Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Exploring Arezzo

Saturday in Arezzo: A Day of Discovery

Today was a perfect encapsulation of why I love traveling—stumbling upon hidden gems, immersing myself in local culture, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. Arezzo, with its blend of history and charm, provided the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration with my family.

Our morning began with a visit to the renowned Antiquariato mercato. As someone who appreciates history, I was excited to explore what this market had to offer. Jana, Maximilian, and I set out early, eager to dive into the bustling atmosphere. The market, which takes place every first Sunday of the month and the preceding Saturday, was already teeming with locals and tourists alike, all sifting through the myriad of antiques and vintage items.

The Antiquariato mercato was quite the experience. Stretching through the heart of Arezzo, the market was a vibrant tapestry of stalls overflowing with antique furniture, vintage clothing, and curious trinkets. Maximilian was immediately drawn to a stall selling old military paraphernalia, while Jana found herself captivated by a collection of vintage jewelry. I, on the other hand, was in search of a unique piece of art or perhaps an antique map to add to my collection. The air was filled with the sounds of bartering, laughter, and the excited chatter of people discovering hidden treasures. It was easy to lose track of time as we wandered through the maze of stalls, each one offering a glimpse into Italy's rich past.

The joy of discovery lies not in finding what you expect, but in uncovering the unexpected treasures that resonate with your soul.

After spending a good portion of the morning at the market, we decided to take a break and find a quiet spot for lunch. We stumbled upon Vineria Dal Chiodo, a charming little restaurant known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic interior that made us feel right at home. We ordered a selection of local dishes, including handmade pasta with wild boar ragu and grilled Florentine steak. The food was simple yet bursting with flavor, and the service was warm and welcoming. It was the perfect place to recharge before continuing our exploration of Arezzo.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Vineria Dal Chiodo in Arezzo - where tradition meets taste.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to discover another of Arezzo's hidden gems: the Fontana di Sant'Agnese. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, this elegant fountain is a testament to Arezzo's artistic and architectural legacy. As we approached the fountain, the soothing sound of water cascading over its beautifully crafted stone filled the air. The fountain itself was adorned with intricate sculptures, and the surrounding cobblestone streets added to its charm. Maximilian was fascinated by the fish swimming in the fountain's basin, while Jana and I admired the Renaissance architecture of the nearby buildings.


Discover the stunning Fontana di Sant'Agnese in Arezzo, a beautiful fountain that reflects the rich history and culture of Tuscany.

The Fontana di Sant'Agnese provided a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. We sat by the fountain for a while, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. It was the perfect spot for reflection and contemplation, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. I took several photos, trying to capture the fountain's timeless beauty and the sense of serenity it evoked.

Our final stop of the day was the Santa Maria delle Grazie, a stunning church located just outside the city center. The church, with its elegant portico designed by Benedetto da Maiano, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Inside, we marveled at the intricate frescoes and the serene atmosphere. The church is built on the site of an ancient sanctuary with a spring, once consecrated to Apollo in Etruscan-Roman times. Saint Bernardino of Siena replaced the spring with an oratory in 1428. The marble altar by Andrea Della Robbia (1487–1493), featuring the Madonna with Child between two Angels, was particularly striking. Maximilian, usually restless, was surprisingly captivated by the artwork and the stories behind them.


Explore the stunning Santa Maria delle Grazie in Arezzo, a beautiful Catholic church known for its rich history and breathtaking architecture.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Prestige Boutique. Jana had been eyeing a beautiful scarf she had seen in the window earlier in the day, and I thought it would make a perfect souvenir of our trip. The boutique was stylish and well-curated, with a selection of high-end clothing and accessories. Jana found her scarf and, after a bit of deliberation, decided to treat herself. I also picked up a few small gifts for friends back home. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery.


Explore Prestige Boutique in Arezzo for the latest in men's and women's fashion, offering a unique selection of clothing and footwear in a stylish setting.

For dinner, we decided to try Trattoria l'ABbUSIVO, which came highly recommended. This cozy restaurant offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a family meal. The menu featured classic Tuscan dishes, and we decided to try a variety of options to get a real taste of the local cuisine. Maximilian particularly enjoyed the handmade pasta, while Jana and I savored the rich flavors of the meat dishes. The friendly service and delicious food made it a memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Trattoria l'ABbUSIVO in Arezzo – where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.

Alternatively, Octavin was another intriguing option for dinner. Known for its innovative approach to traditional cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. The menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and the presentation is both artistic and appealing. Although we didn't dine there tonight, I made a mental note to try it out sometime during our stay in Arezzo.


Experience fine dining at Octavin in Arezzo - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to HOTEL RESIDENCE LE CORNIOLE, tired but content. Today had been a whirlwind of activity, but it was all worth it. We had discovered hidden gems, immersed ourselves in local culture, and indulged in delicious food. Arezzo had truly captured our hearts.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore *Arezzo Wala*, *La Fontana di Porta Buia*, and the *Museo Diocesano di Arte Sacra*. I am particularly looking forward to visiting the museum, as I am eager to learn more about the region's religious history and art. We also plan to dine at *Ristorante Minerva*, *Trattoria Mazzoni*, and *OFFICINE*, and perhaps enjoy a drink at *Inside* bar. Each day here seems to promise new adventures and discoveries.

Reflecting on our day, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the unexpected. It is often in the spontaneous moments and unplanned detours that we discover the true essence of a place. Arezzo, with its blend of history, art, and culinary delights, has offered us a glimpse into the heart of Tuscany. As we prepare for our final days here, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we have shared and the memories we have created. I am also grateful that I only forgot sunglasses, an umbrella and an extra phone charger from my essentials, so far!

Until tomorrow, Arrivederci!