Cortona is one of the most picturesque, little hill towns in Tuscany. The best way to explore Cortona is on foot as the town is very small. Its size and convenient setting make it a great base for exploring this part of Southern Tuscany.
ACCOMMODATION
- Relax in the peace and quiet of the Tuscan countryside, enjoying the breathtaking views from your pool, maybe even sipping on a glass of local wine. Then, when you have the urge to explore, hop in the car and you can be in Cortona in a matter of minutes. We have a wide range of villas near Cortona. Click on the nav bar on the left for more information.
– If you'd prefer to be in the centre of things then stay at a hotel in Cortona town centre,
(here are some of our favourite Cortona Hotels available from our hotels partner)
. leaving your car in one of the handy local car parks. You’ll be able to enjoy its unique Italian hill town atmosphere and then go on day trips exploring the wonderful Tuscan countryside nearby.
Whichever you choose, you're sure to enjoy this stunning part of Tuscany.
ABOUT CORTONA Cortona has magnificent panoramic views over the valley below and to Lake Trasimeno and Umbria in the distance. It has become increasingly popular in the recent years thanks to the book "Under the Tuscan Sun" by Frances Mayes and the film with the same title based loosely on the book.
SEE Cortona dates back to Etruscan times and each century since has left its mark, right up to beautiful piazzas built by the French during the Napolionic wars.
Some of our favourite sights are -
- Palazzo Comunale. The Town hall, built in 13th century it provides a lovely backdrop to daily life in Cortona.
- Piazza della Repubblica. the most famouse piazza in Cortona.
- Piazza Signorelli. next to the Piazza della Repubblica and less crowded. On Sundays it has a flea market selling antiques. The Teatro dell Signorelli is also here.
- Piazza Garibaldi. Built by the French during the Napoleonic wars
EVENTS - The Tuscan Sun Festival, an annual event in summer. A world famous festival with concerts performed by the world’s most acclaimed musical artists (including Sting!), exhibitions, discussions and culinary delights with the finest chefs and winemakers.
- The Cortona Steak Festival, an annual event showcasing the local Chianina beefsteaks. A giant, 14 metre barbecue is the setting for this open air event, which takes place in a park near the centre of town. Great family atmosphere, come along, enjoy the music, food and wine. Tuscany at its best.
EAT Cortona can get crowded during the holiday season, so we always recommended reserving a table, especially for dinner. Here are a few of our favourite restaurants. For less fancy eating options, there are take-away pizza shops around Piazza della Repubblica.
- Trattoria Dardano, Via Dardano, 24, Closed on Wednesday.
- Trattoria La Grotta, P.Baldelli 3, has outdoor tables in a secluded courtyard. Closed on Tuesday.