Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
If you’re seeking an Italian escape rich in history, charm, and scenery, the many things to do in Cortona will enchant you. This hilltop town in Italy’s Arezzo province offers sweeping views, ancient landmarks, and a truly immersive cultural experience. Made famous by the book Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona continues to lure travellers with its cobbled lanes, Renaissance churches, and atmospheric piazzas. From historical treasures to tranquil corners, this blog explores ten must-do activities for your next visit.
10 Interesting Things To Do In Cortona
Planning a magical getaway to Cortona, Italy? Here’s a delightful list of the best things to do for an unforgettable experience.
1. Stroll Along Via Nazionale
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Via Nazionale is Cortona’s main street, affectionately known as “Rugapiana” by locals. It’s the social heart of the town and ideal for a leisurely walk. Lined with cafés, boutiques, wine bars, and artisan shops, the street buzzes with both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect place to grab a cappuccino, enjoy a bit of people-watching, or buy a handcrafted souvenir. The architecture along this stretch reflects Cortona’s layered history, making it one of the best things to do in Cortona.
Address: Via Nazionale, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: Open 24 hours
2. Visit Piazza Della Repubblica
Photo: Pasgabriele / Wikimedia Commons
Piazza della Repubblica is the town’s central square and has been a place of civic life since Roman times. Surrounded by medieval buildings, including the Palazzo Comunale with its iconic clock tower, the square is both scenic and significant. Street musicians, market stalls, and open-air cafés give it a lively vibe. Whether you’re grabbing gelato or soaking up the sun on the steps, visiting this square is one of the most memorable things to see in Cortona.
Address: Piazza della Repubblica, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: Open 24 hours
3. Explore The Museo Dell’Accademia Etrusca
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Housed in the 13th-century Palazzo Casali, the MAEC is Cortona’s most important museum. It boasts a remarkable collection of Etruscan artefacts, Roman sculptures, and Renaissance artworks. Highlights include the bronze Lampadario Etrusco and ancient Etruscan tablets. The museum gives visitors a profound look into the town’s ancient past, making it a must-visit for history lovers. If you’re wondering what to do in Cortona on a cultural level, this museum provides an extraordinary journey through time.
Address: Piazza Signorelli 9, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
4. Enjoy The View From Piazza Garibaldi
Photo: CAPTAIN RAJU / Wikimedia Commons
For breathtaking panoramic views of the Val di Chiana and Lake Trasimeno, head to Piazza Garibaldi. Located at the edge of the historic centre, this terrace offers stunning photo opportunities and a peaceful escape from the bustling streets below. Benches and a statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi invite you to pause and reflect. Sunset bathes the Tuscan hills in golden light, making the view especially magical. For unforgettable vistas, this is one of the best things to do in Cortona.
Address: Piazza Garibaldi, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: Open 24 hours
5. Visit The Cortona Cathedral / Santa Maria Assunta
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Set just behind Piazza della Repubblica, the Cortona Cathedral stands on the site of a Roman temple. Although modest in appearance, frescoes, paintings, and an atmosphere of quiet reverence fill the interior. Works by local Renaissance artists, such as Pietro da Cortona, grace its chapels. Don’t miss the bell tower, which adds a photogenic angle to the town’s skyline. A visit here adds spiritual depth to your itinerary and showcases the religious history of Cortona.
Address: Piazza del Duomo 1, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: Typically open during daylight hours; specific times may vary
6. Admire The Diocesan Museum
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Opposite the cathedral lies the Museo Diocesano, a compact but stunning collection of religious art. It features masterpieces by Fra Angelico, including the Annunciation, one of the finest examples of early Renaissance painting. The museum also houses works by Luca Signorelli, a native of Cortona. With beautiful displays and excellent lighting, it’s an art lover’s dream in an intimate setting. If you’re passionate about sacred art, this is one of the most enlightening things to see in Cortona.
Address: Piazza del Duomo 1, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: 10 AM – 6:30 PM
7. Explore The Side Streets
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Wandering the narrow, winding alleys of Cortona is like stepping back in time. These stone-lined streets reveal hidden courtyards, quaint homes, and unexpected viewpoints. Many windows display flower boxes, or open onto sudden vistas of the valley below. You’ll encounter small churches, tucked-away cafés, and glimpses of local life. Exploring these lesser-known paths is a joy for photographers and romantics alike. It’s an unstructured, soul-stirring experience and one of the best things to do in Cortona.
Address: Historic Centre, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: Open 24 hours
8. Visit the Church Of San Francesco
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1245, the Church of San Francesco is one of Cortona’s most important religious sites. Its simple Franciscan style is a contrast to the ornate cathedrals, but it holds precious relics, including a habit of St. Francis of Assisi. The interior also features fine frescoes and a peaceful cloister. Located on a quiet hill, it offers a reflective space away from the crowds. The connection to Italy’s beloved saint makes this one of the most meaningful places to visit.
Address: Via Berrettini, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
9. Tour The Fortress Of Girifalco
Photo: Diego Baglieri / Wikimedia Commons
Towering above Cortona, the Medici-built Fortress of Girifalco offers both history and incredible views. Originally constructed on Etruscan foundations, it served as a strategic stronghold for centuries. Today, visitors can explore its thick walls, climb towers, and walk through its open courtyards. The site often hosts exhibitions and events, adding modern flair to ancient surroundings. From its ramparts, you’ll see far across the Tuscan countryside, making this a top choice for those interested in both history and scenery.
Address: Via Santa Margherita, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
10. Relax At The Convent Of Le Celle
Photo: Mongolo1984 / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in a forested valley just outside the town, Le Celle is a spiritual retreat founded by St. Francis himself. The stone hermitage, built into the hillside, exudes serenity. Visitors can walk along shaded trails, visit the saint’s cell, and attend quiet moments of reflection. It’s still inhabited by Franciscan monks, preserving its peaceful aura. Ideal for meditation or a slow walk, the convent feels worlds away from the modern world. It’s a profoundly moving stop on any Cortona journey.
Address: Località Le Celle, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Timings: Typically open during daylight hours; specific times may vary
Cortona is a charming town filled with history, beauty, and calm. From quiet piazzas and ancient relics to cosy cafes, every corner has something special. With TripXL’s carefully planned travel packages, you can explore its hidden spots and soak in its timeless charm. These memorable moments are just the start of your Tuscan journey. Begin planning today.
Cover Photo: wyzik / Wikimedia Commons
