The Perfect Day Trip From Florence: How To Explore Tuscany’s Hidden Gem, Pienza
The ideal Renaissance city, Pienza is an Italian icon. From exploring its charming streets and stunning architecture to immersing yourself in the town's rich history, these are the best things to do in Pienza, Italy.
In the heart of Tuscany stands Pienza, a town that's like a perfectly aged bottle of wine - complex, rich, and utterly irresistible. The town isn't just picturesque; it's the kind of spot that makes you want to kick back and indulge in a little (read: a lot) la dolce vita.
And after spending a mere moment in the town, we were in love.
But Pienza isn't your average Tuscan town. Back in the 15th century, Pope Pius II had a vision, to turn his sleepy hometown of Corsignano into the ultimate Renaissance paradise. And he nailed it. Pienza is a masterpiece of urban planning and architectural genius, but it’s so much more than that.
Ochre-coloured cobbled streets open to wide piazzas which house excellent restaurants serving some of the best Tuscan delights you’ll find. The town’s palazzos and cathedrals offer both beauty and history, while the views from the town walls are some of the best in Tuscany (be here for sunset… trust us!).
Pienza is also tiny - walkable in about an hour (or even less if you’re not slow like us), which allows you to enjoy the good stuff - long lunches, wine, pecorino, after exploring its winding alleyways and city walls. Beyond the town, there’s an endless supply of wonderful wineries offering bold Sangiovese or crisp Vermentino.
So while Pienza’s size makes it the perfect town for a day trip from Florence, we feel it’s worth a little more time - it just has that special something that makes you want to stay awhile and soak it all in.
This guide to the best things to do in Pienza offers an overview of what to see and do in the town, plus where to eat and drink. We’ve also provided essential information to plan your visit (we suggest this tour from Florence), including the best time of year to visit, and how to get there.
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THINGS TO DO IN PIENZA, TUSCANY
WHERE | Tuscany, 120km from Florence
WHAT TO SEE & DO | Marvel at Piazza Pio, Try Pienza Pecorino, Wine Tasting, Walk the cobbled streets, Step inside Pienza Cathedral, Enjoy Palazzo Piccolomini
WHERE TO EAT | Sette di Vino, Antichi Sapori, La Taverna del Pecorino, or the popular Marusco e Maria
HOW TO GET THERE | Guided Tour (book here), Rental Car, public transport
WHEN TO VISIT | Spring, or late-Summer
THINGS TO DO IN PIENZA
START YOUR DAY IN PRETTY PIAZZA PIO
Starting your Pienza explorations in Piazza Pio just makes sense, as it’s here that Pope Pius II’s vision for the ideal Renaissance town becomes evident.
Named after the Pope who helped transform Pienza into a shining beacon of Renaissance urban design, Piazza Pio is the pulsating heart of the town. Conceptualised by Pope Pius II and architect Bernardo Rosselino in 1459, the centre of Pienza was built within three years.
The square is framed by the elegant Palazzo Piccolomini, an early example of Renaissance architecture, the Pienza Cathedral, designed in Gothic Franciscan style, Palazzo Borgia, which houses the current-day Diocesan Museum, and the town hall & loggia.
Beyond Pieza Cathedral, there are sweeping views across the famed Val d’Orcia valley, which you can enjoy as part of a walk around the town. From the square, numerous cobbled side streets fan off, allowing you to get wonderfully lost (see below).
The historic square is otherwise austere - no restaurants or bars line the square, so it really feels like you’ve been teleported back to the Renaissance era. We suggest standing in the centre, and slowly turning 360 degrees to fully appreciate the magnificence.
Overall though, Piazza Pio is more of a starting point than an attraction in itself but will give you a sense of wonder
THE DETAILS
Where | Piazza Pio II, 53026 Pienza
GET LOST IN THE STREETS AND ALLEYWAYS
Pienza is small. Very small. So small in fact, that you can walk each orche-coloured street and alleyway in an hour.
And you should do exactly that.
Pienza is a living, breathing canvas of the Tuscan experience. The town's architecture is a tribute to the Renaissance era and Tuscany in general, and its charm is magnified by the backdrop of Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its rolling landscapes bathed in the soft glow of the Tuscan sun.
Start on Corso il Rossellino, the timeless thoroughfare that cuts through the medieval centre of town. It’s here you’ll find many of the major attractions, restaurants and enotecas, including Piazza Pio II, Palazzo Piccolomini and the Pienza Cathedral.
From Corso il Rossellino, take every alleyway you come across, stepping through labyrinthine streets, past Pienza’s golden-hued buildings, and windows adorned with colourful flower boxes, and finding hidden corners where that scent of Tuscany hangs in the air.
Get lost, discover your favourite corners, and just enjoy winding your way through history.
Some of our favourite streets include via Dogali, via della Volpe, via Guglielmo Marconi and via del Leone, which houses the most photogenic fruit shop in town, L’Orto di Silvia.
EXPLORE THE RENAISSANCE JEWEL OF PALAZZO PICCOLOMINI
Standing proudly alongside Piazza Pio is the glorious Palazzo Piccolomini, a towering Renaissance palace of immense history and notoriety.
The Palazzo was built in the 15th century by architect Bernardo Rossellino at the behest of local boy-done good, Pope Pius II, whose vision was to transform his humble birthplace into an ideal Renaissance town (600 years later, we believe he succeeded!).
The opulent palace is one of the earliest examples of early Renaissance architecture, and features a harmonious blend of architectural elements, with a facade adorned by rustic light stone, ornate windows, elegant columns, and a frieze that pays homage to classical design. You can view the facade in all its glory from Piazzo Pio, or take a guided tour of the complex.
Inside, the rooms are lavishly decorated and feature stunning frescoes, opulent furnishings, and intricate detailing that speak of a bygone era's grandeur. Perhaps the best feature, though, is the Loggia, with a panoramic terrace offering sweeping views of the Val d'Orcia.
Today, the palace serves as a museum where you can admire the ancient Hall of Ancestors, Pius II's study, chambers, and the art and sculpture collection he built. The rooms also feature a 15th-century fireplace and precious ceilings, XV and XVIII-century furnishing, paintings, sculptures and Flemish tapestries. There’s also a stunning garden which is worth a short stroll.
If you’re short of time, you can probably give the museum a miss, especially if you spent time in Florence and are a little museum’ed out.
THE DETAILS
Where | Palazzo Piccolomini, Pienza
Cost | € 7 which includes access to the palace, the Loggia, and the museum
Opening Hours | 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday-Sunday
BOOK | Highly rated guided tour of Palazzo Piccolomini
MARVEL AT THE DUOMO DI PIENZA (PIENZA CATHEDRAL)
Restrained yet beautiful, subtle yet imposing, Pienza Cathedral (Cattedrale dell’Assunta) is a shift from the overwhelming beauty of Florence and Siena cathedrals, and we’re here for it.
Constructed by Bernardo Rossellino in the 15th century under the patronage of Pope Pius II, the cathedral is a hallmark of early Renaissance design. Its travertine façade is minimalism at its finest, all pillars and blind arches with columns and pilasters, devoid of ostentatious decorations and typical marble stripes seen in Tuscan churches. And those doors… we’re in love.
The elegant bell tower, unfortunately, damaged in 1545 by an earthquake and faithfully rebuilt two decades later, stands tall above the church.
The interior is what you’d expect - a typically serene sanctuary, where the play of light through stained glass windows dances on frescoed walls, of which some are from the 15th century, painted by famed Sienese school alumni. Pope Pius II wanted a church where so much light streamed in that worshippers felt they were “not in a house of stone, but of glass”, and you could feel the light and warmth upon entry.
The cathedral's crowning glory is the triptych altarpiece painted by Sano di Pietro, a masterpiece that narrates the life of the Virgin Mary. It’s also possible to climb down to the crypt (the former Church of San Giovanni).
THE DETAILS
Where | Pienza Cathedral (Cattedrale dell’Assunta)
Opening Hours | 8:30 am - 1 pm, 2:30 pm - 7 pm
TRY THE FAMOUS (AND DELICIOUS) PIENZA CHEESE
Fun fact: Italy has over 2,500 traditional cheese varieties, of which 300 are protected by designation of origin. In short, Italians know their cheese, love their cheese, and make bloody good cheese.
Pienza, unsurprisingly, has its own wonderful variety - Pienza Pecorino, widely regarded as the best pecorino in Italy.
Crafted from sheep's milk, the cheese is an embodiment of the region's pastoral heritage - the poor soil in Val d’Orcia means the grass and wild herbs must work harder to grow, which in turn produces a more flavourful end product.
And Pienza Pecorino is good. Really good.
The cheese comes in an array of flavours and textures, ranging from the youthful and creamy "Fresco" to the aged and crumbly "Stagionato." The cheese is often infused with fragrant herbs like rosemary, thyme, or red chilli flakes, each variation showcasing the local terroir. And best paired with the wine, Brunello di Montalcino.
It would be remiss to visit Pienza and not devour your body weight in Pecorino, which is exactly what we did. We stopped by the rustic Antichi Sapori and tried each pecorino type (the owners were super generous in letting us sample a LOT), before settling on a panini with stagionato, and sat on the steps of Palazzo Piccolomini enjoying the most simple yet delicious lunch. Alternatively, stop by La Taverna del Pecorino.
Most restaurants, cafes and delis in town serve Pienza Pecorino, so you won’t be too far from a sample, however, if you plan your visit in early September, you can witness the annual Fiera del Cacio, a festival that celebrates the origins of this local delicacy with tastings, competitions, and a vibrant market.
Alternatively, if you want to learn all about Pienza Pecorino, take this guided tour through the stunning countryside, and sample every pecorino type known to man. It’s 100% worth it.
THE DETAILS
Where to try | Antichi Sapori, La Taverna del Pecorino, or the popular Marusco e Maria
Tip | Pair Pienza cheese with Brunello di Montalcino wine, local honey, jams, or cured meats
Read | For more on the origins and traditions of Pecorino di Pienza, read this article
BOOK | This highly-rated Pienza pecorino cheese tour
ADMIRE THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE FROM THE CITY WALLS (CAMMINATA PANORAMICA)
The southern fringe of the city walls provides perhaps the best views of Val d’Orcia, where the landscapes resemble a Renaissance painting of towering Cyprus trees, rolling Tuscan hills, lush vineyards and quaint chapels.
The panoramic walk (map) starts at Porta al Ciglio at the eastern entrance to the town and follows the walls toward Piazza Pio II. From Piazza Pio II, continue down the now insta-famous stairs to continue along towards the western town gates.
The path is not long, but we suggest taking it slow, stopping at various points to take in the view and breathe in that Tuscan air. Or alternatively, grab a pecorino panini, and beer, and set up your very own picnic, or take this guided e-bike tour of the area.
BOOK | An e-bike tour of Pienza & beyond
ENJOY A MEAL AT SETTE DI VINO
There’s truly nothing better than enjoying a long lunch or late evening meal in an Italian piazza, and the old-fashioned osteria, Sette di Vino, is the best place to enjoy this experience in Pienza.
Located in the tranquil Piazza di Spagna, Sette di Vino's menu celebrates the flavours of the region - think Pienza Pecorino, truffle, Tuscan steak - but, it’s a big but, they don’t serve pasta. Now, that might be shocking to some, but it’s also what makes the restaurant stand out from others in the town and region.
Dishes are meant to be shared, tapas-style, but the food is typically Italian in that the produce does the talking. Order the house wine, bruschetta with pecorino & truffle oil, verdure grigliate, and simply enjoy being present in Pienza.
It’s worth noting that reservations aren’t possible, so arrive early or be prepared to wait. But trust us, it’s worth it.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Case Nuove, 7, 53026 Pienza, Italy
Opening Hours | Daily, 12 - 2 pm, 7 - 9:30 pm - closed Wednesday
SEE BEAUTY BLOOM AT LA FOCE GARDENS
Tucked away in the Tuscan countryside just a short trip from Pienza lies the hidden gem of La Foce Gardens.
Housed in a historic estate that dates back to the 15th century, the formal gardens, which sprawl over 70 hectares, were crafted by Iris Origo and her husband Antonio to enhance the Renaissance house and expand the spectacular view over the valley of the Orcia and Mount Amiata. The resulting gardens are glorious, and rival the Boboli gardens in Florence for grandeur.
Travertine stairs guide the way to the rose garden, further adorned by a wisteria-covered pergola flanked by a lavender hedge. The terraces ascend the hill, home to cherry trees, pines, and cypresses amidst wild broom, thyme, and rosemary. The avenue of cypresses culminates at the majestic 17th-century stone statue.
There’s also a wonderfully rustic restaurant on site, Dopolavoro La Foce which serves seasonal dishes based on the Tuscan tradition. Honestly, the restaurant aesthetic is like something we would find in Australia, so we highly recommend visiting if staying in the area longer than a day.
The views across Val d'Orcia's undulating hills are something else, so if you’re looking for an escape from the summer heat, crowds, or just something a little off the beaten track, we suggest spending a few hours at La Foce Gardens
THE DETAILS
Where | Strada della Vittoria, 90, 53042 Chianciano Terme SI, Italy
Cost | € 10 per adult
BOOK | Pre-book your visit to ensure availability, and consider a guided tour for a deeper appreciation of the gardens' stories
GO WINE TASTING
Pienza is located in the heart of Tuscany, one of the world's most renowned wine regions so it would be remiss to not spend a lazy afternoon sampling the best local product.
The area surrounding Pienza is home to several world-class wineries, each offering a unique atmosphere and an array of wines.
Here are a few wineries we suggest visiting:
PODERE IL CASALE
Podere Il Casale is an organic farm and winery located just outside of Pienza. The winery has been producing organic high-quality wines for over 30 years and is best known for its Rosso di Montalcino DOC and Brunello di Montalcino DOCG. It’s possible to take a guided tour of the vineyards and winery, which includes a visit to the cellars and a tasting of several of the winery's wines. Alternatively, take a cooking class.
Perhaps the best feature though, is the on-site, 0km restaurant, which features traditional Tuscan cuisine made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
It’s these types of places we love to find on our travels.
TENUTA LE POTAZZINE
Perhaps a little too far away to call it a Pienza winery, the excellent Tenuta Le Potazzine, located in the heart of Montalcino, is worth the drive. The winery has been producing high-quality wines for over 20 years and is best known for its Brunello di Montalcino DOCG and Rosso di Montalcino DOC. The winery's vineyards are spread across various locations, including the historic Villa Le Potazzine, which dates back to the 18th century.
You can take a guided tour of the vineyards and winery, which includes a visit to the cellars and a tasting of several of the winery's wines. The winery also has a wine shop on-site, where visitors can purchase their favourite wines to take home.
The winery's restaurant, La Bandita, offers traditional Tuscan cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
PIENZA FAQS & TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WHERE IS PIENZA, AND HOW TO GET TO THERE
Pienza is situated in the heart of the Val d'Orcia in the region of Tuscany, around 120 km south of the capital of Florence, and 55km from popular Siena. Located in the heart of the famed Tuscan wine country, the town sits in between popular medieval towns such as Montepulciano and Montalcino, making it the perfect day trip from Florence.
There are multiple ways to get to Pienza, with the most popular being a guided tour from Florence, especially for travellers with limited time. However, we highly suggest renting a car and taking a Tuscan road trip, which gives great flexibility and freedom to enjoy this part of the world slowly.
GUIDED TOUR
The most popular way to visit Pienza is via a guided tour, and there is a huge array of private tours from Florence & Siena that visit Pienza as part of a trip to Tuscany’s many Renaissance towns, including Montepulciano and Montalcino.
While tours are often fast-paced, they’re a great way to see many of Tuscany’s highlights, while learning about the history, culture, and food/wine in the region.
Given the distances involved, we highly recommend a guided tour, and we’ve listed the best options below, which include transport and an English-speaking guide:
BOOK |This highly-rated, excellent tour of Pienza, Montepulciano and Montalcino from Florence
CAR RENTAL
We visited Tuscany as part of a two-week-long road trip, and we can’t recommend it highly enough. Having a car rental allows you to explore the region at your leisure, and you can visit cities and towns earlier than the crowds, providing a much better experience.
Given the popularity of Tuscany, car rental availability is limited, especially in summer, so we suggest booking online, which you can do here. Expect to pay €50 - €100 per day.
Car rentals can be picked up in major cities throughout Tuscany, including Florence, Pisa, and Siena. From any of these cities, it will take approximately 1-2 hours to reach Pienza by car.
There are several parking options in Pienza, all of which fill quickly. The best option is the large free parking spot located just outside the historic town centre (find here).
BOOK | Book your car rental here
PUBLIC TRANSPORT / INDEPENDENT
If you prefer to travel independently by public transport, there are several options available from Florence. The most direct Florence to Pienza bus option stops twice, in Siena and Buonconvento, over a three-hour journey. See more here.
All public transport options are time-consuming, so we’d only recommend them if you’re planning on spending multiple nights in Pienza.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PIENZA
Given the ever-increasing popularity of Euro-summer, we’re huge advocates for shoulder season travel. And in Pienza, this is no different.
We visited in mid-September, and while the crowds were still large, they were not as busy as August. Coupled with pleasant temperatures, early Autumn is a perfect time to visit Pienza.
Alternatively, Spring offers a similar experience, although with vast green fields, and a Tuscan countryside in full bloom.
Winter is the least crowded time to visit, and some attractions may have shorter hours, or be closed altogether. Expect mostly grey skies, but in some cases that just adds to the town's charm.
WANDERER TIP | If you plan your visit in early September, you can witness the annual Fiera del Cacio, a festival that celebrates the origins of this local delicacy with tastings, competitions, and a vibrant market.
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU SPEND IN PIENZA?
Due to its small size, the best things to do in Pienza are easily enjoyed within a day. You can see the town's main attractions, including the historic centre, enjoy a leisurely lunch & wine, and visit a museum all within a day.
Hence the popularity of day trips to Pienza.
That being said, the surrounding countryside is genuinely breathtaking, and there is a large range of stunning Agriturismo in the area. Spending two nights or more in Pienza and Val d'Orcia, allows you to unwind and delve into the surrounding Tuscan countryside, visit nearby wineries, and appreciate the town's ambience at various times of the day (morning and golden hour are magical).
So, if you’re in a hurry, a day trip is adequate. If you’d prefer to immerse yourself in the heart of Tuscany, 1 or more nights is highly recommended.
HISTORY & FACTS OF PIENZA
Pienza is more than just another beautiful Tuscan town, so for it to contextually make sense, we feel it’s important to understand the history before you visit.
Once a modest village named Corsignano, Pienza was transformed into a jewel of the Renaissance, thanks to the grand vision of one of its native sons, Pope Pius II.
Born in this little town, the Pope dreamed of turning his humble birthplace into a masterpiece of architecture and culture. He entrusted Bernardo Rossellino, a gifted architect, with this ambitious task.
In just three whirlwind years starting from 1459, Rossellino reshaped Pienza. He crafted grand palaces, a central piazza, and a magnificent cathedral, creating an ideal Renaissance city. These developments weren't just about buildings; they were about pride and legacy, with landmarks like the Palazzo Piccolomini and the Duomo di Pienza best representing this transformation.
Throughout its history, Pienza has witnessed various political and military upheavals, reflecting the turbulent times of its region, yet, through it all, it has retained its quaint charm.
But Pienza's influence extended beyond its architecture. In the 16th century, it was a hub for intellectual thought, housing the Accademia degli Intronati, which played a crucial role in shaping the Italian language and literature as we know it today.
Walking through Pienza today, from its well-preserved Renaissance buildings to the stunning vistas of Tuscan hills and valleys, it’s clear Pope Pius II nailed his ambition, and we suspect he’d be a little bit happy with how it all turned out, 600-odd years later.
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