Tuscany

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Under the Radar

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Tuscany ~ Under the Radar ~

Arezzo

Located within a quieter corner of Tuscany, Arezzo is where medieval towns, rolling hills, and authentic Italian life come together at an unhurried pace. Away from the crowds of Florence and Siena, take advantage of the region’s many agriturismo farm stays, often offering exceptional value compared to more renowned areas like Val D’Orcia and Chianti — all while keeping these beloved destinations within easy reach by car! Or, stay within the city of Arezzo itself for easy access to shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Arezzo’s location near Tuscany’s eastern border also makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Umbria’s hidden gems, making this a wonderful homebase for those looking to experience the authentic and uncrowded side of central Italy.

At a glance…

Choose Arezzo if you want:

  • To rent a car & take full advantage of what the Tuscan countryside has to offer
  • Tuscany without the crowds, which typically also means better value
  • A relaxing countryside escape in one of Tuscany's most quiet & authentic areas 
  • Easy access to iconic Tuscan gems, and also Umbria's hidden gems (due to its location on Tuscany's eastern side)

  • 5-7 nights

    This region is all about slow, authentic Italian life. In addition to seeing the sites and exploring the adorable villages hiding around each corner, you’ll want to allow yourself time to spend slow afternoons lingering over farm-to-table lunches and experiencing the true meaning of dolce far niente.

    1. Fly into Florence airport OR arrive at Florence train station from another leg of your trip

    2. Rent your car

    3. Drive to Arezzo (approx 1 hr)

    Note: I recommend renting your car from the airport to avoid the busy streets around Florence

  • Recommended:

    • Car rental ✔

    • Scooter rental ✔

    • Taxis ✖

    • Public Transit ✖

    • late summer/early fall

    • spring/early summer

  • Under the radar.

    This is one of the lesser known & less touristy areas in Tuscany, also making it one of the most authentic!

 

What to do?

Wander Arezzo’s medieval historic centre

Enjoy an aperitivo in Piazza Grande

Sample the wares that the many nearby farms & wineries have to offer

Explore the many nearby hilltop medieval towns & villages

  • Indulge in a slow day simply enjoying your agriturismo

    Take a day trip to one of the many iconic nearby destinations, like Val D’Orcia or Cortona (known for its role in the film Under the Tuscan Sun)

    Discover the hidden gems of Umbria

What’s on the menu?

Some local specialties:

Piano Piano Tips

  • If staying immediately in the city of Arezzo, then I highly recommend staying in the historic centre, which is easily walkable and very charming.

    However, I encourage you to take advantage of the many agriturismo options in the area, since a car is already essential to explore all that this area of Tuscany has to offer.

    An agriturismo is a working farm stay, typically family run. There is no better way to experience the slow, authentic Tuscan lifestyle while enjoying fresh farm-to-table meals.

    Alternatively, if you have a larger group, you can rent an entire villa. I specifically recommend Dimora Cardamini for a spacious & affordable stay!

  • Tuscany is ideal for a child-friendly Italian experience! Arezzo specifically has many agriturismo options that are on the more affordable side, compared to some of the more popular areas. Take advantage of this for a more spacious stay with plenty of room for the little ones to run around and experience life on a working farm! Arezzo, along with the many surrounding towns, is also much less crowded than other areas in Tuscany, making it easier to navigate with children.

  • While there is a train that conveniently connects Florence to Arezzo, a car is still highly recommended to explore the surrounding countryside, medieval towns, and wineries.

    I recommend renting your car at the Florence airport, where the surrounding roads are much easier to drive than roads within the city. Even if you are staying in Florence for a few days, it is worth getting a cab to the airport to pick up your car.