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Arezzo

Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy

Journey Back in Time in Enchanting Arezzo Nestled amidst the rolling hills of eastern Tuscany, Arezzo awaits, a treasure trove of history, art, and authentic Italian charm. More than just a picturesque town, Arezzo offer…

#Historic#Artistic#Medieval#Tuscany#Italy

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Arezzo.

Top Hotels in Arezzo

Top Flights to Arezzo

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Arezzo.

Tours

Exploring the Historic Center of Arezzo

Wander through the quaint streets of Arezzo's historic center, where medieval architecture, charming squares, and ancient churches await.

Vasari's House Tour

Visit the former residence of artist Giorgio Vasari, now a museum showcasing his works and life.

Shopping

Arezzo Antique Fair

Attend the largest antique fair in Italy, held every first Sunday of the month and the Saturday before.

Shopping in Corso Italia

Explore shops and boutiques along Corso Italia for fashion, accessories, and local crafts.

Outdoor

Trekking in Casentino Forests

Enjoy outdoor adventures along trails in the Casentino Forests, a beautiful part of Italy's national park system.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Arezzo.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

97,000

Languages

Italian, Italian

Average weather

Arezzo

Jan

9°1°

Feb

11°2°

Mar

14°4°

Apr

17°7°

May

22°11°

Jun

27°15°

Jul

31°18°

Aug

31°18°

Sep

26°15°

Oct

20°11°

Nov

14°6°

Dec

10°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Arezzo.

What people love

Arezzo, located in the picturesque region of Tuscany, Italy, offers a charming and authentic Italian experience for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Arezzo:

Rich History and Culture: Arezzo boasts a wealth of historical sites, including the stunning Piazza Grande, adorned with medieval buildings and the impressive Vasari Loggias. The city is also home to renowned churches like the Cathedral of Arezzo and the Basilica of San Francesco.
Art and Architecture: Arezzo is known for its artistic heritage, with works by famous artists such as Piero della Francesca and Giorgio Vasari. Visitors can admire exquisite frescoes and sculptures in churches and museums throughout the city.
Local Cuisine: Tuscany is celebrated for its delicious food and wine, and Arezzo is no exception. Travelers can indulge in traditional Tuscan dishes like ribollita (a hearty soup), bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), and excellent local wines such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
Scenic Surroundings: Arezzo is surrounded by beautiful countryside, vineyards, and olive groves, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the rolling hills of Tuscany, visit nearby wineries, or take leisurely walks through the picturesque landscapes.
Authentic Atmosphere: Unlike some of the more touristy cities in Italy, Arezzo offers a more authentic and laid-back atmosphere. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with friendly residents, and experience the slower pace of life in a traditional Italian town.

Overall, Arezzo is a wonderful destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, art, and gastronomy in a beautiful Tuscan setting.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy could include:

Limited public transportation options: Arezzo is not as well-connected by public transportation as larger cities in Italy, so getting around may be more challenging.
Tourist crowds: Arezzo is a popular destination, especially during peak tourist seasons, which can lead to crowded attractions and restaurants.
Limited nightlife: Arezzo is known more for its historical and cultural attractions rather than a vibrant nightlife scene, so those seeking lively evenings may be disappointed.
Limited English spoken: While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, Arezzo may have fewer English speakers compared to larger cities, which could make communication more difficult.
Limited accommodation options: Arezzo may not have as many accommodation choices compared to larger cities, so it's important to plan ahead and book in advance.

Please note that these potential cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel expectations.

Arezzo is a city in the Tuscany region of Italy, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Here's a detailed history of Arezzo, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Ancient History

Etruscan Period: Arezzo was one of the major cities of the Etruscan civilization, known as "Arretium." It was a significant political and cultural center in Etruria, flourishing around the 9th to the 1st centuries BCE.
Roman Era: In 311 BCE, Arezzo became a Roman city after Roman conquest. It was an important military and commercial hub, and its strategic location helped it thrive during the Roman Republic and Empire. The city was known for its production of Arretine ware, a type of fine Roman pottery.

Medieval Period

5th to 11th Century: After the fall of the Roman Empire, Arezzo experienced decline and was ruled by the Lombards and then by the Franks. The city began to recover and grow in the early medieval period.
12th Century: Arezzo became an independent city-state, or comune, during the high Middle Ages. It was involved in the power struggles between the Guelphs (supporters of the Papacy) and the Ghibellines (supporters of the Holy Roman Emperor).
Battle of Campaldino (1289): This significant battle saw the Guelphs of Florence defeat the Ghibellines of Arezzo. This defeat marked the decline of Arezzo's power as an independent city-state.

Renaissance

15th Century: Arezzo came under the control of Florence. The Medici family, who ruled Florence, brought stability and fostered artistic and cultural development in the region.
Notable Figures:
- Guido of Arezzo (c. 991–1033): A medieval music theorist and one of the most influential figures in the history of Western music. He developed modern musical notation.
- Piero della Francesca (c. 1415–1492): A renowned Renaissance artist, famous for his frescoes and use of perspective.

Modern History

19th Century: In 1860, Arezzo became part of the unified Kingdom of Italy, following the Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification.
World War II: Arezzo was significantly affected during the war. The city was a strategic point and saw combat, especially during the Gothic Line battles in 1944.

Important Landmarks

Piazza Grande: The main square of Arezzo, known for its sloping pavement and beautiful architecture. It hosts the Giostra del Saracino, a traditional medieval jousting tournament.
Basilica of San Francesco: Famous for housing the fresco cycle "The Legend of the True Cross" by Piero della Francesca.
Cathedral of San Donato: The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and contains notable artworks, including stained glass windows by Guillaume de Marcillat.
Fortezza Medicea: A fortress built by the Medici family, offering panoramic views of the city.

Arezzo's history reflects a blend of Etruscan origins, Roman influence, medieval strife, and Renaissance artistic achievements, all contributing to its unique cultural legacy.