Where to stay in Arezzo: best areas, accommodation and practical tips

Why stay in Arezzo

Arezzo is authentic Tuscany far from mass tourism: frescoes by Piero della Francesca, the Giostra del Saracino, antiques in Piazza Grande and a food scene rivalling Florence. It is also a strategic crossroads between Valdichiana, Casentino, Val di Chiana and Valtiberina, perfect as a base for exploring a less beaten Tuscany.

Best areas to stay

Upper historic centre

From the Medici Fortress to Piazza Grande, the upper centre is the medieval heart of Arezzo. Here you find period residences converted into elegant B&Bs, with rooftop views and steps from the Basilica of San Francesco (Piero's frescoes). Uphill streets but a unique atmosphere.

Ideal for: couples, art lovers, those visiting for the Antiques Fair
Average price: €80-170 per night

Piazza Grande and Corso Italia

Arezzo's living room, with the sloping piazza famous from Benigni's Life is Beautiful. Accommodation in medieval palazzi with loggias and antique shops on the ground floor. Lively area during the Fair (first Sunday of each month) and the Giostra.

Ideal for: those wanting to live piazza life, antique dealers, foodies
Average price: €75-150 per night

Station area and boulevards

The boulevards surrounding the centre offer business hotels and modern B&Bs, convenient for train arrivals (Arezzo is on the Rome-Florence line). Easier parking and contained prices.

Ideal for: business, travellers in transit, budget travellers
Average price: €55-100 per night

Arezzo countryside (Valdichiana and Casentino)

15-30 minutes from the centre, farm stays among Syrah vineyards and centuries-old olive groves. Casentino also offers borgo-hotels immersed in forests. Time slows down here and the cuisine is extraordinary.

Ideal for: families, honeymooners, food and wine enthusiasts
Average price: €60-140 per night with breakfast

Types of accommodation

Period residences and albergo diffuso

Arezzo excels in this formula: rooms distributed across several historic buildings in the centre, with a single reception and breakfast in a palazzo. A way to sleep in history without sacrificing comfort.

B&Bs and guesthouses

Numerous in the historic centre, often run by passionate locals who know every corner of the city. Breakfasts with schiacciata aretina, homemade jams and moka coffee.

Farm stays

The Arezzo countryside is dotted with farms producing wine, oil and Chianina beef. Pools with views, peasant dinners and silence. Many also offer cooking classes and tastings.

Classic hotels

Few but quality ones, mainly in the 3-4 star range. Those with panoramic terraces over the city are worth the premium for the sunrise view.

Tips to save money

Avoid Antiques Fair weekends (first Sunday of the month + Saturday): prices rise 20-40%
The Giostra del Saracino (June and September) fills the city: book well in advance
October-March (excluding fairs) offers very low prices and you have the city to yourself
Farm stays often include breakfast and sometimes dinner: calculate the total cost
Arezzo is compact: even staying outside the walls you are 10 minutes on foot from the centre