Cortona Private Guided Tour: Exploring the Setting of 'Under the Tuscan Sun'

Cortona gained significant recognition a few years back, a popularity credited to Frances Mayes’ book titled Under the Tuscan Sun. The story (which was later made into a film starring Diane Lane) is set in Cortona, and portrays the protagonist’s instant adoration for the city, its inhabitants, and Villa Bramasole which she buys and renovates.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Piazza della Repubblica - 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…
What's Included
  • Local guide
Additional Information
  • Dress code is smart casual
Location
Cortona Piazza Garibaldi
Departure Point: At piazza Garibaldi, at the beginning of the view point balcony.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.8
(25 Ratings)
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Jeffba7115bw
Oct 25, 2025
The history of Cortona - Carol was great. We enjoyed the history she shared with us at a good pace. Nice walk through Cortona revealing the past and what remains today.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Frank_d
Aug 31, 2025
Personalized tour with Laura - Laura provided us an extensive, detailed history of Cortona that could not have been provided by someone other than a lifelong resident. She introduced us to other locals who were generous with their time to give us an equally passionate description of the town. To be clear, Laura hosted only my wife and myself, no group. She patiently answered questions and explained the history well in English, which is obviously not her native language. This tour is highly recommended.
Review provided by Viator
Kathyd5626
Jul 21, 2025
Best day in Cortona - Our tour guide, Laura, was fantastic. Besides being enthusiastic and knowledgeable about Cortona, she was also so helpful in pointing out interesting art galleries, restaurants and even booking a wine tasting for the next day.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Michelleb589
Jul 9, 2025
Loved this tour with Laura - Laura was very knowledgeable and so nice. She was born and raised and lives in Cortona. Showed us hidden places we would’ve missed. Really helped us appreciate the beautiful town!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Wanderer20309275808
Jun 1, 2025
After going to Cortona & other areas in Italy 11 yrs ago, Cortona was my favorite. It’s only 1.5 hr drive from Florence - After visiting Italy several years ago in different areas of the country, my favorite by far was CORTONA Italy. It is close to many tourist attractions and other area of Tuscany. It is a must see. It is older than Rome, with just the right amount of tourists without being smothered by other tourists. The restaurants are amazing and is filled with history and breathtaking views. We didn’t want to leave! Neither will you.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lauretta_c
Apr 25, 2025
Great way to start our trip to Cortona - Our guide, Laura , was super - so lovely and knowledgeable. We covered highlights of Cortona history and sights.
Review provided by Viator
Joseph_g
Apr 10, 2025
Beautiful tour with wonderful guide! - Laura was an amazing guide! The whole group loved the tour especially her passion and knowledge about her town. This town is a must see part of any visit to Tuscany and Laura can really bring it to life for you.
Review provided by Viator
Paul_g
Sep 14, 2024
Past and present together - Serina was wonderful. Extremely knowledgeable and personable. We learned about the history of Cortona and some about living in this area in the present.
Review provided by Viator
Lisa_a
Nov 14, 2024
Nice guide but definitely overpriced for what you get - Our guide Pamela was great! She was very informative and helpful. I think it was definitely overpriced for a 2 hour tour. It was $300 for my husband & I & that didn’t include transportation, food, entry into museums, etc.
Review provided by Viator
Channa_j
Oct 10, 2025
Disappointed - The guide didn't show up. Nothing great to tell. :( Tour operators should take their task more seriously as people may not return to same destination again. Very dissatisfied as there was no update until we contacted the local agency after waiting for 40 minutes. Offering a refund is no compensation.
Review provided by Viator
From $303 (Per Group)
up to 15 guests
1 - Traveler
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).