2 hours - Private Walking Tour in Montepulciano

Montepulciano , Italy

2 hours - Private Walking Tour in Montepulciano

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(5 reviews)

2h - 3h

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About this experience

This tour will be a slow one, giving you the opportunity to decide if you wanna stop for an unplanned visit or, just to get a taste of the typical food and/or wine offered along the way, getting the opportunity to save time and to discover the best corners and to get the shots of the medieval town... how can you miss it?

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2 hours - Private Walking Tour in Montepulciano

What's included

Private and exclusive guided tour

Detailed itinerary

The legend of the Pulcinella Tower in Montepulciano has it that this was brought here by a bishop of Neapolitan origins, but since there was no figure of this type in the history of the village, more likely it was a priest. In 1524, in fact, a statue inspired by the "Mangia" of Siena was placed on the clock tower of Montepulciano with the task of marking the hours, but due to the deterioration suffered by the same, already in 1680 there was a first restoration and, on that occasion, presumably on the proposal of the priest (or in any case of a benefactor) of Naples, the automaton was covered with the colors of Pulcinella. According to some, however, this character was chosen as a tribute to the Theater.

Next to the Clock Tower is the white facade of the church of Sant’Agostino, of which the tower is part. Built earlier than this (in 1285), the church was renovated by Michelozzo himself in the sixteenth century and combines the neoclassical style of the Renaissance with the Gothic of the Middle Ages. Its front staircase has become, over time, a meeting point for many residents of Montepulciano.

coffees spread throughout the cities, and with the progress of bourgeois life they become more and more elegant and refined: even in the "minor" towns they take hold (we mention for all the beautiful Caffè dei Costanti in Arezzo, still today the meeting place of “chic” youth) and of course Montepulciano is no exception.
There is very little documentation found so far on the "coffee" in Montepulciano and this does not allow us to speak about it with full knowledge of the facts. The habit of sipping the drink in company (and not only that, of course) had long been well known to the police.
Already at the time of the construction of the first Academic Theater in the Town Hall (1759), a space was provided for the coffee and the "diacciatine", ie sorbets, cool drinks, etc., which were served on the occasion of theatrical performances.

The Town Hall of Montepulciano overlooks Piazza Grande. The building was built in the 13th century in the Gothic style and renovated by Michelozzo during the 15th century. The similarity between the Palazzo Comunale di Montepulciano and the Palazzo della Signoria in Florence is striking, it was personally commissioned by Cosimo I dei Medici. The ground floor is covered in ashlar, while the rest of the facade is in travertine. The battlements of the terrace are in Guelph battlements.

Worth seeing are the interiors with the well and the nineteenth-century tombstones.

The Palazzo Comunale di Montepulciano is the seat of the town hall.

From its tower you can see a splendid panorama:

on clear days you can see, from the side of the Val di Chiana the pre-Apennine peaks, Perugia, Subasio, Lake Trasimeno with its islands, and the lakes of Montepulciano and Chiusi.

What's not included

The tour is only walking. If you'll need a private transportation, please send me a inquiry and I'll provide you the driver's contact

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

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4 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our tour will begin at the entrance gate of the city

About Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a picturesque hilltop town in the heart of Tuscany, renowned for its stunning Renaissance architecture, rolling vineyards, and world-class wines. This charming medieval town offers a blend of rich history, cultural treasures, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Italy.

Top Attractions

Piazza Grande

Piazza Grande is the heart of Montepulciano, a stunning Renaissance square surrounded by elegant palaces and historic buildings. It's a great place to soak in the town's atmosphere and enjoy a coffee or gelato.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Duomo di Montepulciano

The Duomo di Montepulciano is a beautiful Renaissance cathedral dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The interior features stunning artworks, including a fresco by Sodoma and a sculpture by Taddeo di Bartolo.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Palazzo Comunale

Palazzo Comunale is a stunning Renaissance palace that houses the town's municipal offices. The palace is known for its elegant architecture and the beautiful frescoes in the Sala del Consiglio.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Wine Tours

Montepulciano is famous for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a rich and full-bodied red wine. Visitors can take guided tours of local wineries to learn about the wine-making process and taste some of the finest wines in the region.

Cultural 2-4 hours Moderate to expensive

Torri di Montepulciano

The Torri di Montepulciano are the iconic towers that dot the skyline of the town. These medieval towers offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are a symbol of Montepulciano's rich history.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (some towers may have a small fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pici al Ragù

Pici is a thick, hand-rolled pasta, typically served with a rich, meat-based ragù sauce. It's a classic Tuscan dish that showcases the region's love for hearty, rustic flavors.

Main course Contains gluten and meat

Crostini di Fegatini

Crostini di Fegatini are small slices of toasted bread topped with a chicken liver pâté. This classic Tuscan appetizer is a delicious way to start a meal.

Appetizer Contains gluten and meat

Pici alla Bolognese

Pici alla Bolognese is a variation of the classic pici dish, featuring a rich, meaty Bolognese sauce. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a satisfying meal.

Main course Contains gluten and meat

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a thick, grilled T-bone steak, typically served rare and seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil. It's a must-try for meat lovers.

Main course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding countryside Mountain biking Wine tasting Spa treatments Enjoying the scenic views Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals Exploring local museums

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This period offers the best weather for exploring the town and its surroundings. The days are warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and wine tasting. The town is vibrant with festivals and events, particularly in the summer months.

15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Montepulciano is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you

Getting there

By air

Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi Airport • 60 km (37 miles)
Florence Peretola Airport • 140 km (87 miles)

By train

Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Station

By bus

Chiusi, Siena, Florence

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, connecting Montepulciano to nearby towns and villages. Buses are a convenient way to explore the surrounding area without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico (Historic Center) San Biagio Poggiano

Day trips

Pienza

30 km (18.5 miles) • Half day to full day

Pienza is a beautiful Renaissance town known for its stunning architecture, local cheeses, and scenic views. It's a perfect day trip for those interested in history, architecture, and food.

Montalcino

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

Montalcino is a charming hilltop town known for its stunning views, historic sites, and world-famous Brunello di Montalcino wine. It's a perfect day trip for wine lovers and those interested in history and architecture.

Val d'Orcia

Within 30 km (18.5 miles) • Full day

Val d'Orcia is a stunning valley known for its rolling hills, cypress trees, and picturesque villages. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those interested in scenic drives and photography.

Festivals

Braccio di Ferro • August Sagra del Tartufo • November Montepulciano Jazz Festival • July and August

Pro tips

Visit the town's iconic Torri (towers) for stunning views of the surrounding countryside, especially at sunset
Sample a variety of local wines, including Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Brunello di Montalcino, and Nobile di Montepulciano, to get a true taste of the region's wine culture
Explore the town's narrow, cobbled streets and hidden alleyways to discover local shops, artisan workshops, and charming cafes
Take a day trip to the nearby town of Pienza, known for its stunning architecture, local cheeses, and scenic views
Visit the town's historic sites and museums, such as the Duomo di Montepulciano, Palazzo Comunale, and Museo Civico, to learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage