Arezzo is best explored as a gradual climb through the streets of Tuscany. Piazza Grande has a noticeable incline, so it’s best to plan your route after dropping off your luggage. Comfortable footwear is more important here than the desire to take the shortest route.
Where to start your walk
Stop at a few spots in Piazza Grande: due to the slope of the square, the façades appear differently from different angles. The Church of Santa Maria della Pieve adds a distinctive touch of Romanesque architecture. You can combine a look around the exterior with a leisurely stroll through the neighbouring streets.
How to continue the route
The cathedral is situated in the upper part of the city. It’s best to save the climb up to it for when you still have energy, and make the return journey a more leisurely one. Don’t try to fit in all the surrounding museums just because they’re marked nearby on the map.
A local detail worth bearing in mind
If your visit coincides with a fair or a city event, check the calendar. Crowds can significantly affect the pace of your walk and access to public spaces.
Plan for after the bus journey
This itinerary is designed for you to explore the city at your own pace, rather than as a fixed, guided tour. First, check the arrival address against your ticket and find somewhere to leave your luggage. Mark your accommodation, the first sightseeing spot and the return pick-up point on an offline map. Start timing your city walk from the moment you’ve left your luggage and are ready to set off.
On the day of arrival, plan just one main sightseeing stop. If your flight is delayed, cut back on the extra part of your itinerary, whilst still allowing time for a meal and the return journey. Before paying for entry, check the official opening hours, access conditions and any ongoing works. An external view of a building does not mean that its interiors are accessible without restrictions.
What to keep before leaving
- the drop-off address and the transport provider’s contact details;
- an offline map showing the return route;
- confirmation of your chosen museum or guided tour session;
- contact details for your accommodation and the arrangements for collecting any left-behind luggage.
You may find the following helpful: How to plan your first day after a long coach journey, How to find a hotel from the coach station, Offline maps for travelling in Europe: how to set up your phone. Check available bus journey options on RedRay; this guide does not confirm the availability of a direct service to every city.
Resources for preparation
General information about the city and attractions: Arezzo, Arezzo Cathedral, Santa Maria della Pieve. The suggested walking route is the editorial team’s recommendation; please check with the relevant venues for current opening times.
Image details
- Piazza Grande, Arezzo.JPG — Andrewrabbott; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
- Arezzo Cathedral 01.jpg — Spike; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
- Arezzo Loggia del Vasari.jpg — Wikimedia Commons; CC BY-SA 2.5. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
Questions and Answers
Can this itinerary be used on the day of arrival?
Yes, by choosing the central section and one main sightseeing spot. After an overnight journey, it’s better to leave the strenuous climbs and longer walks until the following day.
What is the most important thing to bear in mind for the walk?
If your trip coincides with a fair or a city event, check the calendar. Crowds can significantly affect your walking pace and access to certain areas.
What should you do with your suitcase?
Before you set off, confirm that your luggage will be stored at your accommodation or in a secure left-luggage facility, including the collection time. Keep your documents, ticket and a fully charged mobile phone with you.
Do you need to buy all your admission tickets in advance?
First, choose your main attraction and check its rules. Don’t book several time slots close together until you’ve confirmed the route between them. Keep your city walk flexible.