This small town is a province of Arezzo, and it has all the Etruscan charm one could ask for when visiting Tuscany.
It is undeniable that Tuscany is one of the most beautiful countryside in the world, let alone Italy. Picture yourself: a leisurely stroll down a cobbled lane, admiring the view of the sun reflecting off the green hills, while being surrounded by 14th century architecture. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? If so, then this small Etruscan town is the perfect place for a getaway.
With a history dating back to the 13th century and charm enough to match it, Cortona has long been the second most popular cultural center in Val di Chiana, after Arezzo. It is also an artistic paradise for those who take art history seriously, with a reputation thanks to its Renaissance past. Exploring this city is simple as it should be, but knowing how and where to see the magic of Cortona makes all the difference.
Where to stay in Cortona
If you are renting …
If Cortona is on the list, then there’s good news for those intending to rent accommodation: it’s incredibly affordable. Most Airbnb prices hover just below $ 100, with many falling between $ 40 and $ 50 for an apartment. An entire house can be rented for as little as $ 70, so while you’re looking for maximum privacy, that can also be economical. For homes with a view, the price lingers at just under $ 110 per night, which is easily accessible to anyone who can spend a bit more on their accommodations. The most expensive Airbnb in the city of Cortona is for an entire villa, and it costs $ 181 / night. When it comes to booking accommodation in this city, Airbnb is the best way to take advantage of the view and proximity to downtown.
If you are booking a hotel …
Cortona hotel prices are a bit higher than Airbnb prices and while the difference isn’t drastic, it does. For those who are more comfortable in a hotel with hotel amenities, prices range from $ 80 / night without a view, to $ 150 and $ 240 with them. There are several hotels, such as the San Luca Hotel ($ 51 / night) and the B&B Piccolo Hotel ($ 67 / night) that are more affordable if travelers book early enough.
How to get around Cortona
One important thing to note is that Cortona allows very few cars within its city walls. Therefore, most residents resort to walking to get from one place to another. Since the city is so small, this is usually not a problem, but it is something travelers should definitely be prepared for.
When arriving in Cortona, taxi drivers are sometimes allowed to drop travelers off at their accommodation, but that’s it – everywhere else it has to be sabotaged!
What to see while you are in Cortona
Head to the main square, Piazza della Repubblica
Not much has changed in Piazza della Repubblica, except for the life that surrounds it. The square itself remains as it was in the town’s medieval times, and it truly is the centerpiece of this Tuscan hilltop life.
Every day, people gather in the square to indulge in the shops that line its side streets, sit on the stairs and read or people watch, and have breakfast or lunch while enjoying the sights and sounds. from Cortona. It is the perfect place to start any trip and will give travelers an appreciation for the little things.
Head to the Museo Diocesano to see incredible works of art
Visitors to Cortona can head to what was once the Church of Gesù, but now known as Museuo Deocesano (Diocesan Museum) to see famous works of art.
The most amazing thing about this museum is how intimate it is, allowing visitors to explore two floors of artefacts from the 12th to 17th centuries. Works of art by Pietro Lorenzetti, Luca Signorelli and Fra ‘Angelico are all on display in the museum.
- Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday, closed Monday
Learn about Cortona’s Etruscan past at the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca
Etruscan history is on display throughout Cortona, from its architecture to its culture, and travelers can take an in-depth look at what inspired it at the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca. This museum has a superb display of Etruscan artifacts and exhibits, dating back to the 8th century.
Tuscany love calls this museum one of the most important tributes to Etruscan culture in all of Italy, making it a must-see for any potential visitor. The interactive and stationary exhibits include artifacts such as Etruscan coins, urns, jewelry, and paintings.
- Hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., every day
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