Things to do

VAL D’ORCIA AREA

Val d’Orcia is one of Tuscany’s most iconic and picturesque regions, renowned for its rolling hills, golden fields, and medieval villages. Located in the southern part of Tuscany, it stretches from the hills near Siena to the border with Umbria, encompassing the provinces of Siena and Grosseto.

What to See and Do in Val d’Orcia:

  • The landscape of Val d’Orcia is quintessentially Tuscan—gently rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads that seem almost surreal. The golden hues of the fields in autumn make this a prime time for photography and scenic drives.
  • The area is also known for its natural hot springs. You can visit the famous Bagno Vignoni, Bagni San Filippo, Rapolano Terme, San Casciano dei Bagni, Saturnia.
  • Val d’Orcia is a wine lover’s paradise, producing some of the finest Tuscan wines. The area is known for its Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. 
  • The Val d’Orcia is also home to several charming towns and villages like Montalcino, Montepulciano, and San Quirico d’Orcia, each offering its own unique charm and history.

One of the best ways to explore the area is by car, following winding roads that take you through some of Tuscany’s most breathtaking countryside. The road from Pienza to San Quirico d’Orcia is particularly famous for its iconic rows of cypress trees.

PIENZA

30 minutes drive from La Foce

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A UNESCO World Heritage site, Pienza is often referred to as the “ideal Renaissance town.” Its charming streets, squares, and buildings represent a perfect blend of human architecture with the natural beauty of the area. Piazza Pio II, the central square, is surrounded by magnificent Renaissance buildings, including the Pienza Cathedral and the Palazzo Piccolomini.

The town offers stunning panoramic views over the Val d’Orcia. The Belvedere viewpoint near the town walls provides an iconic view of the rolling hills, dotted with cypress trees and ancient farmhouses.

Bar-Pienza

SIENA

1 hour drive from La Foce

Piazza del Campo with Public Building: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of Siena. The square hosts the famous Palio horse race in July and August, but it’s charming year-round. You can visit the Public Building along with the museum by paying the entrance ticket.

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Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena): A magnificent Gothic cathedral with intricate artwork and stunning architecture. You can go inside by paying the ticket and visit the Piccolomini Chapel with Michelangelo sculptures.

Torre del Mangia: For a beautiful view of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan countryside, climb the 400 steps of this medieval tower. You can go inside and climb it by paying the entrance ticket.

Please note when driving here that public parking is located at the entrance of the city. The city center is a ZTL. 

If you enter at the base of the city there will be escalators to bring you to the top!

Montepulciano

30 minutes drive from La Foce

Piazza Grande: A beautiful square in the heart of Montepulciano, lined with historic buildings and cafes.

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Wine tasting: Montepulciano is famous for its Vino Nobile, a red wine produced in the area. Visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting experience.

Torre di Pulcinella: A lovely spot for views over the town and the Tuscan hills.

Cortona

40 minutes drive from La Foce

Piazza della Repubblica: The main square in Cortona, with charming cafes and views of the surrounding countryside.

Etruscan Museum: For those interested in the region’s ancient history, this museum showcases the area’s Etruscan heritage.

Lake Trasimeno: Just outside of Cortona, it offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for walks, boat rides, and scenic views.

Montalcino

1 hour drive from La Foce

Wine Tasting (Brunello di Montalcino): This town is famous for its Brunello wine, and there are many wineries offering tastings and tours.

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Fortress of Montalcino: The fortress offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding vineyards.

Abbey of Sant’Antimo: A short drive from Montalcino, this beautiful Romanesque abbey in the countryside is a peaceful spot to visit.

FLORENCE

1.5 – 2 hours drive from La Foce

  • Duomo: Visit the iconic Florence Cathedral and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
  • Uffizi Gallery: One of the most famous art museums in the world, housing masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
  • Ponte Vecchio: A historic bridge over the Arno River, lined with jewelers and shops.
  • Piazzale Michelangelo: For an iconic view of Florence, head to this square located on a hilltop.
  • Galleria Accademia: Don’t miss seeing the famous statue of David here!
  • Boboli Garden: A historic Italian Renaissance garden behind the Pitti Palace, featuring stunning sculptures, lush greenery, and architectural highlights like the Fountain of Neptune and the Buontalenti Grotto. It’s an open-air museum blending art and nature.

Michael and Ale’s Favorite Restaurants in Florence:

  • La Giostra: The pear ravioli is wonderful

  • Osteria Pastella: The Tagliatelle flambé al tartufo fresco in crosta di Grana Padano is a MUST

  • All’Antico Vinaio: Go get their famous focaccias!

  • Trattoria Zaza: you cannot go wrong with anything here!

    Looking for a sweet treat?

  • Vivoli: This local gem is the oldest gelateria in Florence! AND it’s delish. 

  • Rivoire: Adorable cafe with delicious pastries, snacks, and don’t forget to try their hot chocolate!

  • La Carraia: Good gelato AND a view

SAN GIMIGNANO

1.5 hours drive from La Foce

Historic Center: Famous for its medieval towers, San Gimignano is often called the “Medieval Manhattan.”

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Gelateria Dondoli: Try some of the best gelato in Italy.

Wine tasting: San Gimignano is also known for its white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

WINE TASTINGS

Useful link for booking wine experiences:
Winedering

NICE WINERY TO VISIT: