Things To Do
in Cortona
Perched on a limestone hill in southern Tuscany, Cortona exudes medieval charm with winding lanes, sunlit piazzas, and sweeping views over the Val di Chiana. Its rich history spans Etruscan, Roman, and Renaissance eras, preserved in ancient walls, the Duomo di Cortona, and art-filled palazzi. The town blends artistic culture with welcoming taverns and cafés where locals share wine and olive oil alongside regional dishes.
Cortonaers celebrate slow travel, offering a relaxed, authentic Tuscan experience away from mass tourism.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the historic center of Cortona, wandering through its narrow cobbled streets that are steeped in history. Visit the Piazza della Repubblica, where you can enjoy a coffee at a local café while admiring the beautiful surrounding architecture. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Museo Diocesano, which houses fascinating art and artifacts.
After lunch at a charming trattoria, head to the Maec Museum, displaying Etruscan artifacts and art from the region. Spend your afternoon climbing up to the Basilica di Santa Margherita, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Val di Chiana. Take some time to stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the basilica, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
As night falls, return to the historical center for a delightful dinner at a local osteria, savoring traditional Tuscan cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, breathing in the enchanting local ambiance. End your evening with a gelato at a nearby gelateria, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your morning with a drive through the rolling hills of Cortona’s countryside, where vineyards blanket the landscape. Visit a local winery for a tour, learning about the wine-making process and the unique characteristics of Tuscan wines. Enjoy a tasting session, sampling some of the region's best wines paired with local cheeses.
After your wine experience, indulge in a farm-to-table lunch at a nearby agriturismo, where the food is made with fresh, local ingredients. Explore the scenic trails around the vineyards, perfect for a leisurely hike, while taking in the stunning views of the landscape. Don’t forget to take some picturesque photos of the Tuscan countryside.
Return to Cortona in the evening for a relaxing dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local dishes. Consider participating in a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional Italian meals. Conclude your day with a quiet stroll through the town, enjoying the charm and tranquility of Cortona at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee in city center | $2-4 |
| 🧀Local cheese and bread | $5-10 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Stunning views over Val di Chiana
- Excellent Tuscan cuisine and wine
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Hilly terrain with cobblestones; some streets are steep
- Crowds during peak season in summer and markets
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Dove si trova il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Posso avere il conto, per favore?" - May I have the bill, please?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Cortona
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of Cortona with ancient arcades, columns, and a sense of timeless Tuscan daily life.
Historic building with exterior architecture and vantage points that frame the town’s skyline.
Cathedral exterior and surrounding streets offer compelling compositions and light in the late afternoon.
Ancient fortifications that provide panoramic views over the Val di Chiana, especially at sunset.
Food in Cortona
Cortona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tomato-bread soup that's hearty, bright, and emblematic of Tuscan comfort food; typically found in trattorie around Cortona.
Must-Try!
Stuffed flatbread baked on a testo, crisp on the outside and fluffy inside, filled with herbs, greens, or cheese.
Sliced, grilled Chianina beef served with rosemary, olive oil, and a light salad; a Tuscan staple.
Slow-braised wild boar stew with tomatoes and red wine, a hearty countryside classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market around the historic center offering produce, cheeses, olives, bread, and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; a polite, friendly tone goes a long way in chats with locals.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; keep voices low and doors quiet to maintain reverence.
Safety
Tipping in Cortona
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included in larger meals; leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; some small venues may prefer cash or add a coperto (cover charge).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming countryside, and excellent opportunities for walking and photography before the heat arrives.
Warm days and long evenings; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy outdoor dining and hillside views with fewer crowds in early mornings.
Harvest time with golden light; wine and olive oil festivals; vibrant scenery and comfortable temperatures for exploring.
Cool but manageable; quieter streets and indoor tastings, with occasional rain adding mood to the hilltown ambience.
Cortona at Night
Hiking in Cortona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Stroll from Cortona up to the hillside hermitage with pine groves and views.
A modest hike along the hillside with sweeping valley views.
Short hikes along the lake’s shore with sunset vantage points.
Airports
How to reach Cortona by plane.
About 50-60 miles north-west; reachable by car in around 1.5-2 hours.
Amerigo Vespucci Airport, about 150-180 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Also an option, about 2.5-3 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-time Cortona families and artisans who populate the historic center.
Visitors, especially in spring and late summer, attracted by scenery, art, and cuisine.
Young people and creatives who inhabit studios and galleries in the old town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Locals play and watch matches; many fields nearby.
Hilly routes around Cortona are popular for road cycling and gravel riding.
Trail walks on surrounding hills with panoramic views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cortona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Cortona restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for pasta al pomodoro, vegetable risottos, and legumes; ask for adaptations if needed.