The first thing I think of when Tuscany comes to mind is food…well, food and wine. Our most recent trip to Cortona, Italy, proved to be more wonderful and delicious than I could have ever imagined.
We stayed less than five minutes from the main village at the magnificent Villa Marsili. The close proximity to the Tuscan town of Cortona and its restaurants proved to be an advantage to our appetites if a disadvantage to our waistlines.
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Some of the best authentic Tuscan cuisine and wine can be found in the small village; while just beyond Cortona’s medieval walls, one of the most magnificent of Italy’s wine regions sprawls in all directions, offering a bounty of world-class vineyards and fresh, natural ingredients. Cortona really is a foodie’s dream come true!
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During our five day stay at Villa Marsili, we often sat in cozy cafes sipping cappuccinos and ventured to the gelato bar for late-night snacks. Every night we would ask the concierge for great dining recommendations.
The first night was actually our wedding anniversary, so we really wanted to treat ourselves to a fantastic meal. The first restaurant recommended to us was Osteria del Teatro.
The beautiful outdoor patio and genuine Tuscan interior were just the beginning of what would easily be one of the best dining experiences of my life. From the vegetables, meat to the wine, everything was produced nearby.
An elaborate array of risottos, pastas and tender meat dishes were on the seasonally fresh menu. The best thing on the menu had to be the Coniglio alla Cacciatora (stewed rabbit with vegetables), a typical Tuscan plate. I’ve never been a huge rabbit fan but the incredible flavors of the stew were amazing.
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Another restaurant that came highly recommended was the famous Pizzeria Flufluns.
Known for its giant pizzas, FluFluns has a variety of different pizza and pasta dishes. Be sure not to have a pasta dish as a starter, with a pizza as a main course.
I made this mistake in my ever-growing quest to consume as much Tuscan cuisine as I could. By the time the huge pizza came around I could barely eat half, which is why we had to go back a second time! I also recommend eating outside on the romantic street patio.
Cortona’s proximity to the Italian wine region of Montepulciano also makes it a great destination for wine lovers.
Mid-week we hired a car to take us to the legendary Avignonesi winery, founded by the nobility who came from Avignon in 1377 when Pope Gregory XI moved the Roman capitol back to Rome.
The tour guide took the group through all the main cellars and outdoors through the vines.
My favorite part of the tour was when we got to see where the grapes are housed until they are made into wine.
Amongst the rows and rows of grapes, the sweet smell is something I will never forget. The tour ended with a tasting of all the Avignonesi wines. The property is stunning with wide picturesque landscapes and charming old buildings.
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For the history, culture, and food, I highly recommend the Tuscan town of Cortona as a great addition to your itinerary for your next Italian vacation. I know it will be mine.
* All photos by Cailin Szczesiul © All rights reserved
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Ohhh, how lovely! Such scrumptious meals and what a GLORIOUSLY beautiful villa, Cailin. 🙂 Sigh. I can’t wait to return to Italy. Maybe in a year or two. 🙂
Such a romantic way to spend an anniversary! The winery tour sounds splendid. I love Italian wines.
Brought back great memories of our visit to Cortona and being taken by our friend Riccardo, who lives there, to the same places you’ve featured in your article. Cortona is magical!
Dag, I’m wanting to go to Cortona and follow in your footsteps, Cailin!
i love great food with the right wine, i wish i was you
Nice post – def inspired me to make a stopover in Cortona on my next trip!
Where did you find a car to take you to Avignonesi winery. My wife and I have been looking online and have not been able to find a good group tour. We leave in just over a week and your post here has us even more excited.