We will be staying in Montalcino for several days in September. We were also considering spending one or two nights in Montepulciano but now are thinking of taking a day trip to Montepulciano. Is it possible to get there by bus? We would love to sample some wines during that day and don't want to have to drive our rental car back to Montalcino.

Yes, I believe there are several a day but you may need to make a change in Torrenieri. It's been a while since I've traveled S. Tuscany by bus - my info may now be obsolete.

Do a Google search for Tuscany bus lines or similar or ask your hotel/villa owner to direct you to the correct schedule. Tickets are available at tabacchi.

This is the schedule for the bus company serving the Montalcino/Montepulciano area.

Forgot to say, I would just drive if all you plan to do is day trip. I mean, I understand about drinking and driving but there's an excellent wine shop in Montalcino, Osticcio, that in my opinion far exceeds the offerings in Montepulciano.

I love Montepulciano but would go for the day, enjoy some wine with lunch and drive back. Climbing the steep streets will sober you up quickly. Just thinking about Montepulciano and Montalcino makes my calves ache.

Thanks Bags Packed, I'll check with the hotel we are staying at in Montalcino.

Thanks also to Zerlina for the link - it is a bit difficult to read, at first I thought it was only a train schedule. I'll study it a bit more to see if I can find the route to get us to Montepulciano.

We may end up driving and have some wine with lunch as you suggest, it does seem much easier. One more question - are both towns similar as far as walking difficulty? We don't have any mobility issues but my husband may revolt if he has to climb hills for four days. I have read enough to know that Montepulciano is a difficult town to walk - same for Montalcino?

Yes, about the same. If you have a treadmill with incline, start training now.

There's a well written travel note for Montalcino on this site - it was penned by B. DuPree from North Carolina.

Also, there are notes written by Dean Gold, another Slow Traveler with an affinity for wine and Montalcino.

As for the hill towns, the vistas will make up for husband's aching muscles, and all will be forgiven while lingering over lunch with a rosso or brunello. I'll never forget my first visit to Montepulciano.

Gasping for breath and holding on to the outer wall of the city, I came upon a little Madonna set into a niche. My husband was steps ahead but I heard him comment sarcastically on the apropos situation of the shrine - I did thank her for allowing me to make the ascent without need for medical attention. Moments later we were rewarded with one of those postcard perfect views - glorious San Biagio and the rolling hills of Tuscany.

You will have a fabulous time. Like I said, stretch out your calves, set treadmill to steep incline and remember to pack the Aleve.

I appreciate your words of encouragement - I wish you could go come with us, I have a feeling we could benefit from your sense of humor about the second day in Montalcino!

KHG,
I think Montalcino is easier to walk than Montepulciano, maybe just because it is smaller.
If you click under my name you will find directions.

Henry

I agree that Montalcino is easier to walk. Don't miss San Bagio - a little outside the town. There's a nice "white road" off the road that goes behind the church to walk or drive. ---Marlene

I am happy to hear Montalcino is an easier walking town than Montepulcian. I got that impression after reading many posts but started worrying again that it may be too exhausting to stay in the town.

Henry - thanks for the link to your blog - I am sure it will be very helpful!

It isn't that bad. The walk will be all stop and go.... yes, hills, but very beautiful. Also, while this may not be a popular statement, I'll tke Vino Nobile di Montepulciano any day over Brunello. Just ask my tour guests :-)

While you are talking about 'San Biagio', when youa re in Montalcino, be sure to get over to Sant'Antimo in the late morning. It is pure magic!!!

Michael, I like both wines but can't say I know that much about either one, I wish I knew more and we hope to learn a bit about each of these wines during our stay in this area.

Thanks also for the suggestion that we visit Sant'Antimo in the morning. It is wonderful to receive such great advice before our trip, makes the trip planning much easier!