Monteriggioni, Tuscany: All you have to know!
The small village of Monteriggioni is a real highlight in Tuscany. This municipality in the province of Siena is famous for its historic castle, which lies imposingly on the hill Monte Ala and towers majestically over the enchanting landscape. The small old town of Monteriggioni is absolutely enchanting and inspires with a lot of charm and coziness. Among the most important attractions are the medieval city walls and the well-preserved defense towers, which essentially characterize the townscape. But also the surroundings of Monteriggioni with the green vineyards and the many excursion destinations are truly worth seeing!
In this travel guide, you will find all essential tips and information on Monteriggioni in Italy. We also show you the best things to do, including pictures, and where you can find the best places to stay.
Good to know!
In the area around Monteriggioni are some fantastic attractions, enough to stay a few nights in this region. Highlights of Tuscany like Florence, Siena and San Gimignano can be easily explored from here.
A fantastic option to stay in Monteriggioni can be found in one of the surrounding agritourism accommodations. The Borgo dé Brandi with its breathtaking castle views and the picturesque landscape is highly recommended.
The historic center of Monteriggioni is also a popular destination for day trips from Siena or Florence. Really amazing tours, some with wine tasting or in combination with other interesting cities can be found here on GetyourGuide.
General Information about Monteriggioni
The history of Monteriggioni dates back to 1213, when the fortress was built for the Republic of Siena as a base against Florence. Today, the entire municipality has a population of about 10,000, with about 50 people still living directly in the historic castle complex. This is located on the Monte Ala mountain and offers a fantastic view of the hilly landscape. Thanks to the well-preserved fortress with the imposing wall and the spectacular location, Monteriggioni is one of the most beautiful attractions of Tuscany and a visit is definitely worthwhile!
Monteriggioni is also known for its traditional red wine “Chianti Colli Senesi Monteriggioni”, whose vines are grown in the vineyards around the castle. A high quality olive oil is also pressed from the olive trees there and can be tasted on site. A highlight is the famous Medieval Festival, which takes place every year in July. Visitors can immerse themselves in times long past and in the world of knights.
Best Things to Do in Monteriggioni
There are many lovely things to discover during a visit to Monteriggioni. Among the most important attractions are the fortified wall with its 14 towers, the pretty medieval town center with its beautiful Piazza Roma and the historic church. Here is a summary of the best things to do in Monteriggioni:
Piazza Roma
The Piazza Roma is the heart of the old town of Monteriggioni. On this picturesque square there are some superb restaurants and cozy cafés where you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the main square. In the center, there is a small stone fountain, which is a very popular photo spot. Tourists are not allowed to park in the old town, one more reason why the center spreads so much historical charm.
Tip: Directly on Piazza Roma you will find the Rooms and Wine al Castello, a fabulous guesthouse with beautiful rooms and an excellent view!
Church Santa Maria Assunta
One of the most beautiful attractions in Monteriggioni is the small church of Santa Maria Assunta from the 13th century. It is located in the main square, Piazza Roma, and the facade is still in its original state. The history of the church is closely linked to the history of Monteriggioni because it was built in the same year as the foundation of the castle. The historic church is therefore, along with the imposing defensive wall, the oldest attraction of the village. Only later, at the end of the 18th century, the bell tower was built.
Restaurants & Wine Bars
In Monteriggioni you will find a good selection of excellent restaurants and wine bars. Here you can taste your way through the delicious Tuscan cuisine and try the different local wines. Some wine stores even offer free wine tastings with wine sales. Truly recommended is a visit to Cantinetta di Monteriggioni as well as Terra Di Siena Di Viligiardi Francesco, where you can get fantastic wines and delicious cold cuts.
Medieval Museum “Monteriggioni in Arms”
The museum “Monteriggioni in Arms” is a small interesting attraction in the castle complex and gives an interesting impression of the military history of Monteriggioni. In 4 exhibition rooms, knight’s armor, medieval weapons and other utensils from the Middle Ages are exhibited. If you visit the city walls, the entrance to the museum is included. Otherwise, you have to pay 3 Euro for the museum visit.
City Wall and Towers
The circular city wall with 14 towers still preserved is the main attraction of Monteriggioni. It is the landmark of the town and has a significant impact on the image of this medieval fortress. As a film location and even as a model for the popular computer game “Assassin’s Creed“, a visit to the stone wall is almost a fixed program of every city tour. A part of this ring-shaped city wall can be climbed and from the top you can enjoy the most stunning view of Monteriggioni and the medieval stone houses of the old town. The entrance fee is currently 4 Euros per person.
Places to visit near Monteriggioni
Thanks to its perfect position near the SR2 and RA3 freeways, Monteriggioni is the ideal starting point for a variety of unforgettable excursions! The following attractions and highlights can be explored from here:
The historical center of Siena is only about 20 kilometers away. San Gimignano is also only 25 kilometers away. Both are true highlights on every Tuscany round trip and should not be missed.
Also interesting is a trip to Colle di Val d’Elsa, 10 kilometers away, where the historic old town and the “Sentierelsa -Trail” along the cobalt blue river are fascinating.
Another highlight is the beautiful city of Florence, only 60 kilometers away from Monteriggioni, that can be visited on a day trip.
Where to Stay in Monteriggioni
In Monteriggioni and in the surrounding area you will find a wide range of beautiful accommodations that will make your vacation in the region just perfect. From the well-kept winery, agritourism with pool to apartments and camping sites, everything is represented here. Here are our tips for the best places to stay in Monteriggioni…It’s worth a look!
- Agritourism with pool: The Borgo dé Brandi is situated in a beautiful landscape with amazing castle views of Monteriggioni. The pool and the delicious breakfast are also fantastic!
- B&B in the old town: The charming Rooms and Wine al Castello is located in the heart of the old town and convinces with a top price and fantastic views.
- 4-Star Hotel: The Romantik Hotel Monteriggioni enchants with a lot of historical charm, a wonderful garden with pool and that in the middle of the small old town.
- Lovely Vacation Home: The Monteriggioni Castello is an insider tip in the heart of Monteriggioni. Guests love the romantic location in the old town and the unique flair.
Find the best accommodation in Montereggioni:
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