Which is better? Montepulciano or Montalcino
Montepulciano vs Montalcino
Having family in Italy, I am lucky enough to spend a LOT of time in the world renowned wine region of Tuscany. So let’s dive in, Which is better? Montepulciano or Montalcino? Montepulciano is a stunning hilltop town, famous for its Nobile di Montepulciano, one of Italy’s famous wines. The picturesque town is located about 43 miles southeast of Siena and around 77 miles from Florence.
Montalcino, the second of the ‘Monti’s’, like Montepulciano, is also perched on a hilltop overlooking the Tuscan countryside. It is about 45 minutes drive From Montepulciano and offers panoramic views of the beautiful Val d’Orcia, which is a UNESCO world heritage site.
Montalcino is best known for one of Italy’s most prestigious wines — Brunello di Montalcino (more on this later). Both towns are famous for their medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and historic stone walls, making them popular destinations for both tourists and Italians!
As a bonus, along the road between the two Monti’s is a pretty cool vintage car hire place called Vintage tours. Here you can pick up a tiny vintage fiat 500 or Vespa if you wanted to experience the tuscan countryside in style!
When to visit Tuscany
This generally depends on what you’re looking for. August can be extremely hot and is full of tourists on their summer vacation so the town can get very busy, so generally I tend to avoid this time of year if possible.
The shoulder seasons tend to allow for warmth, but not unbearable heat, and the streets are less less crowded. April – June is when the countryside is at its lushest, imagine green vineyards and rolling hills as far as the eye can see. September – October bring the harvest season and so you can experience Tuscany’s food and wine culture at it’s peak. The landscapes turn a beautiful golden colour making it the most perfect backdrop for aperitivo.
This brings us to Winter. This is the off season and the streets tend to be very quiet, however Tuscany itself remains alive. Picture hearty dishes of wild boar ragu and a glass of red in front of open fires, looking at the snow covered hills.
In conclusion, I think September is the best time to go as you get a little bit of everything.
How long to stay in this region
2-4 days between both Montepulciano and Montalcino is enough. If you are on a tight time budget a day in each is probably fine. It gives you enough time to visit the most famous vineyards and wineries, to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and to eat at all of the best restaurants. But if you choose to stay longer, you certainly won’t get bored!
How to get there and getting around
Flying to Florence, Pisa or Rome are all great options. They are all a fairly similar distance away from the Montepulciano/Montalcino area with Florence airport being about a 1.5-2 hour drive away, Rome airport being 2-2.5 hour drive and Pisa being roughly a 2 hour drive. The drive is a a stunning meander through gorgeous countryside and you will likely stop regularly to take some snaps or just gaze at the views. A car is a must. There are plenty of decent car hire companies like Europcar or Hertz
Things to do in Montepulciano
Stroll the streets of Montepulciano
Montepulciano is the bigger of the two Monti’s. Wandering through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Montepulciano is by far the best way to see the town. As you approach the town, you will walk through the magnificent gates of Porta al Prato and enter the magical Montepulciano. The streets will start to wind upwards, flanked by weathered buildings adorned with shutters and flower filled balconies. Along your route, Renaissance palazzos like Palazzo Bucelli or Palazzo Avignonesi stand proud. Take your time to admire the intricate details as you pass, and don’t forget to look up to glimpse the soaring towers and churches. As you continue upward, you’ll reach the grand Piazza Grande, the town’s crown jewel. Adjacent to it is the Duomo di Montepulciano, a large, somewhat unfinished-looking cathedral, but one filled with historical treasures.
The square often bustles with life, especially during festivals or markets, so grab a gelato, find a bench, and soak in the atmosphere before continuing your exploration. From here, you can meander through quieter side streets, discovering hidden gems like the Church of Sant’Agostino or catching a glimpse of the distant vineyards below.
Climb the Clock Tower on Palazzo Comunale
The ascent begins with a narrow winding staircase that leads you higher through the medieval structure as you climb. As you ascend, the ancient rough stone walls give way to old wooden beams. It can feel a little claustrophobic at times, so not one for those afraid of small spaces. Once you reach the top, you step out on to a small viewing platform and my goodness the climb suddenly feels worth it. The views are nothing short of breathtaking. The Tuscan hills roll out like a patchwork of greens and browns adorned with terracotta rooftops. Its an experience not to miss out on. It does incur a small cost, but it is absolutely worth it.
Visit an underground wine cellar
The most famous underground wine cellar in montepulciano is Cantina De’ Ricci. Nestled beneath palazzo Ricci, this cellar is a must-visit, especially for Italian Red wine fans. As you descend into the cellar, you immediately enter another era. The vast, labyrinthine space carved directly into the rock features towering arches and massive stone walls that have stood for centuries. Some of the architectural elements date back to Etruscan times, giving the cellar a deeply historical atmosphere. The grand staircase leading down is a striking feature, creating a sense of awe. Guided tours of the cellar are available and typically conclude with a wine tasting.
Visit some vineyards
And now on to the best part of the trip – the vineyards and wine tasting. The lesser-known Nobile di Montepulciano contains 70% Sangiovese grapes and costs significantly less than its more famous cousin, Brunello from Montalcino. But don’t let that make you think it’s not as good, because it is DELICIOUS. It was the first Italian wine to receive the famous DOCG status and it must be aged for at least one year in an oak barrel to achieve this. More on wine later.
Visit the Temple of San Biagio
The temple of San Biagio is a gorgeous Renaissance church located just outside of Montepulciano. The church is dedicated to San Biagio (St. Blaise), a Christian martyr from Armenia who lived during the 4th century. People invoke San Biagio, the patron saint of wool combers, for protection against throat-related illnesses. Due to this, the Church has become a pilgrimage site for those seeking healing for throat related illnesses. The Roman inspired Church itself is based on a greek cross plan and capped with a large central dome. The Church has a ethereal golden hue thanks to the travertine stone which glistens in the Tuscan sunlight. It’s not to be missed.
Things to do in Montalcino
Stroll the city Centre
Montalcino is considerably smaller vs Montepulciano with a population of about 5000 people only. Half a day is long enough to wander the winding ancient street of Montalcino. It is a perfectly persevered medieval town and looks like it is straight out of a film set. The town has a quieter more rustic feel to it and is more picturesque (in my opinion) that Montepulciano. The main square, Piazza del Popolo, is a small, brick-paved plazza surrounded by historic buildings. The Rocca di Montalcino, a 14th-century fortress with robust stone walls and towers, dominates Montalcino from the town’s highest point. The town’s skyline features bell towers, including those of the Cattedrale del Santissimo Salvatore and other small churches, rising above the rooftops.
Climb the fortress walls
The history rich fortress was restored in the 40’s and is a wonder to behold. The fortress has thick stone walls with imposing towers and was built in 1361 to protect the town during a time when the republic o Siena and Florence were engaged in conflict. You can climb the towns 14th century fortress and experience breath taking views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape. Today it serves as a symbol of Montalcino’s medieval past, housing the Enoteca La Fortezza, where visitors can enjoy wine tastings in this historic setting.
Taste the famous Brunello wine
This is absolute must. Brunello di Montalcino, is one of the most prestigious Italian wines. Producers make Brunello exclusively in the Montalcino area from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Known for its bold, complex flavors, Brunello’s production is strictly regulated. By law, Brunello must age for at least 5 years before release, with 2 of those years in an oak barrel and 4 months in the bottle. Brunello Riserva, the higher-quality version, requires 6 years of aging. Pro tip: if an Italian wine says “Riserva,” it’s usually the “upgraded” version. Brunello received its DOCG rating in the 1980’s – officially marking it as one of the world’s finest wines. I am going to dedicate a whole section to my best-visit vineyards and wineries as the Brunello really is the star of the show.
Vineyard and wineries not to miss
Montepulciano Vineyards and Wineries
- Avignonesi: A large and well-known estate, Avignonesi specializes in both Vino Nobile and Vin Santo, Tuscany’s famous sweet wine. Their wine and food pairings are exceptional, offering seasonal dishes made with ingredients sourced from their own organic farm. It’s a perfect spot for lunch and a leisurely afternoon tasting.
- Icario: Known for blending modern architecture with ancient winemaking traditions, Icario offers an art gallery experience alongside its exceptional wines. Their estate is beautiful, and the wine tastings are paired with panoramic views and light snacks. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.
- Boscarelli: One of the best-known producers of Vino Nobile. Boscarelli allows visitors to get up close with their vines and wine production process. The tours often include behind-the-scenes looks at the cellars, offering insights into the art of winemaking. With their unrivaled views of Tuscany’s hills, this vineyard is as much about the scenic experience as it is about tasting their premium Vino Nobile.
Montalcino Vineyards and Wineries
Banfi – This of course has to be number one on the list. A trip to Banfi isn’t just about the wine, it’s about the experience. Castello Banfi is one of the most prestigious and respected wineries in the Montalcino area. The wine makers pride themselves on their extensive research into the Sangiovese grape and practices sustainable winemaking procedures.. Banfi is ginormous spanning over 7000 acres made up of vineyards, olive groves and forests. The estate also boasts a medieval castle which houses a luxury hotel (well worth a stay) a restaurant and a museum dedicated to wine. The tasting experienc and our is phenominal, and after having gone onmore wine tours than i can count, this has to be the best one I’ve done. It’s truly outstanding and the wine is impeccable. You cannot miss this.
Argiano – Another gorgeous producer of Brunello, the estate is located on a stunning hillside, the estate benefits from the warm climate and cooling hillside resulting in a truly elegant wine. the tours here are outstanding. The castello itself is beautiful, built in the typical Tuscan style. It’s grand and golden and it will take your breath away. The tasting experience is of course incredible and you must take tour. A tour of the cellars is not to be missed.
Collosorbo – This is one of the lesser-known wineries, as it is much smaller than its competitors. The winery has been in the same family for generations, giving it that more personal touch when you go for tastings. Collosorbo practices traditional wine-making methods, perfect for those looking for unique high quality wines. I really enjoyed it here and although it is a much smaller and less famous producer of Brunello, I loved the intimacy and exclusivity of the estate.
Where to stay
As Montepulciano and montalcino are quite close to each other, there is lots of flexibility in accommodation as they are easy to drive between. My top recommendations though are th two hotels below.
Villa Svetoni – I don’t usually love spending much time in the hotel I’m staying in as I like to be out and about, but this hotel is essentially its own ‘day out’ so to speak. They are a wine producer in their own right and so the hotel is nestled in-between the vines. Imagine lazing by the pool gazing upon the tuscan countryside. I highly recommend! The onsite wine production offers the perfect introduction to Tuscan wines, and you can enjoy a guided tour of the estate and its cellars. The hotel has a pretty locally famous restaurant attached to it which offers fine dining. We had the tasting menu with wine pairing and it was outstanding. I#m not usually one for ‘fussy’ food and I prefer the hearty tuscan cuisine, but the quality spoke for itself and for a fancy meal, this was great.
Relais Ortaglia in Montepulciano – A hidden gem I highly recommend. Set in a beautifully restored 17th-century farmhouse, it offers the perfect blend of luxury and rustic comfort. The location is unbeatable — right in the heart of wine country, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, making it an ideal spot to relax after a day of wine tasting. What really stands out at Relais Ortaglia is the attention to detail, from their beautifully designed rooms to the warm hospitality of the owners. The owner Sandy, a lovely american lady who moved to Italy about 10 years ago to follow her dream o running an Italian hotel was the perfect host. Plus, they offer their own wine and olive oil tastings, so you can savor local flavors without even leaving the property! If you’re planning a wine tour in Montepulciano, this place is a must-stay.
Places to eat in Montepulciano
- La Grotta: For an upscale, fine-dining experience, La Grotta is the place to be. Located right next to the famous San Biagio Church, it offers a refined menu showcasing the best of Tuscan cuisine, paired perfectly with local wines.
- Osteria Acquacheta: If you’re craving something more casual, Osteria Acquacheta is a popular spot known for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina. This cozy, unpretentious restaurant serves up hearty, rustic dishes, and the wine list is stellar.
- Trattoria di Cagnano: For a mix of local flavors in a warm atmosphere, this trattoria is perfect. The fresh pasta dishes and house wines are crowd-pleasers, and it’s a great place to end a day of exploration.
Places to eat in Montalcino
Boccon Divino – the is an absolute must for a leisurely lunch. You want a table on the terraza which has panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and vineyards. The waiters were attentive, the wine list was unsurprisingly incredible, and the food was delicious. Typical tuscan dishes of homemade pici pasta and wild boar. he restaurant gained recognition in the Michelin Guide and has been praised for its attentive service, and I couldn’t agree more.
Conclusion: Which is better, Montepulciano or Montalcino
So, Montepulciano Vs Montalcino. It’s like comparing silk to cashmere. I honestly can’t say one is better than the other. Montepulciano is larger with more restaurants and has more things to do, but Montalcino is quainter, quieter and is home to Brunello. So when it comes to the question, Montepulciano or Montalcino, my answer is unequivocally, BOTH!
For the wine lovers among you, I have crafted a 7 day itinerary centred around the Montepulciano area which you can find HERE.