13th Century Tower Cortona
Explore Cortona's ancient charm, from its medieval 13th Century Tower to the Etruscan-inspired Porta Santa Maria, and witness unforgettable Tuscan sun...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
13th Century Tower Cortona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Cortona's ancient charm, from its medieval 13th Century Tower to the Etruscan-inspired Porta Santa Maria, and witness unforgettable Tuscan sunsets.
"The best sunset ever!!!! Beautiful landmark, I loved this place!!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cortona is hilly! You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
🚗 Parking Tips
Park outside the historic center and walk up; parking inside is very limited.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Porta Santa Maria
Via Roma
This ancient gate, with its striking Etruscan stonework, offers a glimpse into Cortona's deep history and a peaceful atmosphere.
Panoramic Sunset Views
Various viewpoints around Cortona
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Tuscan landscape, a truly magical experience that many visitors rave about.
The 13th Century Tower
Within Cortona's historic center
Explore the architectural marvel of this medieval tower, a testament to Cortona's enduring past and strategic importance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Cortona's Tower
Navigating Cortona's Hills
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cortona is hilly! You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
🚗 Parking Tips
Park outside the historic center and walk up; parking inside is very limited.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The sunsets from Cortona are legendary. Find a good vantage point!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Streets
Wander through the charming alleys for a more authentic experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cortona is hilly! You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
🚗 Parking Tips
Park outside the historic center and walk up; parking inside is very limited.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The sunsets from Cortona are legendary. Find a good vantage point!
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Streets
Wander through the charming alleys for a more authentic experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cortona's stunning beauty, particularly its breathtaking sunsets and the historical charm of its ancient gates like Porta Santa Maria. The town's atmosphere evokes a sense of stepping back in time. Some find the hilly terrain challenging, and parking can be difficult.
"Beautiful landmark, I loved this place !! Suggest to drive up to le Celle in the forest which is also an amazing experience."
Abigail Zammit
"The best sunset ever!!!!"
Julio Effgen Moisés (Tela)
"Beautiful!"
Marjoleine de Goede
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cortona is best reached by train to Camucia-Cortona station, followed by a bus up to the hilltop town. Driving is possible, but parking is limited within the historic center.
While you can drive, parking inside Cortona's historic center is scarce. It's recommended to park in designated lots outside the walls and walk up.
Cortona is a walking town. Be prepared for steep, cobblestone streets. Comfortable shoes are essential.
Yes, public transport is a viable option. Take a train to Camucia-Cortona and then a bus directly to the town.
The tower is located within the historic center. Follow signs for the main piazza and historic sites once you arrive in Cortona.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the exterior of the 13th Century Tower and the Porta Santa Maria is generally free as they are part of the town's historic fabric.
As the tower and gates are part of the town, they are accessible during daylight hours. Specific museum hours may vary if there are associated exhibits.
There are no general entrance fees to explore the town of Cortona or its historic gates like Porta Santa Maria.
The tower and gates are typically accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit when there's ample light for exploration and photography.
No, the tower itself is a historical landmark within the town and doesn't typically require a separate ticket for viewing its exterior.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for panoramic views from the town's edges, charming alleyways, and the historic Porta Santa Maria. The sunset is a must-capture moment.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, while late afternoons provide the magical golden hour for stunning sunset shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be respectful if photographing private residences or during religious services.
A versatile lens for landscapes and street photography is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views.
Drone regulations can be strict in historic Italian towns. It's advisable to check local rules before flying a drone.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The 13th Century Tower is a remnant of Cortona's medieval past, serving as a defensive structure and a symbol of the town's historical significance.
Porta Santa Maria is notable for its clear Etruscan design, featuring large, ancient stones that speak to the town's deep historical roots.
Cortona showcases a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with Etruscan influences visible in its older structures like Porta Santa Maria.
Yes, Cortona is an ancient city with Etruscan origins, evident in its layout and some of its surviving structures.
The tower is a tangible link to Cortona's medieval period, reflecting its past as a fortified town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Cortona's Etruscan Heritage
Beyond the visible architecture, Cortona offers a deeper dive into its Etruscan past through its museums, such as the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca e della Città di Cortona. Here, you can find artifacts that shed light on the daily lives, rituals, and artistry of this enigmatic civilization. Experiencing Cortona is not just about seeing sights; it's about immersing yourself in layers of history, from its ancient Etruscan roots to its medieval fortifications and later Renaissance influences.
The Magic of Tuscan Sunsets in Cortona
For an unforgettable sunset experience, consider heading to viewpoints on the edge of town or even venturing slightly outside to nearby areas like Le Celle, a hermitage nestled in the forest, which is also highly recommended for its unique charm and views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit