Montone is a charming hilltop town in Umbria that offers more than just postcard-perfect views. Its small size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, but for those eager to deepen their experience, the local tours bring history, culinary delights, and even a touch of the supernatural to life. We especially love the chance to learn traditional pasta-making at Cardaneto Castle, where history and flavor come together in a memorable way. And for a truly atmospheric experience, spending a night in the castle or enjoying a medieval dinner offers a glimpse into the area’s past that you won’t forget. If you’re a wine lover, the wine tasting combined with a visit to the castle makes a perfect afternoon escape. These experiences showcase Montone’s blend of authentic craftsmanship, rich history, and scenic beauty — truly unique for travelers craving a more immersive visit.
This list covers a variety of tours, from culinary classes and medieval banquets to castle stays and e-bike adventures. They highlight different interests, physical activity levels, and budgets, giving visitors a well-rounded look at what Montone has to offer. Whether you’re interested in hands-on cooking, history, or simply relaxing with a glass of wine, there’s something here for you.
Below are the best tours in Montone, each with its own charm and appeal. Let’s explore them in detail.
1. Montone: Pasta Making and Dinner at Cardaneto Castle
At number one, this pasta-making experience combines culinary skill with history. The tour begins at the historic Castello del Cardaneto, where you’ll learn to craft traditional Italian pasta using authentic tools—a hands-on process that connects you with centuries of regional tradition. The instructor, who speaks both English and Italian, guides you through each step, sharing little tips that will make your home pasta tastier.
After creating your own pasta, you’ll sit down to enjoy a delicious dinner in a setting that’s hard to beat: a medieval castle dating back to the 8th century. The meal includes local ingredients, and afterward, you can unwind with an aperitivo by the pool, which offers stunning views of the Umbrian countryside. The two-hour tour is perfect for those craving an authentic cooking experience combined with scenic relaxation.
What makes this tour stand out is the blend of culinary education and historical ambiance. It’s an ideal choice for food lovers who want to get hands-on and then relax in a unique setting. The modest price and private group setup make it a great value, especially if you enjoy making food as much as eating it.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a memorable, interactive evening in a historic castle setting.
2. Montone: Medieval Dinner in Cardaneto Castle
At number two on our list is the Medieval Dinner at Cardaneto Castle, a romantic evening that transports you back in time. This 1.5-hour experience features a curated dinner inside a nearly 800-year-old castle room, where the atmosphere is as immersive as the food. The menu includes handmade pasta, local cheeses, and regional wines, pairing history with taste.
The highlight here is the setting—dining in a castle that has seen centuries of local history. The private atmosphere makes it perfect for couples or small groups seeking a special night out. The host offers a wine tasting journey, adding depth to the experience and helping you appreciate the local varieties.
Though brief, this tour is highly curated, offering an intimate glimpse into medieval life through its setting and food. It’s suited for travelers who want a romantic, authentic meal without much fuss, and those interested in the region’s traditional dishes and wines.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for couples or history lovers who want to enjoy a cozy, historical dinner with excellent wine.
3. Wine tasting and visit to Cardaneto Castle
At number three, this wine tasting combined with a guided tour of the castle offers a delightful look into Umbrian viticulture and architecture. Built in the 8th century, the Castello del Cardaneto was designed as a defensive structure along the Byzantine corridor, and today it provides a fascinating backdrop for both history and wine.
The tour begins with a guided visit to the castle, exploring its architectural features and ghost stories—yes, there’s a bit of local legend involved. Afterward, you’ll enjoy tasting Umbrian wines and oils, sampling some of the region’s finest products in a relaxed setting. The entire experience takes about an hour, making it a quick yet enriching visit.
The highlight of this experience is the combination of history and gastronomy, giving you a well-rounded introduction to the castle’s past and its current role as a producer of local wines. It’s perfect for those who want to combine cultural exploration with tasting regional specialties.
Bottom Line: Great for history buffs and wine connoisseurs eager for a concise, educational tasting session.
4. Cardaneto: A Night in the Castle and a Ghost Tour
Number four offers a unique overnight experience—spending a night inside Cardaneto Castle. This tour includes a guided tour of the castle rooms, a ghost story session, and an aperitif on the terrace or by the pool. The highlight is, of course, actually sleeping in the so-called Ghost Room, adding a thrill to your stay.
The 40-minute guided tour kicks off your night, followed by a wine tasting and leisure time, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the medieval atmosphere. The overnight stay is limited to just two participants, allowing for an intimate experience that’s perfect for couples or small groups interested in history, spirits, and a touch of the supernatural.
This experience’s appeal lies in the combination of history, mystery, and comfort—you get to explore the castle, enjoy regional drinks, and sleep in a historic setting. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or young children, given the nature of the overnight stay.
Bottom Line: A captivating option for travelers seeking a mix of history, ghost stories, and a memorable overnight in a castle.
5. Montone: E-bike tour of the medieval village and visit to a winery
Finally, the e-bike tour combines physical activity with cultural discovery. Starting at Via Mario Angeloni, this 30-minute ride along the Tiber River cycleway takes you through the medieval streets of Montone and surrounding areas. The guided journey includes narration about the region’s traditions and history, making it both informative and invigorating.
After exploring the village, you’ll stop at a 1700s winery for a wine tasting paired with regional foods. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving you a taste of Umbrian wines and the chance to learn about local wine-making techniques. Then, a final guided visit of Montone caps off the experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a bit of exercise combined with culture.
The tour’s value lies in its combination of active sightseeing and culinary delights, making it suitable for travelers who want to stay moving and engage with the landscape. It’s not ideal for children under 14 or those with back problems, but it offers an authentic taste of the region’s heritage.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for active travelers eager to experience Montone’s history and wine culture in one go.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Montone
When deciding among these options, consider your interests and physical activity preferences. If you’re passionate about cooking, the pasta-making experience offers a hands-on approach to Italian culinary traditions. For a romantic night, the medieval dinner or castle overnight provides historic ambiance and cozy charm. Wine lovers should look at the castle visit and tastings or the e-bike tour combined with winery visit for a blend of outdoor activity and regional flavors.
Budget-wise, the e-bike tour offers a shorter, active experience at a reasonable price, while the overnight castle stay commands a higher value for a true immersion. Timing-wise, spring and fall are ideal for outdoor and active tours, but the castle overnight and dinners can be enjoyed year-round.
Booking early is wise, especially for the overnight experience or popular culinary classes, as these tend to fill up quickly.
In summary, Montone provides a fantastic range of tours that appeal to foodies, history buffs, adventure seekers, and romantics alike. For those wanting an immersive cultural experience, the pasta-making class combines learning and leisure beautifully. History lovers will appreciate the medieval dinners and castle visits, while active travelers will enjoy the e-bike adventure along the Tiber River.
No matter which tours you choose, Montone’s charm is undeniable. To make the most of your visit, consider booking early and tailoring your experience to match your interests—whether that’s food, history, or simply relaxing in a castle. With so many options, your Montone adventure is sure to be unforgettable.
