I am traveling to Italy and have four days set aside for either Siena or Pienza. We plan on renting a car and taking day trips, but which would you say is more beautiful and relaxing?

Last Sept, I stayed in Siena for 2 nights and in Pienza for 3 nights. I very much enjoyed both, but particularly loved Pienza. It is very quiet at night, if you like more going on at night, Siena is bigger and might be better. If you want more details, here is my trip report:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34687434

You can skip to the Tuscany part if you like!

Pienza would be more relaxing, and you have the most beautiful countryside in Italy (IMO), surrounding you.

Stu Dudley

definetly Pienza hands down. Also near Sienna stay at San Gimaniano. (sorry wrong spelling.) Both Pienza and San Gim are my 2 favorites in tuscancy.

I much prefer Siena over Pienza. My husband & I have been twice and we're returning this year. If you're traveling with teenagers, however, I think they might prefer Siena. Siena was too large for me, with too many people and didn't have the unique beauty I found in Pienza. The views and relaxing atmosphere of Pienza seeped into my very being. I can't wait to return! Happy travels...

I'm assuming Dorkforcemom had the two cities reversed in her first sentence.

Stu Dudley

Silly me! Yes - prefer Pienza over Siena - thanks StuDudley!

Thank you all! I hope I can find a hotel in time (we're going on May). Any suggestions?