If you’re staying in Montepulciano for a few days, there are plenty of great places to visit in the surrounding area. Here are a few suggestions:
- Pienza: This beautiful hilltop town is just a short drive from Montepulciano and is famous for its stunning Renaissance architecture and delicious pecorino cheese.
- Montalcino: Another nearby hilltop town, Montalcino is renowned for its production of Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most famous wines.
- Siena: About an hour’s drive from Montepulciano, Siena is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and art. The city’s stunning cathedral and beautiful central square, the Piazza del Campo, are not to be missed.
- Val d’Orcia: This picturesque valley, located just south of Montepulciano, is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Tuscany, with rolling hills, winding roads, and charming medieval towns.
- Cortona: Another hilltop town in Tuscany, Cortona is known for its beautiful views, historic architecture, and rich artistic heritage.
- The celebrated hilltops villages such as Monticchiello, Montefollico, Cortona, Montalcino, San Quirico, Montisi, Chiusi, Trequanda and … everything in between 🙂
These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit in the area around Montepulciano. If you have time, I would also recommend exploring some of the smaller villages and countryside roads off the beaten tracks such as Torrita, Sinalunga, Castiglion Fiorentino, Lucignano in Valdichiana, Monte San Savino, Chianciano, as they may offer a glimpse into the authentic Tuscan way of life.