Val d’Orcia: where it is, how to get there, and what to see

Tucked away in the very heart of Tuscany, the Val d’Orcia is a slice of paradise that feels as though it’s been lifted straight from a painting. With its breathtaking scenery, gently rolling hills blanketed in vineyards and olive groves, and medieval villages frozen in time, this valley invites visitors to slow down and savour beauty in all its forms.

For those captivated by nature, history and tradition, the Val d’Orcia offers an experience that goes far beyond a simple sightseeing trip. Here’s where to find it, how to get there, and what to see in this extraordinary part of Italy.

Where Val d’Orcia is located

Nestled in the southern part of Tuscany, within the province of Siena, Val d’Orcia stretches across the rolling hills that separate Siena from the province of Grosseto. To the south, it is framed by the Amiata mountains, which offer breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside.

The valley takes its name from the River Orcia, which winds through the landscape and nourishes one of the region’s most captivating ecosystems. Its natural beauty shifts with the seasons: in spring and summer, lush green hills are interspersed with golden wheat fields, while autumn transforms the scenery into a tapestry of warm orange and red tones.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Val d’Orcia is also renowned for its natural thermal springs, vineyards and olive groves. The area is celebrated for its local specialities, including Tuscan pecorino cheese and Chianti wine.

How to get there

The area is easily reachable thanks to its central location, about 30-40 km south of Siena, and is well connected by both car and public transport.

The easiest way to explore the valley is undoubtedly by car, allowing freedom to move between the various villages and fully appreciate the landscape. From Siena, simply take the SS2 (Via Cassia) southwards, and in around 30-40 minutes you will arrive at your destination. If travelling from Florence, the distance is approximately 120 km, following the A1 motorway to the Firenze Impruneta exit, then continuing south. From Rome, the journey covers roughly 180 km along the A1 to the Chiusi-Chianciano Terme exit, followed by the SS146.

Taking the train is also a viable option, although it does not serve all the villages in Val d’Orcia directly. The closest station is Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, from where taxis or buses can be taken to reach the various towns in the valley. From Siena, trains to Montepulciano or Buonconvento are available, both of which connect to Val d’Orcia.

Buses provide another useful alternative, with regular services linking Siena to several villages in the area. However, for those wishing to explore the valley thoroughly, travelling by car remains the most convenient and practical option.

What to see

Between castles and fortifications, the Val d’Orcia has preserved its system of settlements almost intact, those medieval villages that arose between the 11th and 12th centuries along the Via Francigena, attracting thousands of visitors. Some of these places have played a decisive role in the urban and cultural development of the valley. Here is a closer look at the main ones.

Pienza

Among the most picturesque villages in the Val d’Orcia, Pienza is renowned for its historic centre, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also known as the “Ideal City” of the Renaissance, thanks to the work of Pope Pius II, who in the 15th century transformed it into a model of urban planning and aesthetic beauty. Key sights include the Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, and Piazza Pio II, from where spectacular views of the valley can be enjoyed.

Montalcino

Famous worldwide for its legendary Brunello di Montalcino wine, one of Italy’s finest, this medieval town retains its original layout. Its narrow, steep streets lead visitors to the 14th-century fortress of Castello di Montalcino, which commands panoramic views over some 3,000 hectares of vineyards. Visitors are also encouraged to visit the Town Hall Tower and explore the churches and museums, which house rich collections of paintings and sculptures.

Bagno Vignoni

Renowned for its natural hot springs, Bagno Vignoni is distinguished by the Piazza delle Sorgenti, a large thermal pool known since ancient Roman times and once frequented by kings and popes. With a very small population of just 30 inhabitants, the village reveals its full charm in the evening, when the lights of the surrounding houses and historic buildings reflect on the water, especially the splendid loggia of Saint Catherine of Siena.

San Quirico d’Orcia

This ancient village, likely of Etruscan origin, is one of the region’s true gems. Its compact historic centre, stone houses and picturesque corners offer several noteworthy sights. Among these are the remains of the Cassero Tower and the Horti Leonini, a typical 16th-century garden accessible from the main square, as well as the Collegiate Church of San Quirico and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

Montepulciano

The heart of Montepulciano is Piazza Grande, overlooked by the 14th-century Palazzo Comunale and the 17th-century cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The s including the lively Bravio delle botti, a spirited barrel race held through the streets between the various districts.

Visitors should also explore Piazza delle Erbe, the monumental churches of San Biagio and Sant’Agostino, Palazzo Cervini, and the Civic Museum, which houses numerous masterpieces from Siena and Florence.

When planning a trip to Tuscany, seizing the chance to explore the Val d’Orcia is highly recommended, a landscape certain to leave an unforgettable impression.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

Tag

Travel

Subscribe to our newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date with our latest news Subscribe with your email address to receive the latest news, updates and practical tips from the real estate world directly in your inbox

Subscribe