Arezzo - people walking on street near brown concrete building during daytime
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Arezzo

4.6
·491k reviews·Arezzo, Italy

Arezzo: A Tuscan gem with a rich medieval past, stunning art, and Italy's largest antique market.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Sunday of the month

Largest antique market

CrowdHigh
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Arezzo - people walking on street near brown concrete building during daytime

Arezzo

Best Time

First Sunday of the month

Largest antique market

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Arezzo: A Tuscan gem with a rich medieval past, stunning art, and Italy's largest antique market.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Arezzo offers an authentic Tuscan experience, a step back in time with incredible art and a vibrant market."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Don't Miss the Antique Market

Visit on the first Sunday for Italy's largest antique market! A must-see for vintage lovers.

🎟️ Book Saracino Tickets Early

The Giostra del Saracino is a major event; secure your tickets well in advance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Piazza Grande

Piazza Grande

Historic Center

The heart of Arezzo, a stunning medieval square perfect for soaking in history and atmosphere.

Antique Market

Antique Market

Various streets, centered around Piazza Grande

Italy's largest antique market, a treasure trove of vintage finds and unique collectibles.

Duomo di Arezzo

Duomo di Arezzo

Hilltop

A magnificent cathedral housing breathtaking frescoes by Piero della Francesca.

Giostra del Saracino

Giostra del Saracino

Piazza Grande

A spectacular medieval jousting tournament held twice a year, showcasing local pride and tradition.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Antique Charm

Arezzo hosts Italy's largest antique market on the first Sunday of each month. Plan your visit around this event for a unique shopping experience, but be prepared for crowds. Book accommodations and any desired tours in advance, especially during market weekends.

Festival Fever in Piazza Grande

If you're visiting in June or August, you might catch the thrilling 'Giostra del Saracino' jousting tournament. This medieval spectacle fills Piazza Grande with energy. Secure tickets early, as they sell out quickly for this iconic Arezzo event.

Best Times

When
First Sunday of the month
Why
Largest antique market
Crowd
High
When
June & August weekends
Why
Giostra del Saracino
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The largest and oldest Antique Market in Italy… Save for your next trip! 🇮🇹 #italytravel #italyvintage #arezzo #arezzovintage #tuscany #fieraantiquariaarezzo #vintage #vintageshopping #italianvintage #antiques #europeanantiques #antiqueshopping #CapCut
@jess.einaudi
14K likes • 190.6K views

🎯 Don't Miss the Antique Market

Visit on the first Sunday for Italy's largest antique market! A must-see for vintage lovers. TikTok

🎟️ Book Saracino Tickets Early

The Giostra del Saracino is a major event; secure your tickets well in advance. TikTok

Our favourite Italian girl, Lucrezia & Ludovica, are in Arezzo, in Piazza Grande, watching "il Saracino", a very famous jousting event that takes place twice a year and sees four quarters of the city compete for a grand prize. Guess which quarter they are from (the "quartiere" that never wins). #fyp #saracino #impressions #italian #arezzo
@leonseti
8.5K likes • 93.1K views
🗓 Dal cabaret ai mercatini fino alla "Tavolata del Lanzi": tutto pronto per la nuova edizione di "Calcit in scena" ad Arezzo Fiere e Congressi. 🎥 Il servizio andato in onda nel TG di ieri sera #Calcit #Eventi #Arezzo #AmarantoChannel
amarantochannel
8 likes • 598 views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Arezzo's historic center is best explored on foot, so pack comfy shoes. Reddit

🍷 Local Wine & Food

Try Enoteca La Bodega de Gnicche for great wine and affordable bites near Piazza Grande. Reddit

Chi è di Arezzo??? #arezzo #arte #artepertutti #toscana #tiraccontolitalia #losapeviche #curiosità #consiglidiviaggio
@blondewithstendhal
8.3K likes • 169.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Don't Miss the Antique Market

Visit on the first Sunday for Italy's largest antique market! A must-see for vintage lovers. TikTok

🎟️ Book Saracino Tickets Early

The Giostra del Saracino is a major event; secure your tickets well in advance. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Arezzo's historic center is best explored on foot, so pack comfy shoes. Reddit

🍷 Local Wine & Food

Try Enoteca La Bodega de Gnicche for great wine and affordable bites near Piazza Grande. Reddit

🏛️ Explore the Duomo

Inside the cathedral, marvel at the stunning frescoes by Piero della Francesca. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Arezzo is widely praised for its authentic Tuscan charm, stunning medieval architecture, and the vibrant atmosphere of its monthly antique market. Visitors appreciate its manageable size, making it ideal for day trips, and the rich artistic heritage, especially the works of Piero della Francesca. Some find it less touristy than other Tuscan cities, offering a more genuine experience.

What People Like

Authentic Tuscan charm
Vibrant antique market
Rich artistic heritage

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Arezzo is easily accessible from Florence by train, with frequent services taking approximately 1 hour. Driving is also an option, with parking available outside the historic center. TikTok

Absolutely! Arezzo is a fantastic day trip from Florence, offering a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities. Reddit

The historic center of Arezzo is compact and best explored on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the charming cobblestone streets and piazzas. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking lots available on the outskirts of the historic center. It's recommended to park and then walk into the main attractions. TikTok

Yes, Arezzo has a train station that connects it to major cities like Florence and Rome, making it very accessible by public transport. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Piazza Grande itself is a public square and does not require an entrance fee. However, specific attractions within or around the piazza, like museums or churches, may have admission fees. TikTok

Entry to the Arezzo Antique Market is generally free. You only pay for any items you choose to purchase. TikTok

The Giostra del Saracino takes place twice a year, typically on the third Saturday in June and the third Sunday in August. It's advisable to check the official dates for the current year. TikTok

Tickets for the Giostra del Saracino can be purchased online through official ticketing platforms or at designated ticket offices in Arezzo. Booking in advance is highly recommended due to high demand. TikTok

Yes, exploring Piazza Grande, walking through the historic streets, and admiring the exterior of the Duomo are all free activities. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include Piazza Grande, the Duomo di Arezzo with its Piero della Francesca frescoes, and the Basilica di San Francesco. Don't miss the monthly Antique Market if your visit aligns. TikTok+1

The Giostra del Saracino is a historic jousting tournament where four city quarters compete. It's a vibrant cultural event with parades and medieval costumes. TikTok

Arezzo is famous for its Antique Market held on the first Sunday of the month, offering a unique shopping experience. The city also has boutiques for local crafts and fashion. TikTok

Wander through the piazza, admire the architecture, enjoy a coffee at a cafe, and soak in the atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to people-watch and feel the pulse of the city. TikTok

Beyond the main sights, explore the charming side streets, discover local artisan workshops, and seek out lesser-known churches for a more intimate experience. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

For a great lunch, try Enoteca La Bodega de Gnicche, located just off Piazza Grande, known for its excellent and inexpensive offerings and fantastic wine selection. Reddit

Look for traditional Tuscan specialties like 'pici' pasta, 'bistecca alla fiorentina' (if you're a meat-lover), and local cured meats and cheeses. Many trattorias offer authentic regional cuisine. Reddit

While traditional Tuscan cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, legumes, and grains. Reddit

Dining prices vary. Casual trattorias and enotecas can offer meals for €15-€25 per person, while more upscale restaurants might range from €30-€50+. Reddit

Many bars and cafes around Piazza Grande offer aperitivo, where you can enjoy a drink and complimentary snacks. It's a great way to experience local evening culture. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Piazza Grande offers iconic shots, especially during golden hour. The Duomo's interior and exterior, and the panoramic views from the city's higher points are also excellent for photography. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, some churches or museums might have restrictions on flash photography or photography of specific artworks. Always check for signage. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide piazza shots and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for interiors like the Duomo. TikTok

Focus on the details of the antiques, the interactions between vendors and shoppers, and the bustling atmosphere of the market. Candid shots often tell the best stories. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Arezzo offers a charming and manageable experience for families. The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore with strollers. Kids will be fascinated by the medieval atmosphere, especially if you can time your visit with the Giostra del Saracino, which is a spectacle of knights and horses. TikTok

Consider visiting during the Antique Market for a fun treasure hunt, though it can get crowded. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and take breaks in the many piazzas. The Duomo and the Basilica di San Francesco, with their impressive art, can also capture a child's imagination if presented in an engaging way. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Arezzo is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers. Many of its main attractions, like Piazza Grande and the historic streets, are free to explore. TikTok The monthly Antique Market is also free to browse, offering a chance to soak in the atmosphere without spending a dime. TikTok

For affordable dining, seek out local trattorias and enotecas away from the main tourist hubs, or enjoy a picnic with supplies from a local market. Train travel to Arezzo from Florence is relatively inexpensive, making it an economical day trip. Reddit

💖 Couples

Arezzo offers a romantic Tuscan escape with its charming medieval streets, beautiful piazzas, and rich history. Enjoy leisurely strolls hand-in-hand through Piazza Grande, perhaps stopping for a glass of local wine at a cozy enoteca. Reddit

For a truly memorable experience, try to visit during the Giostra del Saracino for a dose of medieval excitement, or explore the vibrant Antique Market for unique finds. The city's artistic heritage, particularly the frescoes by Piero della Francesca, provides a sophisticated cultural backdrop for a romantic getaway. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Arezzo Antique Market

Arezzo's monthly antique market is legendary, drawing visitors from across Italy and beyond. Held on the first Sunday of every month (and the preceding Saturday), it transforms the historic center into a sprawling open-air bazaar. You can find everything from antique furniture and vintage clothing to rare books, ceramics, and unique collectibles. It's a fantastic opportunity to discover hidden treasures and practice your bargaining skills. TikTok

Pro Tip: Arrive early to get the best selection, especially for sought-after items. Be prepared for crowds, as this is a very popular event. Even if you're not buying, the atmosphere and the sheer variety of items make it a captivating experience. TikTok

Beyond the market, Arezzo itself is a city steeped in history and art, making a visit worthwhile any time of year. The blend of medieval architecture and artistic heritage provides a rich backdrop for exploration.

Giostra del Saracino: A Medieval Spectacle

The 'Giostra del Saracino' is Arezzo's most famous historical reenactment, a thrilling jousting tournament that pits the city's four historic quarters against each other. Held twice a year, in June and August, the event culminates in a dramatic joust where knights on horseback charge at a target, aiming to score points for their quarter. The competition is fierce, and the atmosphere is electric, filled with medieval pageantry, parades, and the roar of the crowd. TikTok

This event is more than just a joust; it's a deep-rooted tradition that brings the community together. The preparation and rivalry between the quarters are intense, and the spectacle is a vivid display of Arezzo's medieval past. Attending the Giostra del Saracino offers a unique glimpse into Tuscan history and local pride. TikTok

Planning Your Visit: Tickets for the Giostra del Saracino are highly sought after and should be booked well in advance. The event takes place in the magnificent Piazza Grande, providing a stunning historical arena for the competition. TikTok

Artistic Treasures: Piero della Francesca in Arezzo

Arezzo is a treasure trove for art lovers, particularly for its connection to the Renaissance master Piero della Francesca. His most significant work in the city is the breathtaking fresco cycle, 'The Legend of the True Cross,' housed in the Basilica di San Francesco. These frescoes are considered a masterpiece of early Renaissance art, renowned for their perspective, composition, and emotional depth. TikTok

The Duomo di Arezzo also features important works by Piero della Francesca, including a stunning fresco of Mary Magdalene. Visiting these sites offers a profound artistic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the genius of one of Italy's most influential painters. TikTok

Beyond Piero: While Piero della Francesca is a major draw, Arezzo's artistic heritage extends further. The city's museums and churches contain a wealth of art spanning different periods, making it a rewarding destination for anyone interested in Italian art history.

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