About the City
Cortona
Ancient and picturesque Tuscan town, Slow City paradise
Cortona, cittadina antica e suggestiva posta nel cuore della Toscana, è un perfetto esempio di Città Slow. Fortemente ancorata alle sue radici etrusche, Cortona offre al visitatore un viaggio indimenticabile tra storia, arte, enogastronomia e paesaggi mozzafiato. Questa cittadina ha aderito al movimento delle città lente, focalizzando lo sviluppo su un turismo sostenibile e sulla valorizzazione delle risorse locali. In questo contesto, si inseriscono vari eventi che la città offre, a partire dal 'CortonAntiquaria', storico appuntamento dell’antiquariato italiano, arrivando alla 'Mostra del Vino', dove vengono valorizzati i vini locali. Inoltre, le strette e suggestive vie del centro storico, i palazzi nobiliari di epoca rinascimentale, la vasta rete di sentieri e percorsi naturalistici adatti al trekking e all'escursionismo e i prodotti tipici della cucina cortonese, rendono Cortona una destinazione indimenticabile per ogni turista responsabile.
The Slow Experience
Cortona, nestled in the hills of Tuscany, Italy, offers a quintessential Italian experience with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are six standout details about Cortona, focusing on its tourism appeal:
Historic Charm: Cortona's well-preserved medieval architecture, including the grand Piazza della Repubblica and the ancient Etruscan walls, offers a journey back in time. Visitors can explore charming narrow streets, historic churches like Santa Margherita, and the imposing Fortezza Medicea.
Panoramic Views: Perched on a hilltop, Cortona offers breathtaking views of the Valdichiana valley and Lake Trasimeno. The town's vantage points are perfect for photographers and nature lovers seeking picturesque landscapes.
Art and Culture: The Museo Diocesano and the MAEC (Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca) showcase Cortona's rich artistic and Etruscan heritage. The town also hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year, providing a deep dive into local traditions.
Culinary Delights: Tuscany is renowned for its cuisine, and Cortona is no exception. Visitors can indulge in traditional dishes, local wines, and olive oils. Cooking classes and wine tours are popular activities, offering an immersive experience into the flavors of the region.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding Tuscan countryside is ideal for outdoor adventures. Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding are excellent ways to explore the area's natural beauty, from rolling hills to lush vineyards and olive groves.
Unique Accommodations: Staying in Cortona provides a unique opportunity to experience local life. From rustic farmhouses to elegant villas and cozy B&Bs, the accommodations reflect the town's charm and hospitality, enhancing the overall travel experience.
These details capture the essence of Cortona, making it a beloved destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary excellence.
Details & Programs
Cortona, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, exemplifies the principles of a Slow City, making it an exceptional destination for those seeking a sustainable and immersive travel experience. This charming hilltop town, with its ancient walls, stunning views, and rich Etruscan history, invites travelers to slow down and savor its cultural heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty. Cortona's commitment to preserving its historical sites, promoting local agriculture and artisanal crafts, and maintaining a slow-paced, community-focused lifestyle aligns perfectly with the ideals of slow and sustainable tourism.
Let's craft a three-day itinerary that embraces the slow and sustainable ethos of Cortona.
Day 1: Exploration of Nature and Historical Charm
Morning: Begin your visit with a leisurely hike along the Sentiero della Bonifica, an ancient path that offers picturesque views of the Tuscan countryside. This eco-friendly activity allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the region's natural beauty.
Afternoon: Explore Cortona's historic center, visiting landmarks such as the Etruscan Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts, and the Diocesan Museum, home to works by renowned Renaissance artists. Stroll through the town's narrow streets, admiring the traditional stone houses and artisanal shops.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Osteria del Teatro, where you can savor dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, highlighting Cortona's commitment to sustainable gastronomy.
Day 2: Community Engagement and Gastronomic Discoveries
Morning: Participate in a local workshop or community event, such as an olive oil tasting at a nearby farm, where you can learn about traditional methods of olive cultivation and oil production, essential aspects of the region's agrarian culture.
Afternoon: Visit a local vineyard to discover the winemaking process and indulge in a wine tasting session, experiencing the flavors of Tuscan wines while learning about sustainable viticulture.
Evening: Take part in a cooking class focused on Tuscan cuisine, where you can learn to prepare classic dishes using ingredients from local markets. Enjoy the meal you've created, deepening your connection to Cortona's culinary heritage.
Day 3: Leisure and Artisanal Exploration
Morning: Spend your morning at leisure, perhaps visiting the Fortezza di Girifalco for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside or relaxing in the town's serene gardens.
Afternoon: Engage with Cortona's artisan scene by visiting local workshops, where you can observe the creation of traditional crafts such as ceramics, leather goods, and textiles. This is an excellent opportunity to support local artisans and purchase unique, handcrafted souvenirs.
Evening: Conclude your visit with dinner at La Bucaccia, a restaurant that prides itself on using local, seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes that reflect Cortona's gastronomic traditions.
Accommodation Options:
Relais Il Falconiere: This charming hotel, set in a restored 17th-century villa, offers a sustainable and luxurious experience, featuring an organic vineyard, spa, and restaurant serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Agriturismo Il Palazzo: For a more rustic experience, this agriturismo provides an authentic connection to Tuscan agriculture, offering comfortable accommodations in a serene, rural setting, with opportunities to learn about local farming practices.
The Accomodations
