The Piero della Francesca Trail: Art & Hill Towns from Arezzo
- realtravelguides
- Oct 14, 2025
- 2 min read
Follow in the footsteps of Renaissance master Piero della Francesca through eastern Tuscany and Umbria. From Arezzo to Sansepolcro, Anghiari, Monterchi, and Città di Castello, this journey weaves art, landscapes, and timeless hill towns.
Why Go?
This route combines art, gentle countryside, and authentic small towns rarely on tourist itineraries — all accessible from Arezzo by local train or bus.
A bit of History
Piero della Francesca (1412–1492) was one of the early Renaissance’s great painters, known for his use of geometry and light. His works still grace the towns where he lived and worked.
What to Expect
Quiet medieval towns and valleys.
Masterpieces in their original settings.
Delicious Umbrian–Tuscan food crossover.
5 Key Stops and Sights
Arezzo – See Piero’s fresco cycle The Legend of the True Cross at San Francesco.
Monterchi – Visit the Madonna del Parto, a serene fresco of the Virgin Mary.
Anghiari – Walk the steep medieval streets overlooking the Tiber Valley.
Sansepolcro – Piero’s birthplace, home to The Resurrection and his museum.
Città di Castello – Cross into Umbria for more Renaissance treasures and ceramics workshops.
Food Culture
Expect truffles, porcini mushrooms, cured meats, and hearty mountain fare. Local wines include Chianti Colli Aretini and Umbrian Sangiovese.
Where to Eat
Ristorante Fiorentino e Locanda del Giglio (Sansepolcro) – Historic trattoria serving traditional Tuscan dishes in beautiful dining rooms on the first floor of a palazzo.
Bar Baldaccio (Anghiari) – Proving that good pizza doesn't always require a traditional oven, this local gem of a place manages to consistently turn out some of the best we've ever tasted in Italy!
Da Alighiero (Anghiari) – Nestled amid the cobbled streets of one of Italy's most beautiful villages, this rustic-style restaurant has a warm authentic ambience and celebrates Tuscany's classic favourites.
Where to Stay
Hotel Relais Palazzo di Luglio (Sansepolcro) – Elegant 18th-century residence is just 2km from historic centre, surrounded by nature with splendid views of the Upper Tiber Valley.
Borgo di Celle Relais & Spa (Citta di Castello countryside) – Peaceful hotel with restaurant, wellness centre & outdoor pool with panoramic views.
Off the Beaten Track
Visit Montone, a tiny Umbrian hilltop village known for its film festival and panoramic walks.
How to Get There by Train/BusTake a regional train from Florence or Rome to Arezzo. From there:
Buses link Arezzo with Monterchi, Anghiari, and Sansepolcro (about 1h).
From Sansepolcro, continue to Città di Castello by local bus (~30 mins).
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