Cortona is a town that breathes culture, history, and genuine Tuscan charm. It’s a place where wandering through ancient streets feels like stepping back in time, but it also offers plenty of modern ways to enjoy its beauty. We love the Cortona: Pasta and Pizza Cooking Class because it gives you a hands-on taste of local life—making your own pizza and fresh pasta right in Tuscany. Plus, the guided e-bike tours let you explore the countryside without exhausting yourself, offering spectacular views and insights into the region’s rich past. The variety of tours means there’s something for every traveler—whether you want to learn about art, indulge in wine, or simply soak up the scenery. Check out the list below to find your perfect match.
Types of Tours in Cortona
Our list includes culinary experiences, guided walks, e-bike adventures, and wine tastings. For a truly interactive experience, the Pasta and Pizza Cooking Class stands out, perfect for food lovers. If cycling is your thing, the Guided E-Bike Tour and the Val di Chiana E-Bike Tour provide scenic, relaxing rides with commentary from local guides. For an in-depth history fix, the Private 2-hour Guided Tour and the Guided Walking Tour take you through Cortona’s most iconic sights. And wine lovers will appreciate the Buccelletti Winery Tours and organic wine tasting at Colle Acacia. Details on each experience follow below.
1. Cortona: Pasta and Pizza Cooking Class
This 2.5-hour hands-on class invites you to learn the authentic Tuscan way of making pasta and pizza. You’ll prepare your own meal on an outdoor terrace, where Mediterranean sauces and fresh ingredients come together beautifully. The class includes making pizzas, fresh pasta, and focaccias—classic Italian staples. What makes this experience special is the chance to not only cook but also feast on your creations, all with a local chef guiding you step-by-step. It’s perfect for anyone looking to bring a slice of Italy home with them—literally. With a 4.9/5 rating based on 44 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this a fun and flavorful way to connect with Tuscany’s culinary roots.
Bottom line: This class is ideal for foodies who want a fun, relaxed environment and a tangible skill to take home.
2. Cortona: Guided E-Bike Tour of Tuscany’s Hidden Gem
At number 2, this 3-hour guided e-bike tour offers an effortless way to explore the countryside around Cortona. You’ll start at Via Dardano and cycle past landmarks like Hermitage “Le Celle” and the Basilica of Saint Margaret. With eco-friendly e-bikes, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Val di Chiana without breaking a sweat. The guide shares insights into the region’s history and culture, making the journey both scenic and educational. With a perfect 4.9/5 rating from 25 reviews, this tour balances physical activity with comfort, suitable for most fitness levels. The route’s highlights include stunning vistas and local stories that deepen your appreciation of Tuscany’s countryside.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a relaxed way to see the landscape while learning about local culture.
3. Cortona: Private 2-hour Guided Tour
This private tour offers an intimate look at Cortona’s highlights in just 2 hours. Starting at the Piazza della Repubblica, your guide will lead you through key sites like Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, Palazzo Casali, and the Teatro Signorelli. The small group size (up to 20 people) means personalized attention and the flexibility to tailor the experience. Reviewers praise guides like Pamela and Elisona for their knowledge and engaging style. The rate of $271.88 per group makes it a good value for families or small groups wanting a rundown without the hassle of navigating alone.
Bottom line: Perfect if you prefer a personalized, in-depth introduction to Cortona’s art and history.
4. Cortona: Val di Chiana E-Bike Tour with Optional Wine Lunch
Number 4 on our list is this 5-hour e-bike tour through the lush Val di Chiana. It’s ideal for those who want to combine active sightseeing with regional flavors. The tour includes riding past blooming vineyards, olive groves, and historic landmarks. An optional wine lunch lets you indulge further, sampling local wines and regional delicacies. The guide shares insights into the region’s history and agriculture, making the experience both relaxing and educational. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an immersive, full-day outing on eco-friendly bikes, with enough time to appreciate the scenery and taste the local produce.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a longer, more comprehensive tour with a chance to enjoy local wine and food.
5. Cortona: 3-Hour Private Walking Tour
This private walking tour is perfect for travelers who prefer a leisurely, focused exploration. In three hours, you’ll stroll through Cortona’s key sites, including its cathedral, Piazza Signorelli, and the fortress of Girifalco. The guide emphasizes Cortona’s Etruscan roots and scenic landscapes, creating a rich storytelling experience. Reviewers highlight guides like Elisona for their engagement and depth of knowledge. At $271.88 per group, it offers good value for a personalized experience, especially for those with limited time but a desire to see the highlights.
Bottom line: Ideal for visitors who want a relaxed, tailored introduction to Cortona’s history.
6. Castiglion Fiorentino: Tour, Tasting & Charcuterie Board
This 1.5-hour tour combines a visit to a boutique winery with a tasting of three wines paired with cheese, salumi, and olive oil. The Buccelletti family has been making wines since 1625, and their family-run operation offers a genuine, intimate experience. The property includes the family chapel, olive mill, and vineyards. With a 5/5 rating from 6 reviews, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of wines and personalized service. It’s perfect for anyone interested in authentic Tuscan wine-making traditions and regional flavors.
Bottom line: Best suited for wine lovers seeking an authentic, small-scale winery experience.
7. Cortona: Guided Walking Tour
This 2-hour guided walk provides a quick but thorough look at Cortona’s most iconic sights. Starting at Piazza Garibaldi, your guide will take you through piazzas, historical walls, and landmarks like the Palazzo del Capitano. The tour is accessible and includes commentary on Cortona’s Etruscan origins and Renaissance heritage. With a small but enthusiastic group, the experience balances sightseeing with storytelling, making it ideal for first-time visitors. The walk’s highlights include the Piazza Signorelli and Girifalco Fortress.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a quick, informative introduction to Cortona’s top sights.
8. Castiglion Fiorentino: Buccelletti Wine Flight
For a casual tasting, the Buccelletti Wine Flight offers three wines paired with bread and olive oil in about an hour. At just $25 per person, it’s an affordable way to sample wines from this historic family winery. Reviews note the friendly staff and authentic atmosphere. This experience is best for those looking for a relaxed, informal tasting that emphasizes quality over quantity. It’s a simple but delightful way to connect with local wine traditions, especially if you’re tight on time or budget.
Bottom line: Ideal for a quick, authentic wine tasting without the fuss.
9. Cortona: Organic wines tasting at Colle Acacia’s vineyards
This 4-hour organic wine tasting combines a scenic vineyard walk with sampling four wines, including a Super Tuscan blend and Syrah. The setting offers a peaceful backdrop for learning about organic viticulture and regional wine styles. Paired with local delicacies like pecorino cheese and ham, it’s perfect for those who want a deeper dive into organic wine production. Reviewers praise the serene environment and high-quality wines, making this an enriching experience for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers who want a relaxed, educational wine experience in a tranquil setting.
10. Cortona Sunset: Pizza Tasting+eBike ride around the Village
Number 10 combines e-bike exploration with pizza tasting at sunset. You’ll ride through Cortona’s streets to reach panoramic viewpoints and enjoy the sunset over Val di Chiana. The e-bikes make the route accessible for all fitness levels, and the tour concludes with pizza and drinks. This experience is perfect for those wanting a memorable evening combining scenery, local food, and a fun outdoor activity. Reviewers mention it’s a unique way to see the town and enjoy a casual meal.
Bottom line: Excellent for couples or small groups seeking a fun, scenic evening activity.
11. Arezzo Gran Tour
A quick 40-minute panoramic tour on an electric mini bus, the Arezzo Gran Tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of the city’s highlights. With an audio guide available in seven languages and free entry to Casa Petrarca and the “I Colori della Giostra” museum, it combines convenience with cultural insight. It’s a practical choice if you’re short on time but want to see significant sights like the city walls and historic squares.
Bottom line: Best for first-time visitors who want a quick overview of Arezzo’s main attractions.
12. Castiglion Fiorentino: Buccelletti Wine Tour & Tasting
This 1.5-hour tour offers a visit to the same family-run winery as above, with a guided tour of the property and a tasting of three wines paired with bread and olive oil. The focus is on authentic, limited-production wines from a historic family, making it perfect for those interested in deepening their understanding of regional viticulture.
Bottom line: Excellent for wine lovers wanting an authentic experience with a small group.
13. Cortona: Journey Through Time
This full-day tour takes you on a cultural journey through art, history, and local traditions. Guided by local experts, you’ll explore farms and see more than 60 fully functional tractors, connecting past and present in the Tuscan landscape. Ideal for travelers interested in authentic regional life, it offers a deep dive into Tuscany’s rural heritage.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a comprehensive, immersive experience of Cortona and its surroundings.
14. Cortona: Pizza, Focaccia, and Calzoni Cooking Class
Rounding out the list is this 3-hour cooking class focused on pizza, focaccia, and fried calzones. As if cooked by a Tuscan nonna, you’ll learn step-by-step methods with fresh ingredients—baking and frying included. It’s a fun, interactive way to bring home Tuscan flavors, perfect for those who enjoy cooking or want a memorable hands-on experience. Although reviews aren’t available, the detailed description suggests a genuine culinary immersion.
Bottom line: Great for food lovers eager to learn local recipes and try their hand at authentic Tuscan dishes.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Cortona
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and fitness level. If you want a culinary experience, the Pasta and Pizza Cooking Class offers immediate hands-on fun. For sightseeing with minimal effort, the Private Guided Tour or the Guided Walking Tour are excellent choices. Wine enthusiasts should look into the Buccelletti Winery Tours or the organic vineyard tasting. If you love outdoor activity, the E-bike tours combine scenery and comfort, especially combined with optional wine or sunset experiences.
For those pressed for time, the Arezzo Gran Tour provides a quick city overview, while the full-day Journey Through Time offers a richer, more immersive day. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your preferred times and group sizes.
Final Thoughts
Cortona offers an impressive range of tours that cater to diverse interests—from culinary classes and historic walks to scenic bike rides and wine tastings. If you’re a foodie, the Pasta and Pizza Class will make you feel like a Tuscan chef, while if your focus is exploring the landscape, the E-bike tours and Val di Chiana ride are excellent choices. History buffs and culture lovers might prefer the private guided experience, while wine enthusiasts will appreciate the wine tastings at local family-run wineries.
No matter what kind of experience you seek, Cortona’s tours offer a genuine taste of Tuscany’s charm. Be sure to book early, especially in peak seasons, to ensure you get the experience that matches your interests. With so many options, you’re sure to find a way to make your visit truly memorable.
