Arezzo

Piazza Grande and historic town of Arezzo
Its artistic legacy is exceptional: the Basilica of San Francesco houses Piero della Francesca’s famed fresco cycle The Legend of the True Cross, one of the masterpieces of early Renaissance art.
The town’s architectural centrepiece, Piazza Grande, is instantly recognisable for its sloping form and the graceful Vasari Loggia, framed by medieval towers and noble palaces.
Arezzo also captured global attention through cinema — much of Life Is Beautiful (La vita è bella, by Roberto Benigni) was filmed here, especially in Piazza Grande and the surrounding streets, adding a layer of modern cultural mythology to the town.

Easy itinerary in Arezzo
Step into Piazza Grande and let your eyes wander over its unique, gently sloping, asymmetrical layout, framed by historic palaces, medieval towers, and elegant façades. Don’t miss Vasari’s Loggia, a refined Renaissance addition that adds an air of sophistication to the square. It’s a space that combines history, architecture, and daily life, where locals gather, markets appear, and light plays beautifully across the stone at different times of day — truly one of Tuscany’s most memorable piazzas. Arezzo is a town where art and devotion intertwine. The Basilica of San Francesco is a highlight, where Piero della Francesca’s monumental fresco cycle, “The Legend of the True Cross”, impresses with its scale, composition, and serene beauty. The Duomo of Arezzo offers a Gothic interior adorned with stained glass, sculptural details, and sacred artworks, while smaller churches scattered throughout the town reveal layers of history, from Romanesque simplicity to Renaissance elegance. Each sacred space invites quiet reflection amid centuries of Umbrian and Tuscan tradition. Beyond its historic and religious treasures, Arezzo pulses with artisan energy. The town is famous for goldsmithing, hosting skilled workshops where tradition and innovation meet. Boutique stores, artisan shops, and lively cafés spill onto the streets, blending daily life with cultural richness. From strolling past a jeweller’s window to sipping a coffee in Piazza Grande, you experience a town that breathes and moves, where craft, history, and contemporary life coexist harmoniously.

One of the best Tuscan markets
Arezzo is famous for its monthly Antiques Fair, held on the first Sunday of every month and the preceding Saturday. The historic centre, especially Piazza Grande, fills with hundreds of dealers offering antiques, vintage objects, collectibles, and curiosities, creating a vibrant atmosphere where history, craft, and shopping blend seamlessly. The fair is a highlight for collectors and casual visitors alike, turning the town into a treasure trove for a full day of exploration. During the Christmas season, Arezzo hosts a charming Christmas Market, where streets and squares are adorned with festive lights, artisanal gifts, seasonal foods, and local delicacies. It’s the perfect occasion to experience Tuscan holiday traditions, enjoy mulled wine, and find unique gifts while wandering the picturesque medieval streets.

Tips for Visiting Arezzo
For the full experience, visit on the first Sunday of the month (or the Saturday before) when the antiques market takes over the historic centre.
Don’t miss the Fortezza Medicea: head up to the fortress for panoramic views across the city and valley.
Go early or late for the most atmospheric light and quieter streets.