Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Exploring Arezzo

Sunday Serendipity in Arezzo

Today was one of those travel days where everything just seemed to fall into place. We set out with a rough plan, but the best moments were the unexpected discoveries and the little detours that revealed the true heart of Arezzo. It’s amazing how a city can surprise you when you let it.

Our day began, as most good days in Italy do, with a hearty breakfast at our accommodation, HOTEL RESIDENCE LE CORNIOLE. Jana had prepped us with some great Italian coffee. Maximilian was especially excited, knowing we had a day of exploring ahead. We decided to start with Arezzo Wala, a spot I had read about that promised a scenic atmosphere and a taste of local culture. It turned out to be a delightful little corner of the city. It wasn't a grand monument or a famous museum, but a quiet, charming area that offered a glimpse into the everyday life of Arezzo. The surrounding streets were filled with artisan shops and cafes, and we enjoyed a peaceful stroll, soaking in the ambiance.


Discover comfort and modern living at Residence Le Corniole, just steps from Arezzo's historic center, offering stunning views and top-notch amenities.

From Arezzo Wala, we made our way towards the city center, drawn by the promise of more historical discoveries. Our next stop was La Fontana di Porta Buia. This fountain, tucked away near one of the old city gates, was a beautiful example of Arezzo’s understated charm. The kids were fascinated by the intricate stonework and the cool, refreshing water. I took a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this hidden gem. It's funny; sometimes the most memorable sights are not the famous landmarks, but the quiet, unassuming places that you stumble upon along the way.


Experience the charm of Arezzo Wala, a captivating tourist attraction in Arezzo that showcases the beauty and history of Tuscany.

As we walked, Maximilian peppered me with questions about the history of Arezzo. I did my best to explain how the city had been a significant Etruscan center and later an important Roman town. I told him about the battles fought here, the artists who had been born here, and the countless stories that had unfolded within these ancient walls. He seemed genuinely interested, which made me feel proud. I love sharing my passion for history with my family, and seeing them connect with these places is incredibly rewarding.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that require a bit of effort to uncover.

After our dose of fresh air, we decided to immerse ourselves in art. The Museo Diocesano di Arte Sacra was our next destination. Located in the Bishop's Palace, right across from the Duomo, the museum houses a collection of sculptures, paintings, and liturgical objects from the Diocese. I found it fascinating to see the evolution of religious art over the centuries. Jana was particularly drawn to the works of Giorgio Vasari, a local artist whose influence can be seen throughout Arezzo. Maximilian, surprisingly, was captivated by the wooden crucifixes dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. He peppered us with questions about the artists and the stories behind the artifacts. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn together and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Arezzo.


Explore the enchanting La Fontana di Porta Buia in Arezzo, a historical fountain surrounded by charming streets and rich Italian culture.

By now, our stomachs were starting to rumble. We had worked up quite an appetite exploring the city. Fortunately, Arezzo has no shortage of excellent restaurants. After consulting a few online reviews, we decided to try Ristorante Minerva. This restaurant, with its long culinary tradition, promised an authentic Tuscan dining experience. We were not disappointed. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the service was excellent, and the food was simply divine. I ordered the steak, cooked to perfection, while Jana opted for the pasta with truffles. Maximilian, always a fan of simple dishes, devoured his plate of spaghetti with tomato sauce. It was the perfect way to refuel after a busy day of sightseeing.


Explore the rich heritage of Arezzo at the Museo Diocesano di Arte Sacra, where sacred art and history come alive.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal, we couldn't help but reflect on how much we had seen and done. Arezzo had surprised us with its beauty, its history, and its charm. It wasn't a city that shouted its greatness from the rooftops, but rather one that whispered its secrets to those who took the time to listen. I am so glad we decided to include it in our Tuscan itinerary.

After lunch, we were ready for more culinary adventures. We considered Trattoria Mazzoni, known for its traditional Tuscan dishes. But, we opted instead for OFFICINE, enticed by its creative menu and modern ambiance. It turned out to be an excellent choice. The restaurant was stylish and contemporary, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The dishes were innovative and beautifully presented, a welcome change from the more traditional fare we had been eating. I tried the seafood, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful, while Jana savored the vegetarian options. Maximilian, always up for trying new things, even sampled some of the more adventurous dishes. It was a fun and memorable dining experience, and it showed us that Arezzo has a vibrant and evolving culinary scene.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Minerva in Arezzo—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to end the day with a visit to Inside, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. We sat outside, enjoying the warm evening air and sipping on local wine. Maximilian, of course, stuck to lemonade. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring. We chatted, laughed, and reminisced about our favorite moments from the day. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. These are the moments that make travel so special – the shared memories, the unexpected discoveries, and the simple joy of being together in a beautiful place.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Mazzoni in Arezzo - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As the evening drew to a close, we made our way back to HOTEL RESIDENCE LE CORNIOLE, tired but content. We packed our bags, knowing that tomorrow would be our last day in Arezzo. We planned to visit Passeggio del Prato, a park that promised beautiful views of the city, and then do some last-minute souvenir shopping at CENTRO*Arezzo, a local shopping center. It was bittersweet to think that our time here was coming to an end, but we were also excited about the adventures that lay ahead.


Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at OFFICINE in Arezzo – where every dish tells a story.

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflected on the day. Arezzo had exceeded my expectations. It was a city that had something for everyone – history, art, culture, and delicious food. But more than that, it was a city that had a soul. It was a place where you could feel the weight of the past and the energy of the present, all at the same time. I knew that we would leave Arezzo with memories that would last a lifetime.

As I closed my eyes, I thought about tomorrow. I was looking forward to our final day in Arezzo, but I was also starting to feel a sense of anticipation for the next leg of our journey. Who knows what surprises and adventures await us? That's the beauty of travel – the endless possibilities, the constant discoveries, and the chance to see the world through new eyes. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that we were creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we bid farewell to Arezzo, but not before soaking in a few more sights. We plan to explore Passeggio del Prato for scenic views and perhaps grab a final gelato before heading to CENTRO*Arezzo for some last-minute souvenir shopping. It's hard to believe our Tuscan adventure is almost over, but I'm already cherishing the memories we've made. I am sure Jana will buy something, she is keen on finding some local books.


Discover the warm ambiance and local flavors at Inside, a must-visit pub in Arezzo, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.