Arezzo - traditional and picturesque town where “La vita è bella” with authentic feeling
Famous actor and director who won 3 Oscars in 1999, Roberto Benigni is born in Arezzo and this famous movie, a masterpiece “La vita é bella, Life is beautiful” has scenes in his hometown Arezzo.
Benigni è nato nella provincia di Arezzo; cresciuto come uomo ed artista altrove in Toscana, i suoi spettacoli sono stati sempre benvenuti dal pubblico aretino: conosceva la città e i luoghi migliori per le riprese del film.
First time arriving to Arezzo through the old gates, La Fortezza by foot. Wow. It is easy to arrive by car (or train) in Arezzo. It is worth leaving the car further away outside the gate of the city wall, the center is “silenced from cars” to pedestrians. The old town of Arezzo is small, beautiful, old, picturesque and an excellent destination if you want to avoid the tourist crowds, noise and traffic and feel the real Tuscany. Arezzo has some hills and elevation changes, so wear comfortable shoes.
Arezzo is a historic town in eastern Tuscany, about 80 km southeast of Florence. Compared to its more famous neighbors, Arezzo is quieter, more authentic, and less crowded, making it appealing for those seeking a deeper Tuscan atmosphere.
History & Cultural Significance
Arezzo has ancient roots dating back to the Etruscan era, later becoming an important Roman municipality. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, it flourished culturally and artistically.
Birthplace of Giorgio Vasari, the influential artist and author of Lives of the Artists
Strong ties to medieval trade, craftsmanship, and religious art
A city that blends Roman foundations with Renaissance elegance
Main Attractions
Piazza Grande – The sloping medieval square, famous for its unique architecture and arcades designed by Vasari
Cathedral of San Donato – Gothic cathedral with impressive stained glass windows
Basilica of San Francesco – Home to Piero della Francesca’s celebrated fresco cycle The Legend of the True Cross
Casa Vasari – The richly decorated home of Giorgio Vasari
Atmosphere & Lifestyle
Arezzo is known for its antiques culture. On the first weekend of every month, the city hosts one of Italy’s largest antique fairs, attracting collectors and visitors from across Europe.
The lifestyle here reflects traditional Tuscany:
Slower pace than Florence or Siena
Strong local identity
Authentic trattorias and artisan shops (I bought a simple but stylish summer hat, hand-made by local female entrepreneur artist, of course)
Why visit Arezzo? Arezzo is a refined, small, culturally rich Tuscan town that rewards visitors looking for authenticity, art history, and a more relaxed Italian rhythm: la vera Toscana, without the rush and without too many tourists. You can find great food and gelato also here, no need to queue for long for treats like in tourist traps. In the summer for sure really hot, so I would recommend to visit during winter, spring and autumn and avoiding the high peak season with 30-40C degrees.
Arezzo è una delle più belle città della Toscana. Il centro storico conserva tutt'oggi il suo fascino medievale.
https://www.visitarezzo.com/film-la-vita-e-bella-benigni-itinerario-arezzo
