Arezzo, Italy: A Complete Travel Guide to Tuscany’s Hidden Town

Visiting Arezzo feels like stepping into a quieter, more authentic side of Tuscany. In this travel guide, I'm going to cover the best things to do in Arezzo, from historic landmarks and piazzas to food spots and easy day trips you can add to your itinerary.

If you're planning a trip to Arezzo, be sure to also check out my travel guides to Florence and Siena, both easy to pair with Arezzo and perfect for rounding out a Tuscany itinerary.

This image features a main photograph surrounded by four smaller images showcasing the beauty of Arezzo, Italy. The central photo captures the historic charm of Arezzo’s architecture, with detailed views of its medieval buildings, picturesque streets, and iconic landmarks. The four surrounding images highlight various scenes of the city, including its vibrant piazzas, ancient churches, and scenic countryside. This travel guide photograph of Arezzo, Italy, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Tuscan city, making it an ideal visual reference for tourists and travelers planning their visit to this enchanting Italian destination.

This article contains affiliate links which support us at no extra cost to you.

Jump To

Is Arezzo, Italy worth visiting?
Things to do in Arezzo, Italy?
Why is Arezzo famous?
10 Famous Spots in Arezzo, Italy
Where is Arezzo on Italy's map?
How old is Arezzo, Italy?
Is Arezzo, Italy safe?
The Best Guided Tours in Arezzo, Italy
How much time is needed in Arezzo?
What is Arezzo, Italy famous for shopping?
Where to eat in Arezzo, Italy?
Where to stay in Arezzo, Italy?
The Best Hotels in Arezzo, Italy
How to get to Arezzo, Italy?

This image depicts a pedestrian street in downtown Arezzo, Italy, featuring a vibrant scene with people walking along the cobblestone path. The street is lined with charming yellow buildings that exude the warmth of Tuscan architecture, adding to the inviting ambiance of the area. The photograph captures the essence of daily life in Arezzo, Italy, showcasing the historic charm and lively atmosphere of this picturesque town, making it an ideal visual for travel guides or anyone interested in exploring the rich culture and scenic beauty of this Italian destination.

Is Arezzo, Italy worth visiting?

Arezzo, Italy? Worth a stop, especially if you're into art, history, or are just sick of the crowds and want something more chilled-out. Located in Tuscany, 90 minutes from Florence, it's got great medieval architecture, Renaissance art, and dark alleyways and piazzas. Piero della Francesca's frescoes in the Basilica of San Francesco are fantastic, as is a stroll around the Piazza Grande and the Medici Fortress, and don't forget about the monthly antiques fair.

It's small, so it's walkable, and way less frenetic than Florence or Siena. Between the art and the architecture, it's a bit of everything: you can choose your own adventure based on taste and mood. It's better to make it a day trip or short stay rather than a longer visit, though, since the city doesn't offer many attractions.

The image shows an old tower in Arezzo, Italy, characterized by its rustic stone structure and historical charm. The tower prominently features two large church bells, which are visible through arched openings near the top. This architectural gem stands as a testament to Arezzo’s rich heritage, with the weathered stone and traditional design reflecting the town’s medieval past. The tower is a striking feature against the backdrop of Arezzo's picturesque skyline, making it a significant landmark for visitors interested in exploring the historical and cultural treasures of this beautiful Italian city.

Things to do in Arezzo, Italy?

Arezzo is a gritty little town in Tuscany, full of churches and contemporary art. It's a center of culture and artists and a good choice for anyone looking to get a real feel for that unadulterated Italian lifestyle.

1. Check Out Piazza Grande: This is the main hangout in Arezzo. It's an old-school square with medieval buildings all around. There's even an antiques fair every first weekend of the month. You can dig through all kinds of vintage stuff here.

2. Visit the Basilica of San Francesco: This church is famous for its frescoes by Piero della Francesca. The artwork inside is mind-blowing, especially the "Legend of the True Cross" series. Art lovers, don't miss this one.

3. Discover Casa Vasari: Giorgio Vasari's old crib is now a museum. This Renaissance artist tricked out his home with crazy detailed artwork. Walking through here is like stepping into his world.

4. Admire Arezzo Cathedral: The Cathedral of San Donato is another must-see. It's got stunning stained-glass windows and a killer fresco by Piero della Francesca. The Gothic vibes here are strong.

5. Explore the Medici Fortress: Head up to this fortress for some awesome views of Arezzo and the Tuscan countryside. The place has history and often hosts cool art exhibits too.

6. Hit the National Archaeological Museum: Next to some ancient Roman ruins, this museum is full of artifacts from way back. If you're into history, this spot is gold.

7. Chill at Parco del Prato: Near the cathedral, this park is perfect for a laid-back walk or just to relax. It's a green escape with great views.

8. Catch a Local Festival: Arezzo knows how to throw a party. If you're there at the right time, check out the Saracen Joust or the spring festival Maggiolata Lucignanese.

9. Take a Day Trip: Arezzo is a great jumping-off point for trips to nearby wine regions like Chianti or historic cities like Siena and Florence. It's all about adding a little extra to your Tuscan adventure.

Why is Arezzo famous?

History and culture are par for the course in Arezzo, as you'd expect from an Etruscan city with Roman and medieval significance. The historic center?

Medieval and Renaissance jumble, with a hefty dose of Roman thrown in, like the Basilica of San Francesco and its frescoes by Piero della Francesca, not to mention the town's artsy bragging rights as the birthplace of Giorgio Vasari and as the site of one of Italy's most fun medieval jousting gigs - the Giostra del Saracino - and as host to Italy's biggest antiques fair.

Needless to say, Arezzo, with the whole history and culture thing going on, is a mecca for nostalgic antiquarians.

The image captures the main piazza in Arezzo, Italy, a stunning medieval square that exudes historical charm and architectural beauty. The piazza, known as Piazza Grande, is framed by a collection of medieval buildings with stone facades, arched windows, and characteristic red-tiled roofs. The sloping cobblestone surface adds to the unique ambiance of this historic square. Prominent features include the Palazzo delle Logge with its elegant portico and the striking tower of the Church of Santa Maria della Pieve. This iconic square is the heart of Arezzo, Italy, offering a captivating glimpse into the town's rich medieval heritage and vibrant cultural scene.

10 Famous Spots in Arezzo, Italy

1. Piazza Grande

Piazza Grande is the heart of Arezzo. It's got this cool sloping vibe and a mix of medieval and Renaissance buildings. Locals and tourists alike hang out here. It's also where you'll catch the famous Giostra del Saracino, a medieval jousting match. Plus, there's a huge antiques fair every month.

2. Basilica di San Francesco

This place is all about the art. The big draw? Piero della Francesca's "The Legend of the True Cross" frescoes. They're a Renaissance masterpiece. The outside of the church might not wow you, but inside, it's packed with history and beauty.

3. Arezzo Cathedral (Duomo di San Donato)

Arezzo Cathedral is Gothic and gorgeous. Step inside to see stunning stained glass and frescoes, including more by Piero della Francesca. The cathedral sits on the highest point in the city, so the views are killer.

4. Church of Santa Maria della Pieve

Santa Maria della Pieve is Arezzo's oldest church, dating back to the 11th century. The Romanesque facade is stacked with arcades and topped with a tall bell tower. Inside, you'll find a polyptych by Pietro Lorenzetti and a Vasari-designed altar.

5. Medici Fortress (Fortezza Medicea)

The Medici Fortress is a solid example of 16th-century military architecture. Built by the Medici family, it's got a pentagonal shape and five defensive towers. Walk around the grounds for great views of Arezzo and the Tuscan hills.

6. Casa Vasari

Casa Vasari was home to Giorgio Vasari, a big name in Renaissance art. Now it's a museum showing off his frescoes and giving you a peek into his world. It's like stepping back into Renaissance Italy.

7. Roman Amphitheater

This Roman Amphitheater dates back to the 2nd century AD. It used to seat over 10,000 people. Now, it's a spot to explore ruins and check out the Archaeological Museum nearby, which is packed with ancient artifacts.

8. Church of San Domenico

San Domenico is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles. Inside, you'll find some serious art, like Cimabue's wooden crucifix and Piero della Francesca's Maddalena Polyptych. The church is simple outside but a gem inside.

9. Museo Archeologico

Next to the Roman Amphitheater, the Museo Archeologico is full of Etruscan and Roman artifacts. The museum's housed in a former convent, adding to its historic charm. It's the spot to dive deep into Arezzo's ancient past.

10. Ivan Bruschi House and Museum

Ivan Bruschi, who started Arezzo's famous antique fair, founded this museum. It's packed with a quirky collection of antiques from around the world. The terrace views of Arezzo are a nice bonus.

The image offers a breathtaking view from Giorgio Vasari's house in Arezzo, Tuscany. From this vantage point, the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside stretch into the distance, bathed in warm sunlight. The rooftops of Arezzo's historic buildings, with their terracotta tiles and stone facades, spread out below, leading the eye toward the city's prominent medieval towers and church spires. The scene captures the tranquil beauty of Tuscany, blending the rich architectural heritage of Arezzo with the serene natural landscape. This view is a perfect representation of the timeless charm and cultural richness found in Arezzo, Tuscany.

Where is Arezzo on Italy's map?

How old is Arezzo, Italy?

Arezzo is old. The exact dating of its origins is in some dispute, but historians have agreed that either from the 9th or 8th century BCE, Arezzo was a major Etruscan city before becoming a key Roman site known as Arretium. But people likely lived there even earlier; evidence of Paleolithic inhabitants has been found.

Throughout the centuries, Arezzo has been a medieval hub, a key site in 15th-century Renaissance military strategies, and then switched roles entirely to become a post-World War II hub of industrial workers. To look at Arezzo today is to see the remnants of a city with many narratives, each telling its very long and complicated story.

The image depicts a lively scene of people enjoying lunch outside on a pedestrian street in downtown Arezzo, Italy. Diners are seated at quaint outdoor tables beneath colorful umbrellas, surrounded by the charming architecture of historic buildings. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, with the cobblestone street adding to the picturesque setting. Passersby stroll by, contributing to the dynamic street life typical of Arezzo. The warm, inviting ambiance of this downtown area highlights the town's rich cultural atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for savoring Italian cuisine while soaking in the beauty of Arezzo, Italy.

Is Arezzo, Italy safe?

Arezzo is a mostly safe city, though one should watch out for mild to moderate crime. She's a low-key Tuscan city with a lower cost of living than big Italian cities. Most of the crime is petty theft and vandalism with some drug-focused incidents. Violence is pretty rare, but you want to be on your toes still, especially at night.

Keep your possessions close at hand, and don't go laying around in dark, sketchy neighborhoods drunk off your face-you'll be okay. Despite these issues, Arezzo is still a cool and safe place to live or visit, similar to many other small towns in Tuscany.

The image provides an aerial view of a sprawling wine estate in Arezzo, Italy. The estate is nestled in the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, surrounded by lush vineyards that stretch out in neat rows across the landscape. The central farmhouse and outbuildings, built in traditional Tuscan style with terracotta roofs and rustic stone walls, are beautifully integrated into the natural surroundings. Olive groves and cypress trees dot the landscape, adding to the idyllic scenery. This aerial perspective captures the essence of Tuscany’s renowned wine country, showcasing the agricultural beauty and timeless charm of a wine estate in Arezzo, Italy.

The Best Guided Tours in Arezzo, Italy

Here are some top tours you can book in Arezzo:

Arezzo: Private Walking Tour

Take a walk through Arezzo's ancient streets. You'll dive into its deep history, from pre-Etruscan times to its role in Roman expansion. It's a cool way to soak up the local culture.

Arezzo: Dining Experience at a Local's Home

Eat like a local in Arezzo. Join a family at their home, watch them cook up traditional recipes, and enjoy a four-course meal. It's all about authentic Tuscan flavors and good vibes.

Oil Museum and Mill in Tuscany: Interactive Tour and Tasting

Check out the SuprEvo Oil Museum. You'll see how olive oil is made, from the trees to the bottle. The tour wraps up with a tasting session-perfect for foodies curious about Tuscany's best olive oils.

Wine Tasting in the Historical Centre of Arezzo

Love wine? This tasting in Arezzo's historic center lets you sip on some of Tuscany's finest. You'll try Chianti and other local wines, paired with truffle snacks and cheese. It's all set in a beautiful, old-school location.

Cooking Class in a Private Medieval Village

Roll up your sleeves for a cooking class in a medieval village near Arezzo. You'll make fresh pasta, sauces, and even tiramisu. The setting is stunning, making it more than just a cooking lesson-it's a full-on experience.

The image showcases a charming street in Arezzo, Italy, with a picturesque view of a church tower rising in the background. The street is lined with historic buildings featuring warm, earthy tones typical of Tuscan architecture, with arched doorways and shuttered windows. The cobblestone pathway leads the eye toward the prominent church tower, which stands tall against a clear blue sky, adding a sense of history and grandeur to the scene. The tranquil atmosphere of the street, combined with the striking presence of the church tower, captures the timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage of Arezzo, Italy.

How much time is needed in Arezzo?

You can see everything in Arezzo in a day if you have a burn-and-churn itinerary, and you are blessed with good weather. But if you take your time, you can absorb the vibe and even overcome the slight facelessness of the town. Do it in two to three days, and you can chill, dine and digest the food, and perhaps venture a bit into the rolling countryside. If you slow down, you will find more places of interest than you might have initially imagined.

Shopping & Dining

The image depicts pedestrians walking along a narrow, cobblestone street in Arezzo, Italy, heading towards the town's main medieval piazza, Piazza Grande. The street is flanked by historic buildings with rustic facades, wooden shutters, and flower-filled balconies, creating a charming, old-world ambiance. The pathway gently slopes upward, leading toward the open space of the piazza, which is hinted at in the distance. The scene is lively yet intimate, with the pedestrians adding a sense of movement and daily life to the picturesque setting. This view captures the essence of Arezzo's medieval charm, highlighting the town's rich history and inviting atmosphere.

What is Arezzo, Italy famous for shopping?

The tiny Italian town of Arezzo is a shopping crystal palace-especially if you are after antiques or artisanal goods. The Fiera Antiquaria, Italy's oldest and one of its most storied antiques fairs, invades the town's Piazza Grande on the first weekend of the month, transforming it into an urban flea market. The rest of the month, the town's narrow lanes, such as Corso Italia and Via Cavour, are lined with boutiques filled with gold and silver-plated jewelry, high-quality textiles, and curious home knick-knacks, all carefully crafted by local artisans.

Some encouragingly cool artisanal shops are run by local artists who sell their handmade wares.

The image captures a group of elderly people enjoying lunch outside on a pedestrian street in Arezzo, Italy. They are seated around a table at a quaint outdoor café, shaded by colorful umbrellas. The street is lined with historic buildings, their stone facades and arched windows adding to the charming, old-world atmosphere. The group is engaged in lively conversation, sharing a meal in the warm, inviting ambiance typical of Arezzo's downtown area. This scene reflects the town's vibrant social life, where people of all ages come together to enjoy good food and each other's company amidst the picturesque surroundings of Arezzo, Italy.

Where to eat in Arezzo, Italy?

The food here in Arezzo is excellent and quite broad-ranging. For classic Tuscan, head to Antica Osteria l'Agania for pasta in thick, meaty sauces (pici and tagliatelle are served piping hot with either truffle, wild boar, and other hearty selections).

For chilled, but nevertheless Italian-tender, La Tua Piadina specializes in the perfectly-baked piadina, kind of like a flatbread with lots of cheesy, herby fillings. Other than that, Miva is one of the best pizzerias in the area, mostly offering standard pizzas, but with extra-fresh and tasty specialties too. What's more, it's an excellent place to drink local wine. If sweet is your thing, then the post-meal desserts at Cremi offer gelato, cioccolata calda (or Nutella), or panna cotta-the best you'll ever try.

Accommodation & Transportation

The image shows a charming window set into an old, weathered wall of a residence, likely in a historic area. The wall is constructed of aged stone or stucco, showing the texture and character that comes with time. The window is framed by wooden shutters, painted in a faded color that complements the rustic look of the wall. A vibrant display of flowers in a window box or planter adds a splash of color and life to the scene, with blooming plants cascading over the edges. The overall effect is one of quaint beauty, capturing the timeless charm of a traditional, well-loved home in a historic setting.

Where to stay in Arezzo, Italy?

If you decided to stay and hang out in Arezzo, there'll be plenty of hotels depending on your desires. If you like that comfy historic vibe, thenLa Corte Del Re, bang in the middle of the main square, is for you. Otherwise, if you want to be a bit quieter and further out, then Hotel Le Capanne, within walking distance of town, with a swimming pool and courtesy pedal bikes to explore the Tuscan hills, will be better for you.

If you're splashing the cash, then try La Striscia Wine Resort at a vineyard, mixing in some modern facilities with classic Tuscan style. It really depends on your sense of taste.

The image depicts people walking downhill on a pedestrian street in the old medieval section of Arezzo, Italy. The narrow cobblestone street is lined with historic buildings featuring stone facades, arched doorways, and wooden shutters, all reflecting the town's rich medieval heritage. The street slopes gently, leading toward a lower part of the town, with the walkers adding a sense of movement and life to the scene. The atmosphere is both lively and serene, with the timeless architecture providing a picturesque backdrop. This image beautifully captures the essence of daily life in the medieval heart of Arezzo, Italy.

The Best Hotels in Arezzo, Italy

Check out some of the top hotels in Arezzo by category:

Budget Hotels

Garden Hotel
Located just off the A1 motorway, Garden Hotel is a straightforward, no-frills option. It's clean, quiet, and great for budget travelers, especially those on a road trip through Tuscany.

Hotel La Toscana
This family-run hotel is a short 10-minute walk from Arezzo's historic center. It offers a budget-friendly stay with cozy rooms and a relaxing garden.

Family-Friendly Hotels

Hotel Le Capanne
Hotel Le Capanne, a cozy Tuscan farmhouse, is perfect for families. It's a quick drive from Arezzo and has spacious rooms, a pool, and a welcoming vibe.

Hotel Minerva
Hotel Minerva is centrally located in Arezzo, making it easy for families to explore the city. It offers modern amenities and spacious rooms, with friendly staff to help you feel at home.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Continentale
Right in the heart of Arezzo, Hotel Continentale mixes classic Italian charm with modern comforts. The rooftop terrace is a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Vogue Hotel Arezzo
Vogue Hotel Arezzo is a stylish boutique hotel in the city center. Each room is unique, blending modern and traditional design, and it's perfect for exploring the city's sights and restaurants.

Luxury Hotels

La Cantina Relais - Fattoria Il Cipresso
Set on a working farm, La Cantina Relais combines Tuscan charm with luxury. With gourmet dining and exclusive wine tastings, it's perfect for a romantic or relaxing getaway.

The image features a set of wine barrels carefully stacked atop a vintage blue Piaggio Ape, a classic three-wheeled vehicle, at Fattoria Cantallo in Arezzo, Italy. The Piaggio Ape, with its rustic charm and iconic design, contrasts beautifully with the rich wooden tones of the wine barrels. The scene is set against the backdrop of the picturesque Tuscan countryside or a traditional vineyard setting, highlighting the blend of old-world craftsmanship and local heritage. This image captures the essence of Italian culture, combining the love of wine with the charm of vintage vehicles, set in the idyllic surroundings of Arezzo, Italy.

How to get to Arezzo, Italy?

Getting to Arezzo, Italy, is pretty straightforward. You've got a few solid options depending on where you're coming from and how you like to travel.

By Train

Trains are the easiest way to get to Arezzo. From Florence, you can hop on a direct train at Santa Maria Novella station. It takes about an hour to an hour and a half. Tickets start around €9. Coming from Rome? Trains leave from Roma Termini and take about 2.5 hours. Prices range from €13 to €45. Once you arrive, the main station is right in the city center, so you're close to everything.

By Bus

Buses are another option, though they're slower than trains. If you're in Siena, it's about 1.5 hours by bus. The bus station in Arezzo is next to the train station, so you can easily catch a connection.

By Car

Driving gives you the freedom to explore Tuscany at your own pace. Arezzo is accessible from the Autostrada del Sole (A1), with clear exits for the city. If you're driving from Florence or Siena, it's about an hour to an hour and a half.

Where to park in Arezzo, Italy?

Parking in Arezzo is not easy, especially in the center, where spots are tight, and residents of the area are strict about the rules that apply there. But don't worry: solid options are to be found.

My go-to place is Pietri Parking, which is right outside the old town, and they have an escalator that takes you straight to the heart of things. Eden Parking, right behind the shopping area, is also solid, as it's covered. Prices are also hefty, averaging €1.50/€2.50 an hour. If you are fine with walking a bit, Parcheggio Mecenate, further out, is free. Note the blue lines for paid spots and white lines for free ones.

By Air

Arezzo doesn't have its own airport. The closest airports are in Florence and Rome. From either one, you can grab a train or drive to Arezzo.

Local Tips

If driving isn't your thing, consider booking a private transfer or taxi through local services. It'll cost more but might be worth the convenience.
If you're up for a scenic drive, Tuscany's countryside is stunning, with plenty of charming towns to stop by along the way.