Arezzo, located in the heart of Tuscany, is a charming city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant art scene. With its Etruscan roots, Arezzo boasts a wealth of historical sites, including the magnificent Basilica of San Francesco and the Piazza Grande, where the famous Giostra del Saracino takes place.
The destination guide
Arezzo
Arezzo is the Tuscan town from Life is Beautiful — an antique market on the piazza, Piero della Francesca frescoes, and none of Florence’s crowds.
Travel guides for Arezzo
More guides featuring Arezzo (3)
At a glance
Currency€ EURCode: EUR
Time zoneCentral European Time
Languages
- Italian
Setting
- Tuscan hilltop
- Arno Valley
- Medieval piazza
- Countryside views
Known for
- Renaissance art
- Medieval history
- Etruscan heritage
- Religious architecture
Population99,33699,336 residents
VisaDuration: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area · Documents: Valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after planned departure, plus proof of accommodation, onward or return travel, and sufficient funds if requested
How Arezzo scores
6/10OverallFair
Weather7/10
Value for money8/10
Safety8/10
Food & cuisine8/10
Culture & arts6/10
Cultural experience9/10
History9/10
Nature & outdoors6/10
Adventure4/10
Nightlife6/10
Shopping7/10
Family friendly5/10
Romance8/10
Character
Photography score9/10
Authenticity score10/10
Off-the-beaten-path score7/10
Editorial scores on a 10-point scale, weighed against destinations of the same kind.
Travel safety snapshot
Overall89/100High rating
Women travellers88/100
LGBTQ+ travellers70/100
Theft85/100
Medical care86/100
Physical harm90/100
Political freedom80/100
SafePlace indicators use their source 100-point scale; higher is more favourable. Planning context, not a live travel advisory — check official government guidance before you go.
When to go
Best months to visit: March, April, May, June, September, October and November.
- January: 1.3 to 8.4 degrees Celsius, 16.4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 2 out of 5.
- February: 0.1 to 9.6 degrees Celsius, 22.9 millimetres of rain, best-time score 2 out of 5.
- March: 2.8 to 12.8 degrees Celsius, 14.4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- April: 6 to 16.3 degrees Celsius, 15.4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- May: 9.1 to 17.9 degrees Celsius, 63.8 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- June: 14.4 to 24.9 degrees Celsius, 19.8 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- July: 16.8 to 28.9 degrees Celsius, 17.9 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
- August: 17 to 29.8 degrees Celsius, 8.9 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
- September: 14.5 to 25.1 degrees Celsius, 39.7 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- October: 9.9 to 19.1 degrees Celsius, 36.5 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- November: 6.3 to 13.3 degrees Celsius, 41.3 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- December: 2.7 to 8.5 degrees Celsius, 33.2 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
Month-by-month conditions and packing advice
- January
- Cool weather, mostly dry January in Arezzo: cold, quieter winter conditions make this less flexible for a first-time Tuscan itinerary. Crowds: January marks the low tourist season in Arezzo, offering a calm, unhurried experience for cultural travelers. Accommodation prices are at their most affordable, and popular sites such as the Piazza Grande or the Basilica of San Francesco are blissfully uncrowded. The cool temperatures and minimal rainfall make walking tours and museum visits comfortable, though outdoor excursions to surrounding Tuscan hills may require warm gear. This period is ideal for those seeking authentic local life without the distraction of peak-season tourism. Restaurants cater primarily to locals, enhancing the sense of immersion, but some rural attractions may have reduced hours. Advance booking is rarely necessary except for special events or exhibitions. Pack: Warm layered clothing including sweaters and a thermal base layer; Insulated jacket suitable for cool winter days; Comfortable waterproof walking shoes; Scarf, gloves, and knit hat for early mornings and evenings; Smart-casual attire for dining in local restaurants; Compact umbrella for occasional light showers
- February
- Cold weather, mostly dry February in Arezzo: cold, quieter winter conditions make this less flexible for a first-time Tuscan itinerary. Crowds: This is the quiet, off-peak travel season in Arezzo, ideal for those seeking cultural immersion without crowds. Accommodation rates are at their lowest, and many sites, including the Basilica of San Francesco and the antique markets, can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. While outdoor dining is limited due to cooler temperatures, the weather favors museum visits, local wine tastings, and countryside drives. Limited daylight and chilly evenings mean planning activities earlier in the day is wise. For photographers, the soft winter light enhances architectural detail. Book accommodations in the city center to minimize walking distances in colder conditions. Pack: Insulated jacket for cold mornings and evenings; Layered sweaters and long-sleeve shirts; Comfortable waterproof walking shoes; Wool scarf and gloves for added warmth; Smart casual attire for dining and cultural sites; Compact umbrella for occasional light showers
- March
- Cool weather, mostly dry March in Arezzo: conditions are workable with either early spring energy, early summer warmth, or late fall atmosphere. Crowds: March is part of Arezzo’s shoulder season, offering a peaceful atmosphere with few crowds and more affordable accommodation rates. Outdoor exploration is comfortable during the day, though layering is necessary for cooler mornings and nights. It’s a good month for cultural sightseeing—museums, churches, and artisan workshops—without long lines. Countryside excursions to nearby vineyards or hill towns are pleasant, as the mild weather favors walking and light hiking. Rainfall is minimal, so disruptions are rare, but evenings can still feel wintry. Advance booking is usually unnecessary except for special events, allowing flexibility in travel plans and day trips. Pack: Light to medium jacket for cool days; Warm scarf for morning and evening walks; Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Layered clothing for variable temperatures; Compact umbrella for unexpected showers; Smart casual attire for dining and cultural sites
- April
- Cool weather, mostly dry April in Arezzo: Tuscan hill-town walks, markets, churches, food trips, and nearby countryside are most comfortable outside summer heat. Crowds: April offers near-ideal sightseeing conditions with mild temperatures, low rainfall, and manageable humidity. The tourist season is just beginning, meaning fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, while accommodation rates remain moderate. This is an excellent time for walking tours, countryside excursions, and attending seasonal festivals without the summer heat. Visitors can comfortably explore Arezzo’s historic center, enjoy vineyard tours in nearby Chianti, and witness the city’s traditional markets. However, evenings can still be chilly, requiring an extra layer. For those seeking both cultural depth and relaxed pacing, April provides a sweet spot before high season, when local life and seasonal events enrich the travel experience. Pack: Light jacket or trench coat for cooler mornings and evenings; Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Layered clothing to adjust to temperature changes; Compact umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers; Scarf for added warmth and style; Daypack for carrying market finds and water
- May
- Cool weather, some rain May in Arezzo: Tuscan hill-town walks, markets, churches, food trips, and nearby countryside are most comfortable outside summer heat. Crowds: May is one of the best months to visit Arezzo, as the weather supports a wide range of outdoor activities without the heat or heavy crowds of summer. This period falls just before peak tourist season, so while accommodations are in demand, rates remain more moderate than in June through August. Mild temperatures make it perfect for walking tours, attending open-air antique fairs, or exploring nearby vineyards. Rain showers are generally brief and light, allowing most plans to continue with minimal disruption. Travelers can expect a vibrant but not overwhelming atmosphere, as local festivals and events begin to ramp up for summer. Booking cultural tours and accommodations a few weeks in advance is recommended to secure the best options during this shoulder season. Pack: Light waterproof jacket for occasional rain; Layered clothing for cool mornings and mild afternoons; Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Compact umbrella for sudden showers; Scarf or shawl for added warmth and church visits; Small daypack for carrying water and market finds
- June
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry June in Arezzo: conditions are workable with either early spring energy, early summer warmth, or late fall atmosphere. Crowds: June marks the start of Arezzo’s summer tourism upswing, with pleasantly warm temperatures ideal for outdoor sightseeing, cultural festivals, and countryside excursions. While not as crowded as the peak July–August season, visitor numbers begin to rise, and accommodation prices follow suit. This is an excellent month for attending local events like antique fairs or open-air concerts without battling overwhelming crowds. The mild evenings encourage lingering in piazzas and enjoying al fresco dining. Travelers should plan for slightly busier attractions and consider booking lodging in advance, especially if visiting during special events. The weather is well-suited for both city exploration and day trips into the Tuscan hills, though midday hours may feel warm in full sun. Pack: Lightweight breathable shirts for warm afternoons; Comfortable walking sandals or low-profile sneakers; Packable rain jacket for brief showers; Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection; Light sweater or wrap for cooler evenings; Modest attire for visiting churches and heritage sites
- July
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry July in Arezzo: the town remains rewarding, but heat, holidays, or shorter days reduce the all-around balance. Crowds: July represents the peak summer travel season in Arezzo, drawing visitors for both the weather and the festival calendar. Expect lively streets, bustling markets, and fully booked accommodations. Prices for lodging and flights are at their annual highs, and popular attractions may require advance reservations. The warm, mostly dry conditions are perfect for exploring the city’s historic core, venturing into nearby wine country, or attending open-air evening performances. However, midday heat can make extended walking less comfortable—early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for sightseeing. Travelers seeking a more relaxed experience should plan around festival dates to avoid the most intense crowding. Pack: Lightweight breathable clothing for daytime heat; Comfortable walking sandals or breathable sneakers; Wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen; Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated; Light shawl or wrap for evening breezes and modest sites; Small travel umbrella for brief summer showers
- August
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry August in Arezzo: the town remains rewarding, but heat, holidays, or shorter days reduce the all-around balance. Crowds: August represents the peak summer season in Arezzo, bringing both lively cultural events and the year’s highest tourist activity. Expect crowded piazzas, busy museums, and higher accommodation rates, particularly around the Giostra del Saracino festival weekends. Warm, dry weather is ideal for open-air dining, evening concerts, and countryside excursions, though midday heat can be intense. Early morning sightseeing and shaded terrace breaks help balance comfort with exploration. While the season offers unmatched vibrancy, booking transport and accommodations well in advance is essential. Travelers should plan for increased demand and embrace the festive atmosphere that defines this time of year. Pack: Light, breathable clothing in natural fabrics like linen or cotton; Wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen for midday sun; Comfortable sandals or walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during excursions; Light scarf or wrap for modesty in churches; Sunglasses with UV protection for bright summer days
- September
- Warm and pleasant, some rain September in Arezzo: Tuscan hill-town walks, markets, churches, food trips, and nearby countryside are most comfortable outside summer heat. Crowds: September is one of Arezzo’s most appealing months for travelers, marking the tail end of the high season. The weather supports a wide range of activities from countryside wine tours to open-air markets and historical festivals. Crowds are smaller than in August, yet attractions remain lively, and accommodations may still carry moderate high-season pricing. Outdoor events benefit from the warm days and reliable daylight, while occasional showers rarely impact plans. The month is especially suited to visitors seeking cultural immersion without the peak summer congestion. Booking accommodation a few weeks in advance is still recommended, especially around festival dates, to secure the best locations and rates. Pack: Lightweight layers for fluctuating temperatures; Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets; Compact umbrella or light rain jacket; Light sweater or cardigan for evenings; Sunhat and SPF 30+ sunscreen; Smart-casual attire for dining and cultural events
- October
- Cool weather, some rain October in Arezzo: Tuscan hill-town walks, markets, churches, food trips, and nearby countryside are most comfortable outside summer heat. Crowds: October offers shoulder-season charm in Arezzo, with comfortable daytime temperatures and smaller tourist crowds compared to summer. Accommodation rates are generally lower, and attractions are more relaxed, allowing for unhurried visits to landmarks such as the Piazza Grande or the Basilica of San Francesco. Outdoor exploration remains appealing, from vineyard tours to countryside hikes, though shorter daylight hours encourage earlier starts. Light rainfall is possible, but rarely disruptive, making it a rewarding time for photography and cultural immersion. This is also a prime month for food lovers, as autumn harvest festivals bring authentic Tuscan flavors to the forefront. Booking ahead for smaller boutique stays is still wise, especially on festival weekends. Pack: Light waterproof jacket for passing showers; Comfortable walking shoes suitable for cobblestones; Layered clothing for cool mornings and mild afternoons; Compact travel umbrella; Scarf or shawl for warmth and style; Daypack for carrying market finds and camera gear
- November
- Cool weather, some rain November in Arezzo: conditions are workable with either early spring energy, early summer warmth, or late fall atmosphere. Crowds: November marks the shoulder season in Arezzo, offering a tranquil experience far from the summer crowds. While outdoor sightseeing remains enjoyable with the right layers, cooler weather and increased rainfall make indoor cultural pursuits—such as museum visits, antique market browsing, and café stops—particularly appealing. Accommodation prices are generally lower, and availability is higher, making this a cost-effective time to visit. The shorter daylight hours encourage planning activities earlier in the day, with evenings well-suited to savoring local wines and seasonal dishes. Travelers should be prepared for variable weather but will be rewarded with a more authentic, local-paced experience. Pack: Warm, layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures; Water-resistant jacket or compact umbrella; Comfortable waterproof walking shoes; Light scarf for added warmth and style; Small daypack for market finds and essentials; Smart casual attire for dining in local restaurants
- December
- Cool weather, some rain December in Arezzo: the town remains rewarding, but heat, holidays, or shorter days reduce the all-around balance. Crowds: December is firmly within Arezzo’s low tourist season, making it an excellent time for visitors who value a quieter, more intimate experience. Attractions remain open, but crowds are minimal, allowing for leisurely exploration of museums, churches, and markets without queues. Accommodation rates tend to be lower than in the warmer months, and festive events, including the Christmas market in Piazza Grande, add seasonal charm. The cooler weather encourages indoor activities, though a good coat and umbrella make outdoor strolls enjoyable. While cycling and vineyard tours are limited by the chill, this period is ideal for art, history, and culinary-focused itineraries. Early booking isn’t essential, but securing a centrally located stay ensures easy access to seasonal festivities. Pack: Warm, insulated coat for cool days; Waterproof walking shoes for wet streets; Compact travel umbrella; Layered sweaters for temperature shifts; Scarf and gloves for evening outings; Smart-casual attire for indoor dining and events
Peak season
- July
- August
- May
- June
- September
Off-peak
- January
- February
- November
- December
- March
- April
- October
Know before you go
About
Arezzo, a hilltop city in eastern Tuscany, is one of central Italy’s richest yet least-crowded art towns, capital of its namesake province and home to about 99,000 people. An important Etruscan settlement and later the Roman Arretium—famed for its red-gloss pottery—Arezzo today centers on the sloping, trapezoidal Piazza Grande, ringed by medieval and Renaissance facades. Its crown jewel is the Basilica of San Francesco, where Piero della Francesca painted the luminous fresco cycle “The Legend of the True Cross” between 1452 and 1466. The city was the birthplace of the poet Petrarch, the painter and art historian Giorgio Vasari, and Guido of Arezzo, inventor of modern musical notation. Visitors browse the celebrated monthly Fiera Antiquaria antiques fair, watch the Giostra del Saracino joust, and explore the Duomo, the Medici Fortress, and Vasari’s frescoed house. Long a center of gold-jewelry making, Arezzo rewards travelers seeking Tuscan art and atmosphere without the crowds.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Arezzo is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant for exploring the city. Summer can be warm, but it also features various local festivals. Winter offers a quieter experience with festive holiday markets.
Getting there and around
Getting there
Arezzo is accessible via Italy’s high-speed rail network and regional airports. The city connects to Rome, Milan, Florence, and other Italian cities via train and highway networks.
Getting around
Arezzo features public transportation including buses, trams, and regional trains. The historic center is very walkable with major attractions within walking distance.
Worth booking ahead in Arezzo
Hand-picked from the operators our guides already send readers to. Prices and availability are live on the partner site.
Guided tourGetYourGuide
Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill small-group tour (opens GetYourGuide in a new tab)
Small group with the Forum and Palatine Hill included; the standard Colosseum visit done properly.
Where to stayBooking.com
Stays in Arezzo (opens Booking.com in a new tab)
Live rates and availability for Arezzo on Booking.com; filter by neighbourhood once you know where your days start.
We earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. It is how we keep the guides free and independent.
Tips from the field
Highlights
- Piazza Grande
- Basilica di San Francesco
- Arezzo Cathedral
- Casa Vasari
- Fortezza Medicea
Best activities
- Visit the Basilica di San Francesco to see Piero della Francesca's frescoes
- Explore the Piazza Grande and its surrounding historic buildings
- Tour the Casa Vasari museum
- Admire the architecture of the Arezzo Cathedral
Practical tips
- Many attractions are within walking distance in the historic center
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple museums
- Some churches may have dress codes, so dress modestly
Keeping it authentic
- Arezzo has preserved its Etruscan and medieval heritage
- The city hosts authentic cultural events like the Giostra del Saracino
Culture, customs and safety
Cultural heritage
Arezzo preserves its Etruscan, Roman, and medieval heritage through ongoing archaeological discoveries, Renaissance art masterpieces, and traditional craftsmanship that continues through family workshops. The city’s gold jewelry tradition dates to Etruscan times, while Piero della Francesca’s frescoes represent the pinnacle of Renaissance artistic achievement. Modern Arezzo maintains its cultural identity through monthly antique fairs, traditional festivals, and artisan communities that keep alive centuries-old techniques in metalwork, ceramics, and textile production, creating living continuity between ancient traditions and contemporary creative expression.
Local customs & etiquette
In Arezzo, greet with ‘Buongiorno’ or ‘Buonasera’ depending on time of day. Dress well, especially in churches. Dining is social – lunch 12:30-2:30 PM, dinner after 8 PM.
Travel Style
Season
Activities
