Everything you need to know about the coolest Antiques Fair in Italy

Listening to stories, observing details, and letting yourself be amazed by the magical, timeless atmosphere that fills the charming streets of Arezzo’s historic center, where Italy’s biggest, oldest and – most importantly – coolest Antiques Fair is waiting for you with vintage treasures, furniture, unique pieces for collectors, and curiosities of all kinds. 

It’s a historic event, yet absolutely contemporary, because it goes beyond antiques in the strict sense, offering instead a truly immersive cultural experience. A chance to discover not only the rarest and most fascinating displays, but also to explore a city full of must-see attractions and timeless charm.

The Arezzo Antiques Fair is the perfect way to experience the most authentic side of Tuscany, amidst art, tradition, and stunning views that will leave you speechless.

The Arezzo Antiques Fair is a true paradise for those who love the charm of things from the past. Along the many stalls lining the cobbled streets of the historic centre, you can admire enchanting period furniture for your home or be captivated by small forgotten objects that tell surprising stories.

Some come in search of watches, ceramics, records or collectible stamps. Others are drawn to vintage accessories, toys, or one-of-a-kind items that defy classification but spark the imagination at first glance.

During the fair, the city centre becomes an open-air museum, a special place that invites you to slow down, observe and explore with curiosity. It’s not just a stand-alone event, but an integral part of Arezzo’s urban fabric, highlighting the city’s identity and unique atmosphere.

This connection is strengthened by the work of the Arezzo Intour Foundation, which promotes the Fair not only as a must-visit for collectors and enthusiasts, but also as an opportunity to experience the city in a different way—more authentic, more sustainable, and at a slower pace.

The Foundation’s work goes beyond the fair itself: through cultural events, themed itineraries and widespread initiatives, it weaves a larger narrative that connects the fair to the territory, its history and its traditions. The historic center, with its picturesque views and vibrant squares, is not just a backdrop but an active part of the experience.

To truly understand the charm and importance of Italy's coolest Antiques Fair, one must look back to 1968, when an idea from Arezzo antiques dealer Ivan Bruschi transformed a passionate vision into an event capable of withstanding the test of time and trends.

Inspired by Europe's most famous open-air markets, such as Portobello in London and the Marché aux Puces (Flea Market) in Paris, Bruschi managed to breathe new life into the historic center of his city, particularly Piazza Grande, which in the previous years had lost its centrality and vitality.

The first edition, celebrated on Republic Day, marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey: month after month, without interruption, the event grew to become the largest Antiques Fair in Italy. Its success attracted collectors, enthusiasts, and visitors from all over the world, contributing to the revival of the city's shops, which still come alive with each edition.

Over time, the fair has managed to renew itself without losing its connection to its identity, remaining true to its original spirit while expanding its offerings to include pieces from different eras, from vintage to 20th-century design, meeting the needs of a diverse audience.

Today, just as it did then, the event continues to tell stories of objects and people, keeping alive the bond between history and modernity, which forms its most authentic core.

What are the locations, times and essential tips for enjoying this unmissable event—whether you're a seasoned collector or just a curious visitor?

The Arezzo Antiques Fair takes place on the first Sunday of each month, with an early start on the Saturday before. Opening hours vary by season: from April to October, the fair runs from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm on Saturdays and from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on Sundays. From November to March, it opens from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on Saturdays and from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays.

The event unfolds in the heart of the city: Piazza Grande and the surrounding streets become the perfect stage for showcasing antiques, artworks, and one-of-a-kind pieces.

If you're arriving by car, Arezzo is easily accessible via the A1 motorway, which connects it to major Tuscan cities (Florence is just 74 km away). The historic centre is a limited traffic zone, but several nearby car parks are available. If you're coming by train, Arezzo is well connected to Florence, Rome and Bologna, with daily Intercity and Frecciarossa services. The train station is less than a 15-minute walk from the fair.

For those arriving by plane, the closest airports are Florence and Pisa. From Florence, you can continue by car via the A1 motorway or by train from Santa Maria Novella station. From Pisa, trains connect to Florence and then on to Arezzo (towards Rome).

If it’s your first time visiting, wear comfortable shoes to stroll the city’s cobblestone streets, and arrive early to soak up the beauty and tranquillity of the event.

There’s something about the Arezzo Antiques Fair that goes beyond the items on display or the rarity of the pieces for sale: it’s a kind of energy, shaped by encounters, conversations, and genuine passion.

It’s a place where you chat with the vendors and discover that behind the outer beauty of each object lies a unique story, and often, a sincere love for what they do. Because it’s not just about buying: the real charm of the Fair is strolling lazily among the stalls, like walking through a museum with no ticket, but with permission to touch, ask questions, and explore.

The historic center isn’t just a backdrop: it plays an active role in the experience. Cobblestone streets, wide piazzas, and ancient buildings create a setting that makes wandering through the stands all the more immersive.

So each corner becomes a surprise. But what truly makes the Arezzo Fair so special — and undeniably cool — is the feeling of being in a living, breathing place, where the atmosphere is the real treasure you get to take home.

After exploring the Fiera Antiquaria, take the opportunity to visit Arezzo and discover all the attractions of this charming Tuscan city.

The entire historic center, in fact, takes you on a sort of journey through time: you start right from Piazza Grande, the heart of the city, and make your way to the Medici Fortress, a massive building offering a panoramic view of the Passeggio del Prato, and then to the Cathedral, with its extraordinary frescoes.

Museums are also plentiful, such as the National Archaeological Museum and the House of Giorgio Vasari, which allow you to dive into the culture and art that define Arezzo's history.

If you have more time, you can spend a weekend in Arezzo, enriching your visit with all the nuances the city has to offer, such as exploring the local traditions: artisan shops, found on every corner, offer unique products, from hand-painted ceramics to custom-made jewelry.

Arezzo is a city with a strong and distinctive identity, which also reveals itself through its Antiques Fair, an event that has become an integral part of the city’s cultural life. A gathering that blends authenticity and lightness, always ready to surprise, never quite the same as before.

It offers an unforgettable experience not only for collectors and vintage lovers, but also for the simply curious, looking to spend a day (or more) in a vibrant and inspiring setting, surrounded by the relaxed yet stimulating atmosphere that fills the stalls.

It’s the perfect place to slow down and look around, to follow a scent or a curious detail, letting the pace of discovery guide you. The Fair is all of this: a monthly ritual that bridges past and present, made of faces, stories, and small treasures. A real, simple journey that always leaves something to remember.