Montepulciano offers more than just stunning views and delicious wine; it’s a town that invites you to experience its flavors, landscapes, and traditions firsthand. Whether you’re a wine lover eager to explore authentic cellars or a food enthusiast looking to learn Tuscan recipes, this small town packs a variety of tours that fit different interests and budgets. Among our favorites is the Tasting Tour in One of The Most Beautiful Cellars in the World, which combines picturesque surroundings with a small-group experience and a tasting of 3–6 local wines. It’s perfect if you want an intimate peek into Montepulciano’s wine heritage without breaking the bank.
Montepulciano stands out for its rich wine culture, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. From guided vineyard visits and hands-on cooking classes to charming farm visits, the options are designed to give you an authentic taste of Tuscany. Below, we’ve rounded up the best tours, each with its unique appeal, so you can choose the experience that fits your style.
1. Tasting Tour in One of The Most Beautiful Cellars in the World
At number 1, this tasting tour in a stunning wine cellar offers a remarkably intimate experience. For only $39.10 per person, you’ll explore a cellar filled with large oak barrels, learning how Montepulciano wines like Nobile and Supertuscan are crafted. The tour lasts about an hour but leaves a lasting impression thanks to its beautiful setting and small-group format. You’ll sample 3–6 local wines, including Nobile Riserva, paired with bruschetta and extra-virgin olive oil for a true taste of Tuscany.
Guests rave about the guide’s humor and wealth of knowledge, with many mentioning how the historical stories add depth to the tasting. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet informative experience, especially if you want to avoid large crowds. The limited group size ensures personal attention and a cozy atmosphere. The only downside? It’s a quick visit, but the quality makes it worthwhile. Bottom line: a fantastic introduction to Montepulciano’s wine scene for under $40.
2. Montepulciano: Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour
For around $37, the Montepulciano: Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour hits the mark for its accessible price and comprehensive experience. Over about an hour, you’ll taste wines in a traditional cellar, marveling at rows of barrels crafted from quality woods. Your guide will walk you through the winemaking process, sharing stories about the region’s history and the local harvests. Pair your wines with bruschetta and extra-virgin olive oil, making it a true taste of Tuscany.
This tour consistently receives high praise, with travelers highlighting Debbie’s infectious passion and the cellar’s extraordinary architecture. It’s a great choice if you want to deepen your appreciation for Montepulciano’s wine and its traditions without a lengthy time commitment. The intimate setting helps you ask questions and really understand the regional specialties. Bottom line: a well-priced, engaging experience perfect for wine enthusiasts.
3. Wine Tour Ebike Experience
For those who love to combine outdoor activity with wine tasting, the Wine Tour Ebike Experience is a standout. Priced at $184.90, it lasts about 5 hours and offers a chance to explore Montepulciano’s scenic countryside on an electric bike. The route includes stops at local wineries, and you’ll enjoy two tastings of authentic wines in their cellars.
This tour shines for its active yet relaxed pace. The electric bikes make the hilly terrain manageable, and the planned stops give you a chance to soak in the landscape. Riders praise the guides’ knowledge and Enrico’s exceptional storytelling. With a blend of outdoor fun, wine, and beautiful views, this is suited for active travelers who want a memorable day in Tuscany. Keep in mind, it’s a longer commitment, but many say it’s worth every pedal stroke. Bottom line: perfect for those who want to see the countryside and taste wine simultaneously.
4. Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Montepulciano
If you’re craving a hands-on experience, the small-group pasta and tiramisu cooking class offers a cozy, authentic cooking lesson for about $208.15. Led by a local Tuscan cook, you’ll learn to make two types of homemade pasta and a classic tiramisu, all in a small group capped at 12 participants. The class lasts around 3 hours, and after cooking, you get to enjoy your creations paired with local wines and prosecco.
Guests love the intimate setting and the personal touch of the instructors, who share recipes that are easy to recreate at home. Many mention how this experience feels more like cooking with friends than a formal lesson. A highlight is the opportunity to taste and compare your pasta and desserts with the wine, making it a true culinary immersion. This tour suits foodies and travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic Tuscan cooking experience. Bottom line: an excellent way to bring home a bit of Tuscany’s culinary magic.
5. Tuscan Cooking Class – Traditional 5 course menu
The Tuscan Cooking Class is a full 5-hour experience at $282.58 per person, suited for serious food lovers. Led by Giacomo, the class guides you through preparing an appetizer, two pasta dishes with sauces, and an iconic dessert, culminating in a shared feast paired with local wines. It’s held in Giacomo’s home, giving it a genuine, small-group atmosphere.
Participants rave about the chef’s generosity and the quality of the dishes. Many note that they leave with recipes and techniques to impress friends and family back home. The longer duration and detailed focus make this ideal for those wanting to really learn Tuscan cuisine from a passionate host. The price reflects the hands-on experience and quality ingredients. Bottom line: perfect for dedicated cooks and aspiring Tuscan chefs.
6. Visit to the Cinta Senese farm in Montepulciano
A unique farm visit, the Cinta Senese farm tour costs $53.32 and lasts about 1.5 hours. Roberto’s farm is famous for raising Cinta Senese pigs, which are fed carefully selected cereals and roam semi-wild. You’ll walk through vineyards and olive groves, meet the pigs (including “Ciro”), and enjoy a farm-fresh tasting of local meats and produce.
This experience is perfect for animal lovers and those interested in Tuscany’s rural side. Many reviews mention how Roberto’s storytelling makes the farm come alive, and the lunch that follows is highly praised. It’s a relaxed, rural experience that offers insight into traditional Tuscan farming. Though short, it’s packed with authentic charm and delicious food. Bottom line: a memorable farm experience for those wanting to see how Tuscany’s local specialties are made.
7. Tuscan Cooking Class – Traditional Pasta Menu
The Tuscan Pasta Cooking Class runs about 3.5 hours and costs $188.09. With Chef Giacomo, you’ll learn the secrets to making fresh pappardelle, pici, and traditional sauces, plus a variety of appetizers and tiramisu. The class is held at Giacomo’s farm, emphasizing local ingredients and techniques.
Guests appreciate the chef’s expertise and the relaxed, family-style atmosphere. Many say it’s a highlight of their trip, with lessons they can replicate at home. The focus on traditional recipes and hands-on participation make it ideal for passionate cooks. It’s a bit longer but offers detailed instruction and a delicious meal to enjoy at the end. Bottom line: excellent for those who want to master homemade pasta and authentic Tuscan dishes.
8. Montepulciano: Artisan Heroic Wine Tasting at the Terrace
At number 8, this artisan wine tasting experience costs about $39.86 and lasts around 1.5 hours. Held on a terrace, it combines stunning views with a tasting of three natural cru wines, accompanied by a high-quality “Tagliere” of local products. The sunset setting makes it ideal for an evening wind-down.
Andre, the host, shares insights into organic and natural wine production, making this more than just a tasting—it’s educational. Guests praise the landscape and the quality of the wines and food, often noting the warm, lively atmosphere. This tour is perfect if you want a relaxed yet enriching experience with excellent scenery. The only drawback? The duration is short, but the quality makes up for it. Bottom line: a refined, scenic tasting for lovers of natural wines.
9. Italian Wine Tasting with Professional Sommelier in Montepulciano
This professional sommelier-led tasting costs $79.10 for about 2 hours and 15 minutes. It offers an overview of nine Italian varietals, with tastings at a nearby winery. The experience begins on the terrace with a welcome drink, then moves to the cellars for a deep dive into Tuscan wines, paired with snacks.
Guests love Francesco’s deep knowledge and engaging style, often mentioning how much they learn about different regional wines. It’s ideal if you want a structured, informative session that goes beyond just tasting. The size is intimate, and the focus on variety offers great value. Perfect for those curious about Italy’s diverse wine regions. Bottom line: a comprehensive, educational tasting that lifts your wine IQ.
10. Montepulciano: Wine Tasting & Lunch in a Typical Winery
For $62.63, this wine tasting and lunch experience offers a full sensory journey. You’ll start in a historic cellar, tasting four local wines paired with traditional products, then sit down for a hearty Tuscan lunch. The setting offers fabulous views of the surrounding landscape.
Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable host and the quality of the food and wine. It’s a good option if you want a balanced combination of tasting and a sit-down meal, especially if you’re interested in pairing local wines with authentic dishes. The tour is short but packed with flavor and insight. Bottom line: a delightful way to enjoy a traditional Tuscan winery experience with a meal.
11. Montepulciano: Winery Tour and Tasting
This winery tour and tasting costs $40 and lasts about 1.5 hours. It takes you through a historic cellar from the 16th century, where an expert sommelier explains regional wine styles and aging techniques. You’ll sample some of Tuscany’s most notable wines along with traditional appetizers.
Guests describe the tour as “excellent,” with guides who are friendly and knowledgeable. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into winemaking history in a manageable time frame. The setting and content are especially suited for those who appreciate both history and fine wine. Bottom line: a compact, informative tour with a personal touch.
12. Montepulciano: Winery Tour, Tasting, and Vineyard Picnic
Spending about 4 hours, this winery tour combines a guided visit, a scenic picnic in the vineyard, and a tasting of local wines. The tour starts at Podere Casanova and includes walking through the vineyard, sampling wines, and enjoying a picnic of cold cuts, cheese, and bread.
This experience is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day with good food and wine. The picnic lunch in the vineyard is often praised for its authenticity and quality, and the optional bottle of wine adds a personal touch. The balance of activity and leisure makes it a top choice. Bottom line: excellent for a full-day, immersive Tuscan countryside experience.
13. Montepulciano: Winery Tour & Tasting Experience
This 1 hour 20-minute experience costs $40.52 and takes place inside a private, underground Etruscan cellar. You’ll taste four wines, including Nobile di Montepulciano, and learn about the ancient techniques used in high-quality wine production. The cellar’s history adds a fascinating layer to the tasting.
Guests find this tour engaging for its historical setting and expert-guided tasting. It’s well suited for those interested in the cultural context of Tuscan wine. The included appetizers and bread complement the wines nicely. Bottom line: a short but rich experience that combines history and flavor.
14. Horseback Riding Tour with Tuscan Picnic in Val d’Orcia and Valdichiana
For $195.66, this horseback riding tour offers a 2-2.5-hour ride through scenic vineyards and olive groves, ending with a traditional picnic. Ideal for those who want to slow down and see Tuscany from the saddle, the ride is easy enough for beginners.
Reviewers love the peaceful scenery and the quality of the picnic, which includes local specialties. The ride’s relaxed pace and the stunning views of UNESCO-listed landscapes make it ideal for families and nature lovers. It’s a unique way to connect with Tuscany’s rural charm. Bottom line: a memorable outdoor adventure paired with a tasty Tuscan meal.
15. Pasta Fresca in Valdichiana Senese
This 3-hour fresh pasta class costs $148.23 and teaches you to make pasta from scratch, paired with sauces you prepare yourself. Hosted in the beautiful Valdichiana region, it offers a relaxed, hands-on approach.
Participants rave about the chef’s friendly manner and the dishes they create, which include ravioli and pici. Many say they leave with recipes and new skills, plus a delicious meal. It’s perfect for foodies eager to bring a taste of Tuscany home. The class also includes a wine pairing, making the experience well-rounded. Bottom line: a fun, practical way to master authentic Italian pasta.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Montepulciano
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, interest, and physical activity level. If you want a quick, high-quality introduction to regional wines, the Tasting Tour in One of The Most Beautiful Cellars is hard to beat. For a more active day, the Wine Tour Ebike Experience offers cycling and tastings combined.
Food lovers should look at the small-group pasta and tiramisu class or the 5-course Tuscan cooking class. For a rural and authentic experience, the Cinta Senese farm visit and horseback riding provide insight into farm life and countryside views.
Book early, especially for popular experiences like cooking classes or farm visits. Check availability and consider your energy levels and interests when choosing between a quick cellar tour or a full-day culinary experience.
Final Thoughts
Montepulciano offers a wide range of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. For wine lovers, the artisan terrace tasting and historic cellar tours provide memorable tastings, while foodies can’t miss the pasta and tiramisu class. For those wanting to enjoy the countryside, the horseback ride offers scenic views and a relaxed pace.
With so many options, be sure to match your choice to your interests and energy levels. Whether you prefer a short tasting or an all-day culinary adventure, Montepulciano’s tours will leave you with authentic memories and a deeper appreciation for Tuscany’s food and wine traditions. Book your experience early, so you don’t miss out on these exceptional opportunities.
