The Small Castle

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about The Small Castle? It actually feels like a small castle – not in some cheesy theme park way, but in that authentic, stone-walled, “wait, am I really sleeping here?” kind of way. It’s tucked right on Via Mazzuoli, which honestly most tourists walk right past because they’re all rushing up to the main piazza, but that’s exactly why this spot works so well. You’re literally a three-minute walk from all the action in Cortona’s historic center, but when you close your door at night, it’s just you and the Tuscan countryside stretching out below.

The building itself has this wonderful weight to it – thick walls that keep things cool even in August (trust me on this one), and these windows that frame the Val di Chiana like living paintings. I mean, you wake up and there’s this sweeping view that changes completely depending on the light. Morning mist, golden hour, dramatic storm clouds – it’s all there. The rooms have character without being fussy about it. Original stone details mixed with modern comfort, and the beds are actually good, which… well, anyone who’s stayed in “historic” hotels knows that’s not always a given. What really impressed me was how quiet it gets at night. Via Mazzuoli isn’t a through street for cars, so you don’t get that constant Vespa buzz that can drive you crazy in other Italian towns.

The staff here genuinely know Cortona – not just the obvious tourist spots, but where to get the best porchetta on Saturday mornings, which enoteca has the most interesting local wines, that sort of thing. They pointed me toward this little trattoria about ten minutes down the hill that I never would have found otherwise. Check-in was smooth, parking is sorted (which is huge in Cortona, honestly), and they have this relaxed approach that makes you feel like you’re staying with friends rather than just occupying a room. The whole place has that rare quality where you feel like you’ve discovered something special without having to rough it. It’s polished enough for a romantic getaway but unpretentious enough that you can just relax and enjoy being in one of Tuscany’s most beautiful hilltop towns. With a 9.6 rating, clearly other people are picking up on what makes this place work so well.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $278. Two-Bedroom House with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Lb from Sweden – 3 June 2025 (10/10)

  Fernanda is an exceptional host, takes you on a tour of the town. The castle is very tastefully decorated, and feels like home. The kitchen is so well equipped, every little detail is thought of. Bedrooms and sitting rooms are lovely and cool. The location is very quiet yet central.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. All was perfect.

• Beautiful and Spacious Stay in Cortona – Wynn from United States – 27 October 2024 (10/10)

  Ms. Fernanda was an excellent host. She even met us in 30 minutes when we locked ourselves out. The Small Castle was beautiful and very spacious. We have 2 small kids, and they loved going up and down the stairs every day to their own loft. The rooms were spacious, and having a washer and 3 bathrooms is great for a family.

• Exceptional – Staggs from United States – 8 October 2023 (10/10)

  This house offers the perfect location in Contona! It's located on a quiet street but close to restaurants and shops. There was plenty of space for our family of four, nice kitchen, three bathrooms, and convenient street level entrance. I would be happy to stay here again.

• Beautiful italian house – M from Finland – 23 June 2023 (9/10)

  The location is perfect, it's near the Porta Colonia. Everything is near, also minimarket. The Small Castle is romantic old house with all the necessery equipments. It's beautiful and nicely renovated. Downstairs it's cool, which is good during hot summer. Bedrooms have AC and it's necessery. There is enough towels and three toilets and washing machine. The owners are very kind and ready to help you in any ways. I warmly recommend this house.
  
  What could be improved: AC it's a bit noisy during the night. It's in three stores which is not ideal if you have small children but otherwise nice.

• Exceptional – Michael from Australia – 5 June 2023 (10/10)

  The Small Castle is the perfect place to explore the historic centre of Cortona. Close to the main square, but just off the main path enough that it is quiet and relaxing. Beautifully decorated and complete with all amenities. Our hosts were very accommodating and provided excellent recommendations for our stay. Would love to return!
  
  What could be improved: –

• Exceptional – Eugene from United States – 6 May 2023 (10/10)

  It was absolutely perfect. Romantic, and had everything we could have wanted, and cute and cozy. The location was perfect, and nice and quiet. Carlo and Fernanda were delightful, and helped us get our bearings while sharing their love of the city and Tuscany. Looking forward to visiting again. A perfect base of operations to explore the region.
  
  What could be improved: It was great, wouldn't change a thing. Would recommend to friends. An absolute delight.

• Exceptional – Eugene from United States – 6 May 2023 (10/10)

  It was absolutely perfect. Had everything we could have wanted, and cute and cozy. The location was perfect, and nice and quiet. Carlo and Fernanda were delightful, and helped us get our bearings while sharing their love of the city and Tuscany. Looking forward to visiting again. A perfect base of operations to explore the region.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to comment on, it was great. Couldn't have asked for more. Highly recommended.

• Superb – David from United Kingdom – 21 September 2022 (9/10)

  A lovely place, ideally situated for exploring Cortona. Close to many shops and restaurants.

• Fabulous place and landlords. – Brian from United States – 22 August 2022 (10/10)

  Great Landlords. Even showed us around town and gave us some history or the property and Cortona and restaurants. Felt like we had been friends with the landlords/property managers, Fernanda and Carlo, for years. I highly suggest staying at the Small Castle. The property is perfect. Having the bedrooms/bathrooms on separate floors makes it feel like two individual units. We would.
  
  What could be improved: That we did not stay longer

• Sleep like royalty – Millie from United States – 25 May 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful home, easy to get anywhere in Cortona from the location. Quiet and cozy, furnishings go well with the castle theme.
  Fernanda met us to park our car, showed us around town and made us feel very welcomed.
  
  What could be improved: Steps in the bathroom are a bit awkward.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities