Is Montepulciano Worth Visiting in Tuscany Italy?

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Is Montepulciano Worth Visiting?

Montepulciano is Tuscany at its most authentic—its rustic charm and distinct character set it apart even in a region famed for its picturesque towns.

This is a town that I happily return to, making my recent trip a second return visit.

Its location near the Val d’Orcia also makes it a convenient base for exploring the scenic Tuscan countryside and nearby towns.

Compared to neighbouring Tuscan towns like Montalcino, known for Brunello wine, or Pienza with its cheese heritage, Montepulciano is much larger.

The town’s medieval streets are endless, the scenic views go on for days and the abundance of charming shops will entice you. This town is such a pleasure to explore every square inch and for those reasons, I think Montepulciano is worth visiting.

What Montepulciano is Famous For

Here, you’ll find a blend of Renaissance architecture, a long wine heritage, and panoramic views that few places can rival.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is one of Italy’s oldest and most esteemed red wines.

One of Montepulciano’s main draws is its reputation for Vino Nobile, a wine that can be savoured in historic cellars like Cantina de’ Ricci, where tasting rooms are located among ancient stone walls under the city.

Montepulciano Architecture

Montepulciano’s architectural charm is another defining feature, with landmarks such as the Palazzo Comunale—a 15th-century town hall modelled after Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio. From its tower, you can enjoy panoramic views that stretch across Val d’Orcia to Lake Trasimeno.

Just below the city walls lies the Tempio di San Biagio, a Renaissance masterpiece designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. This domed travertine church, surrounded by cypress trees, offers a quieter experience compared to the busier historical sites of Florence or Siena​.

Via Corso

Montepulciano’s main street, Corso, is a vibrant scene of shops, artisan boutiques, and enotecas (wine shops) that will keep you exploring for days.

Filming Location

And for movie buffs, parts of Twilight: New Moon were filmed here, which has brought a new wave of visitors who want to see this town.

The History of Montepulciano Italy

Montepulciano’s history stretches back to the Etruscan era, around the 4th century BCE when it was established as a strategic settlement due to its elevated location.

Later, under Roman influence, it became a central trade and military point, connecting it to nearby cities like Assisi, Perugia, and Orvieto. This advantageous position allowed Montepulciano to thrive as a commercial hub throughout antiquity.

During the Middle Ages, Montepulciano’s allegiance swayed between Siena and Florence as it sought to maintain autonomy amid their territorial disputes. Ultimately, Florence gained control in the early 16th century, significantly shaping the town’s character.

This era marked Montepulciano’s Renaissance golden age, evident in its architectural elegance today. Influential figures like Angelo Poliziano, a celebrated poet who took his name from the town, contributed to its cultural heritage, while grand structures like the Palazzo Comunale and the Church of San Biagio, designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder, reflect Florence’s profound influence on its aesthetic.

Religious miracles and folklore also colour Montepulciano’s past, such as the Virgin Mary’s reported appearance in 1518 on a wall of the Church of San Biagio, which became a symbol of local devotion and attracted pilgrims from afar.

Best Time to Visit Montepulciano

The best time to visit Montepulciano is during the shoulder seasons—spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These months offer ideal weather for exploring the town and surrounding vineyards with pleasant, mild temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer peak.

I visited Montepulciano in the Spring and loved seeing the bright green rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, while when I visited in the fall, the colours were far more subdued, but there was a buzz of activity as the wine harvest season began.

Summer (July and August) is the busiest and hottest period. While the town is lively with events like Bravio delle Botti, a traditional barrel-rolling race through the historic streets in late August, it can get crowded and quite warm. If you visit during this time, plan for early morning or late afternoon activities to avoid the midday heat​.

Winter (December to February) is the quietest season, offering a more local, authentic experience and lower accommodation costs. Though many wineries and attractions have reduced hours, the holiday season brings festive events, and I can only imagine just how charming it would be.

Getting Around Montepulciano and Nearby Towns

Montepulciano itself is best explored on foot. The town’s main attractions—like the Piazza Grande, Palazzo Comunale, and numerous wine cellars—are concentrated within a small, walkable area. However, be prepared for some uphill walking, as Montepulciano’s streets are steep.

Exploring Nearby Towns

For day trips, a rental car is the best option, giving you easy access to neighbouring towns. A car allows you to travel at your own pace and stop at scenic viewpoints along the way, of which there are many!

If you prefer not to drive, regional buses connect Montepulciano to nearby Tuscan towns, though schedules can be limited and less frequent. Alternatively, the train station in nearby Chiusi provides connections to larger cities like Florence and Rome, making it a convenient base for broader travel within Tuscany. Taxis services are also available but require advanced booking.

• Chianciano Terme: 11 km (6.8 miles), 15 minutes
  • Known for its thermal spas
• Pienza: 14 km (8.7 miles), 20 minutes
  • Read about things to do in Pienza
• San Quirico d’Orcia: 24 km (15 miles), 30 minutes
  • Known for its quiet charm of Renaissance gardens and Val d’Orcia vistas
• Cortona: 33 km (20.5 miles), 40 minutes
  • Read about things to do in Cortona
• Montalcino: 37 km (23 miles), 45 minutes
  • Known for Brunello di Montalcino wine and its scenic vineyards
• Arezzo: 53 km (33 miles), 60 minutes
  • Read about things to do in Arezzo
• Perugia: 65 km (40 miles), 75 minutes
  • Known for its chocolate festivals and views over the Umbrian countryside
• Siena: 65 km (40 miles), 75 minutes
  • Read about things to do in Siena
• Florence: 110 km (68 miles), 90 minutes
  • Read about things to do in Florence
• Rome: 180 km (112 miles), 2 hours and 20 minutes
  • Read about things to do in Rome that aren’t touristy