Things to do in Arezzo, Tuscany + photo spots and tips

Enjoy Arezzo’s timeless charm, medieval streets, and rich artistic heritage.

Located just an hour southeast of Florence in Tuscany, Arezzo is a charming town worth visiting. Arezzo is compact, making it easy to explore its main attractions in a day, all while avoiding the crowds typically found in larger Italian cities. The town is renowned for its rich art heritage, antique shops, medieval architecture, and picturesque narrow streets.

Piazza Grande

Piazza Grande is the heart of Arezzo, a square brimming with history. Surrounded by significant landmarks, it features the Vasari Loggia and the back of the Santa Maria della Pieve church, with its medieval façade. The Museum of Fraternita dei Laici, with its distinctive clock tower, also borders the square.

Piazza Grande gained international fame as a filming location for the 1997 movie Life is Beautiful by Roberto Benigni. Each year, Piazza Grande hosts the Giostra del Saracino, Arezzo’s historic jousting tournament, which takes place in June and September. During these events, the square is transformed into a lively medieval arena, complete with colorful banners, costumed participants, and the sounds of drums and cheering crowds.

The Palace of Fraternita dei Laici

Located in Piazza Grande, next to Santa Maria della Pieve, the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici is a must-visit landmark. The building’s exterior is adorned with beautiful sculptures, including the Madonna della Misericordia and statues of Pope Blessed Gregory X and Saint Donatus, all created by the renowned artist Bernardo Rossellino.

Built in the 14th century, the palace originally served as the headquarters of the Fraternita dei Laici, a lay brotherhood dedicated to providing charitable support to the people of Arezzo.

Inside, you’ll find the Museum of the Fraternita, home to an impressive collection of over 6,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and antique furnishings. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the iconic clock tower, which offers stunning views over Piazza Grande and the surrounding area.

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The clock tower

The Clock Tower is located in Piazza Grande, within the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone several restorations, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the clock continues to keep accurate time, preserving its original charm.

Tip: For a fantastic photo opportunity of Piazza Grande, climb the Clock Tower in the afternoon when the sun will be behind you, providing optimal lighting for your shot.

Santa Maria della Pieve

Featuring a 12th-century arched façade, the Romanesque church of Santa Maria della Pieve is must-see in Arezzo. As one of the city’s most important historical and architectural landmarks, it captures the essence of medieval design.

Rising above the town, the church’s bell tower is famously known as the “Tower of a Hundred Holes” due to its 40 windows. Inside, the church is divided into three naves and also features a crypt. Notable works of art within include the Polyptych by Pietro Lorenzetti, as well as the Reliquary Bust of Saint Donatus, created by Pietro Vanni and Paolo Ghiselli.

Arezzo Cathedral

Despite its austere exterior, Arezzo Cathedral is home to several artistic treasures and significant religious relics. The façade, designed by Dante Viviani, features sculptural decorations by Giuseppe Cassioli, Enrico Quattrini, and Viviani himself.

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find a portrait of Maddalena by Piero della Francesca, as well as 15th-century stained-glass windows and a Gothic altarpiece that forms the tomb of Saint Donatus. Dating back to the 13th century, Arezzo Cathedral offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history and artistic heritage.

Parco il Prato

Parco Il Prato in Arezzo is a charming park located just outside the historic city center, offering stunning views of the rolling Tuscan hills. Inside the park, you’ll find notable landmarks such as the 19th-century Teatro Petrarca and the iconic “Fountain of the Three Rivers.” Whether you’re seeking a peaceful spot to unwind or simply want to soak in the breathtaking scenery, this park is the perfect retreat.

Parco della Fortezza Medicea

Among the most notable parks in Arezzo is Parco della Fortezza Medicea, a peaceful oasis just a short distance from the historic center. Surrounded by the impressive 16th-century Fortezza Medicea, which once served as a military stronghold, the park offers stunning views of the rolling hills of Tuscany—perfect for a memorable photo opportunity.

Don’t miss the chance to explore its beautifully landscaped gardens and scenic walking paths. If you’re in the mood for relaxation, bring a picnic and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of this charming green space.

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