Anonimo asked 10 anni ago
Hi Elena,
My wife and I are spending 2 weeks in Italy in August. Coming from four nights in the Cinque Terre, we plan to take the train in the morning to Pisa, check out the tower there, then hire a car and make our way to Siena via San Gimignano. On the second day, I was thinking we could drive south to Montalcino, Pienza and Montelpulciano (thoughts on these for places to visit?). What I don’t know is whether we should then return to Siena or stay somewhere else for the second night? We need to get to Florence by the end of the next day, so if we were to return to Siena, we could drive through Chianti on our way to Florence. However, we would happily spend the night in another town and explore a different region on the way to Florence?
Any help or suggestions you have would be very much appreciated.
Daniel
elena nacci Staff answered 10 anni ago
Thanks for getting in touch
I completely second your plan for the 1st day: Pisa, then rent a car and reach Siena via San Gimignano.
I suppose you’re spending the night in Siena, that is great to enjoy this incredible and unique medieval town also at night.
On the second day you are moving south of Siena to explore the wonderful Val d’Orcia and its many treasures. Montalcino, Pienza and Montepulciano are undoubtedly among the main and most beautiful villages in the area. I would also consider a brief stop to visit the small and picturesque Bagno Vignoni.
In Montalcino take a stroll though the small historic center to reach the Fortress, where you can taste wine and other local specialities at the Enoteca la Fortezza.
In Pienza you’ll stay impressed by the many cheese shops! Pecorino cheese is the local speciality, here are fantastic restaurants, consider having lunch here. Palazzo Piccolomini would deserve a visit, its hanging gardens and the Loggia boast a spectacular panorama!
Montepulciano is a beauty! You can climb up the bell tower of the Town’s Hall to get a unique view. Again are superb wine shops and osteria. Also take a look to my list of the top sights to visit in the area.
I would spend the night here without returing to Siena. This way you cam maximize your time and enjoy a full day in Val d’Orcia.
Early, on the next day, drive north passing through the Chianti area on your way to Florence, drive along the scenic route known by the name of Chiantigiana road.
Feel free to ask any other question,
Happy Planning,
elena
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