PRACTICAL INFO
Helpful Tips For Your Holiday In TuscanyWhere To Find Us
Early Arrival
Pick Up and Drop Off and more
Where We Are:
Arezzo is a small city in eastern Tuscany, approximately 60 minutes by road south of Florence and its airport (FLR). It is set between the Val di Chiana and the Val d’Arno, a large valley of farms, olive groves and vineyards. Founded by the Etruscans over 3000 years ago, it was a rich and influential town during the Renaissance. You’ll find a Roman amphitheatre, walls, a medieval centro storico and many delicious restaurants to discover. Visit Discover Arezzo for more information.
Pick-Up / Drop-Off
Unless you make separate arrangements with us, we pick you up at 3pm on Sunday in the railway station forecourt at Arezzo for the short drive to the property. We return you to the station the following Sunday at 11am. Trains arrive and depart hourly in either direction to Rome or Florence and onward services north and south. See national rail operator Trenitalia for schedules and fares or use our friends at The Trainline (their mobile app is particulary useful).
Early Arrival
If your travel plans foresee early arrival to Arezzo and you wish to stay overnight in the city, we recommend Hotel Continentale, a 4-star property only 200m level walk, five minutes from the train station towards the medieval town. We have used this property ourselves. It is a 3rd generation family-run hotel conveniently located, comfortable, friendly and affordable. Don’t miss the panoramic roof terrace for the spectacular views! Best from 5pm with an Apérol Spritz. Fun fact: The street from the station (via Guido Monaco) is named after a local friar who invented of the musical scale.
Meals & Dietaries
One of the great pleasures of visiting Italy is the food, and its cuisine is world-famous. We aim to showcase the best local seasonal produce with all our meals, traditional Tuscan dishes and the elegant simplicity of the Italian kitchen. We recognise some guests will have dietary restrictions and we strive to meet your needs. Prior to arrival we will be in contact with each guest to confirm any special requirements.
Health & Wellness
Please anticipate a modest amount of walking during your visit. Many nearby towns are old with narrow streets and inclines, paved in stone. While most people have no difficulty, we advise comfortable footwear suitable to the time of year. A foldable walking stick may prove useful for those needing a little extra support.
During the summer months keeping hydrated and out of the midday heat is standard practice by local inhabitants. When touring the region or painting en-plein-air we will ensure you have plenty of cool refreshement, shade, access to toilets and sunscreen.
Electronica
Italy operates on 220V 50Hz power. The standard European type C, E & F plugs (two round pins) will fit all power points. Italy uses these, plus type L plugs (three pins in a row). We have adapters on hand in case of need. If you bring your own electrical items, please confirm they are rated to 220-240V 50Hz to avoid damaging your appliance. The villa has broadband WIFI for your telecommunications needs. Mobile reception is 4G/5G.
More Practical Info
Visas: AUS, CAN, NZ, UK, USA passport holders have visa-free entry to the EU Schengen area for 90 days. Check your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your intended travel period. ETIAS is coming in May 2025. Find out more here. From October 2024 a new Entry/Exit System will begin to apply to all non-EU passport holders. Click the link to learn more. (Updated regularly)
Airports: Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Milan Malpensa (MXP) are the main Italian ports for longhaul flights. For shorthaul EU flights Florence (FLR) and Bologna (BLQ) are closest to us with train connections to Arezzo. Both Rome and Milan airports have frequent trains to the main stations, Roma Termini and Milano Centrale, respectively. Affordable, fast and convenient.
Train: Nearest station is Arezzo. It is on the main N-S high speed line between Rome and Milan. Express and regional trains also call at Arezzo on a more frequent basis. We suggest using The Trainline for trip planning and reservations. The (often) small surcharge to Premium or Business Classes on the Frecciarossa is excellent value, including coffee, water and snacks. Do reserve a seat in advance when booking, usually only €2pp.
Insurance: Italy has a comprehensive public health care system. With few exceptions, Non-EU visitors must have medical insurance to avoid fees charged for emergency and other services. We advise adequate insurance for your travel plans and personal effects.
Money: Italians use both cash and cards, with contactless payment quite common, although for small purchases having some euro coins and notes is appreciated. Always take ‘la ricievuta’ from the shop or restaurant as proof of purchase. You may be randomly asked to produce it by the Guardia Finanzia.
Tipping: This is not a common practice in Europe as a service charge is often included in the bill. It is unnecessary to put a gratuity on top at restaurants and bars. If you like, rounding up a few euros and leaving them as coins at the table is a nice gesture.
Tax: Almost all purchases in Italy include the VAT of 22% in the price. Accommodation is 10% VAT. These are included in the price of goods and services you see. A daily municipal tourism tax is payable for accommodation. We look after this for you.