We're planning a trip to Tuscany in Spring 2006, or late September 2006. Thinking of staying in Cortona as a base, and visiting other cities/towns as well. Are any of you familiar with places to stay in Cortona?
What other towns should be sure to include?

Thanks for your help. We've visited Italy three times before, but need help with this area.

Thanks! Justine

>>We've visited Italy three times before, but need help with this area.<<

I've posted my opinion before, and here it is again.

I'm not a big fan of Cortona, nor the area around Cortona - there are other places much more scenic to base in. There's a lot of ugly developement & commerce at the base of Cortona, and a bit west, north, and south (that you will have to drive through going/coming from other places you will want to visit).

My choice for a base would be the Val d'Orcia between San Quirico & Montepulciano, or near Montalcino.

Stu Dudley

We've been to Cortona several times over 20 years... have stayed twice at the San Michelle (?) right on the main street. Our initial trip was bef0re Cortona was "discovered"... was one of our little "secrets". We've never used it as a "base".. so think the previous advice is well taken. However, if you can spend some time there at the end of the day when the tourist influx is gone you will probably find a very interesting experience.

another vote for the Hotel San Michele, very characteristic, unbeatable position rigth in the centre of Cortona.
Their website is www.hotelsanmichele.net

We stayed in the Hotel San Michele this past June and really enjoyed it. Located right around the corner from the main piazza.My parents stayed at the Hotel San Luca which gave them views of the rolling hills outside of Cortona.