At the southern tip of Italy’s Puglia region, Salento offers a unique family travel experience — where ancient history, living traditions, and clear blue coastlines come together in one of the country’s most underappreciated destinations. Framed by the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Salento is home to Greco-Roman ruins, medieval castles, baroque towns, and some of Italy’s most child-friendly beaches. Families will find much more than a holiday here — they’ll find connection through story, heritage, and play. This five-day family vacation in Salento offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery, coastal relaxation, and hands-on learning for children and adults alike. Day 1: Lecce – Baroque Splendor Meets Scientific Curiosity Start your journey in Lecce, the cultural capital of Salento. Known as La Firenze del Sud (“The Florence of the South”), Lecce flourished under Spanish rule during the 17th and 18th centuries. The wealth of that era produced the distinctive Lecce Baroque style: florid architecture carved from the city’s soft, golden limestone. Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, completed in 1695 after over 150 years of construction. Its façade — covered in griffins, lions, cherubs, and exotic flora — reflects the Catholic Counter-Reformation’s goal of communicating religious awe through visual storytelling.

Puglia’s sun-splashed landscapes have long made it a haven for travelers seeking authentic Italian experiences. But as summer temperatures soar, locals and visitors alike turn to the region’s cooling retreats, where turquoise waters and family-friendly thrills await. From charming poolside escapes to exhilarating water parks, Puglia’s best places to cool down promise a refreshing break for every type of traveler. One of the most beloved destinations for aquatic fun in Puglia is Carrisiland Resort. Nestled in Cellino San Marco, this tropical-themed wonderland transports guests to a Caribbean-inspired paradise. Palm trees sway over expansive lagoons, and vibrant slides twist and turn, offering adrenaline-filled fun for kids and adults alike. Carrisiland’s “Once Upon a Time in the West” area adds an unexpected dose of Americana, with pony rides, saloons, and Western-themed musical shows creating a playful break from the Mediterranean heat. Families with little ones can drift along lazy rivers or relax in the hydro-massage tubs, while older children will find no shortage of thrilling slides to race down. It’s a place that combines relaxation and adventure, and its meticulously landscaped grounds ensure every visitor can find a corner of shade when the midday sun becomes intense. Closer to the sparkling Ionian

Puglia is more than just beaches and baroque beauty—it’s also a fantastic place to explore with curious children. From interactive children’s museums and archaeology parks to living history museums and interactive exhibits, families will find a wide range of museums across the region that welcome young visitors with open arms and open minds. This guide brings together Puglia’s most child-friendly museums and educational spaces—places where kids can climb aboard trains, dig for ancient artifacts, meet marine animals, gaze at the stars, or get messy with art and science. Many of these museums offer year-round workshops, guided experiences, and hands-on labs designed to spark imagination and foster a love of learning through play. Whether you have a toddler or a teenager, there’s something here for every young explorer. Ready to discover? Let’s dive in. Museo dei Bambini – Lecce Children’s Museum Location: Lecce (Via Nicola Foscarini 24)Focus: Open-ended play, early science, creativityAdmission: €8.19 + VAT per person (children over 6 months and adults) A purpose-designed children’s museum for ages 0.5–10, where kids can explore sensory exhibits, science zones, and interactive play stations freely. Sessions are structured in 2-hour visits and offer a rich environment of self-led discovery. The museum is open

Families visiting the Museo dei Bambini in Lecce often ask us where to eat nearby that’s both kid-friendly and enjoyable for adults. Salento is known not only for its beauty and history, but also for its rich culinary tradition. A good meal—especially one where children can play—can perfectly complement a museum outing, turning a day of discovery into a relaxed, full-family experience. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Museo Dei Bambini – Lecce Children's Museum (@museodeibambini) Lecce Restaurants with Play Area for Kids Lecce, often dubbed the “Florence of the South,” is renowned for its ornate architecture and vibrant street life. Amidst its historic charm, several establishments stand out for their family-friendly amenities. Korten Nestled within the verdant expanse of Parco Galateo, Korten offers a unique blend of nature and gastronomy. This open-air venue is a haven for families, providing ample space for children to roam freely while parents savor the flavors of Salento. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with quality food and beverages, makes it an ideal spot for casual family gatherings. Terre – Parco Extraurbano Located on Via Vecchia San Donato, Terre is a multifaceted space combining a restaurant, pizzeria, and bistro. The venue boasts a

At Viaggio, the parent community of Museo dei Bambini in Lecce, we are always looking for meaningful, hands-on activities that help our children connect with nature, food, and culture. Spending time as a family is about nurture curiosity and build memories. And in southern Italy, there’s no better way to do that than through Salento’s masserie didattiche. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Museo Dei Bambini – Lecce Children's Museum (@museodeibambini) Whether you’re feeding baby goats, baking traditional bread, or discovering how olive oil is made, these immersive, kid-friendly farms are redefining what it means to travel with children in southern Italy. Here are some of the top educational farms in the Lecce area, based on local reputation, visitor reviews, and family-friendly programming. La Fattoria di Nonno Pippi – Ugento On the outskirts of Ugento in southern Salento, La Fattoria di Nonno Pippi invites children into a world of furry and feathered friends. Created by animal lover Giuseppe, this farm is best known for its petting-zoo charm and warm hospitality. Visitors can meet and feed a variety of animals including rabbits, ducks, chickens, turkeys, and pheasants. The farm’s standout experience is the three-hour agri-aperitivo, where families enjoy

At the Museo dei Bambini, our team regularly meets parents eager to extend their child’s learning beyond our hands-on exhibits. They ask how to bring the same spirit of discovery home—how to nurture curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity through everyday play. That’s where STEM toys come in. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Museo Dei Bambini – Lecce Children's Museum (@museodeibambini) Whether you prefer to shop local or browse from home, Lecce offers a surprisingly rich landscape of shops where educational toys take center stage. Here’s a guide to the most reliable options in the area, along with three standout online retailers. Città del Sole – Piazza Sant’Oronzo, Lecce This boutique toy shop is well-known throughout Italy for its thoughtful selection of educational and creative toys. In Lecce, it’s located in the heart of the city. Parents will find wooden construction kits, magnet-based logic puzzles, and early engineering toys—all presented in an inviting space that feels more like a Montessori classroom than a store. Staff are knowledgeable and available to help choose age-appropriate STEM options. They also offer home delivery and telephone ordering. Abbruzzese Giocattoli – Via Imperatore Adriano, Lecce Operating since 1920, Abbruzzese is one of Lecce’s

In the heart of Salento, where the turquoise waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas beckon families to the beach year-round, knowing how to swim is not just a sport—it’s a life skill. Teaching children to swim early offers safety, confidence, and a deep connection to the natural beauty of southern Italy. At Villaggio, the parent community of the Museo, we are always exploring ways to raise independent and resilience kids. Finding a reliable and engaging swimming school is a fundamental part of raising water-confident kids. Fortunately, Lecce offers several high-quality options for both locals and expat families seeking swim instruction for children of all ages and abilities. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Museo Dei Bambini – Lecce Children's Museum (@museodeibambini) MUV Lecce MUV Lecce, also known as Muovi Lecce, blends the energy of a modern sports complex with the dedication of a specialized swim school. With expansive indoor facilities and two pools—a 25-meter lap pool and a smaller, heated instructional pool—MUV is especially appealing to families with young children or beginners. Its “Scuola di Sport” program provides structured swim lessons for kids from infancy to adolescence. Babies as young as three months can participate in

Lecce is a city that whispers stories through its sun-warmed stones. Often called the “Florence of the South,” this jewel of Puglia is a playground not just for art lovers but also for curious children. Walkable, lively, and packed with hidden surprises, Lecce is the perfect backdrop for a family adventure that blends history, beauty, and joy. Here’s your guide to experiencing the best of Lecce in a single day with kids, balancing cultural treasures with plenty of room for play. Morning: Discovery and Sweet Beginnings Museo dei Bambini Begin your day where imagination runs free: the Museo dei Bambini. Tucked into a quiet corner of the city, this children’s museum is a sanctuary for tactile learning and wonder. Unlike many museums that require careful hands and whispered voices, the Museo dei Bambini encourages touching, experimenting, and full sensory immersion. The exhibits are carefully curated for different age groups, with fiber optics, gentle sounds, textures, and interactive installations that invite creativity and scientific thinking. It’s a refreshing reminder that museums can be places of movement and laughter — and it sets the tone for a day where curiosity leads the way. The museum tickets are only sold online and popular

There are few things more rejuvenating than a perfect seaside day trip, and when you’re staying in Lecce, one of the finest escapes lies just along the Ionian coast. Picture this: a morning spent among shimmering tanks of marine life, a sun-drenched lunch by the sea, an afternoon of soft sand and salty breezes, and a sunset return to the baroque embrace of Lecce’s old town. It’s a day that captures the essence of southern Italy: natural beauty, slow living, and the quiet joy of discovery. Begin your journey early with a short, scenic drive from Lecce to the charming village of Santa Maria al Bagno, a place where history and nature dance together along the glittering coastline. The drive itself is a pleasure, winding through olive groves, ancient stone walls, and sleepy villages slowly waking under the warm Apulian sun. Morning Wonder: Acquario del Salento Upon arrival, your first destination is the Acquario del Salento. Here, tucked just 50 meters from the water, lies a hidden gem of marine education and conservation. Small in scale but grand in spirit, this “living museum” is a testament to local passion for marine biology and environmental stewardship. Run by a dedicated team

In the heart of Salento, children and families are discovering new ways to connect with nature, imagination, and each other. While Lecce’s Museo dei Bambini offers a world of indoor discovery, those looking for outdoor adventures will find a magical setting at Melograni Martino in Monteroni di Lecce. This organic pomegranate farm is much more than a place to grow fruit—it is a living, breathing classroom under the open sky, where every event is crafted to awaken curiosity, joy, and a deep respect for the natural world. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mamma Giulia 🩵👦🏼👶🏼 (@mammaepiccolofrancy) A Farm That Inspires Curiosity Founded on a love of the land passed down through generations, Melograni Martino is not just about agriculture; it is about creating a connection between people and nature. The farm grows over 25 varieties of pomegranates, from local treasures like the Viola di Monteroni to international favorites such as Wonderful and Ako. Walking through the orchard, children are immediately immersed in the vibrant landscape of lush greenery, buzzing bees, and the occasional burst of scarlet from ripening fruit. Every corner of Melograni Martino invites questions and discoveries, making it the perfect setting for educational and

“Every mistake is a portal of discovery.” — James Joyce In a world that increasingly pressures children to get the right answer, follow the rules, and perform on cue, children’s museums offer something radical: permission to get things wrong. Here, failure isn’t just tolerated—it’s celebrated as a key ingredient in learning. At Museo dei Bambini, children are invited to explore, experiment, and yes, fail. Not because we want them to stumble, but because we know that through falling down, misjudging, and trying again, they build resilience, creativity, and confidence. In the words of Piaget, “Children have real understanding only of that which they invent themselves.” Why Failure Matters in Learning Failure, when experienced in a safe, supportive environment, is one of the most powerful drivers of cognitive development. According to the theory of constructivism developed by Jean Piaget, children build knowledge through active engagement with their environment. Mistakes are not setbacks—they are stepping stones. Stanford professor Manu Kapur has demonstrated the value of productive failure, a concept that encourages learners to attempt solving problems before receiving instruction. His research shows that students who struggle initially often outperform those who are taught solutions right away. In one study, Kapur found that

“Knowledge is not transmitted. It is constructed.” — Jean Piaget What happens in a child’s mind when they watch a pinwheel spin or a ball bounce the wrong way? According to the theory of constructivism, they’re not just seeing something new—they’re constructing understanding from the experience. Every choice, every surprise, every “why did that happen?” moment adds another layer to their mental model of the world. At Museo dei Bambini, many exhibits are designed around this very idea: that children learn best when they actively build meaning—through trial, error, and self-reflection. What Is Constructivist Learning? Constructivism is a theory of learning developed by Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget. It holds that children aren’t passive recipients of knowledge—they’re active participants in making sense of the world. Learning happens when children encounter something unexpected, compare it to what they already know, and then reconstruct their understanding based on that experience. This process is often non-linear. Children test ideas, see what works, revise, and try again. Constructivist environments embrace mistakes, encourage exploration, and value the child’s thought process over the “correct” answer. Where social constructivism (from Vygotsky) emphasizes learning with others, Piaget’s constructivism emphasizes learning from within, based on personal discovery. The Research Behind

“Play is the highest form of research.” — Albert Einstein To the untrained eye, play may look like downtime—a break from learning. But for children, play is learning. Through play, they experiment, solve problems, express emotions, and make sense of the world. It’s not a pause from education; it’s the foundation of it. At Museo dei Bambini, play isn’t treated as a reward—it’s the curriculum. Every exhibit invites curiosity, discovery, and joy. And behind each giggle or gasp of surprise, real cognitive growth is happening. What Is Play-Based Learning? Play-based learning is an approach that uses play as the primary context for learning. It’s guided by the idea that when children are free to explore, pretend, build, and move, they develop essential skills—often without even realizing it. This kind of learning is: Play-based learning is especially powerful in early childhood, when brain plasticity is highest and learning through doing is most effective. The Research Behind Learning Through Play Play isn’t just fun—it’s neurologically essential. According to a study by the Harvard Center on the Developing Child, play builds executive function skills such as working memory, self-regulation, and flexible thinking. These are the mental muscles that children use for planning, focusing,

“What a child can do in cooperation today, he can do alone tomorrow.” — Lev Vygotsky When children play side by side, they’re not just sharing space—they’re building knowledge together. According to the theory of social constructivism, learning is fundamentally a social act. Children don’t absorb information passively; they co-construct meaning through dialogue, imitation, negotiation, and shared discovery. Collaborative learning fosters an environment where children can explore ideas together, enhancing their understanding and skills. What Is Social Constructivism and Collaborative Learning? Social constructivism, rooted in the work of Russian psychologist Lev Vygotsky, holds that cognitive development is shaped through social interaction. Children internalize new knowledge best when they engage with others—especially peers and more knowledgeable others (like older children or adults). A central idea is the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): the range between what a child can do alone and what they can do with guidance. Peer collaboration is powerful because it allows children to operate just beyond their current abilities—stretching into new skills with support, then mastering them independently. Unlike approaches that emphasize individual achievement, social constructivism values dialogue, shared problem-solving, and co-authored meaning. The Research Behind Peer-Based Learning ​Research has consistently demonstrated that social learning enhances both

“The hand is the instrument of the mind.” — Maria Montessori Maria Montessori saw children not as empty vessels to be filled, but as naturally driven learners guided by an inner need to explore, master, and grow. Her approach—developed over a century ago—is still deeply relevant today, especially in play-based settings that value concentration, autonomy, and purposeful action. At Museo dei Bambini, Montessori-inspired principles shine through exhibits that invite children to use real tools, engage in self-directed tasks, and build their focus through repetition and challenge. What Is the Montessori Approach? The Montessori method is based on the idea that children learn best through hands-on interaction with meaningful materials in a thoughtfully prepared environment. Unlike traditional classrooms, Montessori spaces are calm, ordered, and designed around the child’s need for independence. Adults act as guides, offering gentle support rather than direct instruction. Key principles include: The Research Behind Montessori Learning Multiple studies have confirmed the long-term cognitive, social, and emotional benefits of Montessori education. A landmark 2006 study published in Science by Angeline Lillard and Nicole Else-Quest found that children in Montessori classrooms performed significantly better in reading and math and showed more positive social behavior compared to their peers in

“Curiosity is the wick in the candle of learning.” — William Arthur Ward Children are natural scientists. From the moment they’re born, they begin investigating the world—touching, testing, observing, and asking. Inquiry-based learning embraces this instinct, transforming curiosity into a powerful engine for learning. Rather than providing answers, educators create environments that prompt children to ask deeper questions and pursue their own paths of discovery. What Is Inquiry-Based Learning? Inquiry-based learning is a student-centered approach that encourages children to investigate, explore, and construct knowledge through questioning and experimentation. Unlike traditional models that emphasize information delivery, this method invites learners to actively engage with ideas—and even shape the direction of what they’re learning. The inquiry cycle typically begins with a question or a phenomenon that sparks interest. From there, children hypothesize, test ideas, observe outcomes, and reflect. Teachers serve not as information providers but as guides who listen, document, and support the inquiry process. This approach builds critical thinking, creativity, and resilience. It also supports metacognition—children become aware of how they learn, not just what they learn. The Research Behind Curiosity-Led Learning Scientific curiosity isn’t just a personality trait—it’s linked to brain development. A 2014 study at the University of California,

“The 100 languages of children.” — Loris Malaguzzi In the Reggio Emilia philosophy, children are seen as strong, curious, and full of potential. They are not empty vessels waiting to be filled, but capable individuals who express their thinking in countless ways. This approach to education, born in post-war Italy, centers the child as a co-constructor of knowledge—someone who learns through exploration, communication, and creativity. What Is the Reggio Emilia Approach? Developed in the city of Reggio Emilia in the 1940s under the leadership of educator Loris Malaguzzi, this approach emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and the environment as a key part of learning. Central to the philosophy is the belief that children communicate and understand the world through “a hundred languages”—movement, drawing, building, speaking, dramatic play, and more. Rather than imposing fixed outcomes, Reggio-inspired environments offer open-ended materials and experiences. Children are encouraged to follow their interests, ask questions, and develop their ideas over time. Teachers act as collaborators and observers, documenting the learning process and providing provocations to deepen thinking. The Research Behind Expression-Driven Learning Educational neuroscience supports principles central to the Reggio Emilia approach, particularly the idea that creative activities—such as storytelling, role-play, and visual art—help integrate cognitive, emotional,

From ancient traditions to contemporary celebrations, Puglia is alive with festivals that pulse through its sun-soaked towns and villages all year long. Whether you’re drawn to the rhythmic drums of a religious procession, the irresistible aromas of a food sagra, or the vibrant energy of summer music festivals, this region offers something unforgettable in every season. As the Children’s Museum Lecce, we’re passionate about helping families connect with culture, community, and creativity—both inside our walls and out in the world. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate Puglia event and festival calendar: your go-to guide for experiencing the heart and soul of southern Italy—one celebration at a time. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Museo Dei Bambini – Lecce Children's Museum (@museodeibambini) January Cavalcata dei Re Magi e Presepe Vivente – Mesagne (BR) The Pro Loco of Mesagne and the Fidas association are hosting the 42nd annual living nativity event from December 27th to January 6th. The procession, featuring characters in period attire, will traverse Mesagne’s historic center and municipal villa, reenacting the journey of the Three Kings. This year, the event includes new routes and involvement from local musicians, flag-wavers, and theater companies. The procession culminates with

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” — Benjamin Franklin At the heart of childhood is movement. Climbing, touching, balancing, and building aren’t just fun—they’re how young brains wire themselves for learning. Experiential pedagogy embraces this truth: that the most lasting lessons come not from being told, but from doing. What Is Experiential Pedagogy? Experiential pedagogy is the practice of learning through direct experience—through doing, trying, building, and reflecting. This approach is grounded in the work of educational theorists like John Dewey, who believed that learning should be active, social, and deeply connected to real-world experiences. “If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow,” Dewey famously said. Instead of memorizing facts, children construct meaning by engaging with the world. Whether it’s through physical movement, creative experimentation, or collaborative problem-solving, experiential pedagogy recognizes that the most powerful learning happens when children are fully immersed. The Neuroscience Behind Learning by Doing Modern brain research supports what educators have long known: movement and hands-on exploration are essential for learning, especially in early childhood. A study by the University of Chicago found that physically acting out scientific concepts—like mimicking

Puglia is steeped in history, with layers of culture that stretch from the Messapian era through the Roman Empire and beyond. For families traveling with kids, exploring the region’s cultural and historical sites can be not only educational, but also genuinely fun—when done right. The key is to choose destinations that spark imagination, offer interactive elements, or allow kids to physically move through space: climb towers, explore narrow alleyways, ride little tourist trains, or peer into secret caves. Across Salento and the Valle d’Itria, you’ll find a rich mix of sights that appeal to children as much as adults. Alberobello – The Trulli Village Walking through Alberobello is like stepping into the pages of a fairy tale. According to local legend, the dry-stone trulli were originally built without mortar so they could be easily dismantled when the tax collector came around—a clever loophole to avoid paying property taxes to the Kingdom of Naples. This quirky origin story only adds to their magical appearance and makes the town feel even more like a place out of folklore. This UNESCO World Heritage town is famous for its trulli — whitewashed stone huts topped with conical roofs that resemble hobbit houses. Kids are