From Cortona by Car: Summer Itineraries Between the Sea, Villages and Cool Mountain Escapes Ep. 1: From Cortona to the Maremma Coast: A Scenic Road Trip to the Sea

Summer in Cortona has a special charm: the stone streets of the historic center, the hills of the Valdichiana, the sunsets over Lake Trasimeno and the authentic atmosphere of Tuscany that travelers love so much. But when temperatures rise, it is also the perfect time to get on the road, look for the sea, head towards the mountains or discover new places where the air feels cooler.

This is why we have created our series “From Cortona by Car: Summer Itineraries Between the Sea, Villages and Cool Mountain Escapes”, designed for visitors staying in the area who want to explore freely. Cortona is an ideal starting point: from the Valdichiana, you can reach beaches, forests, hilltop villages, art towns and landscapes that are completely different from one another.

In this series, we will guide you through five perfect summer itineraries: Maremma, the Romagna Riviera, Casentino, the Tuscan Apennines and the Apennines between Umbria and Le Marche. Each journey is designed to be enjoyed by car, giving you the freedom to choose your own timing, stops and detours without depending on public transport schedules.

Our first itinerary takes us towards the sea of southern Tuscany: Maremma, a wild and fascinating land of beaches, pine forests, seaside villages and sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Discover a summer road trip from Cortona to the Maremma coast: beaches, nature, medieval villages and sunset views over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

View of Porto Ercole

From Cortona to Maremma: Sea, Nature and Freedom

When summer temperatures rise in the Valdichiana, one of the best ideas is to leave Cortona and head towards the sea. Maremma is a perfect destination for travelers who want to discover a different side of Tuscany: wilder, more open, shaped by beaches, pine forests, medieval villages and scenic country roads.

Driving from Cortona to Maremma turns a simple beach day into a real travel experience. It is not only about reaching the coast, but about enjoying the journey through hills, countryside and coastal landscapes. With a rental car, you can decide your own pace, stop along the way and adapt the itinerary to your mood.

This trip is ideal for couples, families and international visitors staying in Cortona who would like to explore another authentic face of Tuscany.

First stop: Grosseto

A good first stop is Grosseto, often overlooked but pleasant for a short walk through its historic center. Its Medici walls, cathedral and central squares offer an urban introduction to Maremma before continuing towards the coast.

Grosseto is also a practical place for a coffee, breakfast or quick break before choosing your seaside destination for the day.

Second stop: Maremma Regional Park and Marina di Alberese

For nature lovers, the Maremma Regional Park is one of the most fascinating areas. It is perfect for travelers looking for a less developed and more authentic coastline, with Mediterranean vegetation, pine forests, walking trails and wide beaches.

Marina di Alberese is one of the most distinctive beaches in the area. It is ideal for those who enjoy natural landscapes rather than beach clubs and organized facilities. Its charm lies in its simplicity: sea, sand, driftwood, nature and silence.

During summer, always check access rules, parking options and possible shuttle services before visiting, as some areas may have specific regulations.

Third stop: Castiglione della Pescaia

If you prefer a more comfortable and lively destination, Castiglione della Pescaia is an excellent choice. This seaside village combines equipped beaches, restaurants, evening walks and a charming historic center.

The upper part of the town offers beautiful views, especially at sunset. After a day at the beach, walking up to the old village and stopping for dinner is a perfect way to end the day.

Castiglione is especially suitable for families and couples looking for relaxation, seaside atmosphere and a touch of elegance.

Beautifull view of Talamone

Scenic option: Talamone

For a more panoramic stop, consider Talamone. This small village overlooks a spectacular stretch of coast and offers wide views towards the sea and Monte Argentario.

It is ideal for a walk, sunset photos or dinner with a view. If you are planning a weekend rather than a day trip, Talamone can also be a great base for exploring southern Maremma.

Why visit Maremma by car

Maremma is best explored by car. Beaches, villages and natural areas are spread across a wide territory, and public transport does not always offer enough flexibility.

With a rental car, you can leave Cortona early, choose your beach depending on the weather, stop for lunch in a village or change your plan during the day. This freedom is what makes the itinerary so enjoyable.

Practical tips

Leave early in the morning, especially in high summer. Bring water, a hat, sunscreen and, if you choose natural beaches, everything you need for a day with limited services. Always check parking, beach access and traffic conditions, especially on summer weekends.

If you are traveling with children, Castiglione della Pescaia or Marina di Grosseto may be more convenient. If you are looking for nature and quiet, Marina di Alberese and the Maremma Regional Park are more authentic choices.

Conclusion

From Cortona to Maremma, the journey is part of the experience. In just a few hours, you move from the hills of Valdichiana to the sea of southern Tuscany, crossing varied landscapes and discovering a region full of charm.

Would you like to plan a seaside day during your stay in Cortona? With Fratelli Rent, you can choose the right car and enjoy the freedom of exploring the Maremma coast. Book here: [Book your car]