Any thoughts on visiting one or both of these locations? Thought about spending some time here if we don't do Cinqe Terre or few a couple of nights after CT and on our way to Florence. At a quick glance, I could only see week long package deals that were a little pricey (well pricey for me and for the amount of time I have). Also, I'll be in Florence for almost a week, with time on my hands while my husband is in meetings. I'd love to take a cooking class. Any suggestions for this one? I've been to Florence a few times already, so I will likely just go back to some of my favorite spots, but will certainly have some time on my hands. Thanks.
Posted by
Ontario Canada
650 posts
Laura
I assume you will be driving. We stayed in Montalcino and drove to Montepulciano for 3/4 of a day and then stopped in Pienza on the way back. The surrounding country side is beautiful- We stayed at Hotel de Capitani in Montalcino- it has a great view from some of the rooms(ask for the back of the hotel with a view) The hotel is great and has a pool. Also the staff and most accommodating. It is however down a steep hill and a climb up to the main street. It is not as busy as Montepulciano but to avoid the big crowds it suited up fine. Price is 115E and includes breakfast- Google it and take a look.
You will love the quaintness of the CT as well - stay in Vernazza at his not as steep as some of the others.
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
I've stayed in both Montalcino and Montepulciano and enjoyed both. Montalcino feels bigger, is flatter and has more restaurant choices, but I wouldn't recommend it without a car. It also offers more in-town options for wine tasting. Montepulciano feels hillier, so I tend to linger at the flatter top of town near my hotel. If you do stay there, Meuble Riccio is a wonderful hotel and a meal at Osteria del Conte is not to be missed. IMO, Montepulciano offers more day trip options by car, and would be the more convenient of the 2 towns if using public transportation. If you're looking for day trips during your week in Florence, Siena, Lucca and Orvieto are each great and just over an hour away.
Posted by
Holliston, MA
11 posts
About the cooking tour...we did Accidental Tourist last September, it was a blast! We made pasta and stuffed lasagna, and then ate what we made and much more that our hostess had put together. And the wine flowed! The tour guides speak English (ours was British), and it's a group of about 10, we had so much fun. Nothing too complicated, but making the pasta was entertainment in itself! We're heading back next month, to CT and Lucca this time. We're hoping to go to Montalcino as well, sounds like it's a bit of a project; we decided it was too far away for us to get to when we were in Florence last year.