Pienza

“An exquisite Renaissance dolls’ house”. Every piazza is perfection. Pienza became the home of Pope E.S. Piccolomini and the masterpiece of Florentine architect, Bernado Rossellini.

If arriving from the West, park on the right next to the cemetery just outside the town and approach on foot on a wide path atop the town boundary walls with truly stunning panoramic views out over the whole Orcia valley and over to Monte Amiata. Twenty minutes later you will arrive at a small grassy square and an arch leading pedestrians into the centre of town. On either side of the cobbled street are shops offering the local cheeses – pecorino and ricotta, wine, delicious gelati and ceramics before opening out into the cathedral square. There are many restaurants and bars behind the main square. All in all, Pienza is a must excursion and works well with a trip to the local thermal spa baths of Bagno Vignoli or more sightseeing at Montepulciano.