Pienza
Latest page update: 17 December 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The charming hilltop town of Pienza is in the province of Siena with a population of approximately 2,000 residents. Renowned as the "ideal Renaissance town," it is famous for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and layout, designed by Pope Pius II.
Pienza is also known for its delicious pecorino cheese, produced locally, and its picturesque views of the surrounding Val d'Orcia. |
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Pienza: ideal Renaissance town
Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the heart of the Val d'Orcia, is renowned for its Renaissance architecture and picturesque surroundings. Explore its charming streets lined with palaces, churches, and artisan shops. Visit the Palazzo Piccolomini, a splendid example of Renaissance architecture, and stroll through the scenic Piazza Pio II.
Don't miss the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with its stunning facade and exquisite artworks. Sample the local Pecorino cheese, a regional specialty. Nearby, take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Val d'Orcia, dotted with rolling hills, vineyards, and cypress trees. With its timeless beauty and cultural heritage, Pienza offers a captivating glimpse into Tuscan history and rural life.
Don't miss the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with its stunning facade and exquisite artworks. Sample the local Pecorino cheese, a regional specialty. Nearby, take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Val d'Orcia, dotted with rolling hills, vineyards, and cypress trees. With its timeless beauty and cultural heritage, Pienza offers a captivating glimpse into Tuscan history and rural life.
Comune di Pienza
Province: Siena
Region: Tuscany Population: 1,983 (in 2024 - source) Total size: 123 km² Elevation: 491 metres Top sights: Pienza Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, Piazza Pio II Close by: Val d'Orcia, San Quirico d'Orcia, Montepulciano Recommended accommodation: Piccolo Hotel La Valle |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Historic Centre of the City of Pienza
Year: 1996
Historic Centre of the City of Pienza
Year: 1996
What are the best things to do in Pienza?
- Pienza Historic Centre: Explore the charming historic center of Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture, narrow streets, and picturesque squares. Visitors can admire architectural gems such as the Palazzo Piccolomini and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
- Pienza Cheese Tasting: Indulge in a cheese tasting experience featuring Pecorino cheese, a local specialty produced in the surrounding countryside. Visitors can sample different varieties of Pecorino cheese, learn about the cheese-making process, and purchase artisanal products from local shops.
- Palazzo Piccolomini: Visit the Palazzo Piccolomini, a Renaissance palace built by Pope Pius II, and admire its elegant architecture, ornate interiors, and beautiful gardens. Guided tours offer insights into the palace's history, art collection, and its connection to the Piccolomini family.
- Pienza Cathedral (Duomo di Pienza): Admire the Pienza Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, and its beautiful Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Visitors can explore the cathedral's interior, which features exquisite artworks, frescoes, and sculptures.
- Wine Tasting in Val d'Orcia: Take a wine tasting tour of the scenic Val d'Orcia region, known for its vineyards and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can sample wines from local wineries, learn about the region's winemaking traditions, and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside.
- Pienza Olive Oil Tasting: Experience an olive oil tasting featuring extra virgin olive oil produced in the Val d'Orcia area. Visitors can sample different varieties of olive oil, learn about the olive pressing process, and discover the flavors and aromas of Tuscan olive oil.
- Cultural Events: Attend cultural events and festivals held in Pienza throughout the year, celebrating local traditions, music, and arts. Visitors can experience traditional processions, food fairs, and concerts, immersing themselves in the vibrant cultural scene of the town.
Where should I eat in Pienza?
- La Buca di Enea: Located in the heart of Pienza's historic center, La Buca di Enea is a charming restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and authentic Tuscan dishes. Their menu features homemade pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal specialties made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Latte di Luna: This cozy trattoria offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on regional cuisine. Latte di Luna's menu highlights include Pecorino cheese, handmade pasta, and flavorful dishes made with fresh, seasonal produce.
- Il Rossellino: Situated in a historic building overlooking Pienza's main square, Il Rossellino offers stunning views and delicious Tuscan fare. Their menu features traditional dishes such as ribollita, pici pasta, and hearty meat dishes, all prepared with care and attention to detail.
- Ristorante dal Falco: Tucked away on a quiet street, Ristorante dal Falco is a family-run restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent food. Guests can enjoy a variety of Tuscan specialties, including bruschetta, tagliata di manzo (sliced beef), and homemade desserts.
- Trattoria Latte di Luna: Another excellent dining option in Pienza, Trattoria Latte di Luna offers a relaxed ambiance and a menu filled with Tuscan favorites. From fresh salads and antipasti to hearty pasta dishes and grilled meats, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this charming trattoria.
Pienza Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Pienza?
- La Bandita Townhouse: Located in the heart of Pienza's historic center, La Bandita Townhouse is a boutique hotel housed in a beautifully restored 15th-century building. It offers stylish and elegant rooms with modern amenities, a cozy lounge area, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Palazzo del Capitano Wellness & Relais: Set in a historic palace just steps away from Pienza's main square, Palazzo del Capitano Wellness & Relais offers luxurious accommodations in a serene atmosphere. Guests can enjoy beautifully decorated rooms, a wellness center with spa facilities, and a charming courtyard garden.
- Hotel Residence San Gregorio: Situated within walking distance of Pienza's historic center, Hotel Residence San Gregorio offers comfortable rooms and apartments with rustic Tuscan decor. The hotel features a swimming pool, garden terrace, and stunning views of the Val d'Orcia countryside.
- Il Chiostro di Pienza: Housed in a former 15th-century convent, Il Chiostro di Pienza offers a unique and historic setting for guests to enjoy. The hotel features beautifully restored rooms and suites with antique furnishings, a courtyard garden, and a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Podere il Casale: For a rural retreat near Pienza, consider staying at Podere il Casale, an organic farm and agriturismo located in the countryside. Guests can stay in rustic-chic rooms or apartments, enjoy farm-to-table meals made with fresh, local ingredients, and participate in activities such as cooking classes and cheese-making workshops.
What's the closest airport to Pienza?
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) (PSA):
- Located in Florence, approximately 130 kilometers north of Pienza.
- Florence Airport serves domestic and international flights.
- From the airport, you can reach Pienza by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Pienza takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station and then catch a train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Pienza.
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) (PSA):
- Located in Pisa, approximately 180 kilometers west of Pienza.
- Pisa Airport is well-connected with domestic and international flights.
- From the airport, you can reach Pienza by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Pienza takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Pisa Centrale Train Station and then catch a train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Pienza.
What's the closest train station to Pienza?
Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station:
- Located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Pienza.
- Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station is served by regional and Intercity trains.
- From the train station, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Pienza. The journey takes around 30 minutes by bus or taxi.
What private transfer options are there for Pienza?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Pienza takes around 1 hour 35 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Pienza?
- Nearby Cities: Since Pienza is located near larger cities like Siena and Montepulciano, you can consider renting a car from one of the rental agencies in these cities. Siena and Montepulciano have more rental options available, including at the train stations and in the city centers.
- Regional Airports: You could also consider looking for rental options at airports such as Florence Airport (Peretola) or Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei), though they are further away from Pienza. Some rental agencies may offer shuttle services to pick up your rental car from the airport.