Cortona

Latest page update: 18 September 2024
By Dion Protani
The charming hilltop town of Cortona is situated in the province of Arezzo with a population of around 22,000 inhabitants.

​It is renowned for its rich Etruscan heritage and for its medieval architecture, including the Palazzo Comunale and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. In more recent times, it gained popularity as the setting for the book and film "Under the Tuscan Sun."
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Cortona: under the Tuscan sun
Cortona, perched atop a hill in southeastern Tuscany, exudes timeless charm with its winding medieval streets, historic buildings, and panoramic views of the Val di Chiana. Explore the town's ancient Etruscan roots at the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca and admire masterpieces by Fra Angelico and Luca Signorelli at the Diocesan Museum.

​Wander through the Piazza della Repubblica and discover the 13th-century Palazzo Comunale and the imposing Palazzo Pretorio. Climb to the top of the medieval fortress, Fortezza del Girifalco, for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside. Nearby attractions include the picturesque villages of Montepulciano and Pienza, the tranquil Lake Trasimeno, and the iconic hilltop town of Assisi, making Cortona an enchanting destination rich in history, art, and natural beauty.
Comune di Cortona
​​Province: Arezzo

Region: Tuscany

Valley region: Valdichiana

Population: 21,178 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024)

​​Total size: 343 km²​​

Elevation: 494 metres

Market day: Saturday

Highlights: Piazza della Repubblica, Palazzo Comunale, Cathedral

Close by: Castiglion Fiorentino, Lucignano, Arezzo, Montepulciano

​Recommended stay: Hotel Villa Marsili, BW Signature Collection 
What are the best things to do in in Cortona?
  • Cortona Historic Centre: Explore the charming historic center of Cortona, characterized by its narrow medieval streets, ancient buildings, and picturesque squares. Visitors can wander through Piazza della Repubblica, admire architectural landmarks such as the Palazzo Comunale and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and explore artisanal shops and boutiques.
  • Etruscan Museum (MAEC): Visit the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca e della Città di Cortona (MAEC), showcasing a rich collection of Etruscan artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and funerary objects. Guided tours offer insights into Etruscan civilization and its influence on Cortona's history and culture.
  • Santa Margherita Sanctuary: Visit the Santuario di Santa Margherita, located just outside Cortona, and admire its beautiful Renaissance architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Guided tours provide access to the sanctuary's interior, where visitors can see frescoes depicting the life of Saint Margaret of Cortona.
  • Cortona Cathedral (Duomo di Cortona): Admire the Cortona Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, and its impressive Renaissance façade, elegant interiors, and precious artworks. Guided tours offer insights into the cathedral's history, architecture, and notable features.
  • Villa Bramasole: Explore Villa Bramasole, a historic villa made famous by Frances Mayes' memoir "Under the Tuscan Sun." Visitors can admire the villa's beautiful gardens, terraces, and panoramic views of the Val di Chiana, as well as learn about its history and restoration.
  • Wine Tasting Tours: Indulge in wine tasting experiences featuring Tuscan wines produced in the surrounding countryside. Visitors can sample wines at local wineries, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy scenic vineyard views.
  • Culinary Experiences: Delight in Tuscan cuisine with food tours and tastings that showcase local specialties such as ribollita (Tuscan soup), bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), and Vin Santo wine. Visitors can sample delicacies at traditional trattorias, gourmet restaurants, and food markets while experiencing Cortona's culinary culture.
Where should I eat in Cortona?
  • Ristorante La Loggetta: Located in the heart of Cortona's historic center, Ristorante La Loggetta offers panoramic views of the Valdichiana valley and a refined dining experience. The restaurant's menu features traditional Tuscan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by an extensive wine list.
  • Osteria del Teatro: Situated near Cortona's ancient Etruscan walls, Osteria del Teatro is known for its warm hospitality and delicious Tuscan fare. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu highlighting regional specialties such as pici pasta, wild boar stew, and grilled meats.
  • Trattoria Toscana: This family-run trattoria is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and friendly service. Trattoria Toscana offers a menu featuring homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal dishes made with ingredients sourced from local farms.
  • Ristorante Tonino: Nestled in a historic building with vaulted ceilings and stone walls, Ristorante Tonino offers a charming setting for dining in Cortona. The restaurant's menu showcases the flavors of Tuscany, with dishes such as ribollita, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and Pecorino cheese.
  • Locanda Pane e Vino: Located just outside Cortona's city walls, Locanda Pane e Vino offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu highlighting traditional Tuscan cuisine. Guests can enjoy homemade pasta, hearty soups, and grilled meats, paired with a selection of local wines.

Cortona  Gallery

What are the best places to stay in Cortona?
  • Relais Villa Baldelli: Located just outside Cortona's historic center, Relais Villa Baldelli offers elegant accommodations in a beautifully restored villa surrounded by gardens and olive groves. Guests can stay in spacious rooms or suites, relax by the outdoor swimming pool, and enjoy panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
  • Hotel San Luca: Situated in the heart of Cortona's historic center, Hotel San Luca offers comfortable accommodations in a historic building with modern amenities. Guests can stay in cozy rooms with traditional Tuscan decor, enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, and explore the town's attractions on foot.
  • Villa Marsili: Perched on the edge of Cortona's ancient walls, Villa Marsili offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the Val di Chiana and Lake Trasimeno. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a garden terrace with a hot tub, and a bar serving cocktails and local wines.
  • Borgo Il Melone: Located just outside Cortona in the Tuscan countryside, Borgo Il Melone offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Guests can stay in rustic-chic rooms or apartments, relax by the outdoor swimming pool, and dine at the hotel's restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
  • Agriturismo San Michele: For a rural getaway near Cortona, consider staying at Agriturismo San Michele, a farmhouse surrounded by olive trees and sunflower fields. Guests can stay in cozy rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with ingredients from the farm, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
What's the closest airport to Cortona?
Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi - Umbria International Airport (PEG):

  • Located in Perugia, approximately 65 kilometers northeast of Cortona.
  • Perugia Airport serves domestic and limited international flights.
  • From the airport, you can reach Cortona by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Cortona takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Perugia Train Station and then catch a train to Terontola-Cortona Train Station. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Cortona.

Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):

  • Located in Florence, approximately 130 kilometers northwest of Cortona.
  • Florence Airport serves domestic and international flights.
  • From the airport, you can reach Cortona by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Cortona takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station and then catch a train to Terontola-Cortona Train Station. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Cortona.
What's the closest train station to Cortona?
Terontola-Cortona Train Station:

  • Located approximately 11 kilometers southwest of Cortona.
  • Terontola-Cortona Train Station is served by regional and Intercity trains.
  • From the train station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Cortona. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes by bus or taxi.
What private transfer options are there for Cortona?
A private transfer from Perugia Airport to Cortona takes around 50 minutes. 

If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
​
  • Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
  • Arrival date
  • Arrival time
  • Number of passengers
  • Destination (either town or specific hotel) 
​
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Cortona?
  • Arezzo: Since Cortona is close to Arezzo, you can also consider renting a car from one of the rental agencies in Arezzo. Arezzo is a larger city with more rental options available, including at the train station and the city center.
  • Regional Airports: You could explore rental options at airports such as Florence Airport (Peretola) or Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei). Although they are further away, some rental agencies may offer shuttle services to pick up your rental car from the airport.
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