If you’re planning a trip to Montepulciano, one of the most common questions is: Do I need a car to explore Montepulciano and the surrounding Tuscan countryside?
The short answer? It depends on what kind of trip you want.
Montepulciano itself is a walkable hill town, filled with cobblestone streets, wine cellars, and scenic viewpoints. But much of the region’s magic lies just beyond its walls: in the rolling vineyards, hot springs, and nearby towns that dot southern Tuscany. So, let’s break down whether you should rent a car and what your options are if you don’t.
Montepulciano: A Walkable Town
First, let’s talk about the town itself. Montepulciano is perched high on a ridge and has a well-preserved medieval center. The main street (the Corso) winds from the lower gate up to the central Piazza Grande, with shops, restaurants, churches, and tasting rooms along the way.
Good to know:
- The town is very walkable, but also very hilly.
- Streets are narrow and cobbled, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Cars are not allowed in the historic center except for residents and taxis.
- Public parking lots are located just outside the town walls, with clear signs for P1, P2, etc.
So if your plan is to stay in Montepulciano and enjoy wine tastings, strolls, and leisurely meals, you do not need a car.
When You Do Need a Car: Exploring the Val d’Orcia and Beyond
If you’re dreaming of driving through vineyards, visiting hill towns like Pienza, Montalcino, Bagno Vignoni, or Cortona, or touring multiple wineries—then yes, you’ll want a car.
A car gives you:
- Freedom to explore small villages not served by public transit
- Access to agriturismos, countryside restaurants, and spas
- Flexibility with your schedule and pace
Nearby day trip options by car:
- Pienza (15 min): Famous for pecorino cheese and Renaissance harmony
- Bagno Vignoni (30 min): Thermal baths and scenic walking paths
- Montalcino (45 min): Home of Brunello wine
- Cortona (40 min): Made famous by Under the Tuscan Sun
- Lake Trasimeno (1 hour): Umbrian lake views and island ferries
Public Transport: Limited, But Possible
If you don’t want to drive, train and bus options do exist—but they take more time and planning.
Bus: Tiemme runs buses between Montepulciano and towns like Chiusi, Pienza, and Siena.
Train: The nearest station is Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, about 30 minutes by car or bus from Montepulciano.
Drawbacks:
- Infrequent service, especially on weekends and holidays
- Schedules often require multiple transfers
- Buses don’t go to wineries or rural destinations
Alternatives to Renting a Car
If you want the flexibility of a car without the hassle of driving, here are a few options:
Private Drivers / Transfers
- Hire a local driver for the day to take you to wineries, towns, or hot springs.
- Cost: ~€120–€200 for a half or full day
- Great if you want to drink wine and not worry about navigating
Wine Tours
- Small-group or private wine tours will pick you up and take you to multiple wineries.
- Often include tastings, a meal, and guided education.
E-Bikes & Vespa Rentals
- For the adventurous! Great for scenic country rides in spring or fall.
- Be prepared for hills and winding roads.
Rental Tips If You Do Get a Car
- Rent from Florence, Rome, or Chiusi for the best access.
- Manual transmission is standard—request automatic in advance.
- Watch for ZTL zones (limited traffic zones) in historic centers.
Most roads are well-marked, but download offline maps just in case.
So… Do You Need a Car in Montepulciano?
You don’t need a car if:
- You’re only staying in town
- You plan to do walking tours, wine tastings, and slow travel
- You’re traveling on a tight budget or prefer not to drive abroad
You do need a car if:
- You want to visit multiple towns or wineries
- You’re staying in the countryside
- You value flexibility and off-the-beaten-path exploration
In short, Montepulciano can be enjoyed with or without a car, but your decision should reflect the kind of Tuscan adventure you want to create.
