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Pienza

Reader Submissions: What's Your Favorite Place in Tuscany?

From Carole Brown

Pienza

Abbey of Sant'Antimo

My Favorite Place in Tuscany

My favorite town in Tuscany is Pienza. Besides being beautiful itself, it is a great home base for many day trips.

Why this is My Top Pick for Tuscany

The history, architecture and art of Rome and Florence (especially the Uffizi) are outstanding. Venice has its unique beauty. But the Val d’Orcia in Tuscany is a dream come true for experiencing the people and culture of Italy.

From Pienza you can visit many hill towns and Abbeys. Here the Italians teach you the meaning of La Dolce Vita. They teach you to make pasta and educate you on the making of olive oil and wine. We are returning for a month this fall, hoping to take part in the grape harvest. We will once again be the guests of Isabella Moricciani and family. We rent their apartment in the 9th century village of Castelmuzio (near Pienza) where we attempt to absorb the traditions.

Tuscany is good food, good wine, good friends and treasured memories.

Advice

  • You definitely need a car to travel the white gravel roads of beautiful Tuscany.
  • You also need good walking shoes, a guide book and plenty of time to get lost while you make new discoveries every day.

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