Arezzo

A prosperous Tuscan city celebrated for its Piero della Francesca frescoes, antique markets and medieval jousting festival. Arezzo's sloping Piazza Grande is one of Italy's most atmospheric squares.

Things to do

• See the Legend of the True Cross frescoes — Book ahead to view Piero della Francesca's masterpiece cycle inside the Basilica di San Francesco.
• Visit Piazza Grande antique fair — On the first weekend of each month one of Italy's largest antique markets fills the sloping square.
• Watch the Giostra del Saracino — A spectacular medieval jousting tournament held in full costume twice yearly in the piazza.
• Browse the goldsmiths' quarter — Arezzo is one of Europe's top gold jewellery producers; local shops offer remarkable craftsmanship.
• Explore the Duomo and its stained glass — The cathedral holds magnificent stained glass by Guillaume de Marcillat illuminating Gothic interiors.

Food to try

• Scottiglia — A rustic mixed meat stew slow-cooked in white wine and tomato, a true Arezzo peasant dish.
• Pasta all'uovo with truffle — Fresh egg pasta dressed with shaved local black truffle and good olive oil.
• Crostini Neri — Toasted bread topped with a piquant chicken liver and caper pâté, a Tuscan antipasto staple.
• Biscotto di Prato — Hard almond biscotti traditionally dipped in Vin Santo sweet wine at the end of a meal.

Local customs & good to know

• Reserve the San Francesco frescoes — Entry is timed and limited; online booking is essential to avoid being turned away.
• Come for the antique fair — Arriving on the first Sunday of the month transforms the whole city centre into one big market.
• Arezzo is not just a day trip — Many visitors rush through; staying overnight rewards you with a quieter, authentic atmosphere.