Arezzo traffic guide for getting around by car
Arezzo is one of the Tuscan cities least touched by mass tourism—perhaps for that very reason, it is among the most enjoyable provincial capitals to visit. If you’re planning to include Arezzo on a Tuscany road trip or you’d like to spend a weekend here, this article provides all the traffic information you need: where to park, how the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) works, and general tips on what to do and see.
Why visit Arezzo
An ancient Etruscan settlement that later flourished in the Middle Ages, Arezzo is a jewel best explored slowly—perfect for those seeking art, history, excellent food, and a relaxed pace of life. Wandering the historic center feels like stepping back in time: Piazza Grande with its sloping architecture, the Cathedral, the Basilica of San Francesco with Piero della Francesca’s famous fresco cycle, plus cobbled lanes, artisan workshops, and traditional restaurants.
Arezzo is also ideal for escaping the chaos of larger cities; compared with Florence or Siena it is quieter and more authentic yet just as rich in culture and beauty. The inland Tuscan climate brings hot, dry summers and winters that are cold but seldom extreme, making the city pleasant to explore year-round. Beyond culture, you can enjoy green walks, bike rides in the surrounding hills, or historical events such as the famous Giostra del Saracino joust.
How to reach Arezzo
Arezzo is easily reached by both car and train. It lies on the Florence–Rome rail line and is well served by regional and high-speed trains. From Florence it takes less than 1 ½ hours on a regional train, and from Rome roughly two hours.
If you’re driving, take the Arezzo exit on the A1 Autostrada del Sole, which makes the city straightforward to reach from northern or southern Italy. Once off the motorway, the historic center is only a few minutes away by car.
Getting around Arezzo: ZTL and parking
Much of Arezzo’s historic core is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), active every day with hours that vary by area. Cameras monitor entries and fines are common, so pay close attention to signs and check activation times before driving in. If you’re staying in the center, ask your accommodation whether a temporary permit can be arranged.
Parking options inside the ZTL are scarce; however, several paid car parks sit just outside, such as those in Piazza del Popolo or Via Pietri—the latter has escalators that take you directly into the old town. For cheaper or free parking, look to lots a bit farther out, for example near the municipal stadium or in the Tortaia area, from which the center is a short walk.
On holidays or in the evening, blue-lined pay-and-display spaces sometimes become free, but always check the on-site signs for up-to-date rules.
Sei in partenza e cerchi un’auto da affittare? Rivolgiti al nostro ufficio di noleggio auto ad Arezzo o agli altri autonoleggi in Toscana di Locauto.
