Best things to do in Montepulciano

Montepulciano's Unmissable Treasures

Montepulciano is characterized by its 16th-century Renaissance architecture and elevated position overlooking the Val d'Orcia. The town's heart, Piazza Grande, contains the 14th-century Palazzo Comunale and the unfinished Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. This selection features historic wine cellars like Cantina Contucci, which has produced Vino Nobile for centuries, alongside landmark churches such as Sant’Agostino and cultural institutions like the Museo Civico, housed in the 14th-century Palazzo Neri Orselli.

Montepulciano's Unmissable Treasures — Map

Taddeo Di Bartolo / Public domain

A

Cathedral

Santa Maria Assunta is a cathedral and principal place of worship in Montepulciano. The cathedral was consecrated in 1712.

B

Palazzo Comunale

A 14th-century Gothic-style town hall redesigned by Michelozzo in the 15th century. Its stone facade and battlements closely resemble Florence's Palazzo Vecchio.

Sergio Ranuzzi / CC BY-SA 4.0

C

Palazzo Comunale

The summit of the Palazzo Comunale offers panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia, Val di Chiana, and the surrounding Sienese hills.

D

Colonna del Marzocco

A marble column in Piazza Savonarola topped with the Marzocco lion, symbolizing the Florentine Republic's historic sovereignty over the town.

Alessandro Antonelli / CC BY 3.0

E

Church of Saint Agostino

This 15th-century church features a Renaissance facade by Michelozzo and houses a wooden crucifix attributed to Donatello.

F

Sant'Agnese

A sanctuary dedicated to Saint Agnes of Montepulciano, featuring a 14th-century portal and the saint's preserved remains within the high altar.

G

Teatro Poliziano

A historic theater dating back to the late 18th century that serves as the primary venue for the Cantiere Internazionale d'Arte festival.

H

Museo Civico di Montepulciano

Housed in the Palazzo Neri Orselli, this museum displays the Crociani collection, Della Robbia terracottas, and Etruscan artifacts.

I

Giardino di Poggiofanti

A public park located near the northern town gate, Porta al Prato, featuring shaded walkways and a central fountain.

J

Giardino Don Marcello del Balio

A small public garden situated near the Fortezza, providing views over the Tuscan landscape and the San Biagio temple.

Nubia Vianna Friedrich / CC-BY-SA

K

Acquacheta

A rustic restaurant specializing in Bistecca alla Fiorentina and local Pici pasta, often utilizing communal seating.

L

Ristorante Trattoria di Cagnano

A traditional eatery located on the main street, focusing on Sienese cuisine, wild boar dishes, and handmade pasta.

M

Osteria del Conte

Situated near the Fortezza, this restaurant serves regional dishes featuring truffle, Chianina beef, and local Pecorino cheeses.

N

Cantina Storica

A 16th-century underground cellar where Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is aged in massive oak barrels beneath the city streets.

O

La Cantina Contucci

One of the oldest wineries in the region, featuring historic cellars carved into the rock directly beneath Piazza Grande.

P

Laboratorio del Cioccolato

An artisan chocolate shop producing handmade pralines, truffles, and bars using traditional Italian techniques.

Nubia Vianna Friedrich / CC-BY-SA

Q

Caffè Poliziano

An Art Nouveau cafe opened in 1868, featuring an elegant historic interior and a balcony with views of the Val di Chiana.

Martin Cueto Freire / CC-BY-SA

R

Bar Piazza Grande

A café located on the main square, offering outdoor seating with direct views of the Cathedral and the Palazzo Comunale.

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Historic Monuments and Ruins Sacred Sites and Monasteries Parks and Viewpoints Regional Food & Wine