Montalcino to Orvieto

How are you getting around Montalcino and surroundings without a car? It’s a very small village in a very rural area. Bus service is very infrequent there and if you happen to stay in a farmhouse, you might be in the middle of nowhere among fields close to nothing within walking distance. You should consider a car for your stay there.

Orvieto can be reached by train from Chiusi-Chianciano station. You just need to find your way to Montepulciano then Chiusi (via buses).

I am spending a week in a writing workshop. We'll have a van or other means for the travel while there. I'm leaving Montalcino and likely heading to Rome and maybe Amalfi. But I really want to see Orvieto. I realize I could go to Rome, then take the train back to Orvieto but that seems like unnecessary back and forth. Thank you.

Check with your workshop, they should be able to direct you to the correct bus. Then train from Chiusi to Orvieto.

Any trip from Montalcino to Rome using public transit will likely involve buses to Chiusi and train to Rome. The Chiusi to Rome trains stop in Orvieto, so that's easy logistically. There are frequent buses between Montepulciano and Chiusi, most timed to meet the trains, so getting to Montepulciano will be the trickiest part of the trip. If your van could take you to Montepulciano or even as far as Pienza, that would simplify things. As previously suggested, the people hosting your workshop might be able to provide information on your travel options to Montepulciano.