Driving to Cortona

Driving to Cortona is one of the most flexible ways to explore the town and the surrounding countryside — the hill towns of Val d’Orcia, the wineries of the Valdichiana, and villages most visitors never reach are all within easy reach by car. Here’s everything you need to know before you set off.

Routes to Cortona

From Florence: Take the A1 autostrada south, exit at Valdichiana, then follow signs for Cortona. Around 1.5 hours, mostly motorway.

From Rome: Take the A1 autostrada north, exit at Valdichiana. Around 2.5 hours.

From Siena: Head southeast via the SS326 or SS73 — a scenic route through the Val di Chiana. Around 1 hour.

From Perugia: Take the SS75bis toward Lake Trasimeno, then follow signs for Cortona. Around 45 minutes.

Insider tip: The drive from Siena via the SS73 is one of the prettiest in Tuscany — rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and almost no traffic outside peak summer weekends.

Parking in Cortona

Cortona’s historic centre is closed to non-resident traffic (see ZTL section below), so you’ll need to park outside the walls and walk in. The main car parks are:

Piazzale del Mercato — the largest car park, just outside Porta Colonia. Free of charge, a short uphill walk to Piazza Garibaldi.

Piazza del Mercato Vecchio — smaller, also free, closer to the lower part of town.

Parcheggio Il Sodo — further out but usually has space when the central car parks are full, with a shuttle bus link in high season.

Insider tip: If you’re arriving in summer, aim to arrive before 10am or after 6pm — the main car parks fill up quickly during peak season, especially on market days and during festivals.

ZTL — Cortona’s Restricted Traffic Zone

Cortona’s historic centre has a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) — a restricted zone where only residents and authorised vehicles can drive. Cameras enforce the restriction automatically, and fines are issued by post to the vehicle’s registered owner, including rental cars.

If you’re staying inside the historic centre (at a hotel or B&B within the walls), your accommodation can usually register your car for temporary ZTL access — always confirm this with them before you arrive, ideally giving your number plate in advance.

If you’re not staying inside the walls, simply park in one of the car parks listed above and walk in — it’s a short, manageable climb, and the historic centre is compact enough that a car isn’t useful once you’re inside.

Insider tip: If you’re unsure whether your accommodation is inside the ZTL, ask before you drive up to it. Entering even briefly to drop off luggage without prior authorisation can result in a fine.

Quick Reference

From Florence	~1.5 hours via A1
From Rome	~2.5 hours via A1
From Siena	~1 hour via SS326/SS73
Main car parks	Piazzale del Mercato, Piazza del Mercato Vecchio
Parking cost	Free
ZTL	Historic centre — residents/authorised vehicles only

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive into Cortona’s historic centre?

Only if you’re staying inside the ZTL and your accommodation has registered your vehicle in advance. Otherwise, park outside the walls and walk in.

Where should I park in Cortona?

Piazzale del Mercato is the largest and most convenient free car park, just outside Porta Colonia.

Is there a fee to enter the ZTL by mistake?

Yes — cameras enforce the zone automatically, and fines are sent by post, including to rental car companies who will forward the cost to you.

How long does it take to walk from the car park to the centre?

From Piazzale del Mercato, it’s about 10–15 minutes uphill to Piazza della Repubblica.

More Getting Around Guides

• How to Get to Cortona — trains, airports and driving directions
• Train to Cortona — stations, tickets and validation
• Private Transfers in Cortona — door-to-door options
• Car Rental near Cortona — where to hire a car