Things To Do
in Montepulciano
Montepulciano is a hill town in southern Tuscany perched above the Val d'Orcia, renowned for its Renaissance palaces and labyrinthine medieval streets. The town sits on a limestone ridgeline, offering sweeping views over vineyards and olive groves. It is famed for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, with wine shops and cellar doors lining the lanes.
Visitors wander from Piazza Grande to intimate alleys, savoring local cuisine, wine, and the quintessential Tuscan scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Montepulciano and check into your charming accommodation, soaking in the beautiful Tuscan landscape. After settling in, start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and Italian coffee. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the historic architecture and vibrant local life.
Explore the town's main square, Piazza Grande, where you can visit the impressive Palazzo Comunale and enjoy the panoramic views from its tower. For lunch, indulge in a delicious meal at a traditional trattoria specializing in local dishes and renowned wines. Afterward, head to a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting experience, learning about the prized Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk back through the charming alleys, enjoying the evening ambiance of the town. Dine at a cozy restaurant, savoring seasonal specialties paired with exquisite local wines. End your day with a relaxing gelato while soaking in the magical atmosphere of this Tuscan gem.
Start your day with a guided tour of the historic Palazzo Contucci, a noble residence that still produces wine today. Discover the fascinating history of Montepulciano as you explore its ancient walls and artworks. Don’t forget to take pictures of the stunning views from the palace gardens.
After a delightful lunch, visit the ancient church of San Biagio, set in a picturesque location surrounded by vineyards. Wander through the surrounding area, imbibing the beautiful sights of rolling hills and lush landscapes. To end the afternoon, stop by local artisan shops to find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
Enjoy a cooking class in a rustic kitchen, where you'll learn to make traditional Tuscan dishes. As you cook, share stories with fellow travelers and your local chef, making the experience all the more enriching. After dinner, relax at a local wine bar, tasting various selections of wines while enjoying the company of new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $5-12 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $90-170 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning hilltop setting with panoramic views
- World-class wines and intimate enotecas
- Compact, walkable historic center
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for some visitors
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Crowds and higher prices during harvest season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è la fontana?" - Where is the fountain?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Montepulciano
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of Montepulciano with Gothic-Renaissance palazzi and the towered skyline; ideal at dawn or sunset.
Stunning Renaissance church set against rolling countryside; dramatic stonework and approach are superb for photography.
Scenic viewpoints along the historic walls offering sweeping vistas of vineyards and valleys.
Cobbled courtyards and wine-cellar interiors provide atmospheric, wine-inspired photographic moments.
Food in Montepulciano
Montepulciano Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick hand-rolled pasta tossed with a garlicky tomato sauce; a Tuscan staple found in most trattorie.
Must-Try!
Tomato and bread soup with basil and olive oil, a comforting starter or light meal.
Sweet dessert wine served with almond biscotti for dunking.
A substantial Tuscan steak often shared; best enjoyed at rustic osterias with robust wines.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and local specialties in the historic center.
Olive-oil flatbread sold by several stalls and bakeries, hot and savory, sometimes with rosemary.
Small portions of roasted pork and simple snacks available from street vendors during market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous hello and a brief exchange in Italian (Buongiorno/Buonasera) goes a long way; greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek in familiar circles.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; silence and respectful behavior are appreciated.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in homes or small shops; avoid flash in sensitive interiors.
Safety
Tipping in Montepulciano
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy; rounding up or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated. Check if a service charge is included in the bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and wineries; cash is handy for smaller establishments and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming countryside make walking pleasant; ideal for outdoor tastings and city strolls.
Warm to hot days with lively evenings; expect crowds around harvest time and festival weekends; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Harvest season; excellent for wine tours and scenic vineyard photography; cooler evenings and colorful foliage.
Chillier and quieter; good for museum visits and cozy truffle-and-wine dining experiences; some outdoor activities may be limited by weather.
Montepulciano at Night
Hiking in Montepulciano
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate loop with panoramic views over Val d'Orcia and rolling vineyards.
Scenic route along the valley floor with photo-worthy vistas.
Gentle to moderate trails that connect villages and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Montepulciano by plane.
About 1.5-2 hours by car or train from Montepulciano.
About 2-2.5 hours by car; good for connections to central Italy.
About 1.5-2 hours by car; smaller but convenient.
About 2.5-3 hours by road; many international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Italian families and retirees who live in the town year-round.
Seasonal influx of visitors attracted by wine, architecture, and scenery.
A steady international crowd drawn to Vino Nobile di Montepulciano tastings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and visitors, with routes through rolling Tuscan hills and vineyards.
Trails across the Val d'Orcia and nearby woodlands provide scenic day hikes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montepulciano.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Tuscan dishes can be vegetarian (pappa al pomodoro, ribollita, grilled vegetables). Ask for plant-based options and request meatless preparations where possible.