Displaying its vibrant history on every street corner, this prosperous and energetic city in Tuscany has an atmosphere best experienced with an espresso in hand.
Away from Italy’s tourist trail, discover the authentic pace of life and beauty of eastern Tuscany in Arezzo. Its winding streets will lead you between classic Tuscan buildings painted in warm pastel colours with arches and columns. A tradition of fine gold-smithing has brought lasting wealth and riches to this city, which can be seen in its culture, architecture and fashion.
The old town centre is enclosed within a historic stone wall and most of Arezzo’s main attractions can be found within walking distance of each other. Gaze upon the beautifully preserved early Renaissance fresco Legend of the True Cross by Piero della Francesca, in the chapel of the Basilica of San Francesco. The work is known around Italy and attracts many visitors. Pause in the sloping Piazza Grande to drink a coffee at an al fresco café and watch the citizens of Arezzo go about their daily lives.
Make your way towards the tall bell tower of the Duomo (Cathedral), to see relics of the city’s past within its nave. Approach the Medici Fortress to look upon the remnants of historic Italian military architecture and imperial grandeur in the shade of broad trees. On the outskirts of the old town look for the ruins of the Roman Amphitheatre. In the nearby Archeological Museum uncover the layers of history of Arezzo.
Visit the Church of San Domenico to see the enormous wooden crucifix made by the famous medieval artist Cimabue. Another beautiful old church, one of the oldest in the city, is the Church of Santa Maria della Pieve.
From its position atop a hill, Arezzo looks out on the four valleys of Valtiberina, Casentino, Valdarno and Valdichiana. Take a daytrip into the surrounding hills to taste the produce of local vineyards. At sundown, join the locals for a stroll along the busy shopping street of Corso Italia. Try local prosciutto, tomatoes and cheese at a fine restaurant on one of the city’s winding cobbled streets.
Arezzo’s town centre is ideal for a walking tour and can easily be navigated on foot. The city is connected to Italy’s main train network, and the Arezzo station is a major hub in the Arezzo province.
