Best of Tuscany: Val D'Orcia Tour.

A place that has descended into pictures. Once here, you wonder: Is it real, or is it just us dreaming that we're in an Italian movie? If you are traveling in Tuscany or Umbria, you will certainly make time to visit perhaps the most picturesque place. Although, is it possible to say "the most" in relation to Italy? Every place here is unique and unrepeatable! Although it is pointless to arrange competitions, every meter of Italy is truly beautiful. In any case, the stunning beauty of Val d'Orcia is a must–visit destination on your Italian tour itinerary.

This is the incredibly picturesque valley with its caparis roads and endless landscape views, stretching hills, traditional houses and churches. You've probably seen these landscapes many times on postcards or paintings. Now it's worth seeing them with your own eyes!

Start your Val d'Orcia tour in Tuscany by setting a route to Montepulciano. This is a medieval small town located at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level: from this height you will enjoy stunning views of the green hills, olive groves, vineyards and cypresses, which pleasantly emphasize the entire landscape. The locals consider themselves direct descendants of the Etruscans. Walking along the main street Via di Gracciano nel Corso, you will see many wine shops with an inscription calling for tasting. Take a look at one of these places to taste the famous local Sanginovese wine, the base of Nobile. On the main square, which combines Gothic style and Renaissance architecture, you will see the main temple of the 17th century Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, Palazzo Comunale – the twin of the Florentine Town Hall. Walk to the oldest part of the city – the fortress of La Fortezza of the VIII century and the church of Santuario di San Biagio. Do not forget to turn into hidden little corners and streets that promise unforgettable view to Val d'Orcia.

Between visiting two other small towns: Montalcino and Pienza, book a wine tasting with typical snacks at one of the wineries nearby. Here you can enjoy the solitude among nature at lunchtime: taste several different wines and fresh cheeses, meat delicacies, olives and olive oil with freshly baked bread.

After solitude and a delicious lunch, head to the Renaissance town of Pienza. Its historical center, as well as the Val d'Orcia Valley itself, is included in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage List. One of the main attractions is the Cathedral and the streets of Pienza which are full of flowers. It takes about two hours to get around the town, but for sure you will have a wish to look into its many souvenir shops, cozy cafes and admire the panorama. The town is famous for its sheep's milk cheese – pecorino. Aged sheep's cheese from Pienza is considered one of the best in Italy.

The medieval and picturesque town of Montalcino, which completes the route, is not long from here – about 30 minutes. The famous Brunello wine is produced here and, of course, you can also taste it at one of the local wine shops. The most important attraction of the town is considered to be the fortress of the XIII century and from here you can enjoy the best views of the local landscapes. Other historical sights of the city include the churches of St. Peter and St. Francis, the Church of San Agostino, the Cathedral of Montalcino.

On the way between these towns, be sure to make stops to take pictures against the backdrop of these incredible landscapes of the Val D'Orcia.

Tuscany: Full Day Private Tour to Val D'Orcia

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