Montepulciano is a Tuscan hill town with big skies and quiet drama. It sits between the Valdichiana Senese and the postcard lanes of Val d’Orcia. You come for views, Renaissance stone, and slow wine tastings. You stay for golden light, easy walks, and long dinners.
This guide covers the best things to do in Montepulciano. It also helps you plan a day trip, weekend, or two-night stay.
Why Montepulciano is worth visiting
Montepulciano feels elegant without being showy. The streets climb in gentle curves. You pass palaces, small churches, and cellars carved into the hill. The center is compact. It rewards anyone who likes to explore on foot.
The town also has a clear identity. It is the home of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG. That wine story shapes the whole place. You will see tasting rooms behind stone doors. You will smell oak and fermenting grapes in harvest season.
Where is Montepulciano in Tuscany
Montepulciano lies in southern Tuscany. It is in the Montepulciano Siena province area. It sits inland from the coast. It is close to the borders of Umbria.
The setting is part of the appeal. Hills roll away in every direction. On clear days, you can see far across the valleys.
How to get to Montepulciano
Montepulciano is easiest with a car. It is still possible by public transport. Plan a little more time.
The closest train stations are Montepulciano Stazione and Chiusi–Chianciano Terme. Montepulciano Stazione is the closest rail stop to town. Chiusi–Chianciano Terme often has more frequent train services. If you want the closest stop, choose Montepulciano Stazione. If you want the simplest rail option, choose Chiusi–Chianciano Terme. Always check current timetables. Track works can affect the Chiusi–Siena line.
Montepulciano from Florence
Florence to Montepulciano works well by car. You can also combine train and bus. Take a train to Chiusi–Chianciano Terme or Montepulciano Stazione. Chiusi often has more frequent services. Then continue by bus or taxi up to the hill town.
Montepulciano from Rome
Rome to Montepulciano is a classic Tuscany add-on. By car, it is a straightforward drive. By train, aim for Chiusi–Chianciano Terme. You can also use Montepulciano Stazione on some routes. Then use bus or taxi for the final stretch.
Montepulciano from Siena
Siena is a common base for southern Tuscany. You can drive to Montepulciano for a day trip. Bus connections also exist. Check current timetables before you travel.
Montepulciano from Chiusi
Chiusi–Chianciano Terme is a practical rail gateway. It often has frequent train connections. From there, continue by bus or taxi to the hill town.
Montepulciano Stazione
Montepulciano Stazione is around 10 km from the historic center. It can be the closest rail stop. Services can be limited on some routes. From the station, use a bus, taxi, or pre-booked transfer.
Parking in Montepulciano
Montepulciano old town has limited traffic zones. You usually park outside the walls. Then you walk up. Seasonal shuttles may run on peak days and event weekends. Check locally once you arrive.
If mobility matters, choose parking with easier access. Then plan a short taxi ride to your accommodation.
Many visitors aim for parking areas near the gates. From there, it is a straightforward uphill walk.
Use these tips.
Arrive earlier in summer.
Expect uphill walks inside the center.
Save energy for the return climb.
Best things to do in Montepulciano
Montepulciano is made for wandering. Start at the top. Then drift downhill for aperitivo.
Piazza Grande Montepulciano
Piazza Grande is the town’s monumental heart. It feels like a film set. Buildings line the square in a calm, balanced way.
Look for these highlights.
The Duomo di Montepulciano facade.
Palazzo Comunale Montepulciano.
The well called Pozzo dei Grifi e dei Leoni, dated 1520.
Elegant palaces facing the square.
Come early for photos. Return near sunset for softer light.
Palazzo Comunale tower Montepulciano
The town hall tower is the best viewpoint in the center. Climb it if the sky is clear. The panorama stretches across valleys and hill towns.
This is a perfect first stop. It helps you understand the landscape. It also helps you plan day trips.
Montepulciano cathedral and the Duomo
The Montepulciano cathedral sits on Piazza Grande. Inside, you find a quieter mood. It is a good break on a hot day. The current cathedral was built between 1586 and 1680.
Even a short visit works well. Then step outside and keep exploring.
Fortezza Medicea Montepulciano
The Fortezza Medicea is another strong viewpoint. It is also linked to the local wine story. The fortress area often hosts tastings and events.
Walk here in late afternoon. Then choose a nearby place for dinner.
Hidden streets and small surprises
The best moments are often unplanned. Turn down side streets. Look for small arches and stone doorways. Pause when a view opens between buildings.
You can also watch local life. Morning deliveries bring a gentle rhythm. Evenings feel lively but not loud.
Tempio di San Biagio Montepulciano
The Temple of San Biagio Montepulciano is a must. It stands just outside the historic center. It is one of the great Renaissance landmarks in the area.
The church was built in travertine. Work began in 1518. Work continued until 1545. The design is linked to Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. Only one of the two bell towers was completed.
Plan your visit like this.
Walk down from town for classic photos.
Visit mid morning for clean light.
Stay until late afternoon for warmer tones.
Bring water in summer. The walk back up feels longer.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and the wine culture
Wine is part of daily life here. You do not need to be an expert. You just need curiosity. Vineyards wrap the hills around town. Many tastings come with wide valley views.
What Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG means
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a protected wine. The DOCG rules define the production zone. They also define grape requirements.
Sangiovese is the core grape. Here it is called Prugnolo Gentile. It must be at least 70% of the blend. Up to 30% can be other local red grapes.
One common confusion matters. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is not Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. They are different wines from different places.
Montepulciano wine tasting tips
Montepulciano wine tasting is easy to arrange. Many cellars are inside the historic center. Some are deep underground. That makes them cool in summer.
A simple pairing helps. Try Vino Nobile with pici. Add pecorino and olive oil. In cooler months, look for wild boar dishes.
Use these practical tips.
Book ahead in high season.
Start with one tasting before lunch.
Keep your afternoon lighter.
Drink water between pours.
Eat something before stronger reds.
Montepulciano wineries and cellar visits
Montepulciano wineries range from historic to modern. Some focus on classic ageing. Others offer relaxed, scenic tastings.
If you want depth, choose a guided visit. You learn about soils and elevation. You also learn why this area tastes different.
If you want simple pleasure, do a short tasting. Then buy one bottle for later.
Montepulciano itinerary ideas
Montepulciano works as a day trip. It works even better as an overnight stay. Nights are calmer. Mornings feel local.
Montepulciano one day itinerary
Start early and keep it simple.
Arrive and park outside the walls.
Walk up to Piazza Grande.
Climb the town hall tower.
Visit the Duomo.
Enjoy a long lunch.
Do one cellar tasting.
Walk to the Fortezza for views.
End with aperitivo and dinner.
This plan fits a Montepulciano day trip. It also suits travellers who drive a loop.
Montepulciano two day itinerary
Two days lets you slow down. It also adds time for the countryside.
Day 1 focuses on the old town.
Piazza Grande and palaces.
A tower climb and viewpoints.
A first tasting in town.
Dinner with local pairings.
Day 2 adds the wider area.
Walk to the Temple of San Biagio.
Visit one winery outside town.
Drive a scenic loop in the afternoon.
Finish with sunset back in town.
This is ideal for a Montepulciano weekend.
Best time to visit Montepulciano
Montepulciano is beautiful in every season. The best choice depends on your style.
Spring
Spring brings fresh green hills. Days are mild. Crowds are lower. It is great for walking.
Summer
Summer has the longest days. It also has the biggest crowds. Start early and rest at midday. Plan tastings in cooler cellars.
Autumn
Autumn is harvest season. Vineyards glow. Food feels richer. This is a favourite time for wine lovers.
Winter
Winter is quiet and atmospheric. You get crisp light and empty streets. Some services run with shorter hours. Call ahead for tastings.
Bravio delle Botti and other events
If you love festivals, time your visit.
Bravio delle Botti Montepulciano
Bravio delle Botti is the town’s headline tradition. It takes place on the last Sunday of August. Teams push heavy barrels uphill through the center. The eight contrade compete for pride and a painted banner.
Expect historical costumes and drumbeats. Book accommodation early for this weekend. Arrive a day before for the build-up.
Cantiere Internazionale d’Arte Montepulciano
The Cantiere festival brings concerts and performances. It adds a cultural layer to summer trips. It can shape a whole weekend plan.
Anteprima Vino Nobile Montepulciano
The Anteprima is a tasting-focused event. It usually runs in winter. It suits travellers who plan around wine.
Day trips from Montepulciano
Montepulciano is a strong base for southern Tuscany. You can build a trip with short drives. You can also mix town days with countryside days.
Val dOrcia near Montepulciano
Val d’Orcia is a UNESCO-listed cultural landscape. It is famous for cypress lines and rolling hills. It is also full of small towns.
A simple loop works best. Choose two or three stops. Keep the rest as scenic driving.
Good options include:
Pienza day trip from Montepulciano for views and tidy streets.
Bagno Vignoni day trip from Montepulciano for thermal atmosphere.
San Quirico dOrcia day trip from Montepulciano for a relaxed lunch stop.
Montalcino day trip from Montepulciano
Montalcino is a classic hill town. It is linked to Brunello culture. Visit if you want a second wine story.
Lago di Montepulciano nature reserve
The lake reserve is a quieter side of the area. It is ideal for slow walks. It is also known for birdwatching.
If you want a break from stone streets, go here. Bring binoculars if you have them. Ask about guided routes if you want help spotting birds.
Where to stay in Montepulciano
Your best choice depends on how you travel. It also depends on how much walking you want.
Stay inside the historic center
This is the most atmospheric option. You can walk to Piazza Grande at night. You can enjoy early mornings with fewer people.
Choose this if you value romance and charm. Expect stairs and limited car access.
Stay just outside the walls
Outside stays often offer easier parking. They can also offer more space. You can still walk into town. You may also get countryside views.
Choose this if you road trip. It also suits families.
Stay in the countryside
Countryside stays are made for slow travel. You wake to vineyard light. You can combine tastings and long lunches.
Choose this if you want calm. It is best with a car.
Top Rated Hotels in Montepulciano
🔍Palazzo Carletti
Review score & number of reviews: 9.6 (Exceptional) • 382 reviews
Description: A boutique stay in the heart of Montepulciano’s historic centre, set inside an old palazzo with lots of character. Best for couples and wine lovers who want a walkable base and a more “special occasion” feel.
Neighborhood/landmark: Historic centre (central location)
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi • Breakfast options • Shuttle connection to Montepulciano Bus Station • Free parking available at a car park about 300 m away
Why it stands out: A true historic-palazzo vibe right in the centre, with practical parking close by.🔍Terra Antica – Resort, Winery & SPA
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 (Exceptional) • 371 reviews
Description: A countryside resort-style stay with a strong wellness + vineyard setting, made for slow Tuscany days. Best for couples and small groups who want pool time, spa moments, and a scenic base outside the busy centre.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Montepulciano (about a 10-minute drive mentioned by guests)
Key facilities: Swimming pool • Wellness area with sauna and hot tub • Free Wi-Fi • Free private parking
Why it stands out: One of the strongest “spa + views + wine-country” picks near Montepulciano.🔍Precise Tale Poggio Alla Sala
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 (Wonderful) • 642 reviews
Description: An elegant 5-star hotel focused on wellness and relaxation, with multiple pools and a full spa feel. Best for couples, spa weekends, and travellers who want higher-end resort amenities.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Terme di Montepulciano (listed as 9.1 km away)
Key facilities: Seasonal outdoor pool • Indoor pool • Spa/wellness centre • Sauna • Fitness centre • Restaurant • Free private parking • Free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: A polished, full-amenity spa hotel option, not just a room in town.🔍Hotel I Due Cigni
Review score & number of reviews: 9.4 (Excellent) • 1,465 reviews
Description: A friendly, great-value base in Sant’Albino, close to the Montepulciano Terme spa area. Best for drivers, spa-focused stays, and travellers who want easy logistics (parking + quick access) over being inside the old town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Sant’Albino • less than 1 km from Montepulciano Terme
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi • Restaurant • Free parking • Pool access (free use of a pool 350 m away) • Bar
Why it stands out: High guest ratings with spa proximity and genuinely practical extras (Wi-Fi + parking + pool access).🔍La Terrazza Di Montepulciano
Review score & number of reviews: 9.0 (Wonderful) • 879 reviews
Description: A comfortable, well-liked hotel along Montepulciano’s main street, set up for easy exploring and relaxed mornings. Best for couples and first-timers who want a simple, central-feeling base with a strong breakfast reputation.
Neighborhood/landmark: Along the main street in Montepulciano
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi • Balcony • Free private parking
Why it stands out: Consistently praised for location and breakfast, while still keeping parking simple.
Top Rated Farm Stays in Montepulciano
🔍Agriturismo Nobile
Review score & number of reviews: 9.6 (Exceptional) • 507 reviews
Short description: A working farm about 1 km from Montepulciano’s centre, with classic Tuscan style and an easy countryside feel. Expect an outdoor pool, garden areas, and an on-site restaurant. Best for couples, wine lovers, and relaxed road trips.
Neighborhood/landmark: About 1 km from Montepulciano centre
Key facilities: Outdoor swimming pool • Free parking • Restaurant • Free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: One of the highest-rated and most-reviewed agriturismo stays in the area.🔍La Falconara
Review score & number of reviews: 9.7 (Exceptional) • 220 reviews
Short description: A small, peaceful farm stay in a historic-style building with countryside views and a boutique feel. There’s a scenic pool and a strong breakfast reputation. Best for couples and slow travellers who want quiet evenings near wineries.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Terme di Montepulciano (about 9 km shown)
Key facilities: Pool with a view • Free Wi-Fi • Air conditioning • Breakfast options
Why it stands out: A high-end Tuscan hideaway atmosphere with a standout pool setting.🔍L’ Aia del Principe
Review score & number of reviews: 9.6 (Exceptional) • 251 reviews
Short description: A refined farm stay that feels like a private countryside retreat, with stylish rooms and a comfort-first setup. Expect relaxing outdoor space and spa-style touches. Best for couples and longer weekends when you want calm close to town.
Neighborhood/landmark: About 1.1 km from Montepulciano centre
Key facilities: Hot tub/spa bath • Free Wi-Fi • Air conditioning • Free private parking
Why it stands out: A top-rated choice if you want agriturismo peace plus a proper hot-tub reset after sightseeing.🔍Salcheto WineHouse
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 • 885 reviews
Short description: A modern wine-estate stay set among vineyards, built for travellers who want a winery-focused experience. The vibe is sleek and design-led, with food-and-wine at the centre. Best for couples and wine-first itineraries.
Neighborhood/landmark: Vineyard setting outside the historic centre
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi • Free private parking • Heated outdoor hot tub • Wine-focused on-site experience
Why it stands out: One of the most-reviewed farm stays near Montepulciano with a polished, contemporary wine-lodge feel.🔍Godiolo
Review score & number of reviews: 9.4 • 202 reviews
Short description: A countryside farm stay with a strong “space + views” appeal, designed around relaxing outdoor time. Expect a pool setting and a practical setup that suits longer stays. Best for families, small groups, and travellers who want calm just outside town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Close to Montepulciano (distance to Terme di Montepulciano is shown on the listing)
Key facilities: Swimming pool • Free Wi-Fi • Air conditioning • Kitchenette in units (where listed) • Private check-in/out
Why it stands out: A high-rated pick if you want a pool-and-view base with more space than a typical hotel room.
Top Rated B&B in Montepulciano
🔍CUGUSI BnB
Review score & number of reviews: 9.6 • 592 reviews
Description: A characterful B&B in a historic-style building with terrace and garden areas, known for a strong breakfast and a highly rated location. Best for couples who want an atmospheric base for Montepulciano plus easy day trips into Val d’Orcia.
Neighborhood/landmark: Montepulciano area
Key facilities: Free parking • Free Wi-Fi • Non-smoking rooms • Superb breakfast
Why it stands out: It combines top guest ratings with a standout breakfast and a scenic, relaxed feel.🔍ManillaHouse
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 • 408 reviews
Description: A central-feeling stay with city views, ideal if you want a stylish, home-like base and flexible plans. Best for couples and short breaks focused on the historic centre, wine bars, and easy evenings out.
Neighborhood/landmark: 4.9 km from Terme di Montepulciano
Why it stands out: One of the highest-rated B&B-style picks with a strong number of reviews.🔍LaStamperia19 Camere-Rooms
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 • 208 reviews
Description: A comfortable, well-located rooms-style B&B with a calm setting designed for an easy, walkable Montepulciano stay. Best for travellers who want convenience for sightseeing and dining without relying on the car.
Neighborhood/landmark: 5.2 km from Terme di Montepulciano • 21 km from Parco dei Mulini
Why it stands out: A top-scoring option that balances central access with a quieter vibe.🔍AFFITTACAMERE Casale Le Civette
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 • 111 reviews
Description: A quiet, comfort-first rooms stay with a countryside edge, set up for easy arrival and restful nights. Best for road-trippers and couples who want views, space, and a calmer base outside the busiest streets.
Neighborhood/landmark: 6.1 km from Terme di Montepulciano
Why it stands out: A high-rating, great-value choice that’s often picked for its peaceful setting.🔍Casa del Fauno
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 • 119 reviews
Description: A sleek, polished in-town stay geared toward travellers who want a modern, low-stress base in Montepulciano. Best for couples who care about design details and want simple access to town highlights.
Neighborhood/landmark: 5 km from Terme di Montepulciano • 28 km from Bagni San Filippo
Why it stands out: Boutique-style touches with consistently excellent ratings for an in-town stay.
Top Rated Apartments in Montepulciano
🔍Truffle House Tuscany Tuber Albidum Pico
Review score & number of reviews: 9.9 (Exceptional) • 40 reviews
Description: In the historic centre with a strong “design-meets-old-stone” feel and a boutique renovation style. It’s an easy base for walking Montepulciano’s main sights, with shared social spaces. Best for couples and style-first travellers who want to stay right in town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Central location • about 4.9 km to Terme di Montepulciano
Key facilities: Wi-Fi • Shared lounge • Shared kitchen
Why it stands out: One of the highest-rated in-town apartment stays with a boutique-renovation vibe.🔍Appartamento centro storico La Pulcianella con vista mozzafiato
Review score & number of reviews: 9.8 (Exceptional) • 141 reviews
Description: A central historic-centre apartment known for its calm feel and wide Tuscan views. You’re close to the Corso and viewpoints, with a comfortable setup for longer stays too. Best for couples and slow travellers who want scenery and quiet nights.
Neighborhood/landmark: About 5.1 km to Terme di Montepulciano • 21 km to Parco dei Mulini • 28 km to Bagni San Filippo
Key facilities: Wi-Fi • Air conditioning • Kitchenette • Washing machine
Why it stands out: A rare mix of inside-the-walls convenience and big countryside views.🔍Opio 60
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 • 218 reviews
Description: Central, well-reviewed apartments with a practical, modern-comfort focus and an easy, walkable location. Quiet-street views and flexible room options suit different trip styles. Best for couples, families, and travellers who want reliable comfort in town.
Neighborhood/landmark: About 4.9 km to Terme di Montepulciano
Key facilities: Breakfast options • Wi-Fi • Family rooms
Why it stands out: Strong review volume with consistently high scores in a central setting.🔍La casina in Via Fiorita
Review score & number of reviews: 9.4 • 155 reviews
Description: A cosy, live-like-a-local apartment on a quieter street, still close enough for easy walks into the centre. Well set up for self-catering with a kitchen/kitchenette style layout. Best for couples or solo travellers who want independence and better sleep.
Neighborhood/landmark: About 5.4 km to Terme di Montepulciano • 21 km to Parco dei Mulini
Key facilities: Wi-Fi • Air conditioning • Kitchenette / kitchen
Why it stands out: A quiet-but-central apartment with a strong score and a solid number of reviews.🔍Dimora Del Corso Di Montepulciano
Review score & number of reviews: 9.2 • 567 reviews
Description: A spacious historic-centre apartment-style stay on/near the main Corso, built for travellers who want everything on foot. It’s a strong choice if you value location, space, and an easy base for dinners and sightseeing. Best for couples and families who prioritise walkability.
Neighborhood/landmark: Historic centre • about 3.8 miles from Montepulciano Terme
Key facilities: Wi-Fi • Air conditioning
Why it stands out: One of the most established apartment picks in town, with a very high review count and a strong overall score.
Food to try in and around Montepulciano
Food here is seasonal and simple. It pairs naturally with local reds.
Look for these local favourites.
Pici pasta with rich sauces.
Pecorino and olive oil with bruschetta.
Chianina beef when you want a big meal.
Practical tips for a smooth visit
A few small choices can improve your day.
Wear shoes with grip.
Bring a light layer for cellars.
Start with viewpoints first.
Keep afternoons flexible.
Avoid driving after tastings.
If you travel in summer, drink more water. Heat and hills add up fast.
FAQs
Is Montepulciano worth visiting?
Yes. It offers views, architecture, and a strong wine identity. It also feels walkable and rewarding.
How many days do you need in Montepulciano?
One day works for highlights. Two days feels balanced. Three days suits slow travellers and wine lovers.
Can you do Montepulciano as a day trip?
Yes. A Montepulciano day trip is easy by car. Start early to enjoy Piazza Grande without crowds.
Do you need a car in Montepulciano?
A car helps for wineries and day trips. You can still visit without one. Use trains to Chiusi and then bus or taxi.
Where should you park in Montepulciano?
Park outside the walls. Follow signs for public parking. Then walk up into the historic center.
What is the difference between Vino Nobile and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo?
They are different wines. They come from different regions. Vino Nobile is from Tuscany. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is from Abruzzo.
When is Bravio delle Botti?
It is held on the last Sunday of August. The week before has parades and contrada events.
Is the Temple of San Biagio easy to reach?
Yes. It is just outside town. You can walk down from the center. The return walk is uphill.
Next steps for your Montepulciano trip
Pick your base first. Stay inside the walls for atmosphere. Stay just outside for easier parking.
Book one tasting in advance. Reserve one dinner spot. Then add a Val d’Orcia drive or a lake walk.
Stay at least one night if you can. Quiet evenings are part of the magic.
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