Arezzo, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Arezzo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Sailko

Situated in the south-eastern region of Tuscany, Arezzo is perched prominently atop a hill, at the intersection of four valleys: Val Tiberina, Casentino, Valdarno, and Valdichiana. This locale has deep historical significance within the Tuscan landscape, evidenced by the wealth of archaeological finds, such as stone tools and the discovery of the Paleolithic-era “Man of the Elm.”

The city's roots trace back to Etruscan times, under the name “Aritim,” originating around the 9th century B.C. It swiftly evolved into a pivotal hub in Tuscany, owing to its strategic placement along the Roman Via Cassia.

Arezzo offers a rich tapestry of attractions, including fortifications, landmarks, churches, and museums, all of which invite visitors to embark on a journey through time. Remarkably, remnants of a Roman amphitheatre still grace the city's landscape.

TIP: If you are visiting Arezzo for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide.
This is one of the most complete and best-rated city tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in about 3 hours.
If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our Walking Tour of Arezzo in Tuscany.

Visiting Arezzo for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Arezzo on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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14 Best places to See in Arezzo

This complete guide to Arezzo not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Arezzo and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Palazzo dei Priori in Arezzo

Palazzo Dei Priori In Arezzo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Diego Delso, delso.photo
Standing tall at the heart of Arezzo’s old town, the Palazzo dei Priori remains one of the top attractions in Arezzo and a powerful symbol of its medieval authority. Built in the early 14th century as the seat of the city’s magistrates, this majestic building still serves as the Town Hall, preserving its civic purpose while opening its doors to…
Location: Palazzo dei Priori, Via Montetini, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Palazzo dei Priori in Arezzo

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Cathedral of Arezzo

Arezzo Cattedrale
CC BY-SA 2.0 / phil tazzini
Rising high above the city skyline, the Cattedrale dei Santi Pietro e Donato or Cathedral of Arezzo is one of the top attractions in Arezzo and a symbol of its enduring spirit. Perched at the city’s highest point, it greets visitors with its elegant spire visible for miles across the rolling Tuscan countryside. Legend holds that this sacred site stands…
Location: Arezzo Cathedral, Piazza Del Duomo, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm Sundays and Public Holidays: 1.30 pm to 6.00 pm | Price: € 6.00 | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Cathedral of Arezzo

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Arezzo. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Fondazione Ivan Bruschi - Casa Museo dell'Antiquariato Ivan Bruschi

Fondazione Ivan Bruschi
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko
Tucked away just steps from Piazza Grande, the Ivan Bruschi House Museum is one of the top attractions in Arezzo for those who love art, history, and the stories behind beautiful objects. Housed in the 13th-century Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, the museum preserves the eclectic and elegant spirit of its founder, Ivan Bruschi — the antiques dealer who transformed…
Location: Fondazione Ivan Bruschi - Casa Museo dell'Antiquariato Ivan Bruschi, Corso Italia, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: Opening hours 10.00 - 13.00, 14.00 - 18.00 | Price: €5.00 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Fondazione Ivan Bruschi - Casa Museo dell'Antiquariato Ivan Bruschi

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Palazzo Pretorio

Palazzo Pretorio Arezzo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tetraktys
Just steps from Piazza Grande, on Via dei Pileati, stands the stately Palazzo Pretorio, one of the top sights in Arezzo for those intrigued by the city’s layered history. The palace’s weathered stone façade, studded with carved coats of arms, reflects centuries of changing power and civic pride. Once the seat of the Captain of Justice, later a prison, and…
Location: Pretorio Palace, Via dei Pileati, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Palazzo Pretorio

Explore Arezzo at your own pace with our self-guided walking tour! Follow our curated route to discover must-see sights and local secrets that makes Arezzo one of the best places to visit in Italy.

Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici

Arezzo   Piazza Grande   Palazzo Della Fraternita Dei Laici
CC BY-SA 2.0 / s9-4pr
Dominating the sun-drenched Piazza Grande, the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici is one of the must-see places in Arezzo, blending architectural elegance with centuries of civic service. Its harmonious mix of Gothic and Renaissance design tells the story of a city that valued both faith and intellect, while the building itself continues to embody Arezzo’s humanitarian spirit. Since its foundation…
Location: Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici, Via Giorgio Vasari, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Hours: Every day / 10.30am – 6.00pm | Price: € 5,00 | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici

Church of San Domenico

Church Of San Domenico In Arezzo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko
In the peaceful heart of Arezzo’s historic centre stands the Church of San Domenico, a gem of Tuscan medieval architecture that continues to captivate visitors with its serene beauty and deep sense of history. Built between the late 13th and early 14th centuries, this church is one of the must-see places in Arezzo, blending spiritual significance with remarkable artistic heritage.…
Location: San Domenico, Piazza San Domenico, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Church of San Domenico

Church of Santa Maria della Pieve

Church Of Santa Maria Della Pieve In Arezzo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Colin W
In the heart of Arezzo’s old town stands the Parish Church of Santa Maria della Pieve, one of the top sights in Arezzo and a shining example of Romanesque architecture at its most expressive. Its majestic façade, flanked by columns and sculpted capitals, rises like a stone tapestry from the medieval streets. The church’s famous bell tower, known locally as…
Location: Santa Maria della Pieve, Corso Italia, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Church of Santa Maria della Pieve

National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art

Museo Nazionale DArte Medievale E Moderna
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko
In the elegant streets of Arezzo’s historic centre, the Bruni Ciocchi Palace offers visitors an unforgettable blend of art, architecture, and history. This refined Renaissance residence, now home to the Municipal Picture Gallery, stands as one of the top sights in Arezzo and perfectly encapsulates the city’s artistic spirit. Walking through its graceful courtyard and spacious galleries, one feels transported…
Location: Museo Nazionale d'Arte Medievale e Moderna, Via San Lorentino, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Price: € 7,00 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art

Casa Vasari Museum

Casa Vasari Museum In Arezzo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ввласенко
In the quiet streets of Arezzo’s historic center stands the Casa Vasari Museum, one of the top attractions in Arezzo for lovers of Renaissance art and history. This elegant residence once belonged to Giorgio Vasari, the celebrated artist, architect, and biographer whose writings shaped how the world understands the Italian Renaissance. Vasari not only designed and decorated this house himself…
Location: Casa Vasari, Via XX Settembre, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, entry every hour from 8.30 to 18.30. Sunday and holidays entry every hour from 8.30 to 12.30, with 1 hour visiting shifts. | Price: €5.00 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Casa Vasari Museum

San Francesco Basilica

Arezzo   San Francesco
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Luca Aless
At first glance, Saint Francis Square in Arezzo may appear modest, framed by an unfinished church façade of rough stone. Yet within the Basilica of Saint Francis lies one of the greatest artistic achievements of the Italian Renaissance. Here, in the quiet Bacci Chapel, Piero della Francesca painted his luminous cycle “The Legend of the True Cross” between 1452 and…
Location: Basilica di San Francesco, Piazza San Francesco, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Hours: Mon - Tue - Thu - Fri / 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sat / 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sun / 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Last entry 30 minutes before closing. Tours interrupted due to church service from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m | Price: € 10.00 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting San Francesco Basilica
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Piazza Grande

Arezzo Piazza Grande
CC BY-SA 2.0 / phil tazzini
Piazza Grande, the heart of Arezzo, is one of the most enchanting squares in Tuscany — a place where centuries of history seem to merge into one living masterpiece. Its distinctive sloping shape, stone façades, and graceful Renaissance loggias create a setting that feels both dramatic and harmonious. Standing here, surrounded by towers, palaces, and arcades, you get a vivid…
Location: Piazza Grande, Piazza Grande, Arezzo, Italy | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Piazza Grande

Medici Fortress

Medici Fortress Arezzo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / LigaDue
Just beyond the cathedral of Arezzo lies one of the city’s most enchanting and tranquil spaces — Petrarca Park. This leafy sanctuary, named after the celebrated poet Francesco Petrarca, offers a refreshing escape from the city’s narrow lanes. Designed with refined French-inspired landscaping, the park opens up to sweeping views of the Casentino Valley, framed by vineyards, olive groves, and…
Location: the c, Viale Bruno Buozzi, Arezzo, Italy | Hours: Mon – Wed – Thur – Fri / 11.00 am – 7.00 pm (last admission at 6.30 pm) Sat – Sun / 10.00 am – 8.00 pm (last admission at 7.30 pm) | Price: €8,00 | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Medici Fortress

National Archaeological Museum Gaius Cilnius Maecenas

National Archaeological Museum Gaius Cilnius Maecenas E1714518551329
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko
Nestled within the historic heart of Arezzo, the Gaius Cilnius Maecenas Archaeological Museum stands as one of the must-see places in Arezzo for history enthusiasts. Together with the adjoining Roman Amphitheatre, it forms a remarkable archaeological complex that connects visitors to the city’s earliest roots. The museum, named after Gaius Maecenas — the famed Roman statesman and patron of the…
Location: Museo Archeologico Nazionale Gaio Cilnio Mecenate, Via Margaritone, 10, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Hours: Monday to Saturday / 9.00 am – 7.30 pm Sundays and public holidays / 2.30 pm – 7.30 pm First Sunday of the month / 9:30 am – 7:30 pm | Price: €7.00 | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting National Archaeological Museum Gaius Cilnius Maecenas

Roman Amphitheatre

Roman Amphitheatre Of Arezzo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko
At the southern edge of Arezzo’s historic center lies one of its most extraordinary and ancient sites — the Roman Amphitheatre. Built in the first half of the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, this vast elliptical structure once stood as the focal point of public entertainment in Roman Arezzo. Today, its weathered stone arcs still curve…
Location: Roman Amphitheatre of Arezzo, Via Margaritone, Arezzo, Province of Arezzo, Italy | Hours: See National Archaeological Museum Gaius Cilnius Maecenas | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Roman Amphitheatre

Best Day Trips from Arezzo

A day trip from Arezzo offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Arezzo provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Siena

Piazza Del Campo Siena
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Massimo Catarinella
Visiting Siena is like stepping into a timeless Italian dream, where medieval streets wind through a city rich in culture, charm, and breathtaking scenery. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Siena captivates visitors with its warm, earthy-toned buildings, stunning Gothic architecture, and lively piazzas. Whether you’re strolling through its narrow alleyways, savoring a meal at a traditional trattoria, or simply…
Visiting Siena
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Perugia

Umbria Perugia
Nestled in the heart of Italy, Perugia is one of the country's oldest centers, celebrated for its vibrant social life, rich university heritage, and much more. This modern city, steeped in history, stands atop a hill in the Tiber Valley and serves as the capital of Umbria. Known as a city of art and a lively cultural hub, Perugia's medieval…
Visiting Perugia
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Gubbio

Umbria Gubbio
Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Apennine Mountains, Medieval Gubbio boasts a picturesque setting approximately 25 miles northeast of the bustling capital of Umbria, Perugia. To the north and east, the landscape stretches out into vast expanses until reaching the border with the neighboring region of Le Marche. This ancient land, adorned with charming squares and majestic stone palaces,…
Visiting Gubbio

Florence

Florence
Florence, one of Italy's most renowned cities, is a must-visit destination on the tourist circuit. Its breath-taking Renaissance architecture, charming streets, and picturesque buildings make it a captivating spot for travellers. Art lovers will find themselves in paradise with an abundance of galleries to explore, offering a diverse range of masterpieces. The city's magnificent Renaissance churches also provide a fascinating glimpse…
Visiting Florence
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San Marino

Visiting San Marino
San Marino's origins are rooted in the captivating legend of Saint Marinus, who established the community and republic in AD 301 after seeking refuge on Mount Titano. The sovereignty of San Marino was confirmed after Italian Unification, possibly in recognition of their assistance to Garibaldi, a prominent leader in the Risorgimento movement. With the exception of Vatican City, San Marino…
Visiting San Marino
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Assisi

Assisi Scaled
When UNESCO inscribed the Franciscan attractions in Assisi as a World Heritage Site, it highlighted the city's significant influence on both religious expression and European art history. This intertwining of religious and artistic heritage makes Assisi a must-visit for tourists. As the birthplace of St. Francis and the center of his life's work, Assisi is deeply connected with the Franciscan…
Visiting Assisi

Rimini

RiminiItaly
Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Rimini boasts a rich history dating back to its Roman foundation in 268 BC. This coastal gem spans over 15 kilometers of pristine beaches, rendering it a favoured destination for seaside enthusiasts. Notably, the renowned filmmaker Federico Fellini hailed from this city, which is celebrated for its lively nightlife and historic landmarks, including the iconic…
Visiting Rimini
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Ravenna

Ravenna
Situated on the eastern coast of Italy, nestled between San Marino and Bologna, Ravenna serves as the capital of the Ravenna province and stands as one of the larger cities in the Emilia-Romagna region. Throughout its illustrious history, Ravenna has held a position of great importance under various empires, including serving as the capital of the Western Roman Empire and…
Visiting Ravenna
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Lucca

Italy   Lucca
www.arne-mueseler.com CC BY-SA3 .0 / Arne Müseler
Lucca, considered one of Europe's most delightful towns, captivates visitors with its walled centre, ranking it among Tuscany's top attractions. The town boasts magnificent churches, many featuring the distinctive striped facades characteristic of Tuscan architecture, and they house a trove of precious art treasures. While strolling through its narrow streets and spacious piazzas, you can relish the serene ambiance and…
Visiting Lucca
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Bologna

Bologna
Bologna, a captivating city, holds the distinction of being the capital and largest city of the Emilia-Romagna region. Renowned by many Italians as the second most beautiful city after Venice, it boasts a rich heritage and a vibrant atmosphere. Bologna's charm lies in its relaxed and stress-free lifestyle, accompanied by a warm and lively ambiance. Its historic center, one of…
Visiting Bologna
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Where to Stay in Arezzo

For exploring the historic centre and being within walking distance of the major sights, consider staying in the immediate medieval heart of the city. One excellent choice is Graziella Patio Hotel which is set in a charming townhouse, converted with character in the heart of Arezzo’s old town, just a short stroll from the cathedral and main squares. It offers individually decorated rooms with some boutique touches and is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city centre. Another strong option in the centre is Minerva Hotel which lies slightly outside the pedestrian area but still very manageable on foot and offers more of a full-service hotel experience (free parking, gym/Turkish bath, etc). Both of these give you easy access to Arezzo’s core area, cafes, restaurants and historic ambience.

If you are arriving by car or prefer easier access and parking outside the strict old-town pedestrian zone, then consider the urban fringe or modern suburbs just outside the historic walls. For this there is Etrusco Arezzo Hotel, Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western which is very close to the exhibition centre and ease of access to the motorway, offering good value and convenience while still being just 2 km from the historic centre. This is handy if you have a car or want slightly more modern hotel amenities.

For a more rural, hillside or countryside setting around Arezzo, ideal if you want a quieter stay and want to combine your city visit with Tuscan surroundings, you could stay outside the urban core. One such property is Hotel Le Capanne which sits on the edge of the hills outside Arezzo, gives you space, greenery, outdoor pool, and a sense of relaxing countryside yet still within easy reach of the city. It’s perfect if you plan a slightly slower stay or want to venture into the surrounding Tuscan landscape.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Arezzo. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Arezzo Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Arezzo

Arezzo offers delightful experiences in both spring and autumn:

Springtime in Arezzo: With its moderate temperatures and the blooming of beautiful flowers, springtime in Arezzo is a truly wonderful experience. The city becomes a burst of colours and fragrances, making it the perfect time to explore its beauty. The pleasant weather and gentle breezes enhance the joy of wandering through the streets and admiring the architecture.

In addition to its natural beauty, spring in Arezzo also presents various cultural opportunities. Many events take place in the city during this season, including the renowned Saracen Joust in June. Visitors can witness a medieval-style jousting competition and immerse themselves in the event’s vibrant atmosphere. All in all, spring is an ideal season to visit Arezzo if you desire a combination of natural splendour and cultural events.

Autumn Charm in Arezzo: Autumn in Arezzo invites you to immerse yourself in its enchanting ambiance as the leaves change colours and the air becomes crisp. The historic heart of the city is adorned with the vibrant hues of autumn leaves, creating a breath-taking landscape. The weather is perfect for leisurely walks through the streets, admiring the architecture, and stopping at a local café for a warm beverage.

Moreover, autumn is a paradise for food enthusiasts to savour the local cuisine. Arezzo is renowned for its delicious truffles, which are in season during this time of year. You can also indulge in the famous Chianina beef while sipping a glass of Tuscan wine. The city comes alive with gastronomic festivals during the harvest season, offering a unique opportunity to explore local culture and traditions. In conclusion, a visit to Arezzo in autumn is a special and not-to-be-missed experience.

Summer In Arezzo: The Giostra del Saracino, or Joust of the Saracen (Moor), is is a great event to see in Arezzo. It is usually held on the third Saturday in June and on the first Sunday in September (check the official site for confirmation), taking place in Arezzo’s magnificent Piazza Grande. The festivities commence a week before the actual joust when the captains participating in the event take an oath. During this time, they also determine the sequence in which they will charge and practice their jousting skills in the evenings throughout the week. The Joust of the Saracen is a captivating and time-honored tradition that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Arezzo.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 8°C
  • February 10°C
  • March 13°C
  • April 18°C
  • May 23°C
  • June 30°C
  • July 30°C
  • August 31°C
  • September 25°C
  • October 21°C
  • November 12°C
  • December 9°C

How to get to Arezzo

Flying to Arezzo

There is no airport located directly in Arezzo, so flying directly to Arezzo is not an option. However, you can reach Arezzo by driving or taking a train from nearby airports. The airports closest to Arezzo, in order of proximity, are Florence, Perugia, Pisa, Bologna, Rome, and Genoa. Among these, Pisa airport is a popular choice for flights within Europe, while Rome is more likely to be the arrival airport for visitors from the US and Canada. Depending on your location and travel plans, you can choose the airport that best suits your needs and then travel to Arezzo by train or car from there.

Getting to Arezzo by Train

Arezzo has a train station located along the Bologna-Rome railway line. The station is served by daily connections with Intercity trains to Florence, Rome, and various other destinations in Italy. The TFT (Transport Railway Toscano) of the LFI group manages the railway lines for Arezzo-Sinalunga and Arezzo-Stia. Arezzo has three train stations, but if you are a visitor planning to explore the historical centre, it's best to choose the main station, which is simply named “AREZZO.” This station is located at the base of the city and is the closest to the historic center, making it the most convenient choice for those looking to explore the historical attractions of Arezzo.

Getting to Arezzo by Bus

Arezzo is connected to various nearby regions, including Valdichiana, Valtiberina, Pratomagno, Casentino, and Valdarno, via a comprehensive bus network provided by ATAM, LFI, and SITA bus companies. This network allows for easy and convenient bus travel to and from Arezzo and its neighbouring areas.

Getting to Arezzo by Car

You can drive to Arezzo from Florence or Rome via the Autostrada del Sole (A1 Milan-Naples). Exit at the tollgate of Arezzo, and from there, it's about 10 km to reach the city center. Here are some road distances from Arezzo to nearby cities: Cortona 29 km; Florence 74 km; Siena 89 km; Perugia 92 km; Rome 218 km.