Cortona

Day Trips

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.

Start your morning with a visit to the archaeological park of Cortona, where you can explore the ancient Etruscan ruins and learn about this fascinating civilization. The site offers a glimpse into the past with well-preserved structures and artifacts that tell the rich history of the area. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the park, surrounded by lush nature.

After a light lunch, visit the town of Castiglion Fiorentino, just a short drive away, to explore more Etruscan sites. Wander through its charming streets and visit the local museum dedicated to Etruscan history. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the hilltop fortress.

Back in Cortona, enjoy dinner at a traditional pizzeria, savoring the authentic flavors of Italy. As you dine, consider pairing your meal with a local wine to enhance the experience. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local enoteca, where you can taste various wines and chat with locals about life in Tuscany.

Immerse yourself in Cortona's rich cultural scene by starting your morning at a local art gallery, appreciating works by local artists. Engage with the owners and learn about the inspiration behind the pieces, gaining insight into Cortona's vibrant artistic community. This intimate experience will set a lovely tone for the day.

After a leisurely lunch at a café, attend a workshop to learn about traditional Tuscan crafts, such as pottery or painting. Participate actively and create your own piece to take home as a cherished memory. This hands-on experience will connect you further with the local culture.

In the evening, enjoy a festive atmosphere at a local piazza, often hosting live music or cultural performances. Dive into the local nightlife, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine while listening to talented musicians. Celebrate by trying the local street food available during these lively events.

Depart from Cortona early to visit Lake Trasimeno, one of Italy’s largest lakes, famous for its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity. Spend the morning enjoying the tranquility of the lakeside, perhaps taking a boat ride to explore the nearby islands like Isola Maggiore. Witness the natural beauty and varied wildlife that call this lake home.

After your boat ride, have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, sampling fish dishes that are specialties of the region. Spend your afternoon hiking or cycling around the lake, enjoying the fresh air and picturesque views. Capture beautiful photographs of the sunset reflecting on the water.

Return to Cortona for dinner at a local trattoria, sharing the day's highlights and enjoying more of the delicious Tuscan cuisine. If time permits, attend a local event or festival, often held in the evenings, to experience the culture and community spirit of Cortona. As the night deepens, enjoy an after-dinner stroll through the charming streets of the town.

Set off early for a day trip to the nearby town of Assisi, known for its stunning basilicas and rich religious history. Spend the morning exploring the Basilica of San Francesco, marveling at its beautiful frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. Wander through the streets of Assisi, soaking in its medieval charm.

After a delightful lunch at a local cafe in Assisi, visit the Basilica of Santa Chiara and the quaint shops that line the streets. Take in the breathtaking views of the Umbrian countryside from the town’s viewpoints. Allow yourself to get lost in the serenity and beauty of this iconic place.

Return to Cortona in the evening and enjoy a balmy dinner in one of the outdoor plazas. Gather with friends or fellow travelers to share stories and experiences from your day. End your evening marveling at the twinkling stars over Cortona and reflecting on the spiritual ambiance of Assisi.

Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods. Engage with vendors to learn about traditional Tuscan ingredients and cooking methods. This is a perfect opportunity to gather supplies for a cooking endeavor later in the day.

Take a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes using the fresh ingredients you've gathered. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, create various recipes such as handmade pasta and classic sauces. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by savoring the delicious meal you’ve prepared.

As night falls, explore the vibrant dining scene in Cortona, choosing a restaurant that features local specialties and a cozy atmosphere. Share a bottle of Chianti wine with your meal, immersing yourself in the flavors of Tuscany. Consider joining a wine tasting event to discover more about the region's wonderful wines.

Start your day with a nature walk through the surrounding hills of Cortona, where you can enjoy the stunning vistas and serenity of the landscape. Bring along your camera to capture the beauty of the flora and fauna. Take a moment to appreciate the peacefulness of the countryside.

After your walk, have lunch at a café with panoramic views, enjoying local dishes while surrounded by nature. Spend your afternoon visiting nearby parks or natural reserves, discovering trails that lead to hidden gems in the area. Engage in birdwatching or sketching the beautiful scenery to take home as mementos.

In the evening, return to Cortona for a casual dinner in a rustic restaurant, embracing the warmth of Tuscan hospitality. Share stories with fellow diners about your day's adventures in nature. End your evening with a local digestivo, enjoying the relaxing ambiance of the town under the stars.

Dedicate your morning to visiting local artisan shops, where you can admire handmade crafts such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry. Interact with the artisans and learn about their techniques and inspirations. This immersion in local craftsmanship will give you a deeper appreciation for Tuscan culture.

After shopping, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon indulging in the local gelato and scouting for unique souvenirs to take home. Consider visiting a local gallery to appreciate the works of contemporary Tuscan artists.

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant known for its modern twist on traditional Tuscan cuisine. Engage with locals and travelers alike, perhaps making new friends along the way. Conclude your evening by soaking in the vibrant nightlife of Cortona, filled with laughter and good cheer.

Spend a leisurely morning at a local spa or wellness center, indulging in a relaxing massage or rejuvenating treatment. This is the perfect time to unwind and let go of any lingering stress. Enjoy a healthy, nourishing breakfast at the spa to start your day.

After your spa experience, take a gentle stroll through Cortona's parks, allowing the beauty of nature to refresh your spirit. Enjoy a laid-back lunch at a café, trying some light Tuscan fare while soaking up the sun. Spend your afternoon reading a book or simply people-watching in one of the town's charming squares.

As the sun sets, enjoy a final dinner in Cortona, choosing a rooftop restaurant to take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills. Reflect on your experiences over a sumptuous meal, savoring each bite of traditional cuisine. Consider planning your next visit as you bid farewell to this enchanting town.