Montalcino, in the province of Siena, offers all of what makes the Tuscany region of Italy so unique and glorious. Sweeping vineyards, olive groves, rolling hills, a medieval fortress, rich heritage, incredible architecture, unique art treasures, delicious food, world-class wines, fantastic weather, and delightful culture.

FESTIVAL & EVENTS

Subject to the season and area, you can find vibrant festivals and fairs that represent the regional heritage as well as religious beliefs. It is a way to enjoy traditional songs, costumes, and local cuisine.

The multi-day Jazz & Wine Festival held in the Fortezza has become a tradition. It features top quality jazz music, draws famous players from all over the world, and is by far one of the most enduring and widely known festivals in the Italian music scene. It emerged from the partnership between the Banfi winery, the Rubei family, and the town of Montalcino. And as the name implies, there will be an abundance of the famous area wines to sample and imbibe for your enjoyment.

The Sagra del Tordo is a heritage festival with medieval re-enactments, traditional cuisine, and, of course, the famous Brunello wine. The festivities have been an annual tradition since 1958, with the entire town engaging in all sorts of fascinating activities each October. This two-day occurrence begins on Saturday with folk performances along the avenues of the city. Quite a few Montalcino citizens dress up in fourteenth-century apparel and take to the streets in observance, joined by dancers and singers. The famous parade, which is accompanied by drums and clarions, begins in Piazza Cavour and continues throughout the lavishly ornamented four neighborhoods before arriving in Piazza del Popolo. This festival provides visitors with the unique opportunity to enjoy falconry, banquets, and a traditional archery competition.

The Apertura delle Cacce is another festival that celebrates medieval archery between districts in Montalcino. More than simple contests, the archery competitions are a symbol of love of country, tradition, and pride. Moreover, they are exciting and showcase some fantastic skills with the bow and arrow. Along with the contests, visitors will enjoy parades and processions, music and dance, and, of course, the ever-present and ever-delightful area wines.

Benvenuto Brunello, which typically occurs in February, is a must for those with a palate for fine wines and novice wine drinkers alike. It is a wine tasting event that showcases the quality wines of over thirty renowned wineries in and around Montalcino. This event offers the essence of the Tuscan spirit.

The Granfondo del Brunello is an annual mountain bike race that takes place in October and winds through the majestic hills of Montalcino.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Perhaps the first thing that captures the attention of visitors as they approach Montalcino are the impressive defensive walls that surround the town. Raised during the twelfth century, the walls measure nearly two and a half miles. Along the structure are thirteen towers and six city gates.

Outside of town, easy to navigate walking paths around the hills provide spectacular panoramas. Trails through the Val d’Orcia natural area take visitors through vineyards, agrarian villages, and primordial woodlands. This is an excellent way to enjoy the Tuscan countryside up close while savoring its sights and sounds.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

One of Montalcino’s most iconic buildings is the stunning Fortezza, or fortress. Positioned on the highest point of the town, the fortress was built during the fourteenth century and offers remarkable views of the surrounding area.

No visit to any part of Italy would be complete without taking in the magnificence of ancient cathedrals and churches. The Church of Sant’Agostino is found near the fortress. This house of worship was constructed in the thirteenth century and features a simple yet elegant building design. It bears an essential Romanesque façade with beautiful interiors.

The Duomo of Montalcino was designed and constructed in the fourteenth century and was devoted to San Salvatore. Major renovations carried out in the nineteenth century changed the façade to Neoclassical. The cathedral is well worth a visit for all visitors to Montalcino.

Sant’Antimo Abbey is an impressive and appealing abbey built in the twelfth century. Drive along a rural road on the way to the monastery and enjoy an incredible feast for the eyes that includes vineyards, olive groves, gently sloping hills, and quaint farmhouses evocative of another time. The Abbey resides among spectacular olive groves and fields of wheat.

SHOPPING ACTIVITIES

Montalcino offers modest shopping near the center of town. Many of the merchants provide shoes, clothing, and souvenirs. Among the most popular things to shop for is wine, particularly the Brunello di Montalcino.

FAMILIES AND KIDS

Families with young travelers might enjoy a nice walk along the town’s defensive walls. Montalcino’s walls are not only a testament to the town’s past, but they offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside that enchant locals and visitors alike.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

The area of Montalcino produces outstanding wines. The location allows perfect sunlight which ripens the grapes properly for wine that is well-suited for lengthy aging and exceptional taste, bouquet, and visual appeal. This raises the question, how does one visit Tuscany and not take a tour of a winery or two to observe the natural beauty and to taste the finished product? The answer: one does not. With over 200 wine producers in the area, there are plenty of opportunities to sample Brunello di Montalcino and learn about the traditions of local wine production.

A Montalcino holiday offers remarkable and unique Tuscan experiences. Although a well-liked getaway for vacationers, Montalcino is not on the typical traveler trail, and offers a more relaxed, laid-back ambiance.