Weekend in Arezzo

A 13th-century Franciscan church. The main draw is Piero della Francesca's fresco cycle 'The Legend of the True Cross' in the Bacci Chapel. Entry to the church is free; the chapel

Tip: Arrive before 10am to get the best light on the frescoes without crowds. Check the ticket desk for combined passes if you also plan to visit the museum.

A Gothic cathedral perched at the top of the old town. Inside, look for Piero della Francesca's fresco of Mary Magdalene and the 14th-century stained glass windows by Guillaume de

Tip: The crypt (small fee) holds Romanesque capitals and a 12th-century crucifix. Visit just before noon to hear the organ practice. Not much signage, so rent an audioguide (€3) or rely on a guidebook.

Remains of a 2nd-century AD Roman amphitheatre, partially excavated. You can walk around the perimeter and see the curved seating tiers and the structure’s outline. Adjacent to the National Museum of

Tip: The amphitheatre itself is free to view from the street. For the full effect, enter the Archaeological Museum (€6) which gives you access to the seating area. Visit early morning when it's quiet.

A public park on the site of the 16th-century Medici Fortress. The ramparts offer panoramic views over Arezzo and the surrounding Tuscan hills. Benches, lawns, and gravel paths make it a good spot for

Tip: The fortress walls are mostly gone, but the grassy bastion is still a great viewpoint. Walk to the eastern corner for a clear shot of the cathedral and town. Bring water in summer—the hill is exposed and there’s no café on site. The park is popular with local families on weekends.

The sloping main square, paved in brick and surrounded by medieval palazzos and the Loggia del Vasari. The irregular shape comes from its former role as a Roman forum. Hosts the Giostra del Saracino j

Tip: Come late afternoon when the light warms the brick, and sit on the steps of the Loggia for a perfect view. The weekly Saturday market sets up here. Avoid parking on the cobbles—locals get fined.