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12 Unmissable Things to Do in Pienza, Italy

Aerial view of Pienza, Tuscany: Historic architecture and charming streets of UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy

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Found within the panoramic backdrop of the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Italy, lies Pienza, a small but quintessential Tuscan treasure. Boasting a storied past and an architectural canopy inspired by the Renaissance ideals of urban living, Pienza offers many experiences that harmoniously blend art, history, and gastronomy.

During my recent travels through southern Tuscany, the charm of Pienza was unmistakable, with its embrace of pecorino cheese, the intricate details of its palazzi, and inviting cobblestoned streets that conjure a bygone era.

As a town epitomizing the idyllic Italian countryside, Pienza provides a serene escape from the bustle of larger cities. Imagine strolling along the intact city walls with a gelato in hand, absorbing the views of the rolling hills dotted with cypress trees and perhaps indulging in an impromptu picnic featuring the region’s freshest produce while basking under the Tuscan sun.

Just take a look at this vantage point that I took from above. Not only these, but you’ll also find my photography throughout this guide from my visit. I wanted to take a picture of EVERYTHING, so much so that I ran out of battery for all my cameras but nighttime.

Aerial view of Pienza, Tuscany: Historic architecture and charming streets of UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

My family’s time here was a dance with the delights of slow travel—each step a vignette of culture and leisure. Beyond its picture-perfect scenery, Pienza’s allure lies in its human scale.

Don’t take my word for it. Experience all these great things to do in Pienza with me from the video footage I took from visiting below. All from the ViaTravelers YouTube Channel.

1. Pienza Cathedral

Address: Piazza Pio II, 2, 53026 Pienza SI, Italy

During our stay in the heart of Tuscany, the Pienza Cathedral, or l Duomo di Pienza, officially known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, commanded our attention. Consecrated in 1462, this 15th-century masterpiece, designed by the architect Bernardo Rossellino, exemplifies Renaissance architecture. Built upon the orders of Pope Pius II, it’s exceptionally well…

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