We enjoy antique markets and have never been in Italy. What is your experience with them in Arezzo and Pienza? And are there any others in that you are aware of in Tuscany or Umbria? Do you think the market in Arezzo is worth going to? Would it be easier logistically to take the train to Arezzo from Florence to attend? Or should we stay somewhere near Arezzo, arrive very early and try to park? We don't want to have walk too far to reach the actual market. Any comments/advice are appreciated.
We don't want to have walk too far to reach the actual market.
Barb, we wanted to attend the Arezzo market - but had exactly the same concern.
I did consider staying in Arezzo overnight, but couldn't find an interesting hotel right downtown. I wrote to somebody in Italy for advice and he suggested that the market was grossly overpriced and that we would be better to simply visit the large number of antique stores in Arezzo on a non-market day. Having said that I have read reports of people who have taken the train from Florence to Arezzo for the day and thoroughly enjoyed the market!
If you are going to be in Florence there is a fairly good Antique market there which was fun.
Here and here are lists of markets which may be helpful to you.
Also try doing a search (click the Find button at the top of this page) and you will find lots of useful information.
Sheena
Posts: 2263 | Location: West Vancouver, B.C. Canada | Registered: 28 February 2004
If you are going to be in Florence there is a fairly good Antique market there which was fun.
yes! The market in Santo Spirito is fabulous! There is everything imaginable, a nice selection of antiques, including silver, buttons, ironworks, postcards, prints, odds and ends up the ying-yang! The energy is wonderful too, and after shopping have a relaxing meal at Osteria Santo Spirito or Borgo Antico Ristorante.
We went to the Arezzo Antique Market last month. I have mixed feelings. It is a bit overpriced, very crowded, and there are not very many things you can actually bring home. That being said, I did find some incredible linens that were resonable. I bought a lovely white bedspread for my guest room for $60.00 and some table cloths for anywhere from $7.00-$20.00. Would I go again? Probably not. The town looked charming and I found myslef wishing I was there when I could actually see and experience it. We drove and didn't have any trouble finding parking. The Market pretty much covers the whole center of town in all directions.
Posts: 838 | Location: Nashville, TN USA | Registered: 11 September 2002