Getting Around Arezzo. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: Buses

A network of urban and suburban buses, operated by Autolinee Toscane, serves Arezzo. These buses connect the city center, outer neighborhoods, the train station, and nearby towns.

The main hub for urban buses is near the train station (Stazione F.S.) and Piazza Guido Monaco. Most bus lines pass through this central area. Route maps and schedules are available at bus stops, the Autolinee Toscane office, and on their official website. Digital map applications like Google Maps or Moovit on your Smartphone can assist with real-time route planning.

Ticketing & Etiquette

Single Tickets (Biglietto urbano): Purchase Before boarding at Tabaccherie (tobacco shops, blue "T" sign) or newsstands (Edicole). On-board purchases may include a surcharge.
Validation: Immediately validate your ticket after boarding using the yellow or orange machines near the entrance. Failure to validate can result in a significant fine.
Fares: A single urban bus ticket typically costs around €1.50-€2. Multi-trip tickets ("Carnet") offer slight discounts.
Hours & Frequency: Buses generally run from early morning (~6:00 AM) until late evening (~9:00 PM-10:00 PM). Service reduces on Sundays and public holidays.

Route Planning

Use online maps (Google Maps, Moovit) for real-time route planning before setting out.

Pre-Purchase Tickets

Buying tickets in advance from a Tabaccheria saves time and avoids on-board surcharges.

Walking in Center

Arezzo's historic center is very walkable. Often, walking is the most enjoyable and efficient way to explore.

Accessibility & Navigation Tips

Public Transport Accessibility

Newer buses are often low-floor with ramps. Older buses may not have these features.
Navigating the historic center can be challenging for those with mobility issues due to narrow, cobblestone streets.
Planning routes carefully, focusing on flatter areas or those with ramps, is advisable.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Use digital map apps for real-time bus information and routes.
Always buy tickets in advance from a Tabaccheria or Edicola.
Remember to validate your ticket immediately upon boarding the bus.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

White with "TAXI" sign on roof, use meters. Hail at stands or by calling.

Typical Fares

Metered fares. Short city rides €8-€15. Cash usually preferred. Confirm card acceptance.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber is very limited (Uber Black only, expensive). Free Now (MyTaxi) might be limited in Arezzo.

Safety Tips

Only use licensed taxis. Avoid unofficial drivers. Confirm meter is on.

Rental Options: Cars & Bikes

Arezzo has options for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU citizens, passport, major credit card in driver's name.
Age: Minimum 18, but rental companies often require 21 or 25+. "Young driver surcharge" for under 25s.
Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, Enterprise often have offices near train station or outskirts. Compare prices on DiscoverCars.com.
Booking: Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rental

Availability: From specialized rental shops in Arezzo or nearby larger towns.
License Requirements: Appropriate license (A or A1 for motorcycles; B license for scooters up to 125cc if obtained before 1986).
Security Deposit: Expect a significant security deposit.
Safety: Helmets are mandatory.

Bicycle Rentals & Infrastructure

Bicycle Rentals: Several shops offer city bikes, e-bikes, road bikes, and mountain bikes. Inquire at local tourist offices or search online.
Cycling Routes: Beautiful routes in the surrounding countryside, from gentle paths to challenging climbs.
Infrastructure: Limited dedicated bike paths within the city. Rural roads are popular with local cyclists.

Safety: Always wear a Helmet and be aware of vehicle traffic, especially on narrow country roads.
Pedestrian Areas: Historic center is very pedestrian-friendly, ideal for walking.
Walking Tours: Guided or self-guided options explore Arezzo's historical and artistic sites.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving on the Right

Always drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Mobile phone use requires a hands-free system.

Speed Limits

Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph). Main roads outside urban areas: 90 km/h (56 mph). Motorways (Autostrade): 110-130 km/h (68-80 mph).

Parking Regulations

Blue lines for paid parking; white lines for free (rare in centers); yellow for reserved. Always use designated parking lots outside the ZTL.

Specialized Transportation Limited

Arezzo typically does not feature unique forms of transport like funiculars or boat taxis, common in other regions. Public transit and rental options dominate.

Tour Bus Services

Arezzo generally lacks dedicated hop-on-hop-off bus services, typical of larger tourist cities.
Some private tour operators based in Florence or other major cities offer day tours that include bus transport to Arezzo.
These services typically involve round-trip transportation from a central meeting point in the originating city.
Check with tour companies for their specific itineraries and schedules.

Water & Unique Local Transport

Boat Taxis & Water Transportation: Not applicable to Arezzo. It is an inland city, and the Arno River in this area is not navigable for passenger transport.
Cable Cars, Funiculars, or Unique Local Transport: Arezzo does not have these forms of transportation.
Your main options for movement within Arezzo and its immediate surroundings are walking, local buses, and taxis/rental cars.
Rely on traditional methods for efficient city exploration.

Accessibility Services Overview

Historic Center Challenges

Navigating Arezzo's historic core can be challenging for those with mobility issues due to steep inclines, uneven cobblestones, and steps in historic buildings.

Plan routes carefully.

Public Transport Access

Some newer public buses feature accessibility, but older ones may not. Schedules can have limited frequency, especially on weekends or holidays.

Confirm bus features.

Taxi & Hotel Arrangements

Taxis can be arranged for point-to-point travel. Reaching specific sites directly within the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) remains an issue without prior hotel or tour operator arrangements.

Pre-book specialized services.

Mobility Planning Recommendations

Pre-Trip Consultation

Contact specific attractions, hotels, or the Arezzo Tourist Information Office in advance.
Inquire about their accessibility features for your specific needs.
Plan your routes carefully, focusing on flatter areas or those with ramps if needed.

Assistance & Support

Consider traveling with a companion who can offer assistance if significant mobility challenges exist.
Seek out hotels or accommodations specifically advertised as accessible.
Utilize accessible parking if you are driving and have a disability permit.

ZTL Reminder for Vehicle Access

Restricted Zones

Arezzo's historic center has a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone). Only authorized vehicles may enter.
Fines for unauthorized entry are substantial and camera-enforced.
Always park outside the ZTL and walk or use public transport into the historic center.

Hotel Guest Access

If your accommodation is within a ZTL, check with them in advance.
They might register your license plate for temporary access for luggage drop-off.
Parking inside the ZTL is usually not permitted for guests.

Final Thoughts on Getting Around

Arezzo is best explored on foot, especially its historic heart. For longer distances, an efficient bus network covers the city and surrounds. For excursions into the wider Tuscan region, renting a car provides unmatched flexibility, keeping in mind ZTL regulations.

Getting Around Arezzo