The gorgeous hilltop town of Arezzo is one of the best kept secrets of Tuscany. Perfect for an Italian vacation or getaway, this ancient city flourishes with culture and activity making it a wonderful travel destination. The city’s steep cobblestone streets and slower pace of life have captured the hearts of countless visitors with their charm. Although any length of visit is welcome in Arezzo, those staying longer than a day will be better able to explore the history and social culture of the town without feeling rushed. There are many things to do and experience in Arezzo that are best enjoyed when in the company of a friend or loved one.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

The historical town of Arezzo has changed over the years since its establishment in the BC era, but it has closely guarded many precious traditions that are still a part of modern life in the town today.

One of the most sacred events of the year is the Saracen Joust. This competitive and celebratory event usually takes place in the main square, Piazza Grande, where the area is transformed by bright team colors, noisy spirit, and medieval period costumes appropriate for jousting. There is much more at stake than just a celebration as a team from each of the city’s four quarters competes for bragging rights. The competition is a time honored one and a favorite among locals, but travelers are encouraged to watch the event and participate in the festivities.

Dating back to 1968, Arezzo’s Antique Fair is one of the most important in the country. Held on the first Sunday of each month in Piazza Grande, the fair features hundreds of stands with countless treasures for sale including furniture, art, jewelry, books, and more.

During the month of October, the city is usually alive with a number of food trucks that descend on the town to treat residents to some of the finest fare in Italy.

It is also commonplace to have different village festivals in the province of Arezzo throughout the year that celebrate some of the area’s local delicacies such as goose and grapes to name just a few.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Part of Arezzo’s charm can best be experienced by wandering the city streets. The city is bursting with a quintessential Italian vibe and enchanting scenery that includes sidewalk cafés and balcony flower boxes. It is a fantastic way to spend a morning or an evening passeggiata (stroll).

Another favorite way to soak up the local culture is to head over to the true heartbeat of Arezzo, Piazza Grande. This square is primarily famous for its medieval architecture, which can be admired in buildings such as Palazzo Pretorio and Palazzo dei Priori.

In addition, the piazza provides the perfect opportunity to people watch while enjoying a warm coffee or even a glass of wine.

Outside of Arezzo in the Tuscan Apennines is the peaceful Sanctuary of La Verna. This important Franciscan monastic complex is believed to be where Saint Francis received the stigmata. The holy site features Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. The interior chapels are richly decorated and the entire complex is surrounded by lush, natural greenery, making it the perfect place to commune with nature.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

The National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art in Arezzo is one of the finest art museums in this part of Tuscany. Located in the Palazzo Bruni Ciocchi, sometimes referred to as the Palazzo della Dogana, the museum offers multi-floor exhibits and a roof garden. Some of the most frequently visited pieces in the museum belong to the Secular Fraternity or Municipality of Arezzo collections. Here guests can admire detailed artwork originally found in churches and monasteries as well as renowned masterpieces from Renaissance painters such as Giorgio Vasari of the sixteenth century.

Another must-see museum in the area is the Gaius Cilnius Maecenas Archeological Museum. This museum is located within the former Monastery of San Bernardo, which is in the same spot as the city’s ancient Roman amphitheater. The museum is named as such in honor of a historic patron of the arts during Emperor Augustus’ reign. Here at the museum, visitors will find a variety of artifacts spanning a number of periods including the Etruscan and Roman eras.

If time allows, visiting some of the local historic churches is highly recommended. Some of the more renowned area churches to see include the Basilica of San Francesco, the Duomo of San Pietro and San Donato, the Church of Santa Maria della Pieve, the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and the Basilica of San Domenico. Each have had a role in Arezzo throughout the years and also feature pieces of breathtaking artwork.

FAMILY

When taking a once in a lifetime trip to Italy, souvenirs of your time there are a must. The souvenir and boutique shopping opportunities in Arezzo are first class. Take the family to wander some of the shops that can sell everything from high-end clothes and fashion to stunning furniture and antiques. One of the most splendid shopping experiences for antique lovers is the outdoor antique market in Piazza Grande held on the first Sunday of each month.

Another family favorite is watching a movie under the stars. Although primarily a summer event, it is not uncommon for people to gather in Arezzo and watch movies outside once the darkness of night has blanketed the sky. The movies shown are usually of a wide variety and may be offered in different languages.

KIDS

Especially for children who adore getting lost in the pages of an adventurous fairy tale with castles, a visit to Arezzo’s Medici Fortress, will likely be a hit. This circa sixteenth century structure is located high on the hilltop city, which affords visitors some truly scenic panoramas of the surrounding areas. The fortress has undergone restoration efforts in recent years and typically offers periodic guided tours that provide more historical detail and glimpses into the heart of the fortress.

For kids that need some outside time to burn off a little energy, a visit to the Parco Sandro Pertini might be in order. The park is dotted with trees that offer shade over wandering paths and trails.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Visitors who love the theater and performing arts, will appreciate the architecture and luxury of the Teatro Petrarca. This nineteenth century theater can seem simplistic from the outside, but the interior of the building is luxurious and boasts several levels of balconies in addition to an ornate chandelier. The theater is located in the heart of the historic city center just adjacent to the Basilica of San Francesco. The gorgeous gold and red accents of the interior combined with the history, make visiting Teatro Petrarca a fantastic experience that is greatly enhanced if you are able to attend a live show at the venue.

The city of Arezzo is the perfect respite from the fast pace of daily life. Whether you are laughing around a dinner table, holding hands with a loved one during an evening stroll through Piazza Grande, or taking in a show at the Teatro Petrarca, Arezzo is a lovely Italian vacation destination.