D(r)iving Into the Italian Countryside

Arezzo is the provincial capital of eastern Tuscany and the largest city in this region. It's a lively town whose success was brought by gold manufacturing.
Since Roman times, Arezzo's been a major economic center, with a magnificent medieval heart and a considerable cultural inheritance, including the biggest cycle of murals by Piero della Francesca, possibly the most prominent painter of the early Renaissance.
Travelers come to Arezzo for its cathedrals, museums, and the magnificently sloped Piazza Grande, which appears in the famous Roberto Benigni's film La Vita è Bella (Life is Beautiful). In the same place decorated by Vasari's colonnade, there's a massive antique market that takes place every first weekend of the month.
Maybe Arezzo isn't as impressive as it once was, but the areas of its medieval center that survived WWII bombings are still incredibly beautiful.
If you're visiting in mid-June or early September, learn more about Giostra del Saracino, the annual medieval festival of Arezzo.

Most travelers visit Arezzo especially to see Piero della Francesca's fresco cycle with the Legend of the True Cross.
Located in Cappella Bacci, the main chapel of the Basilica di San Francesco d'Assisi, the remarkable paintings describe the narrative of the wood used to make the cross Jesus was crucified on, from its origins to its rediscovery after being lost.
Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is open every day of the week, from 6 am to 8 pm.
Access to Cappella Bacci is limited, so make sure you book your visit in advance. More information regarding tickets and reservations can be found here.

Walking on Corso Italia, the main street of Arezzo, you will reach 12th-century Santa Maria della Pieve. This is Arezzo's oldest church, whose Romanesque arcaded façade is decorated with numerous columns, each with a unique design.
Before entering, look up to see Cyclo dei Mesi, which are 13th-century reliefs representing every month of the year. Even higher, there's the church's bell tower, otherwise known as the Tower with a Thousand Holes because of its architectural filigree.
Santa Maria della Pieve is open daily from 8 am to 12.30 pm and from 3 to 6.30 pm.

At this old-fashioned grocery store on Arezzo's main piazza, you get to choose from a delightful assortment of artisan meats and cheeses to create a panini to your liking. Grab everything to go, it's picnic time!
La Bottega di Gnicche opens every day at 11.30. Monday- Thursday it closes at 10 pm, Friday-Saturday at 11.30 pm, and Sundays at 11 pm.

Step inside the Parco della Fortezza Medicea and choose a shaded spot to enjoy a picnic with a view. As soon as you're done with lunch, you can relax under a tree, go for a walk in the park, or quickly visit the Medici Fortress.
The Medici Fortress is open every day except on Mondays. On weekdays, it's open between 11 am and 7 pm. On weekends, you can visit between 10 am and 8 pm.
The Medici Fortress Park is open every day except Monday between 10 am and 6 pm.

When you exit the Medici Fortress Park, head to the Gothic Duomo of Arezzo. This cathedral's construction began in the 13th century but wasn't finalized until the 15th century.
Inside the cathedral, left of the beautifully carved main altar, you'll notice an exquisite fresco of Mary Magdalene by Piero della Francesca. Five glazed terracottas by Andrea della Robbia and his studio will also catch your attention.
The Arezzo Cathedral is open daily from 6.30 am to 12.30 pm, then from 3 to 7 pm. Tickets can be bought on the spot.

Arriving on Via di Sasso Verde, you will reach Chiesa di San Domenico, whose construction began in the year 1275 but was never completed.
Inside, you will discover several masterpieces by Arezzo painters. With its exquisitely decorated Crucifix by painter Cimabue, this church is yet another example of Arezzo's creativity.
Chiesa di San Domenico is open on weekdays from 9 am to 7 pm, Saturdays from 9 am to 6.15 pm, and Sundays from 13 to 6.15 pm.

Walk into the city through the historic entrance and go down the tiny alleyways and medieval residences to Piazza Mameli, to admire the Palazzo Taglieschi. Piazza del Popolo is higher up, with the Comune (Town Council) situated in a palazzo decorated with stone shields.
If you're visiting at the end of June, check out Palio della Vittoria.

Enjoy dinner at Da Alighiero, a Michelin guide restaurant right next to the main square of Anghiari. If you're not sure what to try, ask for recommendations, the staff is very friendly and helpful.
Da Alighiero is open every day except Tuesday, from 12.30 to 2.30 pm and from 7 to 10 pm.
Book your table in advance: +39 0575 788040

Time to turn in for the evening at nearby Agriturismo Podere Tovary. Enjoy sleeping at an Italian farm in Tuscany!