MONTALCINO                                      

Tuscany

 

Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, Montalcino is a picturesque medieval town renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and world-class wine. This charming hilltop village, located in the Val d’Orcia region, is particularly famous for its production of Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines. With its stunning countryside, historic sites, and culinary delights, Montalcino is a must-visit destination for wine lovers, history buffs, and travellers seeking an authentic Tuscan experience.

 

PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE

These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – SKYSCANNER – we always start here and usually always finish here. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices. You can also try GOING to search prices across a variety of sites.

TRAVEL OPTIONS

CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.

TRAINS – TRAINLINE – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.

BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.

ACCOMMODATIONS

BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.

HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.

SIGHTSEEING TOURS

GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.

TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.

ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.

Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.

 
Interesting facts about Montalcino

Montalcino’s history dates back to the Etruscan era, but it gained prominence during the Middle Ages as a strategic fortress town. Perched at an elevation of 564 meters, the town boasts sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads that define the Tuscan landscape. The town’s well-preserved medieval charm, narrow stone streets, and fortified walls transport visitors back in time, offering an enchanting blend of history and natural beauty. Today, Montalcino remains a thriving center of wine production, culture, and tourism, attracting visitors from around the world.

 

Best Things to Do in Montalcino

 

Explore the Fortress of Montalcino

One of the town’s most iconic landmarks, the 14th-century Rocca di Montalcino (Fortress of Montalcino), offers breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside. Built in 1361, this well-preserved fortress played a crucial role in defending the town during the conflicts between Siena and Florence. Today, visitors can climb its ramparts for an unparalleled perspective of the rolling Tuscan hills.

 

Wine Tasting at Brunello Wineries

No trip to Montalcino is complete without indulging in a wine tasting experience. The town is the birthplace of Brunello di Montalcino, a bold and elegant red wine made from Sangiovese grapes. Some of the most notable wineries include:

  • Biondi Santi: The historic estate where Brunello di Montalcino was first created.
  • Castello Banfi: A large and innovative winery offering guided tours and tastings.
  • Le Ragnaie: A boutique winery known for its organic and biodynamic wines.
  • Stella di Campalto: A smaller, family-run winery with a strong focus on sustainability.

Many wineries offer cellar tours and tastings, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship behind Brunello wines.

 

 Visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo

A short drive from Montalcino, the Abbey of Sant’Antimo is a stunning Romanesque monastery set in a serene valley. Founded in the 9th century, the abbey is renowned for its architectural beauty and Gregorian chants performed by monks. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it a perfect retreat for contemplation and photography.

 

Discover the Historic Center

Wandering through Montalcino’s historic streets is an experience in itself. The town’s main square, Piazza del Popolo, is home to the elegant Palazzo dei Priori, a medieval tower with a clock that overlooks the town. The charming streets are lined with wine shops, artisan boutiques, and cozy cafés where you can sample local delicacies.

 

Cathedral Santissimo Salvatore

The Cathedral of Santissimo Salvatore, also known as the Cathedral of Montalcino, is one of the most important church buildings in the old town. It dates back to the year 1000, but was only declared a cathedral by Pope Pius II around 450 years later. The neoclassical style dates back to the 19th century, when the cathedral had almost been completely renovated between 1818 and 1832. Around the square there is a lovely small park with a picturesque view over the roofs of the old town.

 
Attend the Sagra del Tordo (Festival of the Thrush)

Held annually in late October, this medieval festival celebrates Montalcino’s hunting traditions with archery competitions, parades, and feasts featuring traditional Tuscan dishes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience local culture and traditions firsthand.

 

Where to Stay in Montalcino

Montalcino offers a range of fantastic accommodations, from luxury resorts, well-kept wineries, to charming agriturismos (farm stays), ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller. Here are our recommendations for the best accommodation in Montalcino.

Luxury Stays

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco: A five-star resort set within a restored Tuscan village, featuring luxury suites, a golf course, and an exquisite winery.

Castello Banfi – Il Borgo: A luxurious retreat within a medieval castle, offering gourmet dining and exclusive wine experiences.

 

Boutique Hotels & Farm Stays

 Drogheria e Locanda Franci: (Hotel in the old town) modern, individual rooms and romantic-rustic atmosphere in the old town.

Palazzo del Capitano Wellness & Relais: A charming boutique hotel with spa facilities and a romantic ambiance.

Agriturismo Le Ragnaie: A rustic yet elegant farm stay surrounded by vineyards, perfect for wine lovers seeking an immersive experience.

Villa Pienza: A countryside villa offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat away from the bustling town centre.

 

Best Places to Eat in Montalcino

Fine Dining

  • Boccon DiVino: Known for its elegant cuisine and panoramic terrace, this restaurant offers refined Tuscan dishes paired with an extensive wine list.
  • Osteria Le Potazzine: A cozy eatery serving delicious handmade pasta and traditional Tuscan flavors in a relaxed setting.

 

Casual & Traditional Tuscan Cuisine

  • Alle Logge di Piazza: A fantastic spot for a casual meal featuring local cheeses, cured meats, and hearty Tuscan specialties.
  • Taverna del Grappolo Blu: A beloved trattoria offering rustic dishes such as pici pasta with wild boar ragu and ribollita (Tuscan vegetable soup).
  • Il Giglio: A historic inn and restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and classic Tuscan fare.

 

Sweet Treats & Cafés

  • Why Not? Gelateria: A favorite among locals and visitors alike, this gelato shop serves creative flavors made with high-quality ingredients.
  • Caffè Fiaschetteria Italiana 1888: A historic café where you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of Brunello in a charming setting.

 

How to Get to Montalcino

Montalcino is easily accessible by car, making it an ideal stop on a Tuscan road trip. Here are the best ways to reach the town:

By Car

  • From Florence: Approximately a 2-hour drive via the A1 highway and the scenic SR2 route through Siena and Buonconvento.
  • From Rome: Around a 2.5-hour drive, taking the A1 highway and exiting at Chiusi-Chianciano Terme before continuing through the rolling hills of Val d’Orcia.

Compare these two car rental websites, we use both regularly and highly recommend them both. Discover Cars or Rental.com

By Train & Bus

  • The nearest train station is in Buonconvento, about 10 km from Montalcino. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to the town.
  • Alternatively, take a train to Siena, then catch a bus to Montalcino.

By Air

The closest international airports are:

  • Florence Airport (FLR): About 120 km away.
  • Pisa Airport (PSA): About 160 km away.
  • Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO): About 230 km away.

 

Whether you’re savouring a glass of Brunello, exploring medieval landmarks, or indulging in the region’s exquisite cuisine, this enchanting town promises an unforgettable Italian escape.

Tours of Montalcino.

If you don’t plan on renting a car while in Tuscany, you can visit Montalcino on a tour. This takes care of your transportation to and from Montalcino, which can save you a lot of time. Here are several tours that start from nearby towns.

MORE PLACES TO VISIT IN TUSCANY

VOLTERRA– The Medieval Jewel of Tuscany 

CORTONA – Stunning HillsideTown

SIENA – The Heart of Tuscany

LUCCA – The Gem of Tuscany

FLORENCE – Amazing Things to do in Florence