Siena to Cortona: A Long Day Trip

Visit Siena Guide editorial·May 19, 2026·6 min read

Cortona, made famous by 'Under the Tuscan Sun', is a hill town 2 hours from Siena. The visit is rewarding but the travel is long.

# Siena to Cortona: A Long Day Trip

Cortona, made famous by 'Under the Tuscan Sun', is a hill town 2 hours from Siena. The visit is rewarding but the travel is long.

Key facts

By car: 1h45 via SS73 + autostrada.
By public transport: complex (train to Camucia + bus uphill). Plan for 3h+.
Highlights: Etruscan museum, the panoramic walk to Fortezza del Girifalco, lunch with a view.
Best as an overnight, not a day trip from Siena.
Combine with Lago Trasimeno if you have a car.

What I tell visitors

Cortona is a long way to go from Siena. If your itinerary allows, stop here on your way to Rome rather than as a round-trip.

Related guides

Final word

Whatever brings you to Siena — food, the Palio, the Tuscan countryside — slow down. The city repays attention. If you have a tip to add or a correction, write us at redazione@visitsienaguide.it.