Full Day Itinerary
The best way to see Tuscany is to go for a drive and the Val d'Orcia is one of the most touristic and picturesque places to do just that in southern Tuscany. This valley is where you will see the rolling hills and cypress lined driveways to old Tuscan farmhouses. Depending on the season you may spot fields of poppies (spring) or sunflowers (summer). See below for the perfect full day itinerary from Lucignano.
Asciano: Located just 35 min southwest of Lucignano is Asciano. Stop for a cafe or a gelato, stroll through town, tour centuries old churches.
Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore: Just south of Asciano, about 15-20 min, is a gorgeous working monastery since 1313. Eat lunch, tour the grounds, walk through the monastery, taste wine made by monks and shop in the Farmacia for products made by the monks in the monastery. The monks ask you to visit in silence, making the experience even more enchanting, as you take in the smell of pine and cypress and feel the breeze while walking down a bricked path through the woods from building to building.
Bagno Vignoni: Further south from the monastery, about 30 min is Bagno Vignoni. A famous hotspot, Bagno Vignoni’s main piazza was built over hot springs and frequented by the Etruscans and Romans many centuries ago. Stop at one of the restaurants, have an aperitif and enjoy the peaceful setting. The setting is also a romantic spot for dinner with casual dining and Michelin star restaurants at your fingertips. Free access to the hot springs can be found below the main town.
Pienza: On your way back to Lucignano, you can either choose to drive through Pienza or Montepulciano. Pienza is the shorter route and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town sits on top of a hill overlooking the Val d’Orcia and you will find Renaissance-era architecture, restaurants, shops (Tuscan leather), and of course more beautiful churches to tour.