Cortona:
Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona
Cortona : Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona
Step into the sacred heart of Cortona on this immersive walking tour, where history, faith, and devotion converge. This journey takes you through the life and legacy of Saint Margaret of Cortona, offering a unique blend of spiritual reflection, historical insight, and Italian charm. Whether you’re on pilgrimage or simply exploring the stories that shaped this hilltop town, this tour will leave you inspired.
Tour Highlights
Visit the Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona, where the life and devotion of the saint are commemorated and venerated.
Explore the chapels and devotional spaces, reflecting on the acts of penance, charity, and deep faith that defined her life.
Learn about the miracles and enduring spiritual legacy associated with Saint Margaret, inspiring pilgrims from around the world.
Walk through the medieval streets of Cortona, experiencing the town’s historic charm, sacred architecture, and panoramic views from the hilltop.
Pause at notable sites tied to her life and works, gaining insight into the Catholic traditions and local heritage.
Conclude with a moment of prayer and reflection at the sanctuary, leaving with a deeper understanding of Saint Margaret’s life and her timeless spiritual influence.
More Information
Duration : 2 Hours
Language : 
English | 
French | 
Spanish | 
German | 
Italian | 
Portuguese | 
Polish
Tour Inclusions : Experienced tour guide, Entrance to Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona, Small group experience
Tour Exclusions : Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from Cortona, optional donations, Entrance Fees
Distance : Approximately 1.5 km
Accessibility : Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting Point : Please arrive 10 minutes early in front of the main entrance of the Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona (Piazza Santa Margherita, 1). Your guide will meet you there.
Cortona : Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona
Step into the sacred heart of Cortona on this immersive walking tour, where history, faith, and tradition converge. Your journey begins at the Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona, a magnificent site honoring the life and legacy of the saint who devoted her life to faith and charity. Here, you’ll learn about her life, courage, and enduring spiritual influence that continues to inspire pilgrims today.
Next, explore the sacred spaces within the sanctuary, reflecting on the life of Saint Margaret and the miracles attributed to her intercession. Understand how her story shaped devotion in the region and inspired generations of faithful.
Continue your exploration with a walk through the historic streets of Cortona, one of Italy’s most charming medieval towns. Admire the timeless architecture, quaint squares, and sacred heritage. Pause at notable viewpoints overlooking the town and surrounding Tuscan landscape — a perfect spot to reflect on Cortona’s spiritual and historical significance.
Along the way, discover local sites of devotion and community life connected to Saint Margaret. Hear the stories of those whose lives were touched by her faith, and appreciate the enduring power of hope and charity.
Your tour concludes back at the Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona, providing a quiet moment for prayer, reflection, and gratitude. Leave with a deeper understanding of Cortona’s sacred history, the legacy of Saint Margaret, and the timeless Christian faith that continues to resonate through its streets and sacred sites.
Cortona : Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona
Perched on the rolling hills of Tuscany, the town of Cortona is a jewel of Christian heritage and medieval charm. Pilgrims and travelers are drawn not only by its breathtaking landscapes but also by its deep spiritual significance. Among the most important places to visit is the Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona, dedicated to the life and legacy of this remarkable saint who devoted herself to faith, charity, and repentance. The sanctuary remains a place of pilgrimage, reflection, and prayer, drawing visitors seeking spiritual enrichment and historical insight.
Saint Margaret of Cortona
Saint Margaret of Cortona (1247–1297) was a penitent saint whose life story embodies repentance, devotion, and charity. After a troubled early life, she devoted herself to God, dedicating her time to caring for the poor and marginalized. Her unwavering faith and acts of mercy earned her canonization, and her tomb at the sanctuary continues to be a destination for pilgrims from around the world. Visitors can explore the chapel, relics, and devotional spaces that honor her spiritual legacy and learn about the miracles attributed to her intercession.
The Spiritual and Historical Significance of Cortona
Cortona itself is a living testament to Italy’s religious and cultural history. Medieval streets, churches, and squares weave together stories of faith, devotion, and community life. Pilgrims walking through the town can reflect on the saint’s teachings while taking in the timeless charm of this Tuscan hilltop town. The sanctuary, perched above Cortona, provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and landscapes, offering a perfect place for prayer, reflection, and contemplation.
Pilgrimage and Devotion
The Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona remains a vibrant center of devotion. Pilgrims and visitors can participate in prayer services, learn about the saint’s life, and connect with centuries of Christian tradition. Cortona continues to offer a spiritual journey that combines history, art, and faith — a timeless experience for all who seek inspiration and renewal.
- Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
- Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
- Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
- Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
- Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
- Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
- Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
- Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
- Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.
- Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
- Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
- Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
- No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
- Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
🧭 Plan Your Visit to Cortona
Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and enjoy Cortona — a Tuscan hilltop gem rich in faith, history, and Italian charm. Travel times are approximate and may vary with schedules and traffic.
🤝 Airport Meet & Assist Services
For a smooth travel experience, take advantage of Meet & Assist services available for both arrivals and departures at major airports, including Rome Fiumicino, Rome Ciampino, and Florence. A dedicated assistant will greet you, assist with luggage, check-in, and security, ensuring a stress-free start or end to your journey.
Please note: this service is provided only within the airport. Airport Meet & Assist is especially useful for first-time visitors to Italy or anyone seeking a smooth start or end to their trip.
✈️ By Air
Rome Fiumicino (FCO) – ~150 km | Florence (FLR) – ~110 km
Approx. 1.5–2.5 hours by car or taxi.
From either airport, rent a car or take a train to Cortona via Arezzo or Camucia-Cortona station.
🚆 By Train
Nearest Station: Camucia-Cortona (Florence–Rome line)
From Florence: ~1.5 hours | From Rome Termini: ~2.5–3 hours
Taxi or bus connections are available from Camucia-Cortona station to the town center and the sanctuary.
🚗 By Car
Drive along the scenic SR71 or E45 highways, connecting Florence, Arezzo, and Rome.
From Florence: ~110 km (~1.5 hours) | From Rome: ~230 km (~2.5–3 hours)
Parking is available near the Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona and throughout the historic center.
🚌 By Bus
Local and regional buses connect Cortona with Arezzo, Florence, Perugia, and nearby towns. Timetables vary — check before traveling.
🚖 By Taxi / Private Transfer
Enjoy a direct, comfortable trip from airports, train stations, or nearby cities. Perfect for small groups or travelers with luggage.
🚶♀️ On Foot / Locally
Cortona is a small, walkable town. All main attractions — the Sanctuary, historic streets, churches, and viewpoints — are easily reached on foot.
🏨 Where to Stay in Cortona
Find the perfect stay within walking distance of the Sanctuary or the historic center. Choose from boutique hotels, guesthouses, or family-run B&Bs.
🏨 Hotels & B&Bs | 🏡 Unique Local Stays
🎟️ Experiences & Activities
Make your visit unforgettable — explore nearby spiritual and cultural treasures, or extend your journey through Tuscany and Umbria.
🎟️ Book Tours & Activities
🎒 Travel Essentials
Be prepared and comfortable for your walk through Cortona’s historic streets and sacred sites.
👟 Walking Shoes & Gear | 🧳 Travel Insurance
✝️ Religious & Devotional Items
If you cannot visit Cortona in person, you can still bring a piece of its faith and history into your home. Explore authentic Catholic devotional items inspired by Saint Margaret of Cortona and other sacred traditions of Italy.
🕊️ Religious Gifts & Souvenirs
⚠️ Note:
All times, prices, and details are approximate and may vary depending on schedules, seasons, or provider updates. Always check current travel information before booking.
💡 Travel Tip
Combine train + local taxi or rental car for the smoothest arrival — the perfect blend of comfort and flexibility.
Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.
To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.
Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups
If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.
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- List also other tours near the tour location ( Orvieto, Rome…etc )
Work With Us as a Tour Guide in Cortona
We’re looking for licensed tour guides to collaborate with us in sharing the faith, history, and beauty of Cortona. If you guide visitors through the Sanctuary of Saint Margaret of Cortona, the historic churches, or the charming medieval streets of this Tuscan hill town, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us to join our team and help pilgrims and travelers experience the spiritual and cultural treasures of Cortona.
Partner with Us
We’re always looking to collaborate with travel agencies, pilgrimage organizers, and Catholic organizations to bring faith-based tours to more pilgrims. Partner with us to offer authentic Catholic pilgrimage experiences, expand your offerings, and deliver unforgettable journeys to sacred sites.