Best Towns to Visit in Val d’Orcia, Tuscany (2026 Guide)
Timeless Wanderers: Updated May11, 2026
Val d’Orcia, Tuscany: Hot Springs, Vineyards, and Hilltop Towns
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Val d’Orcia is a picturesque valley known for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and enchanting landscapes that seem almost too perfect to be real.
Located in the province of Siena, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a quintessential representation of the Tuscan countryside, featuring golden wheat fields, cypress-lined roads, and vineyards that produce some of Italy’s finest wines.
The valley has inspired poets, painters, and travelers for centuries, offering an authentic Italian experience steeped in history, culture, and gastronomic delights.
In this travel guide, we reveal all the information on Val d’Orcia in Tuscany.
In addition, we show you the best things to do, beautiful pictures, the best photo spots, how to get there, and where you can find the best places to stay.
Discover Val d’Orcia: Hot Springs, Vineyards and Beautiful Towns
Val d’Orcia is one of the most recognisable parts of Tuscany, with rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, vineyards, and some of the region’s most beautiful hilltop towns.
Located south of Siena, this UNESCO World Heritage landscape is home to places such as Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and San Quirico d’Orcia, along with natural hot springs, small villages, and some of Tuscany’s most famous wine regions.
We’ve spent years exploring this part of Tuscany, and it is one of those places where the journey between the towns can be just as enjoyable as the towns themselves.
A short drive can take you past vineyards, olive groves, country roads, and views that make you want to stop the car and take a closer look.
Whether you’re planning a road trip, visiting for the wine, exploring the hilltop towns, or simply looking for a quieter part of Tuscany, Val d’Orcia has plenty to see and do.
In this guide, we’ll share the best towns to visit in Val d’Orcia, along with the region’s hot springs, wineries, scenic drives, photo spots, places to stay, and practical tips to help you plan your trip.
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We can help you plan your dream trip to Tuscany, with a personalised itinerary designed just for you.
After more than 20 years of travelling to Tuscany—and loving it so much we decided to make it our home—we now live here and explore the region at a relaxed, local pace.
Planning a trip to Tuscany is exciting, but choosing where to go, how long to stay, and how to get around can quickly become overwhelming.
That’s where we come in.
We offer a personalised planning service that helps you decide exactly how to explore Tuscany, based on your travel style, budget, and pace.
Plus, we can help you plan scenic drives, time in hilltop towns, food and wine experiences, and those small local moments that make a trip truly special—making your Tuscany holiday easier, smoother, and full of memories you’ll treasure long after you return home.
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What Makes Val d’Orcia So Special?
Val d’Orcia is one of the parts of Tuscany we keep coming back to.
The landscape is beautiful, of course, but it is the combination of everything that makes this area special.
You can spend the morning exploring a hilltop town, stop for lunch overlooking the countryside, visit a winery in the afternoon, and finish the day soaking in a natural hot spring.
The region is home to some of the best towns to visit in Val d’Orcia, including Pienza, Montepulciano, Montalcino, San Quirico d’Orcia, and Bagno Vignoni.
Each has something different to offer, from Renaissance architecture and medieval streets to wine tasting, thermal baths, and some of the best views in Tuscany.
Val d’Orcia is also one of Tuscany’s best-known food and wine regions.
Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are produced here, while Pienza is famous for its pecorino cheese.
But one of the things we enjoy most is simply driving through the area.
The roads between the towns take you through vineyards, olive groves, open countryside, and those familiar lines of cypress trees that have become so closely associated with Tuscany.
Whether you’re planning a Tuscany road trip, visiting for the food and wine, or simply want to explore some of the region’s most beautiful towns, Val d’Orcia is a place worth giving yourself time to enjoy.
Best Time to Visit Val d’Orcia
Val d’Orcia is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and autumn are our favourite times to visit.
Spring — April to June
Spring is a wonderful time for exploring Val d’Orcia.
The countryside is green, wildflowers appear along the roads, and the temperatures are usually comfortable for walking around the towns and enjoying time outdoors.
May and June are particularly good if you want warm days without the full summer crowds.
Summer — July and August
Summer brings long, sunny days, but it is also the busiest and hottest time of year.
If you visit during July or August, start your sightseeing early and plan some time around the middle of the day for a long lunch or a swim.
The hilltop towns are especially enjoyable in the evening once temperatures begin to drop.
Autumn — September and October
Autumn is another excellent time to visit.
The summer crowds start to ease, temperatures are more comfortable, and the countryside takes on warmer colours.
September is also grape harvest season, so it’s a great time to combine exploring the towns with a visit to one of the region’s wineries.
Winter — November to March
Winter is often overlooked, but it can be a lovely time to see Val d’Orcia without the crowds.
The countryside is quieter, parking is easier, and you’ll get a much more relaxed experience in towns such as Pienza and Montalcino.
Just remember that some restaurants and attractions have shorter opening hours or close for part of the winter.
Our Recommendation
If you want the best combination of comfortable weather, beautiful countryside, and fewer visitors, we’d choose May, June, September, or October.
But don’t rule out winter.
We’ve spent plenty of time travelling around Tuscany during the colder months, and there’s something special about having the roads and hilltop towns much quieter than they are in summer.
Best things to do in Val d’Orcia
Visit Pienza: The Renaissance Gem
Pienza is often considered the crown jewel of Val d’Orcia.
Designed by Pope Pius II in the 15th century, this town showcases impeccable Renaissance architecture, particularly in its harmonious central square, Piazza Pio II.
The Duomo of Pienza is an architectural marvel, and the Palazzo Piccolomini offers breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside.
Don’t leave without trying Pecorino di Pienza, a locally produced sheep’s milk cheese that pairs wonderfully with a glass of Tuscan red.
Gladiator Avenue
The picturesque Gladiator Avenue is scenic and probably one of the most beautiful places in Val d’Orcia.
Some of the most famous scenes from the movie Gladiator were shot here and also in reality this place is really magical.
Situated in a picturesque landscape, this place was the perfect backdrop for the most beautiful movie scenes and even today this attraction is still visited with pleasure!
The so-called De Cypresses – Gladiator Point is located a little below the old town of Pienza and is, thanks to the exceptionally romantic scenery, one of the most beautiful photo spots in the entire Orcia Valley!
Explore Montepulciano: The Wine Lover’s Haven
Famed for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, this hilltop town is a paradise for wine connoisseurs.
Walk along its medieval streets, visit the Piazza Grande, and step into Cantina Contucci or De’ Ricci Winery for an unforgettable wine-tasting experience in centuries-old cellars.
Montepulciano also offers historical sites like the San Biagio Church, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture set against a backdrop of cypress trees.
Discover Montalcino: The Home of Brunello
Another must-visit for wine lovers, Montalcino is world-renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious red wines.
The town itself is a medieval delight, with Fortezza di Montalcino, a 14th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
Visit Castello Banfi or Biondi Santi Winery to learn about Brunello’s rich history and enjoy tastings with stunning vineyard views
Marvel at the Landscape in the Val d’Orcia Natural Park
This UNESCO-listed park is a photographer’s dream, boasting rolling fields, solitary farmhouses, and the iconic cypress tree-lined roads that define Tuscany.
Rent a car or bike through this serene landscape to fully immerse yourself in its timeless beauty.
The area is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset, when the light bathes the hills in a golden glow.
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable.
Relax in the Thermal Baths of Bagno Vignoni
Unlike traditional town squares, Bagno Vignoni features a thermal water pool in its center, used since Roman times for its healing properties.
While the main square’s pool is not for bathing, you can relax in the natural thermal baths at Hotel Posta Marcucci or visit the free public baths just outside the town.
The combination of warm mineral-rich waters and the tranquil setting makes for an unforgettable wellness experience.
Wander Through San Quirico d’Orcia
This charming medieval town is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but is well worth a visit.
Stroll through its Horti Leonini Gardens, visit the Collegiata Church, and enjoy a leisurely meal at one of its cozy trattorias.
San Quirico is also an excellent base for exploring the region, with easy access to some of Val d’Orcia’s most scenic.
Cypress Avenue Poggio Covili
Another characteristic feature of Val d’Orcia is the countless photogenic avenues of cypress trees that lead to the respective farms, wineries, or estates.
One of the most popular photo spots is the long, picturesque avenue of the Poggio Covili farm, which is located on the SR2 road.
Some of the coolest Instagram pictures of Tuscany are taken here.
Although the avenue is only open to guests, you can take great pics right at the entrance.
This cypress avenue is one of the most beautiful in the region and is worth a stop when you explore the Val d’Orcia by car or bike!
Monticchiello & Zig-Zag Street
Tuscany is famous for its romantic avenues of cypress trees and for its impressive zigzag streets, which create an extraordinary panorama.
One of the best photo spots is located in Monticchiello, where a particularly photogenic winding zigzag road winds its way up a hill.
A real insider tip is also a walk through the small, medieval village center of Monticchiello, which captivates visitors with a romantic setting and lots of flair.
Cappella Madonna di Vitaleta
One of the most famous photo spots in Val d’Orcia is the beautiful Cappella Madonna di Vitaleta, a small chapel nestled in a picturesque landscape like in a fairy tale.
This church had already been built in the 12th century and was restored in 1884.
Thanks to the charming scenery that surrounds it, this attraction became a landmark in the Orcia Valley and one of the most popular photo spots in Tuscany.
The scenery here is magical in the early morning and in the evening at sunset, when the landscape of the Val d’Orcia presents itself from its most beautiful side.
Where to Stay in Val d’Orcia
Luxury Retreats
- Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco (Montalcino) – A luxurious resort set in a historic estate, offering vineyard tours, fine dining, and a world-class spa.
- Adler Spa Resort Thermae (Bagno Vignoni) – Perfect for those seeking relaxation, this spa retreat boasts thermal baths, wellness treatments, and stunning surroundings.
- Castello di Velona (Montalcino) – A historic castle-turned-hotel with panoramic views, an on-site vineyard, and an indulgent spa experience.
Boutique & Mid-Range Stays
- La Bandita Townhouse (Pienza) – A stylish boutique hotel blending contemporary elegance with historic charm in the heart of Pienza.
- Relais Il Chiostro di Pienza – A former monastery offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Dimora del Poggio (San Quirico d’Orcia) – A classic Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by rolling fields and cypress-lined paths.
Budget-Friendly & Agriturismos
- Agriturismo La Fonte (Pienza) – A charming, affordable farmhouse stay where guests can experience local farming traditions and enjoy home-cooked meals.
- Podere Spedalone (Pienza) – A rustic agriturismo with warm hospitality, farm-to-table dining, and stunning countryside views.
- Le Ragnaie (Montalcino) – A vineyard agriturismo offering cozy accommodations and organic wine tastings.
How to get to Val d’Orcia
BY CAR
Val D’Orcia is centrally located, making it easily accessible by car, a scenic drive that winds through the rolling hills and charming villages.
From Florence, take the A1 and SR2, roughly a 2 hour drive.
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable.
Both highly recommended.
Val d’Orcia is a timeless escape that captures the essence of Tuscany—rolling landscapes, historic villages, exceptional wines, and food to die for.
Whether you’re exploring medieval hilltop towns, indulging in thermal baths, or a glass of Brunello under a golden sunset, this region offers an unforgettable experience.
Whether you choose a luxurious castle stay, a charming boutique hotel, or a rustic agriturismo, Val d’Orcia promises a journey through one of Italy’s most enchanting landscapes.
FAQs: Visiting Val d’Orcia, Tuscany
1. Where is Val d’Orcia located?
Val d’Orcia lies in southern Tuscany, between Siena and Monte Amiata. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage valley known for its rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and postcard-perfect hill towns like Pienza and Montepulciano.
2. What makes Val d’Orcia special?
It’s one of the most photographed regions in Italy. Visitors come for its Renaissance villages, scenic drives, vineyards, and thermal spas — all surrounded by the quintessential Tuscan countryside.
3. Which towns should I not miss?
The top must-sees include Pienza (famous for pecorino cheese and views), Montepulciano (known for Vino Nobile wine), Montalcino (home of Brunello wine), San Quirico d’Orcia, and Bagno Vignoni, with its natural hot springs.
4. How do I get to Val d’Orcia?
The best way is by car from Siena (around 1.5 hours) or Florence (about 2 hours). Trains reach nearby towns like Chiusi or Buonconvento, bu//
5. How much time should I spend in Val d’Orcia?
Plan for 2–3 days to enjoy the main villages, vineyards, and scenic routes without rushing. Many travelers stay a week to fully experience the peaceful pace of Tuscan life.
6. When is the best time to visit Val d’Orcia?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for mild weather, lush scenery, and fewer crowds. Summer brings golden landscapes but also more tourists and heat.
7. Are there good places to stay in Val d’Orcia?
Yes—choose from agriturismos, boutique hotels, or vineyard villas. Popular stays include La Bandita Townhouse in Pienza, Relais Il Chiostro di Pienza, and Castello Banfi in Montalcino for a luxury wine estate experience.
8. What food and wine is Val d’Orcia known for?
Try pecorino di Pienza, pici pasta, and locally made Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wines. Most towns have family-run trattorias serving fresh, seasonal dishes.
9. Can I visit Val d’Orcia without a car?
It’s possible with guided tours from Siena or Florence, but limited public transport makes a rental car the best way to explore freely and reach smaller villages.
10. What are some unmissable photo spots?
Top viewpoints include the Cappella di Vitaleta, the cypress trees near San Quirico, and the winding road to Monticchiello — all classic Tuscany backdrops.
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Tours of Val d’Orcia
If you don’t plan on renting a car while in Tuscany, you can visit Val d’Orcia on a tour.
This takes care of your transportation to and from Val d’Orcia, which can save you a lot of time. Here are several tours from nearby towns.
Final thoughts
Val d’Orcia leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve gone.
Its beauty isn’t just in the landscapes, but in the quiet moments — a winding road, a village piazza at dusk, a long lunch overlooking the hills.
This is a place best enjoyed slowly, without rushing from sight to sight.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying a little longer, Val d’Orcia invites you to pause, soak it all in, and experience Tuscany in its most authentic and unforgettable form.
PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE
These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.
CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.
TRAINS – OMIO– is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.
BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.
TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.
More places to visit in Tuscany
CORTONA – Stunning Hillside Town
MONTEPULCIANO – A Guide to the Wine City
SAN GIMIGNANO – Visit the City of Towers
AREZZO – Charming Medieval City
PISA – The Iconic Leaning Tower