Bregenz to Cortona: Alps to Tuscany Road Trip Guide

Did you know that the Bregenz–Cortona route crosses parts of the ancient Roman road Via Claudia Augusta, built in 15 AD? This 600km journey from Lake Constance to the Tuscan hills traverses three countries and four distinct climate zones.

Driving time averages 7–8 hours without stops, but you should plan for a full day to absorb the scenery. The route uses highways A1 (Austria), A12, and E45 (Italy), plus local roads through the Dolomites.

The route is well-maintained, with toll roads in Italy costing approximately €30 total. Fuel stations are frequent every 30–50 km, but in mountain stretches like the Brenner Pass, plan ahead.

• Highways: A1 (Bregenz–Innsbruck) → A13 (Brenner) → E45 (Italy) → A1 (Florence direction) → S71 to Cortona.
• Best time: May–September for clear passes; winter requires snow tires (mandatory in Austria/Italy Nov–Apr).
• Coordinates: Bregenz 47.5027° N, 9.7471° E; Cortona 43.2753° N, 11.9844° E.

For hidden gems off the main route, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road quality is excellent except for the narrow S71 stretch approaching Cortona. Use rest areas every 2 hours; recommended stops: Brixen (Bressanone) for a cathedral visit, and Mantua for its palazzos.

• Family-friendly: Gardaland (Lake Garda), Parco Natura Viva, and Oltremare in Riccione (detour).
• Pet-friendly: Most Austrian rest stops allow dogs; Italian Autogrill areas have designated pet zones.
• Fatigue management: The A1 through Austria has speed limits 130 km/h but reduces to 100 km/h in tunnels. Use rest areas like “Raststation Brenner” with panoramic views.

The scenery evolves from Alpine meadows and the Arlberg massif to the Dolomites’ limestone pinnacles, then rolling vineyards of Valpolicella and finally the clay hills of the Val di Chiana.

• Natural highlights: Lake Garda (detour 30 min), Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi, and the vineyards around Montepulciano.
• UNESCO Sites: Innsbruck's historic centre, the Dolomites (world heritage), Verona's Arena, and the Val d'Orcia (near Cortona).
• Local commerce: Stop at a farm shop in South Tyrol for speck and apples; in Tuscany, olive oil and pecorino cheese.