Best of Arezzo
CC BY-SA 4.0 • Photo by Diego Delso via Wikimedia Commons

Best of Arezzo

One-day tour of Arezzo's medieval and Renaissance landmarks

1 day • Easy difficulty • Est. €120

Day 1: Renaissance Art and Medieval History in Arezzo

A comprehensive one-day exploration of Arezzo's compact historic center, focusing on its Renaissance masters like Vasari and Piero della Francesca, medieval architecture, and vibrant piazzas.

  • 09:00

    Cathedral of San Donino (Duomo di Arezzo)

    Start your day at the Romanesque cathedral in Piazza del Duomo. Admire the facade and the interior, which houses the famous 'Madonna dell'Umiltà' by Piero della Francesca. Note: Check if the crypt is open, as it contains Etruscan and Roman remains.

  • 10:30

    Stroll through Piazza Grande

    Walk to the iconic trapezoidal Piazza Grande. Observe the colorful medieval shields (gonfaloni) on the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici. This is the heart of the city and the setting for the annual Giostra del Saracino jousting festival.

  • 11:30

    Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici

    Enter the 15th-century palace to view the historic archives and the stunning Loggia del Bacio. The interior features beautiful Renaissance architecture and frescoes. This building dominates the Piazza Grande.

  • 13:00

    Lunch in the Historic Center

    Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch at a trattoria near Piazza Grande or in the nearby side streets. Try local specialties like Pici pasta or Ribollita.

  • 14:00

    Casa di Giorgio Vasari

    Visit the former home of the famous artist and historian Giorgio Vasari. Explore the rooms adorned with his frescoes and learn about his life and work. Pre-booking is recommended to skip lines.

  • 15:30

    Basilica of San Francesco

    Head to the Basilica of San Francesco, a 13th-century Gothic church. The highlight is the Bacci Chapel, which houses Piero della Francesca's masterpiece, 'The Legend of the True Cross' cycle of frescoes. This is a must-see for art lovers.

  • 17:00

    Rocca del Popolo (Medici Fortress)

    Walk up to the medieval fortress overlooking the city. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Arezzo and the surrounding Tuscan hills. The exterior architecture is impressive, and the grounds offer a peaceful retreat.

  • 18:00

    Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo & Ivan Bruschi Museum

    End your day at the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. Visit the Ivan Bruschi Museum housed within, which features an eclectic collection of antiques, street art, and curiosities. It offers a unique glimpse into local artistic heritage.

Meals: Lunch at Near Piazza Grande , Dinner at Historic Center

Where to stay: Arezzo is compact and walkable. Stay in the historic center (Centro Storico) for easy access to all attractions. Options range from boutique hotels in medieval palaces to B&Bs near Piazza Grande.

Getting around: The entire itinerary is walkable. No car is needed within the city. If arriving from Florence or Siena, take the direct train to Arezzo station, which is a short walk from the center.

Practical Information

Arezzo is best visited during spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild, making it ideal for walking the compact, hilly center. These seasons also offer smaller crowds compared to the peak summer months. While the town is accessible year-round, winter can be chilly, and summer may bring intense heat and larger tourist groups. Getting to Arezzo is straightforward via direct regional trains from Florence (approximately 1–1.5 hours) or Siena. Once in town, the historic center is largely car-free and highly walkable, allowing visitors to easily navigate between major sites on foot. For those staying overnight, accommodation is concentrated in the historic center or near the train station. Staying within the pedestrian zone provides immediate access to attractions like Piazza Grande and the Basilica of San Francesco, while areas near the station offer convenience for early departures or late arrivals. Budget considerations for a one-day visit should account for transportation costs from major hubs like Florence, as well as entrance fees for key sites. Pre-booking tickets for the Basilica of San Francesco is mandatory and often more cost-effective than on-site purchases. Visitors can save time and money by purchasing combination passes for multiple museums, such as the Chimera Museum and Archaeological Museum. While Arezzo is not excessively expensive, dining in the historic center can be pricier than in surrounding towns; consider eating lunch at casual trattorias or bakeries to manage costs. When packing, wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the cobblestone streets and hills can be uneven. Bring layers, as weather can shift quickly, and carry a reusable water bottle, as public fountains are common. A small daypack is useful for carrying essentials while exploring side streets and markets. Important tips for travelers include checking opening hours in advance, as some smaller museums and historic houses have limited schedules. Allocate at least two hours for a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the historical context, particularly regarding the Etruscan origins and Renaissance art. If visiting during the summer, start early to beat the heat and crowds at popular spots like Piazza Grande. Finally, respect the local atmosphere by keeping noise levels down in residential areas and supporting local artisans in the boutique shops scattered throughout the old town.

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