GemmaMontepulciano. Just saying the name makes you imagine rolling Tuscan hills, sun-kissed vineyards, and a glass of ruby-red wine waiting to be savored. If you’re a wine lover, this charming medieval town in the heart of Tuscany isn’t just a destination—it’s a dream come true. From my own personal experience, Montepulciano offers more than just wine; it’s an immersion into centuries of tradition, culture, and food that perfectly complements its famous vintages.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full-blown wine pilgrimage, here’s a detailed guide to 10 things you absolutely need to do in Montepulciano. Each activity is designed to help you explore, taste, and truly appreciate this gem of a town.
1. Stroll Through Piazza Grande
Every great Tuscan town has a central square, and Montepulciano’s Piazza Grande is its beating heart. Surrounded by Renaissance palaces, churches, and cafes, this square is the perfect place to start your adventure.
Take your time walking along the stone pavement, admire the architectural details, and maybe even stop for a coffee at a local cafe. From my own personal experience, early mornings are magical here—the sunlight hitting the centuries-old buildings gives the town an almost ethereal glow.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a local festival or open-air market. And trust me, there’s nothing like the atmosphere of locals and travelers mingling over espresso before heading into the vineyards.
2. Explore Montepulciano’s Historic Vineyards
Montepulciano is synonymous with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a wine with a reputation as rich as its flavor. A visit here isn’t complete without exploring the vineyards that produce this prestigious red.
Many vineyards offer guided tours that take you through the entire wine-making process—from grape to glass. You’ll walk among the rows of Sangiovese grapes, learn about the terroir, and discover the aging process in oak barrels. It’s a sensory experience that connects you directly to the land.
I remember one visit where the winemaker shared stories passed down through generations. It wasn’t just wine tasting; it was history in a glass. This, combined with the stunning views of the surrounding hills, makes vineyard tours unforgettable.
3. Take a Wine Tasting Class
If you want to go beyond sipping and really understand what makes Montepulciano wines special, a wine tasting class is a must. These classes often include structured tastings with explanations about the aroma, flavor profiles, and aging techniques.
From my own personal experience, learning the subtle differences between a young Vino Nobile and a well-aged one transforms the way you taste wine forever. It’s also surprisingly fun to test your palate with professional guidance—you might even discover flavors you never knew existed.
Plus, it’s a great excuse to drink more wine without feeling guilty.
4. Visit Cantina Contucci
Cantina Contucci is one of Montepulciano’s most historic wineries, with a legacy dating back to the 18th century. Visiting here isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about stepping into history.
The underground cellars, carved deep into the tufa rock, are awe-inspiring. Imagine centuries of wine aging quietly in dimly lit chambers, each barrel holding secrets of generations. Tours typically end with a tasting of their signature Vino Nobile, paired with local cheeses and cured meats.
From my own personal experience, the combination of history, architecture, and exceptional wine makes Cantina Contucci a highlight of any Montepulciano trip.
5. Enjoy a Wine and Food Pairing Lunch
Wine and food are inseparable in Tuscany, and Montepulciano gives you plenty of opportunities to indulge in this perfect pairing. Many local restaurants offer tasting menus designed to complement the wines produced nearby.
Start with a platter of pecorino cheese, cured meats, and bruschetta. Follow it with a hearty pasta dish or wild boar ragu, paired with a glass of Vino Nobile. Each bite and sip is designed to enhance the other, creating a harmony of flavors that’s hard to forget.
One memorable lunch I had was at a small trattoria just off Piazza Grande. The owner personally guided us through each pairing, explaining why certain wines elevated specific dishes. From my own personal experience, these intimate moments make the culinary side of Montepulciano as compelling as the wine itself.
6. Visit Palazzo Comunale
While wine is the star, Montepulciano’s architecture shouldn’t be overlooked. Palazzo Comunale, the town’s town hall, sits proudly on Piazza Grande. Its design was inspired by Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio, complete with a bell tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Climbing the tower is worth the effort—you’ll see vineyards stretching to the horizon, small villages dotted across the hills, and the medieval rooftops of Montepulciano itself. It’s a photographer’s dream and a peaceful moment to soak in the Tuscan sun.
7. Attend the Cantiere del Vino Festival
If your timing is right, attending a local wine festival like Cantiere del Vino can be an unforgettable experience. Held annually, this festival celebrates the town’s winemaking heritage with tastings, workshops, and live music.
From my own personal experience, festivals are the perfect way to meet local winemakers, learn insider tips, and sample wines you wouldn’t find anywhere else. The festive atmosphere makes you feel like part of the community rather than just a visitor.
8. Explore the Wine Shops
Montepulciano is full of charming wine shops, each offering a curated selection of local vintages. Even if you’re not buying, strolling through these shops gives you insight into the town’s wine culture.
You can often taste wines before you buy, ask for recommendations, and even pick up a bottle signed by the winemaker. One shop I visited had a wall dedicated entirely to vintages from the 1970s—tasting a piece of history was surreal.
From my own personal experience, wandering through these small shops is where you find hidden gems and stories that you won’t read in any guidebook.
9. Discover the Underground Cellars
Beyond the main vineyards, Montepulciano has a network of underground cellars carved into tufa rock. These ancient cellars, some dating back to Etruscan times, were used to store wine long before modern refrigeration.
Many tours offer access to these mysterious, cool tunnels. Walking through them, you can almost hear the whispers of vintners from centuries past. It’s a unique experience that combines history, architecture, and wine culture in a way that feels almost magical.
10. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Wine Towns
While Montepulciano is a treasure on its own, the surrounding area is full of wine towns worth exploring. Pienza, Montalcino, and Cortona are all within a short drive and offer their own unique wines and charm.
Visiting these towns lets you compare flavors, learn about different terroirs, and enjoy scenic drives through rolling vineyards. From my own personal experience, hopping between towns gives you a fuller picture of Tuscany’s wine culture and a deeper appreciation for Montepulciano’s distinct style.
Conclusion
Montepulciano isn’t just a destination for wine lovers—it’s a place where history, culture, and flavor come together. From wandering historic squares to tasting Vino Nobile in centuries-old cellars, the town offers experiences that appeal to all your senses.
Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a casual enthusiast, these 10 activities will ensure your trip is unforgettable. Remember, it’s not just about drinking wine—it’s about experiencing the story behind every glass, the people who make it, and the land that nurtures it.
So pack your walking shoes, bring an adventurous palate, and get ready to fall in love with Montepulciano. From my own personal experience, a visit here will leave you with memories as rich and layered as the wines you’ll taste.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.