Asciano(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Arezzo, the standout boutique hotel is Hotel Palazzo Vecchio, housed in a 14th-century palazzo with frescoed ceilings and antique furnishings. Located steps from the Piazza Grande, it offers a private rooftop terrace overlooking the city’s terracotta rooftops. Guests enjoy personalized service, an on-site wine cellar featuring local Chianti, and access to exclusive guided tours of medieval art galleries. Its blend of history and modern luxury makes it ideal for cultural travelers.

The best area to stay in Arezzo is the Historic Center (Centro Storico), particularly around Piazza Grande and Via San Francesco. This district offers walkable access to the Cathedral of San Donato, the Museo Archeologico, and numerous artisan shops selling handmade leather goods. The cobbled streets and stone buildings create a timeless atmosphere, while evening strolls reveal hidden courtyards and family-run trattorias serving authentic Tuscan ribollita soup and wild boar ragù. Stay here for the full immersion in Tuscan life.

Arezzo hosts the legendary Cantastorie Festival every July, where storytellers perform tales from Dante’s Divine Comedy in the historic piazzas. Another must-try is the Traditional Leather Workshop Tour, where artisans demonstrate centuries-old techniques in crafting high-end bags and belts using vegetable-tanned hides. Visitors can also join a medieval market day in September, complete with costumed vendors, live music, and hands-on craft stations—perfect for connecting with local heritage.

Yes, Arezzo is very family-friendly. Many guesthouses like Casa delle Rose offer spacious rooms, playgrounds, and kid-friendly activities such as cuisine workshops teaching how to make homemade pasta. The Arno Riverbanks provide safe, shaded areas for picnics and gentle walks. Families can also visit the Children’s Museum of Arezzo, which features interactive exhibits on Etruscan history and sustainable farming—ideal for engaging young minds in a fun, educational way.

Near Arezzo, the Monte Amiata Nature Reserve is a top destination for hiking and birdwatching, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints over the Tuscan hills. The Lago di Bilancino reservoir offers kayaking and lakeside picnics surrounded by oak forests. For a scenic drive, head to the Val d’Orcia region, where rolling vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and sunflower fields stretch endlessly—perfect for photography and peaceful countryside exploration. Spring blooms add vibrant color to the landscape.

Must-try dishes in Arezzo include Pici al Ragù, thick hand-rolled pasta served with slow-cooked lamb or beef sauce, and Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive T-bone steak grilled over wood fire. Don’t miss Ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread soup traditionally made with leftover bread—a staple of peasant cuisine. Pair these with a glass of Chianti Classico from nearby vineyards. Local honey and dried figs also make excellent sweet treats, often served with pecorino cheese at dinner.

Arezzo is easily accessible: take a regional train from Florence (30 minutes) to Arezzo Station, then a short bus ride or taxi to the center. The town has a pedestrian-only zone, making it perfect for walking. Parking is available at the outskirts near Piazza della Libertà, with free shuttle services during peak season. Bicycles can be rented locally, and many attractions are within a 15-minute walk, ensuring hassle-free travel for all visitors.

The best time to visit Arezzo is from April to October, when temperatures range between 18–25°C and outdoor events flourish. Key highlights include the Cantastorie Festival in July, the Festival of the Olive Harvest in September, and the Winter Lights Festival in December, which transforms the city into a glowing wonderland. Avoid November to March if you prefer consistent sunshine and open-air dining, though winter visits offer quieter streets and lower prices. Book early for summer events.

Top photo spots in Arezzo include the Piazza Grande at sunrise, where the golden light reflects off the Palazzo dei Priori façade; the Giotto Frescoes inside the Santa Maria della Pieve Church, showcasing vivid Renaissance art; and the Ramparts Walkway along the old city walls, offering sweeping views of terracotta rooftops and distant vineyards. The Cascata del Roveto waterfall, just outside town, provides a dramatic backdrop for nature shots, especially after spring rains. Capture the city’s soul through its architecture and light.

Evenings in Arezzo shine with charm. Head to Piazza Grande for an alfresco drink at Bar Mazzini, known for its vintage decor and live jazz nights. Join a moonlight walking tour that reveals secret alleyways and stories of Etruscan ruins beneath the streets. On select weekends, the Open-Air Cinema screens classic Italian films under the stars at the Parco della Pianella. For a cozy touch, try a wine tasting dinner at Villa la Torre, where local chefs pair regional dishes with rare vintages in a candlelit garden setting.