Arezzo , Italy

Cortona Private Guided Tour

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(25 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Cortona has become very popular several years ago thanks to the book by Frances Mayes, Under the Tuscan Sun (and the movie with Diane Lane) which is set in Cortona; the protagonist immediately falls in love with the town, its people, and villa Bramasole that she purchases and fixes up.

Available options

Cortona Private Guided Tour

Option 1: Morning 10am

What's included

Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Cortona is a town easy to love for everybody indeed. That’s because its atmosphere, its Etruscan past, its lovely medieval city centre and furthermore its great views.

Your professional local guide will give you a private walking of the historical centre of Cortona that will bring you back in time. The tour features Piazza della Repubblica, the main square dating back to the Roman age, Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, residence of Cardinal Passerini during the 16th century, the Palazzo Comunale, dating back to the 12th century, Palazzo Casali and Teatro Signorelli, which is a typical theatre in Neoclassical style still in use for the local theatre season. The town’s cathedral will be also part of your walking with its charming view.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress code is smart casual

Meeting point

Departure Point: At piazza Garibaldi, at the beginning of the view point balcony.

Important notes

Departure Point: At piazza Garibaldi, at the beginning of the view point balcony. If you come by rental car we’ll suggest you to park at PARCHEGGIO DELLO SPIRITO SANTO and to take the escalators to reach the meeting point with your guide. Please note that there are also some steps upstairs between the escalators.

About Arezzo

Arezzo is a historic city in Tuscany known for its rich medieval and Renaissance heritage, beautiful architecture, and the famous Piero della Francesca frescoes. The city offers a charming blend of art, culture, and authentic Italian charm.

Top Attractions

Piazza Grande

The main square of Arezzo, Piazza Grande is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Basilica of San Francesco

This 13th-century basilica is home to the famous frescoes by Piero della Francesca, including 'The Legend of the True Cross'.

Religious 1 hour €5

Medieval Fortress (La Rocca)

A 14th-century fortress offering panoramic views of Arezzo and the surrounding countryside.

Historical 1 hour €4

Arezzo Cathedral

A beautiful cathedral with a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, featuring works by Pietro Lorenzetti and Guglielmo dei Marcillat.

Religious 30 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Casa Museo Ivan Bruschi

A museum housed in a 13th-century palace, showcasing a collection of art and artifacts from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

Museum 1 hour €7

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick-cut, grilled T-bone steak seasoned with salt and olive oil, typically from Chianina cattle.

Dinner Contains beef

Pici all'Aglione

Hand-rolled thick spaghetti served with a garlic and tomato sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian

Cantucci con Vin Santo

Almond biscotti dipped in a sweet dessert wine.

Dessert Contains nuts, contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding countryside Cycling tours Wine tasting Spa treatments Visiting museums and churches Attending local festivals Participating in the Saracen Joust festival Exploring the antique market

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Arezzo is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. The city is vibrant with various festivals and events.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Arezzo is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings
• Use licensed taxis

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 80 km
Perugia Airport • 90 km

By train

Arezzo Station

By bus

Arezzo Terminal Bus

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Lorenzo Porto San Marco

Day trips

Cortona

30 km • Half day

A charming hilltop town known for its medieval architecture, stunning views, and as the setting for the book and film 'Under the Tuscan Sun'.

Montepulciano

50 km • Full day

A beautiful Renaissance town famous for its wine, particularly Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and its stunning architecture.

Val d'Orcia

60 km • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rolling hills, cypress trees, and picturesque villages, offering stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Saracen Joust (Giostra del Saracino) • First Sunday in September and first Sunday in June Arezzo Antiques Fair • First Sunday of the month Arezzo Wine Festival • Late September

Pro tips

Visit the Basilica of San Francesco early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the frescoes in peace
Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and charming side streets
Try local specialties like Bistecca alla Fiorentina and Pici all'Aglione at traditional trattorias
Attend the Saracen Joust festival if your visit coincides with the event for a unique and thrilling experience
Take a day trip to nearby towns like Cortona and Montepulciano for stunning scenery and historic sites