A weekend in Arezzo, Tuscany

Less well known than Florence and Siena, Arezzo is a quiet town in the Tuscan region. Arezzo is a medieval city that has retained its old-world charm and will take you back in time.
 
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Day 1 - The Historic Centre

Start your visit in Piazza Grande, the heart of the city, around which most of the historical monuments and museums are located. It is one of the most beautiful squares in Tuscany! The most imposing building in this sloping square is the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici, built in the 14th century. A tower and bell tower were added 2 centuries later. Two other large palaces stand on this beach, the Palazzo delle Logge, dating from the 16th century and built by Giorgio Vasari, and the Palazzo del Tribunale, dating from the 17th century. If you walk by the latter, you will find the Cathedral of Santa Maria della Pieve on the side. This church is the largest in the city and is easily recognisable by its façade decorated with columns and arches. Finally, the Torre Faggiolana and the Lappoli tower-house are two emblematic medieval buildings in Piazza Grande. This architectural jewel of Tuscany is a must-see and houses some of Arezzo's most famous monuments.
 
In addition, every first Sunday and last Saturday of the month the square hosts the Antiques Market. It is also the scene of the Giostra del Saracino tournament which takes place every year from June to September.

At lunchtime there is a wide choice of small Italian restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy local dishes. Be sure to try the local cold cuts, Tarese valdarno, Tuscan soups and pizzas.
 
From Piazza Grande you can go to the Medici Castle, located in the upper part of the city. On your way, you will pass through the Medici garden where the statue of Francesco Petrarca stands. Opposite this garden you can see the Palazzo Pretorio, which houses an art museum. Continuing your walk in this green setting, you will arrive in front of the castle. Surrounded by walls, this 15th century fortress is a symbol of the power of the Medici family. Visiting this Tuscan treasure you will enjoy panoramic views of the city and the plains.
 
End your day strolling through the streets and shops of the city. The region is the birthplace of goldsmiths and ceramics, so this is a great opportunity to bring back some nice souvenirs for your loved ones.

Day 2 - A city of art

Casa di Giorgio Vasari

This small Tuscan palace near Piazza San Domenico houses a museum dedicated to the Italian artist. Giorgio Vasari was a painter, historian and architect, and was responsible for the construction of the Palazzo delle Logge in Arezzo. His house houses art collections and murals painted by the artist himself, but also paintings by other Italian artists of his generation.
 

Petrarch's House

A little further on we find one of the most important figures in Italian literature. Arezzo is the birthplace of Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch in French), a 14th century poet. It is possible to visit the house where he was born in via dell'orto. 
 
Before visiting the Basilica, a lunch break is a must. Choose a meal accompanied by a wine tasting. You can't visit Tuscany without tasting its food and wine.
 

Basilica of San Francesco 

This 13th century Gothic basilica is known for its famous fresco by Piero della Francesca. This work of art depicting the legend of the Holy Cross makes this place one of Arezzo's must-sees. It is also one of the oldest churches in the city.
 

The Gaio Cilnio Mecenate Archaeological Museum

Located in the old building of a Benedictine monastery, it is built on the remains of the Roman amphitheatre. You can admire a vast collection of ancient objects found in the city and its surroundings. It is one of the most important museums in the city.
 
>>> Discover our most beautiful villas in Arezzo
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