These are two places that are infrequently discussed. Is either worth a visit/overnight?

We stayed near Arezzo this past summer. The first weekend of each month they have a big antique festival (flea market really) where vendors set up booths on the streets that wind up the hill to the duomo. We headed over and really enjoyed the day. Didn't buy much but enjoyed looking at real Italian "stuff". Great restaurants. Didn't see many other sites while there though. Ciao . . .

Hi Surovy,

Arezzo is surely worth a visit for the Piero della Francesca frescoes.

http://www.kfki.hu/~arthp/tours/arezzo/

You now need to buy a timed ticket but I assure you his frescoes are worth it. When I was last in Arezzo (following the Piero trail) you could just walk in. There wasn't any one else in the church and you could stay as long as you wanted. I think the Italian government is trying to preserve many fabulous frescoes from the elements and tourists.

http://www.ticketeria.it/PieroDellaFrancesca.htm

We haven't been to Arezzo, but really liked Perugia. It is, among other things, a bustling, lively college town (small city, nearly). It's full of museums, churches, lots of good shops and restaurants, and since it's set up on the hill, offers great views all around. I wouldn't call it quaint like Todi or Gubbio, but we liked the energy of the place. I'd give it a go!

I adore Perugia. Fascinating history. Great views. Some wonderful food. Perugia has mystery and magic at sundown. Once you visit, you'll know what I mean. I look forward to returning.

I have to agree with nycfs.
Perugia is a wonderful place to be.
Have a look at www.perugiaonline.com

Perugia on the hilltop is beautiful! I really loved this city, stayed there 4 nights. Did a couple daytrips out of it (Assisi and Spoleto), makes a nice base.

Arezzo is well worth the visit. It's an easy city to walk around especially the beautiful areas such as Piazza Grande. They were restoring the old duomo when I was there but it was still well worth the visit. The movie Life is Beautiful was at least partially shot in Arezzo.