This four-star boutique hotel was once a small 17th-century palace. It was created by husband-and-wife team Antonio and Eugenia as a reminder of their world travels.

Palazzo Presta is located in Gallipoli on the western coast of Salento. What makes this hotel unique compared to others in the city is not only its location in the historic centre of Gallipoli, a few hundred meters from the Spiaggia della Purità, but also its elegant environments worth the trip by themselves.

Eugenia and Antonio have revamped the place's confusing layout to be more eclectic. The walls are painted bright colours and decorated with all sorts of things, from maritime flags and vintage Japanese prints to bolder contemporary photography.

The best part of the residence is the expansive two-story roof terrace with views of the city. You can relax on an elegant striped chaise-lounge, sip one of the inventive cocktails offered by the bar, and enjoy the sunset every evening.

Next door is Eugenia and Antonio's other project, the Libreria del Mare. It's a library with a speakeasy serving awesome cocktails behind the bookshelves.

For an intimate and relaxed evening, Lazzaro & Caterina is one of the best gourmet restaurants in Salento. Traditional Salento dishes are proposed with a modern twist, and they always taste great - whether it's a seasonal dish or one of their classics.

There are 13 suites (10 in the palazzo and three more in a nearby house) in three categories: junior, deluxe and superior. The beds go from big to huge, and the shower-rooms (no tubs) from small to spacious.

The historic centre is rich with treasures, and you can find them all within a 15-minute walk.

Everyone agrees that Gallipoli is awesome because of its natural beauty, artistic and cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and great nightlife. In Salento town, you can find the key you prefer for a travel experience that suits you.

Sunbathing, swimming in the sea, and evenings on the beach are great for relaxing and having fun, both at bathing establishments and free beaches in places like St. Andrew's Island.