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Discover what to do and see in Montepulciano

If there's one place more than any other for relaxing and exploring, it's Tuscany.
Nestled among rolling green hills, dotted with olive trees and cultivated fields, is our town: Montepulciano, a real history book spanning from the Etruscans to the Renaissance.
Located on a hill 605 meters above sea level, it overlooks valleys and hills that are home to an amazing wine: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Once you get to the highest point, you'll fall in love with the unique view, which changes every day with the passing seasons.
The Valdichiana and Val d'Orcia stretch out in front of you, with their breathtaking landscapes.
Montepulciano is more than just a village to be admired; it's also a great starting point for exploring Tuscany. Here are a few ideas for discovering our region and falling in love with it.

Discover the historic center

Start your visit by strolling through the winding alleys of the historic center. Montepulciano, with its Renaissance buildings and shops, is a town that bears witness to centuries, even millennia, of history.
  • There's no better place than Piazza Grande, the beating heart of the city, to enjoy some Tuscan Renaissance architecture. Here, you'll find the Duomo, with its simple facade but an interior filled with art, including the famous triptych of the Assumption by Taddeo di Bartolo.
  • Visit the Palazzo Comunale, which symbolizes the alliance between Montepulciano and Florence, whose panoramic tower offers a stunning view of the hills of the Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana.
  • Every building, every stone in this town has a story to tell. It's no surprise that Montepulciano is also known as the pearl of the 16th century, as some of the greatest artists and architects of the Renaissance passed through here and left their mark.
  • Visit the civic museum, home to lots of paintings and works by artists who left their mark here, like Andrea della Robbia, Caravaggio, and Sodoma.
  • Along the Corso, the main street, you'll find artisan shops, wine bars, and scenic spots to stop and take photos.

Taste the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Montepulciano is known throughout the world for its Vino Nobile, one of the first Italian wines to get the Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin (DOCG) designation.
  • Visit La Fortezza, home to the Consorzio del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, where you can taste all the wines made by local producers.
  • Head down into the ancient underground cellars, some of which are carved directly into the tuff rock, such as the amazing Cantina de' Ricci, a magical place where history and tradition go hand in hand.
  • Book a tasting guided by producers to discover all the secrets behind Vino Nobile and pair it with cheese, cured meats, and other local products.

Visit the Temple of San Biagio

Just a stone's throw from the walls of the historic center, the Temple of San Biagio towers majestically at the foot of Montepulciano hill.
  • This Renaissance church, designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder, is a perfect example of architectural symmetry and harmony.
  • The temple is surrounded by the Tuscan countryside and is an ideal setting for leisurely strolls or for taking unique photos.

Relax at the thermal baths of Montepulciano and surroundings

After seeing the town, treat yourself to a relaxing break.
  • The Terme di Montepulciano are known for their mineral-rich waters and treatments focused on wellness and health, like mud baths, inhalations, and massages.
  • A few kilometers away, you can relax at the Theia thermal pools in Chianciano Terme, famous for its modern spas.
  • For an even more evocative experience, go to Bagno Vignoni, a small village that is unique in the world for its large Roman thermal pool in the center of the main square. You can have lunch by the pool and spend the afternoon in the hot pools located just a few minutes' walk away.
  • San Casciano dei Bagni: one of Tuscany's most exclusive spa destinations, famous for its elegant facilities and natural hot waters. Here you can relax in thermal pools surrounded by greenery, indulging yourself with treatments or massages.
  • Bagni San Filippo: one of Italy's most beautiful free thermal baths, where the hot water has created wonderful limestone formations within unspoiled woods.

Explore the Val d'Orcia

Montepulciano borders the Val d'Orcia, a valley recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Visit Pienza, a charming Renaissance village known as the “ideal city.” Here, besides its enchanting narrow streets, you can taste the famous Pecorino di Pienza, a cheese with a truly unique flavor.
  • Just a few kilometers away, discover Montalcino, home of the famous Brunello wine, where you can visit historic wineries and take a walk through the streets of the medieval village.
  • Don't miss the rolling hills of the Val d'Orcia, dotted with cypress trees, farmhouses and small villages such as San Quirico d'Orcia. Every corner is a natural photo setting!

Outdoor experiences

Do you love nature, adventure, and sports? Montepulciano and its surroundings have a lot to offer.
  • Trekking and walking: Take one of the many trails that wind through vineyards, olive groves, and sunflower fields.
  • Bicycle tours: Rent a bike or join a guided tour in the hills of Val d'Orcia or Val di Chiana. You'll enjoy unforgettable views along the scenic roads.
  • Vespas or Vintage Cars: Rent a Vespa or a vintage car to explore our area and take a true step back in time amidst our peaceful hills.
  • Picnic in the countryside: Bring a bottle of Vino Nobile, cheese, and cold cuts purchased from local shops and enjoy a picnic in nature!

A walk through history

Come discover the hidden gems of Tuscany with a trip through history, archaeology and legends.
  • Visit the different Etruscan museums of Chiusi, Sarteano, Cortona, and Chianciano, and book guided tours of the various Etruscan tombs: you'll be amazed and learn about our origins!
  • Go to Cetona and visit the archaeological park: you'll see stunning caves from the Paleolithic era and you can even have a barbecue in the surrounding area
  • Visit the Rocca di Radicofani to discover the secrets of the gentleman bandit Ghino di Tacco
And then ask us
there are so many activities to do and places to visit nearby!
That's why so many of our guests keep coming back year after year, discovering new secrets and falling more and more in love with this place!
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