Montepulciano
“Montepulciano, an ancient hilltop town overlooking the Valdichiana and the Val d’Orcia. Rich in history and works of art, set amid the agricultural landscape of the Sienese countryside, it is one of Tuscany’s most captivating gems. Famous for its Vino Nobile, it offers a perfect balance of history, breathtaking views, and authentic flavors. Stroll through the streets of the historic center, be enchanted by Piazza Grande, the Cathedral, and the ancient cellars carved into the tuff stone.
Annual events:
- February: Vino Nobile Preview
- July: Classical Music Festival
- August: Bravìo delle Botti, the historic barrel-rolling race
- December: Christmas markets in the historic center
Val D'Orcia
The Val d’Orcia is a vast and beautiful countryside area in southern Tuscany, close to the border with Umbria and the foothills of Mount Amiata, stretching across the agricultural hinterland of Siena. It takes its name from the Orcia River that runs through it and is a protected natural park where stunning nature takes center stage. It is no coincidence that one of the most photographed spots is where the famous Val d’Orcia cypress trees stand, near San Quirico d’Orcia.
In the Val d’Orcia area of Siena, the Crete Senesi also stand out—clay hills eroded over time, forming the characteristic gullies and ‘biancane’: bare, rugged, low rounded hills with an undeniable, almost lunar charm. Its typical medieval Tuscan villages such as Pienza, Montalcino, Castiglione d’Orcia, and San Quirico d’Orcia are perfect destinations to immerse yourself in the soul of the area, while also savoring its renowned food and wine specialties.
Montalcino
Montalcino is a must-see stop for anyone visiting the Val d’Orcia! It is the homeland of the famous Brunello di Montalcino, one of the most renowned and celebrated wines in the world. You simply can’t miss the chance to enjoy a tasting at one of the many wineries in the area. South of Mount Amiata, endless vineyards stretch across the landscape, surrounding the fairytale medieval village, enclosed by an ancient castle and impressive fortified walls.
A town with a rich history, Montalcino takes its name from Mons Ilcinus, meaning ‘the hill of holm oaks’ (in fact, the inhabitants of Montalcino are called ilcinesi). As you travel through the vineyards leading to this enchanting town, your attention will immediately be drawn to its imposing fortress.
Siena
Siena, located in the heart of Tuscany and surrounded by rolling hills, is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy. At the heart of the city lies the famous Piazza del Campo, with its distinctive shell shape, where the renowned Palio takes place—one of the most important events for all Sienese residents. The Palio di Siena is a thrilling horse race held every year in July and August, with origins that appear to date back as far as the 17th century.
The Palazzo Pubblico is also a must-see for art lovers, as it houses great masterpieces from the golden age of Sienese art, including the celebrated fresco The Allegory and Effects of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti—one of the most significant secular representations of 14th-century European art—along with other famous works by Simone Martini, Duccio di Buoninsegna, Sodoma, and Beccafumi.
Bagno vignoni
the heart of the Val d’Orcia lies Bagno Vignoni, an authentic medieval village distinguished by a stunning stone pool measuring 50 by 30 meters, from which a thermal spring flows at a temperature of 49°C, known since Etruscan times.
Today it is no longer possible to bathe in it as Saint Catherine, Lorenzo the Magnificent, or the pilgrims of the Via Francigena once did. The volcanic nature of nearby Mount Amiata feeds the Bagno Vignoni spring, rich in magnesium and calcium sulfates, beneficial for ailments of the bones, skin, and mucous membranes. The water that flows out from the square is channeled into a small ditch, carrying it—still warm—outside the village, until it eventually drains into the Orcia River that runs through the valley below.
Florence
Anyone planning to visit Tuscany cannot miss Florence: the city of the lily is a treasure chest of artistic masterpieces and a hub of vibrant cultural life. Beyond its extraordinary artistic heritage—testimony to centuries of civilization—you can enjoy the city by strolling at sunset along the enchanting riverbanks, wandering through the bohemian alleys of the Oltrarno, or getting lost in the narrow streets of San Niccolò, where walking alongside the ancient walls feels like being magically transported to another era.
