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Cortona

Cortona, Tuscany, Italy

Nestled in the picturesque region of Tuscany, Italy, lies the enchanting town of Cortona. Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes, Cortona beckons to tourists seeking an authentic Italian experience. Vis…

#Cortona#Tuscany#Italy#Historic town#Hilltop village

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Cortona.

Top Hotels in Cortona

Top Flights to Cortona

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Cortona.

Tours

Explore the Etruscan Academy Museum

Dive into the history of the Etruscan civilization with a visit to the Etruscan Academy Museum. Discover ancient artifacts and insights into Etruscan life.

Visit the Fortress of Girifalco

Explore the medieval Fortress of Girifalco and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas.

Visit Santa Margherita Basilica

Discover the Santa Margherita Basilica, an important religious site with beautiful architecture and art.

Explore Diocesan Museum in Cortona

Visit the Diocesan Museum to appreciate its impressive collection of Renaissance art and religious artifacts.

Shopping

Shopping at Local Markets

Experience the vibrant local markets in Cortona, offering a range of artisan products, clothes, and fresh produce.

Shopping in Via Nazionale

Shop at the fashionable boutiques along Via Nazionale, known for designer labels and unique fashion finds.

Outdoor

Guided Hiking Tours in Val di Chiana

Join a guided hiking tour to explore the beautiful landscapes of Val di Chiana, a picturesque valley famous for its scenic views and historical landmarks.

Bike Tour Through Tuscany

Rent a bike and explore the beautiful Tuscan landscape surrounding Cortona on a self-guided tour.

Tasting at Local Wineries

Enjoy wine tasting sessions at some of Cortona’s renowned local wineries, offering exquisite Tuscan wines.

Cortona Walking Tour

Take a guided walking tour through the charming streets of Cortona and discover its rich history and architecture.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Cortona.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Not Available

Languages

Italian, Italian

Average weather

Cortona

Jan

8°1°

Feb

10°2°

Mar

14°4°

Apr

17°7°

May

22°11°

Jun

27°15°

Jul

31°18°

Aug

31°18°

Sep

26°15°

Oct

20°11°

Nov

14°6°

Dec

9°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Cortona.

What people love

Cortona, located in Tuscany, Italy, offers a charming and picturesque setting that attracts travelers from around the world. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Cortona:

Rich history and culture: Cortona is a historic hilltop town with a fascinating past dating back to Etruscan and Roman times. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, medieval churches, and Renaissance art while wandering through its cobbled streets.
Stunning views: Perched on a hill overlooking the beautiful Tuscan countryside, Cortona offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and vineyards. The town's elevated position provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable sunsets and scenic walks.
Culinary delights: Tuscany is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and Cortona is no exception. Visitors can savor traditional Tuscan dishes made with fresh local ingredients, such as homemade pasta, olive oil, and wines. The town also boasts charming cafes and restaurants serving delectable meals.
Art and architecture: Cortona is home to several art galleries, museums, and historic buildings that showcase the region's artistic heritage. Visitors can admire works by renowned artists like Fra Angelico and Pietro da Cortona, as well as explore the town's beautiful churches and palaces.
Outdoor activities: The surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wine tours. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Tuscany while enjoying leisurely walks or more adventurous pursuits.

Overall, Cortona is a delightful destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for travelers looking to experience the best of Tuscany.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Cortona, Tuscany, Italy could include:

Limited public transportation: Cortona is a small hill town in Tuscany, which may have limited public transportation options. This could make it challenging to explore other nearby areas without a car.
Crowds in peak season: During the peak tourist season, Cortona can get quite crowded with visitors, which may take away from the tranquility and charm of the town.
Hilly terrain: Cortona is located on a hill, which means that navigating the town may require walking uphill and downhill. This could be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or those who prefer flat terrain.
Limited nightlife: Cortona is a small town, so the nightlife options may be limited compared to larger cities. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, Cortona may not be the ideal destination.
Limited dining options: While Cortona offers some fantastic restaurants serving traditional Tuscan cuisine, the town's size means that there may be limited dining options compared to larger cities.

Overall, these factors may be considered cons for some travelers depending on their preferences and needs.

Cortona, located in the province of Arezzo in Tuscany, Italy, is a town rich in history and cultural significance. Its origins are ancient, with evidence of habitation dating back to the Etruscan civilization.

Ancient and Classical History

Etruscan Origins: Cortona is believed to have been an important Etruscan city, known as "Curtun." It was part of the Etruscan League, a confederation of twelve cities. Artifacts and remnants from this period, such as the Etruscan walls and tombs, are still visible today.
Roman Era: After the Etruscans, Cortona became a Roman colony. It maintained its significance due to its strategic position and fertile lands.

Medieval Period

Lombard and Frankish Rule: In the early Middle Ages, Cortona was under Lombard control and later became part of the Frankish Empire.
12th Century Autonomy: By the 12th century, Cortona gained a level of autonomy as a free commune. It developed economically and culturally during this period.

Renaissance and Later History

14th Century: In 1325, Cortona was conquered by the Perugians. However, it was later sold to the influential Florentine family, the Medicis, in 1411. Under Medici rule, Cortona flourished as part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.
Art and Culture: During the Renaissance, Cortona was a center for art and culture. Notably, it was the birthplace of Luca Signorelli, an influential Renaissance painter known for his frescoes in the Orvieto Cathedral.

Significant Landmarks

Piazza della Repubblica: The main square of Cortona, featuring the Palazzo Comunale, a 13th-century building that serves as the town hall.
Santa Margherita Basilica: A significant religious site dedicated to Saint Margaret of Cortona, the town's patron saint. The basilica houses her relics and is a place of pilgrimage.
Diocesan Museum: Located in the Palazzo Pretorio, it contains important works of art, including pieces by Fra Angelico and Luca Signorelli.
Etruscan Academy Museum of the City of Cortona: This museum provides insights into the Etruscan history of the area, with artifacts and archaeological findings.
Fortezza di Girifalco: A fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, highlighting the strategic importance of Cortona in military history.

Modern Era

Today, Cortona is a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning views of the Valdichiana. It gained international fame as the setting for the book and film "Under the Tuscan Sun," which attracted worldwide interest in its beauty and charm.

Cortona continues to celebrate its rich history through various festivals, historical reenactments, and cultural events, maintaining its status as a jewel of Tuscany.