Guided Tour of Arezzo: Discover the Cinderella of Tuscany

Our guided tour of Arezzo will take you through a splendid Tuscan city rich in art, history, and poetry. Known as the “Cinderella of Tuscany,” Arezzo houses timeless masterpieces and was home to Italian poets such as Francesco Petrarca and painters and art historians like Giorgio Vasari.

Cathedral of Arezzo: St. Peter and St. Donato

The tour begins at the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Donato, whose construction concluded in the 16th century. Its detached bell tower was rebuilt three times. Highlights include:

• Colorful stained glass windows by Guillaume de Marcillat
• The Magdalene by Piero della Francesca
• The Holy Trinity by Andrea della Robbia
• A Donatello marble panel decorating the baptismal font

This cathedral is a treasure chest of inestimable artistic and religious value.

Basilica of San Francesco

Next, we visit the Basilica of San Francesco, famous for the magnificent Cimabue Crucifix, over three meters high. Painted by Giotto’s master, this work conveys deep emotion and humanity, captivating every visitor.

Historic Center and Piazza Grande

Strolling through Arezzo’s charming alleys, you will encounter noble palaces, some with turrets offering breathtaking views. The elegant Logge del Vasari overlooks Piazza Grande, the city’s social hub filled with bars, restaurants, and local craft and food shops.

This square gained international fame when Roberto Benigni filmed scenes for the Academy Award-winning movie Life is Beautiful. From Piazza Grande, visitors can admire the large apse of Santa Maria della Pieve, featuring arches and loggias. Inside, the Polyptych by Pietro Lorenzetti and the unique “100 holes” bell tower with mullioned windows spanning five floors add to its charm.

Historic Monuments and Museums

Arezzo’s historic center is full of fascinating landmarks:

• The Medici Fortress: Built in the mid-16th century with a pentagonal shape and five defensive towers; its park is open to the public
• Casa Museo Vasari: Museum dedicated to Giorgio Vasari
• Palazzo dei Priori: Seat of the Municipality
• Petrarca House: Home of the famous Italian poet Francesco Petrarca

Piero della Francesca Frescoes

The guided tour concludes at the Basilica of San Francesco, one of Arezzo’s oldest and most iconic buildings. Its walls are adorned with stunning frescoes by Piero della Francesca, including the renowned cycle Legend of the True Cross, considered a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance art.

 

Included:

• Walking tour with licensed tour guide

Not included:

• Food and drinks
• Basilica di San Francesco tickets (optional)
• Museum tickets (optional)
• Transfer service

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Water
• Sun hat on hot days

Meeting point:

• Meeting point with the local guide: Piazza Grande square in front Palazzo della Fraternità dei Laici palace