If you’ve seen photos of Tuscany that look almost too perfect to be real, the kind with winding roads, cypress trees and golden fields stretching into the distance – there’s a good chance you’ve already come across Val d’Orcia.
This part of southern Tuscany is one of those places that doesn’t really need much introduction, but it does need a bit of clarity. Because Val d’Orcia isn’t a single town or a neatly defined stop on a map. It’s a small area made up of a few historic villages and open countryside and the best way to experience it is simply by driving between the main stops.
In this Val d’Orcia guide, I’ll break down the most beautiful stops in the area, so you don’t have to figure it all out as you go. I’ll kept it simple, practical and focused on what’s actually worth your time – not just what looks good on a list. I’ll cover the best viewpoints, towns and short scenic drives that make this part of Tuscany so special.
By the end, you’ll have a simple route in mind and a clear idea of where to go, what to skip, and how to fit it all into one relaxed 1–2 day trip without overplanning it.
Ready to get distracted every five minutes because the whole place looks like a screensaver you forgot was real?
Let’s go!
Quick LINKS:
Jump to:
- What is Val d’Orcia and where exactly is it?
- Do I need a car?
- How long do I need to visit Val d’Orcia?
- When is the best time to visit Val d’Orcia?
- Will there be crowds?
- What’s the weather like?
- Where to Stay in Val d’Orcia
- Iconic Viewpoints & Photo Spots
- The Most Beautiful Towns in Val d’Orcia
- Scenic Drive: San Quirico d’Orcia to Pienza
- 1-day Val d’Orcia itinerary
- 2-day Val d’Orcia itinerary
- Is Val d’Orcia worth visiting?
Val d’Orcia guide: the most beautiful stops in Tuscany
Let’s start this Val d’Orcia guide with…maybe something obvious, but but still worth clearing up.
What is Val d’Orcia and where exactly is it?
Val d’Orcia is a protected landscape in southern Tuscany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It takes its name from the Orcia River, but…let’s be honest…most people don’t really come here for geography lessons. They come for the picture-perfect views! Because…
Made up of a few small historic towns and the countryside that connects them, Val d’Orcia is considered the most beautiful, scenic and iconic part of Tuscany.
The main towns you’ll keep running into are Pienza, San Quirico d’Orcia and Montalcino – all close enough that you can comfortably base yourself in one and explore the rest without rushing. And that’s really the point. You’re not ticking off individual sights here. You’re just driving through a small pocket of Tuscany where every turn makes you want to pull over.
Hopefully this map will make it all more clear.
How to visit Val d’Orcia – quick tips
Do I need a car?
First things first – yes, you need a car. There’s really no way around it. Public transport exists in theory, but in practice it won’t get you to the places you actually came here for. Val d’Orcia is all about those in-between spots: viewpoints, quiet roads, random pullovers and you’ll miss most of it without your own wheels.
Speaking of cars, check out my “Driving in Tuscany guide”, where I share the most useful tips for getting around the region – so you can enjoy the views without stressing about the “crazy Italians” trying to ram you off the road. Hahah Italy – I love you.
How long do I need to visit Val d’Orcia?
The good news is that the area itself is pretty small. You can drive between the main towns: Pienza, San Quirico d’Orcia and Montalcino – in under 30 minutes, which means you can see the highlights in one day without rushing too much.
That said, if you want to actually enjoy it (and not just tick things off), give yourself two days. Especially if you care about photos, because the best light here is early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Midday can look a bit harsh, while sunrise and sunset are when this place really shows off – softer light, fewer people (especially at sunrise) and views that somehow look even better than expected.
So yes, one day is enough. But two days is where it starts to feel a bit more relaxed and a lot more memorable.
Planning more than just Val d’Orcia? I’ve put together a full 7-day Tuscany itinerary to help you map out the rest of your trip.
When is the best time to visit Val d’Orcia?
Spring and autumn are the sweet spots: green fields in spring, warmer tones and fewer crowds in autumn. Summer can still be beautiful, but it gets hot and the landscape can look a bit dry.
No matter the weather, you’ll need water! I use a filtered bottle from WaterWell, so I can refill anywhere and not worry about bacterias and microplastics. Buy yours today!
Will there be crowds?
Well, Val d’Orcia isn’t exactly a hidden gem anymore. The most popular spots can get busy, especially around sunrise and sunset when everyone is chasing the same light. It’s nothing crazy, but don’t expect to have places like Cappella di Vitaleta all to yourself.
Speaking of crowds, you probably don’t want anyone snooping on your data while you’re using public WiFi – that’s where NordVPN comes in. Stay secure online and check it out here.
What’s the weather like?
That naturally depends on the time of year you’re visiting, but what I can say for sure – don’t rely too much on the forecast. It’s not always right here. Conditions can change quickly, especially in the morning and what looks like a cloudy, grey start can turn into a really nice day (and the other way around).
A bit of fog, some clouds, even slightly unpredictable weather can actually make this area look better, so it’s worth being a bit flexible and not writing the day off too quickly.
Speaking of unpredictable, travel not always goes exactly to plan, so it’s always worth having travel insurance, just in case something unexpected comes up and you don’t have to stress about it. Check out SafetyWing and get covered!
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Where to Stay in Val d’Orcia
If you want the full Val d’Orcia experience, staying somewhere in the countryside makes a big difference. Waking up in the landscape, rather than driving into it, just hits differently – especially if you’re planning early mornings or sunset stops.
The best areas to base yourself are around Pienza or San Quirico d’Orcia, since you’ll be right in the middle of everything and won’t waste time driving back and forth.
When I visited, I stayed at Agriturismo Bonello and it was exactly what I had in mind when picturing Tuscany. It’s located just outside Pienza, right in the heart of Val d’Orcia, so you’re perfectly positioned to explore the whole area without long drives. The setting is quiet and a bit removed (in a good way), surrounded by countryside, with views stretching out in every direction. There’s even a panoramic pool overlooking the beautiful landscape – the reason you need at least one night in Val d’Orcia!
It’s also a proper agriturismo – meaning it’s still a working farm, so it feels more authentic and less like a hotel.
If you want to check availability or prices, you can do it here:
I promise you, you won’t regret booking it!
If you’re looking for more options, I’ve put together a separate guide to the best agriturismos in Tuscany, where you’ll find a few more stays worth considering.
Best Stops in Val d’Orcia
Val d’Orcia isn’t about ticking off a long list of attractions. It’s actually the opposite – a handful of places that are worth your time, connected by drives that are just as memorable as the stops themselves. You might feel like stopping at every spot you’ve seen online, but in reality, a few well-chosen places will give you that classic Tuscany experience without turning your day into a checklist.
Below are the places that are genuinely worth stopping for – a mix of viewpoints, small towns and scenic stretches of road that make this area so special.
Iconic Viewpoints & Photo Spots
These are the places you’ve probably already seen, even if you didn’t know their names. And yes, they’re popular, but they’re popular for a reason.
Cappella di Vitaleta
This small chapel sitting alone in the fields is probably the most recognizable spot in Val d’Orcia. It’s simple, almost minimal, but somehow that’s exactly what makes it stand out.
You’ll need to park along the road and walk a bit to get closer, but the views along the way are just as good as the chapel itself. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light softens everything and there are fewer people around. Which…wasn’t the case in this photo. Haha But there’s unfortunately limited amount of sunsets and sunrises.
Podere Belvedere
This is one of those classic Val d’Orcia spots – the kind you’ve probably seen a hundred times without knowing the name. And somehow… I completely missed it. Twice. Still not sure how that happened.
Podere Belvedere is a private farmhouse just outside San Quirico d’Orcia, famous for that perfectly curved line of cypress trees leading up to it. Most photos you see are taken from a distance, especially at sunrise when there’s often a bit of mist in the valley.
Now, full transparency – I haven’t actually been here myself, so this is based on research rather than personal experience. From what I’ve found, the best way to see it is by taking the road from San Quirico to Pienza (number 146). After about 700 meters, you’ll see the road curve to the left – that’s your cue to look for a small dirt track on the right. You can park along there and walk a short distance to the viewpoint. If you wander a bit higher up the slope, you’ll get slightly different angles. Since it’s private property, you can’t go up to the house itself – it’s all about the view from afar. And don’t worry about finding the spot, since it’s so popular, I’m sure you won’t be the only one looking for it.
Cypress Trees near San Quirico d’Orcia
Also known as Cipressi di San Quirico d’Orcia, those perfectly arranged cypress trees almost look too neat to be real. They’re located just outside San Quirico and are reachable with a few minute drive. But…
Important info!
It seems that since September 2025 the already limited parking on the highway is unavailable (marked as private property) and any car parked there will be towed. There is an alternative way of getting there, but it requires a super bumpy off-road ride. I personally tried it and turned back. Fiat 500 could not handle the poor quality of the road. So yes, I’m adding it to this list, because it’s such an iconic spot, but I won’t add it to the Val d’Orcia itinerary, because it’s such an “adventure” to get it to. So visit only, if you have spare time.
This photo was taken in June 2024, when the private property sign was not there yet.
Poggio Covili Road
This is one of those spots that screams Tuscany – a straight road lined with cypress trees, leading towards a farmhouse in the distance.
It’s actually the road leading to Agriturismo Poggio Covili, and you can park right at the entrance without needing to go far. No hiking, no searching – just step out of the car and you’re there. Just remember – it is a private property.
It’s a quick stop, but definitely worth it, especially if you’re already exploring this part of Val d’Orcia.
Palazzo Massaini viewpoint
This is another one of those classic Val d’Orcia views – a road lined with cypress trees leading up to a farmhouse sitting on top of a hill.
It’s actually an agriturismo right by the main road, so it’s an easy stop. You don’t need to go far – just pull over safely and the view is right there.
It’s become more popular over time, so don’t be surprised if there are a few other people stopping for the exact same reason. Still, it’s a quick and very worthwhile stop if you’re passing through this area.
Cipressi di Monticchiello
This is one of those spots that looks almost too perfectly arranged to be real – a winding, serpentine road lined with cypress trees, cutting through the countryside.
It’s located near Monticchiello and is a quick stop if you’re already in the area. You don’t need much time here – just pull over, take in the view and get that classic Tuscany shot of the road disappearing into the landscape.
Gladiator Filming Location
Yes, that scene from Gladiator. The long dirt road lined with a few cypress trees, leading through open countryside. It’s exactly as cinematic in real life as it looks on screen.
It’s located near Pienza and easy to combine with a few other stops in the area, so you don’t have to go out of your way to see it.
If you want more details, exact locations and tips for finding these spots, check out my full guide to the most iconic photo locations in Tuscany. I also included one spot that’s probably my favourite (and one of the most famous), but technically not in Val d’Orcia… so if you’re curious which one it is, you’ll find it there.
The Most Beautiful Towns in Val d’Orcia
You don’t need to visit every town in the area – and honestly, that’s not the point of this Val d’Orcia guide. These are the ones that are actually worth a stop, whether for the views, a quick walk, or just a coffee break with a very good backdrop.
Pienza
My personal favourite. So if you only stop in one town, make it Pienza.
It’s small, easy to explore and has some of the best views over the surrounding countryside right from its city walls. You don’t need long here, just wander a bit, step out to the viewpoints, and enjoy it at a slower pace. But if you feel like staying for a little bit, it’s also the kind of place where you can easily spend a whole afternoon just sitting in a piazza, sipping an Aperol Spritz and taking in the views.
San Quirico d’Orcia
A quieter stop, but worth it, especially since you’ll likely be passing through anyway.
It’s less about big views and more about the atmosphere. Beautiful gardens, small streets, a relaxed feel and a good place to take a short break before heading back out into the countryside.
I also usually eat there, La Bottega de Ines, has a a delicious pappa al pomodoro – a vegan dish, and many other tasty meals.
Bagno Vignoni
This one feels completely different from the other towns – in a good way.
Instead of a main square with cafés and shops, the center of Bagno Vignoni is a large thermal pool, with hot water gently steaming in the middle of the village. You can’t swim in it, but the fact that it’s there, is amazing on its own.
It’s a small place and doesn’t take long to see, but it’s worth stopping for something a bit different. Walk around, take it in and if you have a bit more time, head down to the lower thermal pools just outside the village for a quieter spot.
Montalcino
A bit bigger and slightly out of the way, but still within Val d’Orcia, so you can easily include it if you have the time.
It’s known for its wine (Brunello di Montalcino), but to be completely honest… it didn’t leave a huge impression on me. Not to be rude to Montalcino, it’s a nice town, and definitely worth a stop if you’re nearby, but compared to places like Pienza, it’s not really a must.
Scenic Drive: San Quirico d’Orcia to Pienza (SS146)
This Val d’Orcia guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the drive between San Quirico d’Orcia and Pienza. It’s short, easy and packed with some of the best views in the area – basically the kind of road where you’ll want to stop every few minutes.
Along the way, you’ll pass a few of the most recognizable spots in Val d’Orcia. This is where you’ll find the famous “Gladiator House”, Podere Belvedere viewpoint with that long, as well as some of the best panoramic views of the Cappella di Vitaleta from a distance.
There’s no single “main” stop here – just keep an eye out for small pull-offs and viewpoints along the road. It’s one of those stretches where the journey really is the highlight, so take it slow and stop whenever something catches your eye.
Val d’Orcia Itinerary: 1 – 2 days
This Val d’Orcia guide wouldn’t be complete without a simple itinerary. You don’t need anything complicated here – the area is small, and most of the best spots are just a short drive from each other, but having a rough plan makes a big difference.
1-day Val d’Orcia itinerary
Start your day early in Pienza, when it’s still quiet. Walk through the town, have coffee, head to the viewpoints and enjoy it before it gets busy. You can also pop to the “Gladiator coming home” filming location. You don’t need long, but it’s a nice, slow start to the day.
From there, take the SS146 towards San Quirico d’Orcia. This is one of the most scenic drives in the area, so don’t rush it. Stop along the way at:
- “Gladiator’s home”,
- the panoramic viewpoints over Cappella di Vitaleta,
- any random pull-offs that catch your attention (there will be a few).
Continue towards San Quirico d’Orcia where you can pop into the town itself for a quick walk or lunch break if you feel like it.
After that, make your way to Bagno Vignoni – it’s small and won’t take long, but it’s definitely unique. If you feel like soaking your feet in natural thermal pools, drive a couple of minutes down to Antiche Terme Romane Libere.
From the pools make a quick or less quick stop at Poggio Covili viewpoint or to the actual road leading to the Agriturismo Poggio Covili.
If you’re good on time, you can head towards Cipressi di Monticchiello and admire the serpentine road lined with cypress trees. You could also quickly stop in Monticchiello itself.
Towards the end of the day, head to Cappella di Vitaleta for sunset. This is one of the best times to be there, when the light softens and the whole place just looks… better. It’s a popular spot, so you won’t be alone, but it’s still worth it.
2-day Val d’Orcia itinerary
If you have two days, simply follow the 1-day itinerary from this Val d’Orcia guide, just without rushing it. That already covers most of the best spots, but at a much more relaxed pace.
The real difference comes with everything around it.
Start one of your mornings slowly, ideally somewhere in the countryside. If you’re staying at Agriturismo Bonello, this is the perfect place for it – sit outside, enjoy the views, have a long breakfast and don’t feel like you need to be anywhere immediately.
With the extra time, you can also add a few stops that are easy to skip on a tighter schedule. Try to head to the Cipressi di San Quirico d’Orcia. Just be aware of the difficulty of parking there and/or a bumpy road leading to the trees. But it’s such a classic Tuscan spot, that’s worth seeing, especially in softer morning light.
If you feel like adding one more town, this is the moment to include Montalcino. Not essential, but an easy addition if you have the time and want to see a bit more beyond the main loop. You could also stop by Montepulciano (not officially in Val d’Orcia) for a coffee at Caffè Poliziano – grab a table on the balcony to enjoy the views. On the way there, you’ll most likely pass Palazzo Massaini spot.
Overall, two days in Val d’Orcia isn’t about seeing more, it’s about seeing the same places in a slower, more enjoyable way.
If you’re planning a longer trip, check out my perfect 7-day Tuscany road trip itinerary, where I show you how to fit Val d’Orcia into a bigger route without rushing.
Is Val d’Orcia Worth Visiting?
Short answer: yes, of course it is.
If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, this is the place that actually looks like Tuscany. The views, the quiet roads, the small towns – it all comes together in a way that’s hard to beat. As this Val d’Orcia guide hopefully showed, you don’t need a long list of attractions here. A few well-chosen stops, a bit of time and the freedom to just drive around is more than enough to make it memorable.
So yes, it’s absolutely worth visiting. Just don’t overplan it.
That’s a wrap!
I hope this Val d’Orcia guide cleared up what the area actually is and made planning your trip a bit easier. Once you know how everything fits together, it’s a really simple (and very rewarding) place to explore, whether you’re here for a day or a bit longer. Just take your time, don’t try to see everything and leave a bit of space for those unplanned stops – they’re usually the best part anyway. Enjoy!
Hi, it’s Aga, the author of this blog. If you found this blog post interesting, entertaining or useful, please think of buying me a virtual coffee to support the site’s running costs. But if you know me, I might actually spend it on coffee. Thanks!
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