Montepulciano, Italy is one of my favorite medieval and Renaissance hilltop towns in Tuscany. It’s filled with amazing, local wines; gorgeous architecture; Medici legacy; and delicious food. Montepulciano makes a great day trip from Siena, or group it with nearby Pienza and Montalcino for a full day in one of Tuscany’s best wine regions.
Where is Montepulciano, Italy located?
Montepulciano is located in southeastern Tuscany, about 50 minutes south of Siena. It sits on the edge of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia region, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its preservation of Renaissance character and landscape.
Montepulciano, Italy does not have a train station. You’ll need to rent a car, join a tour or hire a driver to get there. We rented a car, and grouped Montepulciano with nearby towns Pienza and Montalcino for an incredible day of wine tasting and sightseeing. Here is a map that shows this route. It was an easy, pretty drive from one town to the next, and we enjoyed being able to visit at our own pace.
What is Montepulciano, Italy is known for?
Montepulciano is a great place to see medieval and Renaissance architecture. The historic town square, Piazza Grande, was largely built during the Renaissance. Piazza Grande is located at the highest point in the city. It’s a bit of a hike and can be steep so wear comfortable shoes for your climb!
Once you get to Piazza Grande, you’ll see some of the highlights of the city. One of the most famous is the grand town hall, the Palazzo Comunale and its tower. If you feel like more climbing, you can climb 67 steps to the top to see views of Tuscan countryside, including Pienza, Montalcino, and – on a clear day – Siena.
Another notable building is the cathedral, Santa Maria Assunta. This ancient church was built between 1586-1680. There are several important works of art within the cathedral, including an original triptych by famous painter, Taddeo di Bartolo. It is free to visit but hours can be limited to check before you go.
One of my favorite things in Montepulciano is the Griffins and Lions Well. It was designed by Renaissance architect, Antonio da Sangallo. Look closely and you’ll see the Medici legacy throughout Montepulciano. For example, notice the Medici coat of arms – six balls on a shield – in between the lions. On the opposite side of the coat of arms, not pictured, is the emblem of Florence: an iris. These emblems serve as reminders of Montepulciano’s alliances over the years, as the town had alternating alliances with Florence and Siena throughout history.
Montepulciano is also known for world-class wines
Montepulciano is also a fantastic wine region. Well-known varieties include Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. There are wine shops and bars sprinkled throughout Montepulciano so you won’t miss opportunities for tasting or buying bottles, if you enjoy wine. There are also numerous wineries outside of town. Icario is on my list for next time!
The best restaurants in Montepulciano, Italy
Caffè Poliziano
Caffè Poliziano serves coffee, pastries, lunch and dinner, and offers a terrace with gorgeous views of Tuscany
Via di Voltaia Nel Corso, 27/29, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
La Vineria
For rustic Tuscan dishes in a cozy wine bar, visit La Vineria
Via di Gracciano nel Corso, 101, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
Le Logge del Vignola
If you’re looking for fine dining in a romantic setting, don’t miss Le Logge del Vignola
Via dell’Erbe, 6, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
Where to shop
Rameria
One of the highlights of visiting Montepulciano was visiting Rameria, a third-generation coppersmith. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir or gift.
Via dell’Opio Nel Corso, 64, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
Biagianti dal 1913
Another shop with beautiful goods is Biagianti dal 1913, offering gorgeous Italian linen products, including tablecloths, bedding, decor and more.
Piazza Michelozzo 5, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
