Arezzo Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide

While Arezzo is often overlooked in favor of more famous Tuscan cities, this 2.5-hour private tour will reveal its impressive history, rich artistic culture and offer you a new appreciation for this jewel. As you stroll through the medieval streets and piazzas, your expert guide will show you the must-see sites including the Cathedral of St. Peter and Donato, and Romanesque Church of Santa Maria della Pieve as well as the delightful Piazza Grande, which played a starring role in the film “Life is Beautiful” by Roberto Benigni.

Strategically located on a hilltop surrounded by four valleys, Arezzo often sits in the shadows of its more renowned neighboring Tuscan cities. On this 2.5 hour tour however, your local guide will unveil its most important cultural and historical sites, revealing why a visit to this hidden gem shouldn't be overlooked.
While soaking up the atmosphere of this elegant medieval city of cobbled streets, your first stop takes you to the imposing Cathedral of St. Peter and Donato. Built between 1278 and 1511 over an ancient pre-Christian church, Arezzo's Cathedral sits at the highest point of the city. The modest facade is deceiving as the treasures that lie inside include the beautiful fresco of the St. Mary Magdalen by Piero della Francesca and stunning stained glass windows.

Your tour continues on with a stroll by Piazza San Francesco as you head to the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria della Pieve. Here, your eyes will draw heavenward to admire its remarkable arched-facade with differently-styled columns. The most striking feature is its soaring bell tower, also known as ‘delle cento buche’ (the tower of a hundred holes).

Next, you'll visit one of the most beautiful piazzas in Tuscany, Piazza Grande. Did you know that the movie ‘Life is Beautiful’ by Roberto Benigni was filmed in Piazza Grande? Built on a downhill slope, you can't help but notice its odd shape and the remarkable way it resolves the steep slope and the buildings around it. Once the main marketplace of the city, it is today the venue of the historical enactment ‘Giostra del Saracino’ (meaning ‘Joust of the Saracen’) dating back to the Middle Ages, and the Antique Market, which is held on the first weekend of the month.

Moving on, you'll stroll to the leafy public park, stopping at the marble monument of the famous Arezzo-born poet Francesco Petrarca, and walk to the pentagonal shaped Medici Fortress situated on the hill of San Donato. This is the perfect spot to end your tour, where you'll be treated to splendid panoramic views of the historic center and the Arno valley.

At the end of your exploration of the city, you’ll understand why Arezzo deserves a visit when traveling in Tuscany - and is even a destination unto itself!

Guide : English, Italian

Cancellation Policy: standard

Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours

Cancellation Notes: Cancellations received greater than 24 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable. Cancellations received within 24 hours of tour commencement are nonrefundable. Amendment requests are subject to availability and price changes. Late arrivals and no shows are nonrefundable. This is applicable to any tour participant that fails to arrive or arrives after tour departure.

Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.