Cortona Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta
A historic hilltop town in Tuscany, known for its stunning cathedral, ancient streets, and breathtaking valley views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the local market & fewer crowds
Cortona Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta
Best Time
Catch the local market & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic hilltop town in Tuscany, known for its stunning cathedral, ancient streets, and breathtaking valley views.
"A beautiful Cathedral in Cortina. Truly worth a visit if you are in this part of Italy."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cortona is a hilltop town with steep streets. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
🚗 Public Transport Access
Easy to reach by train to Camucia-Cortona, then a bus up to the town.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cortona Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta)
Piazza del Duomo
A beautiful, historic cathedral with Romanesque and Renaissance elements, built on ancient Roman temple grounds.
Panoramic Valley Views
Various viewpoints throughout Cortona
Breathtaking vistas over the Tuscan countryside, especially rewarding after climbing the town's hills.
Charming Historic Streets
Cortona Old Town
Wander through ancient, atmospheric streets that ooze Tuscan charm, perfect for exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Hills & Stunning Views
Beyond 'Under the Tuscan Sun'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cortona is a hilltop town with steep streets. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
🚗 Public Transport Access
Easy to reach by train to Camucia-Cortona, then a bus up to the town.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget to stop and soak in the spectacular views over the valley.
📅 Check Sunday Hours
The cathedral may close early on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cortona is a hilltop town with steep streets. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
🚗 Public Transport Access
Easy to reach by train to Camucia-Cortona, then a bus up to the town.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget to stop and soak in the spectacular views over the valley.
📅 Check Sunday Hours
The cathedral may close early on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cortona Cathedral for its beauty and historical significance, calling it a truly worthwhile visit. The town itself is lauded for its charming atmosphere and spectacular valley views, though some note it has become quite touristy. Be prepared for steep inclines when exploring.
"What can I say my neice got married here on the 16th September and it was beautiful such a lovely cathedral Highley recommended for a visit
Just be warned a steep hill to walk up to reach the top but well worth it and the view is spectacular"
Sharon Swift
"Nice old town, in the past very dreamy and quiet, oozing the Tuscan atmosphere. Now touristic, sometimes too touristic. Maybe because of the book&film "Under the Tuscan sun"; there is even a "UtTS" tour, for those who would like.
Whatever you do, don't forget to stop and enjoy the view over the valley from different places.
On Saturdays there is a small market."
John Van Der Westen
"A beautiful Cathedral in Cortina. Truly worth a visit if you are in this part of Italy. There's so much to see and enjoy! The area is breathtaking and the food scrumptious!"
Dr Win Sutanto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cortona is accessible by public transport. Take a train to Camucia-Cortona station, then catch a bus directly to the hilltop town. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging within the historic center.
Cortona is a beautiful hilltop town, but it involves many steep streets and inclines. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring.
Yes, Cortona is a popular day trip destination, especially from Florence, offering a taste of Tuscan charm.
Wandering through its historic streets and enjoying the panoramic views are key. Consider joining an 'Under the Tuscan Sun' tour if you're a fan.
Yes, there are tours available, including those focused on the 'Under the Tuscan Sun' connection.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Cortona Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) is generally free, though donations are appreciated.
Opening hours can vary, and the cathedral may close after midday on Sundays. It's advisable to check locally or arrive earlier in the day.
There is no entrance fee to visit the town of Cortona itself. You can freely explore its streets and public spaces.
The Cathedral hosts religious services and may have special events. It's worth checking local listings if you're interested.
Villa Bramasole, the real-life 'Under the Tuscan Sun' villa, is a private residence and not typically open for public tours, though you can see it from the outside.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the Tuscan valley, charming cobblestone streets, and the historic architecture of the Cathedral.
Absolutely! Cortona's hilltop setting, ancient buildings, and stunning landscapes provide endless photographic opportunities.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the town's atmosphere and views.
Photography is usually permitted inside churches, but be respectful and check for any specific signage regarding flash or video recording.
While Villa Bramasole is private, many streets and viewpoints in Cortona evoke the film's atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Expect delicious Tuscan cuisine, with fresh local ingredients. Many visitors rave about the scrumptious food.
Yes, Cortona offers a variety of restaurants serving authentic Italian dishes. Look for trattorias for a local experience.
Try regional Tuscan dishes, often featuring olive oil, pasta, and local meats.
A small market is held on Saturdays in Cortona, offering local produce and goods.
With its charming atmosphere and delicious food, Cortona is a wonderful spot for a romantic dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cathedral itself might not hold a child's attention for long, the experience of exploring the ancient streets and perhaps finding a gelato shop can be enjoyable. Be mindful of stroller accessibility on some of the steeper paths.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Enjoy leisurely strolls through the historic streets, find a quiet cafe to people-watch, and soak in the stunning valley views. The cathedral offers a moment of reflection, and the local markets provide a glimpse into daily life.
❤️ Couples
The charming atmosphere, historic architecture, and the possibility of visiting vineyards nearby make it an ideal spot for a romantic getaway. Consider a stay at one of the beautiful villas or boutique hotels in the area for an extra special experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cortona Cathedral: A Glimpse into History
Inside, visitors can admire its decorative elements and feel the weight of history. The cathedral has also been associated with religious figures like Saint Margaret of Cortona, who is said to have had visions related to the church and its teachings.
While the cathedral is a must-see, remember that its opening hours can be variable, particularly on Sundays. Planning your visit to ensure you have ample time to explore its interior is recommended.
Navigating Cortona's Charm: Getting Around and Experiencing the Town
Reaching Cortona is straightforward. Many travelers opt for public transport, taking a train to Camucia-Cortona station and then a bus that ascends to the town center.
Beyond the cathedral and the views, Cortona offers a quintessential Tuscan experience. Wandering through its ancient cobblestone streets, you'll discover charming shops, local eateries, and a palpable sense of history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit