided, along with unexpected extras that added to our comfort. The steps to the apartment were indeed a bit of a workout, but they helped to mitigate the potential weight gain from the great food in Lecce. Costanza, our hostess, was helpful, and kind. We would happily stay here again if we returned to Lecce!

Stayed 18 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan K.

1 August 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorable Stay in an Amazing Apartment

Fantastic location to see all the sights. Apartment was beautifully appointed. Hosts were accommodating and wonderful to work with. We loved every moment of our month's stay. In Lecce,make this your stop!

Stayed 30 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa K.

13 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location to see Lecce

We had a great stay in May at this wonderful residence in Lecce. Great location from which to explore the city and enjoy the nightlife. Thank you for having us x

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Helena H.

8 November 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Better than the pictures!

A tastefully decorated apt., very spacious and comfortable. We didn’t want leave it each day, a very romantic setting . The location was fabulous too! When we come back to Lecce we will certainly stay there again

Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jim K., North Carolina, USA

10 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful palazzo

Francesco was a wonderful host who helped us navigate parking, checking in, and getting around Lecce. The palazzo is beautifully decorated and is itself a valuable part of Lecce. It is a beautiful accommodation in a classic corner of Puglia.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kate M.

9 September 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful palace apartment in the heart of Lecce

We had the most incredible stay at this stunning apartment in the heart of Lecce, Italy! The location couldn't be more perfect - literally next door to the breathtaking Piazza del Duomo. The apartment itself was spacious and beautifully decorated. The hosts included details to make guests feel welcome and comfortable. From the plush furnishings to the well-equipped kitchen, we wanted for nothing. The views were amazing and the sound proof windows allowed us to shut out the street noise while still enjoying the nighttime views. But what truly sets this apartment apart is its convenient location. We could easily explore Lecce's historic center, indulge in delicious food and wine, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere - all just steps from the apartment. The hosts were so kind and accommodating. We would love to return to this amazing apartment the next time we visit.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jackie H.

21 December 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise palace in Lecce

Located on the second floor of a palace with a view of the duomo and its plaza, this may be the best place we have rented ever. The location is great, The apartment is beautifully furnished in family heirlooms. Lecce is magical, and Franceso and Donatella are delightful hosts. We can’t weait to return next Christmas!

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019

8/10 Good

Pat N.

22 April 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful apartment in great location

We stayed for 11 days in this spacious apartment and thoroughly enjoyed our time in Lecce. Located just a few steps from the Duomo, it has everything you need. I would highly recommend it. We were surprised however about the 65 steps up to the front door. We are reasonably fit retirees but I think guests need to be warned about the staircase, especially with luggage. However we didn’t let this spoil our holiday.

Stayed 11 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jackie R.

15 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely

Lovely apartment in a beautiful Lecce. It was beyond our expectations. We enjoyed the beautiful terrace and views of the city. Our host was always accommodating and helpful before and during our stay. I have been in the Travel business for over 30 years and would highly recommend this property. The 63 steps up are worth it👏👏👏

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Avril S.

8 January 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our Christmas in Lecce

This apartment is ideally located in the historic center of Lecce, a stones throw from the Duomo and for exploring the beautiful city by walking. The apartment is in in a lovely old palazzo and is very attractively and tastefully furnished and very comfortable. Donatella and Francesco were great hosts and really helped us to get settled in and with our departure. They provided lots of local information. Staying here really enhanced our enjoyment of Lecce and we highly recommend it.

Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

7 December 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Never been happier with a VRBO

My wife and i just stayed a week at Francesco's wonderful apartment in Lecce. The location is perfect for the exploration of Centro Storico. The apartment is well laid out, comfortable and beautifully decorated with antique furniture. There were a day or two when it was hard to leave to go exploring - the apartment was just that relaxing. We were made to feel very welcomed by Francesco. I would wholeheartedly recommend Francesco's VRBO when staying in Lecce.

Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Nancy H., Philadelphia USA

7 November 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

10 stars

If I could give Francesco and Donatella 10 stars I would. They were the most attentive hosts. Nothing was too much to ask. And the apartment was better than pictured. I would recommend this rental to anyone. Fabulous.

Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carol A.

27 October 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dynamite Duomo Digs

“Window on the Cathedral” says it all. This is a fantastic Apartment, complete with rooftop terrace and fantastic location. It is very spacious and furnished beautifully, including a washing machine and ironing board and plentiful reading material in multiple languages. The best part was communication with our host, Francesco. He responded immediately to any question I had, and he was particularly helpful in arranging to reserve parking in an attended lot for us. We then walked our bags to the apartment where his son met us to help carry them up the stairs. And speaking of stairs, there are a lot of them, but they are easy to manage because they are wide and have handrails, especially for seniors like us .Timing for check-in and ease of check-in went like clockwork.. Lecce is a great city to explore and we did two side trips to Gallipoli and also Otranto with easy in and out of the parking lot. Window on the Cathedral is a terrific place to stay, convenient to all areas of historic Lecce with an incredibly communicative host,and easy parking situation. It was a nice touch to have pastries on the kitchen table welcoming us.Grazie Mille ,Francesco!

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Helen C.

14 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Apartment in Prime Location

We stayed 5 nights in this terrific apartment. It has everything that you need, with lots of thoughtful inclusions. It is spacious, well equipped, comfortable and clean, and perfectly located to access everything in Lecce. The ambiance is special with the furnishings and decor making it feel like a home. We really enjoyed breakfast on the terrace and sitting in the lounge room looking out at the Duomo in the evening. At bedtime close the windows and shutters and it is quiet. There is lots of local information provided and the hosts are very available should you need them. We would definitely stay here again.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bridget B., United States

14 March 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quintessential Lecce Living

I had an extended (8 week) winter stay in this beautiful apartment. It was like living in a fairy tale; imagine having the chance to borrow an historic family palazzo. The furnishings are classic yet comfortable, the kitchen and baths updated, and the deck breathtaking. The hosts are very accommodating and available. The location is ideal for local sites and for visiting other Puglia sites: info center is across the strada, van tours leave from 5 minutes away and the train is a 10 minutes walk. Highly recommend this unit, especially for an extended stay as I cooked nearly every day taking advantage of local markets.

Stayed 56 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gill Newell N.

7 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lecce apartment

This is a beautiful apartment in a fantastic location. It’s spacious and well equipped. The bed in the main bedroom is very comfortable. The roof terrace is a real bonus.The only negative aspect is the 62 step staircase to reach the apartment! To be fair this is made perfectly clear in the online description. We got a lot fitter climbing the steps every day!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

mark k., Lexington

14 August 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Spectacular Apartment at the Center of the Historic Town

Franscesco's apartment, right on the edge of Plaza Duomo, is truly lovely. The location is perfect; he apartment beautiful and comfortable. The kitchen is modern and completely functional, and the rooftop terrace is a dream. The aC in the 2 bedrooms worked well, but it was hard to fully appreciate the apartment in mid-August heat. Be aware that the apartment is up two long flights of stares, but if you can't find a nicer place, at a reasonable price in Lecce.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

kelly t.

28 August 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Home away from home

We spent a week in this cozy apartment in the center of Lecce and we loved our accommodation! It’s tastefully decorated, cozy, spacious, clean, and has all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. There are stairs to the 2nd floor (3rd floor to Americans) so it may not be suitable for everyone. The terrace was our favorite feature for morning coffee and evening aperitivi. Spectacular sunsets and the view of the duomo. All of Lecce is at your doorstep. Francesco arranged for our car parking just a 5 minute walk away. Lovely and communicative hosts. We highly recommend a stay at this gem!

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

matthew k.

29 April 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

True Heart of Lecce

Lovely, large beautifully appointed apartment in the very heart of “Lecce vecchia” (old Lecce). Really, you cannot do better. Lovely terrace on which to dine or simply watch the swallows every morning and evening. Everything you could ask for in a traditionally decorated (privileged) old aristocratic apartment. Owners Donatella and Francesco could not be more welcoming. This is the sort of place people dream of finding. Perfect.

Stayed 31 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tom A.

8 June 2018

The perfect spot in Lecce

We cannot speak enough how much we enjoyed the property and especially Francesco the owner. He was very accommodating and provided us with very helpful information regarding the area - beaches, markets, cafes, etc. He was very responsive and easy to get a hold of if you had any questions regarding the apartment or the area. The views from the rooftop and windows were beautiful. The apartment had all the amenities that you could ask for and was in a perfect location in regards to shopping, the local sites, the city center which were only minutes away. If or I should say when we return to the area we will definitely look up Francesco and stay at his property.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Marie-Louise S.

1 July 2018

Beautifully presented and furnished property right in the very heart of lovely Lecce

Francesco, Donatello and family went out of their way to help us find our way, and get our luggage to, their lovely apartment. The apartment itself was beautifully decorated with a mix of old and new furniture and made a delightful haven in the heart of the city - particularly as we experienced an unusually rainy June! There was everything we needed in the kitchen and a delightful terrace from where we loved to enjoy our glasses of wine looking out over the rooftops and watching the sun going down. Francesco and Donatello provided us with lots of information about where to eat or what to see and do We loved our stay! Thank you!

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Alison B.

6 November 2017

Perfect palazzo!

We rated this property as our best ever holiday let! The furnishings, spaciousness and overall comfort of the property were second to none. We enjoyed eating outdoors on the roof terrace at all times of the day, found all that we needed for cooking meals in the apartment, and slept well in the comfortable bed. Being located right in the middle of the old town, next to the duomo, was perfect for exploring this beautiful city, and meant we were close to shops and restaurants too. The duomo bell chimes regularly through the day but with the impressive sound proofed windows in the apartment you can choose if and when you want to hear it. The owners of the property were very hospitable and helpful in making sure we had everything we needed for our stay. We were delighted to find this gem and will be back!

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2017

10/10 Excellent

teresa w., salop England

26 September 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

beautiful apartment

We spent 4 nights in Lecce at this amazing apartment. The owners were so helpful and gracious; their apartment in a palazzo which has been in the family for many years shows great taste and love. It's like staying in a home not a rental apartment, with many lovely details, especially the gorgeous lounge. The terrace was amazing but there were views from many rooms. It was well kitted out and lacked for nothing. This is the best apartment we have stayed in; sadly, we only stayed 4 nights, whereas, you could spend a lot longer here, giving you time to really explore Lecce. I think even in winter it would be lovely. Thank you so much, Francesco and family. Teresa and Chris

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

17 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This is such a special apartment!

If you don't mind 62 steps, you should experience this location. There are many tour groups that come though Lecce in the day, so by staying here in the heart of the old section you can enjoy the peaceful streets in the morning and then visit one of the many spectacular beaches during the day. Francesco could not have been more accommodating and arranged reserved parking a 10 minute walk away. Such a special place and we felt lucky to have access to this beautiful historical apartment. The kitchen, dining, roof terrace flow together and creat a wonderful space in the morning and evening. The living room is very special as well but we were outside. In the winter it would be so nice near the fireplace sitting area. The bedroom was also very comfortable and from the entire apartment there is privacy because you are above and super quiet with double high quality windows. Thank you so much Francesco and Donatella!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anna Marie S.

26 September 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it!

The Window on the Cathedral is wonderful - the view of the Duomo and surrounding rooftops, the sounds of liveliness from the street far below (easily quieted when you close the beautiful windows), the historical location that accesses Salento’s beautiful towns within an hour or two, the inexpensive reserved parking 10 mins away, all super. And now for a description of the interior… beautifully appointed antiques and fabrics adorn each room, the architecture, decor and textiles are rich yet comfortable. The steps leading up to the apartment in the Palazzo have landings that make it easily doable unless one has mobility issues. (I acknowledge we did not have huge heavy luggage) The hosts Donatella and Francesco were welcoming and quickly responded to our every request. I even asked for and took an Italian lesson via a teacher recommended by Donatella which was an asset to the Italian I am studying at home. I wish we could have stayed longer. It truly felt like home and holds a special place in our hearts. We’ll be back!

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Your host

Languages:

English, Italian

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

Hotels

lodges North Island

pet-friendly rentals in Palmerston North

beach rentals in Manly

The window on the Cathedral

Photo gallery for The window on the Cathedral

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

Living Room 1

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

About this property