Arezzo: Guided Walking Tour With Basilica of San Francesco

Arezzo, a historic Tuscan city, offers visitors a captivating guided walking tour that delves into its rich cultural heritage. The tour showcases the city’s architectural gems, including the impressive Piazza del Duomo and the renowned Basilica of San Francesco, known for its Tuscan Gothic style and the renowned Cappella Bacci frescoes by Piero della Francesca. As you stroll through the medieval streets and alleys, you’ll witness the harmonious blend of Renaissance, Gothic, and Romanesque elements that define Arezzo‘s charming Piazza Grande. This immersive experience promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s remarkable history and unique blend of artistic influences.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Arezzo.

Key Points

• A 2-hour guided walking tour that provides skip-the-line access to the Basilica of San Francesco, a 13th-century Gothic church known for its Piero della Francesca frescoes.
• The tour covers major landmarks in Arezzo, including the Piazza del Duomo, Piazza Grande, and medieval streets, with a live guide providing commentary in 5 languages.
• Visitors can admire the captivating medieval architecture, ornate facades, and vast interiors of the Arezzo Cathedral and other historic structures during the tour.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate private groups, offering a personalized experience for exploring the rich history and architecture of Arezzo.
• Inclusions of the tour include insights into local cuisine, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details

The tour lasts 2 hours and allows visitors to skip the ticket line. It’s led by a live guide who can provide commentary in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate private groups.

Starting at the Vasari Cafe in Piazza Grande, you’ll explore the Piazza del Duomo, the Basilica of San Francesco, and the charming medieval streets of Arezzo.

During the 45-minute visit to the Basilica, you’ll marvel at the Cappella Bacci.

The tour ends back at the Vasari Cafe, providing insights into the local cuisine along the way.

With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this guided walking tour is a convenient and informative way to discover Arezzo.

Itinerary

This tour begins at the Vasari Café in Piazza Grande, where visitors can meet their guide.

From there, they’ll explore the grand Piazza del Duomo, taking in the medieval architecture and learning about the area’s history.

The main highlight is a 45-minute guided visit to the Basilica of San Francesco, including its renowned Cappella Bacci.

Finally, the tour winds through Arezzo’s charming medieval streets before returning to the starting point at the Vasari Café.

The tour’s itinerary includes:

• Starting location: Vasari Café, Piazza Grande
• Piazza Del Duomo (visit, guided tour)
• Basilica of San Francesco, Arezzo (visit, guided tour – 45 minutes)
• Ending location: Vasari Café
• Strolling through medieval streets and alleys of Arezzo

Piazza Del Duomo

As visitors explore the grand Piazza del Duomo, they’ll be captivated by the medieval architecture that surrounds them, each building a testament to Arezzo’s rich history.

The centerpiece of the square is the Arezzo Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Visitors can marvel at the intricate facade, adorned with ornate carvings and statues. Inside, the cathedral’s vast interior is filled with breathtaking frescoes and stained-glass windows.

Beyond the cathedral, the Piazza del Duomo is surrounded by other historic structures, including the Bishop’s Palace and the Loggia del Vasari, which showcase the region’s architectural heritage. This vibrant public square serves as the heart of Arezzo, offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

Basilica of San Francesco

Leaving the splendor of the Piazza del Duomo behind, visitors now make their way to the Basilica of San Francesco, one of Arezzo’s premier religious sites.

This Gothic-style church, dating back to the 13th century, is renowned for its impressive architecture and the Cappella Bacci, which houses a famous fresco cycle by the Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.

During the guided tour, guests will:

• Admire the Basilica’s ornate facade and vaulted ceilings
• Discover the Cappella Bacci and its masterful frescoes
• Learn about the church’s rich history and cultural significance
• Explore the Basilica’s tranquil interior and chapels
• Gain insight into Arezzo’s religious heritage and artistic legacy

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Piazza Grande

The tour then proceeds to the Piazza Grande, the city’s central square and a captivating hub of Arezzo’s medieval character.

Visitors can admire the square’s harmonious architecture, which blends Renaissance, Gothic, and Romanesque styles, creating a visually striking ensemble.

The Piazza Grande has served as the city’s central marketplace and gathering place for centuries, and its charming buildings, including the Vasari Loggia, offer a glimpse into Arezzo’s rich history.

The guide will share insights into the square’s significance and point out notable features, allowing participants to fully appreciate the timeless allure of this iconic Aretine landmark.

History and Architecture

Although Arezzo’s Piazza Grande boasts a harmonious blend of architectural styles, the history and construction of the Basilica of San Francesco stand out as the tour’s primary highlight.

Commissioned in the 13th century, this magnificent structure showcases the region’s renowned Tuscan Gothic style, with its striking facade, ornate interior, and the renowned Cappella Bacci, home to Piero della Francesca’s renowned frescoes.

The tour also explores:

• The basilica’s impressive vaulted ceilings and intricate stone carvings
• The Cappella Bacci’s mesmerizing depiction of the Legend of the True Cross
• The harmonious blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements
• The basilica’s role as a significant center of Franciscan spirituality
• The insights provided by the knowledgeable tour guide into Arezzo’s rich history.

Inclusions

Along With exploring the historical and architectural wonders of Arezzo, the guided walking tour includes a comprehensive set of inclusions that enhance the overall experience.

Visitors can look forward to a guided tour of the city, encompassing key landmarks like the Piazza Grande, Piazza del Duomo, and the medieval streets, as well as gaining exclusive access to the Basilica of San Francesco and the renowned Cappella Bacci.

The tour also provides insights into the local cuisine, allowing participants to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of the region.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Arezzo walking tour offers a hassle-free and enriching way to discover this captivating Italian city.

Additional Information

This walking tour offers the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing visitors to plan their schedules with flexibility.

It also provides the option to reserve now and pay later, making it easier for travelers to secure their spot.

Plus, the activity takes place rain or shine, ensuring that participants can explore Arezzo’s highlights regardless of the weather conditions.

The tour’s additional features include:

• Flexible cancellation policy
• Reserve now, pay later option
• Weather-proof experience
• Convenient scheduling
• Hassle-free booking

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Basilica of San Francesco?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Basilica of San Francesco, though they may be asked to refrain from using flash to avoid disturbing other visitors. It’s best to check with the staff upon arrival.

What Kind of Comfortable Shoes Are Recommended for the Tour?

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this tour. The tour involves exploring historic sites and navigating cobblestone streets, so shoes with good traction and support are ideal to ensure a pleasant and safe experience.

Are Any Food or Drinks Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food or drinks. However, the itinerary includes a visit to the Vasari Cafe, where participants can purchase refreshments before or after the walking tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to tailor the itinerary based on customers’ preferences, such as art, architecture, or local cuisine.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounted rates for students and seniors. To take advantage of these discounts, simply inform the operator when booking the tour and provide valid ID. Discounts may vary, so it’s best to inquire at the time of booking.

Recap

Arezzo’s guided walking tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and architectural gems.

From the captivating Piazza del Duomo to the renowned Cappella Bacci frescoes, the tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Arezzo’s harmonious blend of Renaissance, Gothic, and Romanesque elements.

It’s an ideal way to discover the charm and cultural significance of this enchanting Tuscan city.

You can check availability for your dates here: