Venturing beneath the Tuscan sun is a state of being that many visitors to Italy are looking forward to; and it’s difficult to find somewhere more idyllic than the ancient hilltop town of Cortona. This medieval masterpiece sits at 600 metres altitude, commanding sweeping vistas of the surrounding Tuscan valleys and plains and making a trip to Cortona a real treat for the eyes. Tuscan sunsets from up on high are truly a sight to behold.
This historic town is very popular with visitors to Italy, and it isn’t hard to see why. Perched on the hillside, antiquated houses, castles, forts and ruins blend perfectly with the Tuscan landscape and Cortona is a very interesting town to explore. Cortona is perfect for a romantic getaway with a loved one strolling along steep and narrow medieval streets, and taking an historic dive into the area’s colourful and interesting past.
Holiday in Cortona
Surrounding the ancient town centre are many Roman roads, making for worthwhile hiking and biking trails. These trails allow you to experience the Tuscan landscape as if you were a citizen here thousands of years ago. And with several stables in the area, you can even explore these ancient highways from horseback as if you have a cohort at your command.
Each area of this multi-layered town is littered with little churches and incredibly old piazzas, creating a perfectly rendered backdrop to your Tuscany trip dripping in history. With a host of museums exploring the town’s ancient Roman and Etruscan heritage, and the Castello di Pierle feudal castle on the outskirts of town, brush up on your ancient knowledge and learn a lot more about what life was like back in those days. The Archaeological Park contains tombs dating from as long as ago 7 BC, go take a look at the ancient and frightening sacrificial altar.
After that, for a taste of what life is like nowadays, there are many high-quality restaurants and bars in town to cater for Cortona’s large tourist population. Enjoy a meal of fine Tuscan cuisine, washed down with the local Chianti for which Tuscany is famous; or try some delicious pizza. Nobody makes it like the Italians do.
Renting holiday accommodation in Cortona
If you are looking for an authentic slice of Tuscan life, then the best solution would be to stay in a holiday rental. In the dusty little town of Cortona this means you can stay in a building that is centuries old, even if the interiors contain all modern amenities and comforts. And after visiting the Saturday market, what better way to end the day than sitting on the balcony of your own Tuscan villa with a glass of local sangiovese, fresh bread and olive oil made in these beautiful parts?
