Looking for a one-day itinerary to visit Pienza and Monticchiello?
Two villages, close in distance but different in character: one is the cradle of the Renaissance, the other a hidden gem of authentic charm. Between them, rolling hills, scenic curves, and unforgettable local flavors.
Here’s what to see and how to enjoy a perfect day among the wonders of the Val d’Orcia.
Pienza: History, Scenic Views, and Pecorino Cheese
Leave your car outside the town walls (there are plenty of easy parking options) and begin your walk through its tidy, flower-filled alleys. Every corner opens up to the countryside, every view seems made for a perfect photo.
Don’t miss the Cathedral (Duomo), where you can admire a beautiful Renaissance tabernacle, as well as Piazza Pio II and the surrounding historic palaces.
As you wander, you’ll notice local shops displaying aged pecorino cheese, cured meats, ceramics, and handcrafted treasures. If you enjoy bold flavors, step into one of the many wine bars for a quick tasting – they’ll share stories of cheese, wine, and tradition with a warm smile.
Before leaving, stop at the panoramic belvedere: hills, cypress trees, scattered farmhouses. In just a few moments, you’ll understand why this valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Just minutes from here lie the famous Elysian Fields – a stretch of rolling hills that served as a natural set for films like Gladiator. The views open up to golden valleys and lone cypress trees, offering postcard-perfect scenes and a full immersion into the magic of the Val d’Orcia.
Lunch Break Among the Hills
Leaving Pienza, take your time on the panoramic SP146 toward Monticchiello.
The drive is short but worth savoring: every bend reveals a fresh landscape, and each stretch tempts you to pull over for the perfect photo.
Along the way you’ll find agriturismos, small trattorias, and terraces with postcard-worthy views—ideal spots for a midday break. Order the local favorite, hand-rolled pici pasta, topped with white ragù, cacio e pepe, or wild mushrooms, and pair it with a glass of Orcia DOC wine for an authentic taste of the Val d’Orcia.
Monticchiello: A Genuine Village, Frozen in Time
After lunch, head to Monticchiello – one of the most authentic villages in the entire area.
Less known, less crowded, but full of stories to tell. Park your car just outside the village and walk uphill. You’ll be welcomed by ancient stone walls, pale stone houses, and a peaceful atmosphere scented with wood and silence.
The village is small, but every corner invites a pause: the tiny Teatro Povero, flower-covered balconies, and the panoramic terrace where travelers and photographers often stop.
Here, the view… needs no filter.
As the Sun Begins to Set
In the late afternoon, it’s the perfect time to head back—slowly.
You can return to Pienza, or follow the road further to uncover less-traveled spots: perhaps Bagno Vignoni, for one last glance at the steaming thermal waters, or a quick stop near the iconic cypress-lined road of Poggio Covili, just a short distance away.
As the light softens and the colors grow warmer, the landscape turns even more gentle and poetic.
It’s the moment when the Val d’Orcia truly shows its magic.
Useful Tips to Make the Most of Your Day
- Parking is easy in both Pienza and Monticchiello, but it’s best to arrive in the morning to find a spot without stress.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the villages have stone-paved slopes, and you’ll definitely feel like walking a lot.
- Bring a camera or a fully charged phone – running out of storage is a real risk here.
- Take your time: this is an itinerary that only works if you enjoy it slowly.
This day between Pienza and Monticchiello is an invitation to slow down.
You won’t just leave with photos and souvenirs, but with that rare feeling of having truly experienced a place.
And the desire to return—often while you’re still there.
For more information, visit the local tourism office website Proloco Pienza
