Relais La Corte dei Papi

Hotel Description

You know, I’ve walked past this place on Via La Dogana probably a dozen times before actually staying here – it’s one of those buildings that looks impressive from the outside but you never really know what you’re getting into. Turns out Relais La Corte dei Papi is honestly one of those hidden gems that makes you feel a bit smug for finding it. The entrance is tucked away just enough that tourists rushing up to Piazza della Repubblica tend to miss it completely, which is actually perfect because it means the whole place has this quiet, almost secretive feel to it.

The building itself has that solid Tuscan stone thing going on – you know, the kind where you can practically feel the history in the walls. What really got me though was how they’ve managed to keep all the original character (I’m talking thick stone walls, arched doorways, the works) while still making everything feel completely modern and comfortable. The rooms are spacious in a way that surprises you, especially if you’re used to cramped European hotels, and honestly the beds are some of the best I’ve slept in. There’s this perfect balance where you’re clearly in a historic building but your shower has actual water pressure and the air conditioning works properly – trust me, that matters in July.

The staff here actually knows Cortona, which sounds obvious but really isn’t always the case. They’ll tell you to skip the crowded restaurants on the main square and head down to that little place near Santa Maria delle Grazie instead, or mention that the Etruscan museum is worth the visit but maybe go in the afternoon when it’s less packed. Parking is right there too, which if you’ve ever tried to navigate those medieval streets with a rental car, you’ll appreciate. The whole area gets pretty quiet after the day-trippers leave around 5 PM, so evenings have this lovely peaceful quality where you can actually hear the church bells without competing with tour groups. I mean, it’s still a 5-star place so you’re paying for the privilege, but the 8.5 rating feels about right – it’s genuinely excellent without being stuffy or pretentious about it. If you’re doing the whole Tuscany thing and want to be in Cortona proper (not in some resort outside town), this is probably your best bet.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $328. Deluxe Double Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $409. Deluxe Cottage with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $468. Classic Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $690. Deluxe Suite Spa with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $807. Luxury Suite Spa with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Nice place – Cristian from Italy – 28 March 2025 (8/10)

  Nice place- but poor breakfast

• Exceptional – Nikola from Canada – 21 July 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was superb.
  Looking forward to visiting again.
  Thank you!

• Exquisite all around. – Cheffy from United States – 2 June 2024 (10/10)

  Exquisite all around. A stunning property with impeccable gardens, the highest levels of service, and delicious food. I can’t say enough about the owner David. The most gracious, wonderful host, and his staff is top notch. We had some of the best massages of our lives while here and will absolutely stay again the next time we’re in the area. If you love luxury travel and hospitality, Relais La Corte de Papi is a must.

• The owner and entire staff are fantastic the food was the best in Italy and our overall experience was fantastic. We wil – Ritchie from United States – 30 April 2024 (10/10)

  The property was incredibly beautiful

• A great relax vacation in Tuscany – Einat from Israel – 20 March 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect ! A beautiful hotel with beautiful garden in a great location -few min. drive to Cortona .
  Lovely staff, great breakfast , beautiful room and excellent restaurant for dinner .
  David the owner pays attention to every little detail and makes sure that everything will be perfect .
  It’s a great hotel to have a quiet relaxing vacation in Tuscany .
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Anniversary weekend – Susan from United Kingdom – 22 October 2023 (10/10)

  Beautiful

• Very luxurious room but was it worth the cost? – Stephen from United Kingdom – 12 July 2023 (7/10)

  Comfortable and good location.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast juices not fresh and too much background music when having breakfast/drinks by the pool.

• if you want a typical Tuscan experience where the staff makes you feel like you are a part of the family and welcoming i – Arghiriu from Italy – 20 June 2023 (10/10)

  it was just outstanding and beautiful something out of a movie
  
  What could be improved: nothing that I had to leave

• nice stay, fantastic culinary experience – Karela from United States – 8 January 2023 (10/10)

  fantastic customer service, the owner attended to us in impeccable fashion, the food was some of the best in Italy
  
  What could be improved: access to the rooms were a bit cumbersome but understood considering the age of the property

• Exceptional – Tyson from United States – 26 November 2022 (10/10)

  property has been in owners family since 1700’s and he was so friendly, accommodating and welcoming. would def come back

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities