Welcome to Pienza, the jewel of the Val d'Orcia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Conceived by Pope Pius II as the "ideal city of the Renaissance," this charming hilltop town offers breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Tuscan countryside. You'll want to simply wander through the harmonious streets, from the central Piazza Pio II to the romantic lanes like Via dell'Amore (Street of Love), soaking in the perfectly planned architecture. The historic center is pedestrian-only, but several car parks are conveniently located just a few minutes' walk outside the ancient town walls.

PERSONAL HIGHLIGHT

On a trip to Pienza, culinary delights are not to be missed as the region abounds in amazing products, including pecorino cheese. From Pienza, you’ll take a 15 minute transfer to a local creamery to learn more about pecorino cheese. The origins of Tuscan pecorino go back to Etruscan times. Pecorino toscano DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) is made from two different types of whole sheep's milk, to which calf rennet is added. The mass is boiled until curdled into flakes the size of corn kernels of semi-solid to soft textures. It is then pressed and salted before the maturing phase begins which varies according to the type of cheese required. During your visit at a local creamery, you’ll learn more about all that goes into making authentic Pecorino cheese. Then, you’ll have the opportunity to taste at least three types of cheeses.