Pienza, Tuscany, Italy is a unique fruit of the ancient utopia dream to create an “Ideal City”. Over there, you’ll be fascinated with its perfectly designed in every way. If you are a lover of the elegance of Renaissance geometry, you’ll fall in love with Pienza. Above all, with its harmony of shapes and volumes, you’ll want to stay here forever.
Things to do
Piazza Pio II
This square was created from a project commissioned by Pope Pius II to Bernardo Rosellino and Leon Battista Alberti. Here, you can start the tour by learning about its origins as the Pope’s hometown. Afterward, you will be able to observe the incredible co-cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
After that, you can admire the Piccolomini Palace and its beautiful cushioned stone façade. In front of this, will be the Pozzo de Canni that will leave you completely breathless. Finally, end your tour with the Palazzo Borgia. You will be enchanted with this beautiful square in one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.
Corso Il Rossellini
This is the main street in Pienza. Over there, you’ll find lots of stores with the delicious pecorino aroma. Also, you’ll see all the gourmet dishes with cheese made of sheep milk. In the same way, you will be able to know the different establishments with all the typical products of the zone: jams, spaghetti, and aromatic herbs.
Pieve di Corsignano
Close to the Pienza Center, you’ll find this romantic jewel that will completely charm you. At first, you’ll see its incredible exposed stone walls. Then, you’ll hear everything about its history and how it is austere and well conserved. After that, you’ll find its beautiful church since the 13th century. All around the church, you’ll be able to walk and see the amazing views along the way. In fact, this will be the perfect place for art and history lovers.
How to get there
There are different ways to get to the city of Pienza from Florence Airport (FLR):
- By Bus: at first, you take your bus from Fine Autostrada A11, which is a 10-minute journey to P. Alinari. Over there, you change to Firenze Autostazione and it’s an hour and 54-minute journey to Pienza. The price is from $10 to 17 USD.
- By Train: you’ll take the train from the Aeroporto to Alamanni Stazione. Over there, you’ll transfer to Firenze Smn and change again in Siena to the Aurostazione [5] Bus Station. Finally, it is an hour and a 10-minute trip to Pienza.
- By Drive: the fastest way to get to Pienza is by renting a car in Florence Airport. It is an hour and a 26-minute journey to Pienza. It has an estimated price of $19 to 29 USD.
When to go
The best time to visit Pienza is from April to October. Right then, you’ll find the best city weather. Also, you can go in May to enjoy the flower festival or in September to the Fiera di Cacio Festival. Besides, just after Christmas, you’ll be able to enjoy the Torneo del Panforte.
How long
Pienza is a city with lots of interesting attractions you have to visit. You must take at least 3-4 days to truly enjoy your trip.
Opening and Closing Hours
Piazza Pio II is open every day and night. I recommend you to visit t also at night so you could really appreciate it without crowds of tourists. On the other hand, Pieve di Corsignano opens every day except Thursdays and Saturdays. From 9:00 a.m to 6:30 p.m.
Planning
In this city, you’ll find some beautiful hotels where you can stay. It is a very touristic place so remember to book them in advance as well as the restaurants where you want to eat.
Inside Information
Pienza is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in the entire world. Above all, don’t forget to take your comfortable walking shoes to explore it and your camera to take the most amazing photos. Over there it’s easy to park your car, so you can pull it over and walk through the city peacefully.
History
This town was inaugurated in 1462. Before that, it was just a tiny town named Corsignano until Pope Pio II wanted to build the new Ideal City with the architect Bernardo Rossellini. Inspired by the Renassaince and with the beauty in its center, this city became a cultural heritage in 1996.
Websites
Other Nearby Attractions
Il Duomo di Pienza
Located in Piazza Pio II, you’ll see this stunning Cathedral with a magnificent façade full of works of art. Over there, you’ll find yourself in a very cozy atmosphere. Also, this is a place full of Pienza’s history in each one of its hallways. Besides, It has the perfect combination between a Renaissance exterior and a Gothic interior.
Palazzo Piccolomini
Right next to the Cathedral, this is a three-story building with an amazing garden that gives you stunning views to Valle di Orcia. Over there, you’ll be able to visit its main floor, several rooms, a beautiful dining room, and a magnificent library. In the same way, this is one of the places you can’t miss if you visit Pienza. Also, you’ll walk through amazing spaces with delicious food and incredible views.
Tempio di San Biagio
Pienza is famous for its beautiful churches. Tempio di San Biagio is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture. Also, in its façade, you will find the incredible bell tower with dazzling decorative elements. There, you will find an atmosphere full of peace and tranquility, lovely outside and extremely well cared on the inside. Besides, you can admire its promenade lined with cypresses and beautiful Renaissance arches.
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