Bravio delle Botti: A Tuscan Barrel Race
Experience the thrilling Bravio delle Botti in Montepulciano: a historic barrel race, local traditions, and Tuscan flavors come alive!
The Bravio delle Botti is an annual barrel-rolling competition held on the last Sunday of August in Montepulciano, Italy. Teams from the town's eight districts, or contrade, race uphill, pushing wine barrels through the historic center to Piazza Grande. It's a thrilling display of strength, strategy, and local pride rooted in medieval traditions.
A brief summary to Bravio delle botti
- Piazza Grande, 6, Montepulciano, Province of Siena, 53043, IT
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot in Piazza Grande, as it gets crowded.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the race route is steep and involves a lot of walking.
- Explore the food stalls for local Tuscan cuisine and wine.
- Check the event schedule for historical parades and flag-waving displays.
- Consider visiting Montepulciano outside of the Bravio week to avoid crowds and enjoy the town's beauty.
Getting There
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Walking
From anywhere in the historic center of Montepulciano, Piazza Grande is easily accessible on foot. Follow the signs directing you towards the Duomo (Cathedral). The piazza is located directly in front of the Duomo. Be prepared for an uphill walk, as Montepulciano is a hilltop town.
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Public Transport
If arriving at Montepulciano train station, take a local bus to the town center. From the bus stop in the center, walk towards Piazza Grande, following signs for the Duomo. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes uphill. Bus tickets cost around €1-€2.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Montepulciano, but pre-booking is recommended, especially during the Bravio delle Botti festival. A taxi from the Montepulciano train station to Piazza Grande will cost approximately €30. You can find taxi services by calling 0578 712280.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available outside the city walls. Several parking lots are available, including Park 1 (Piazza Don Minzoni), Park 8 (Via dei Filosofi), and Parcheggio San Donato. From the parking lots, walk uphill to Piazza Grande. Parking fees range from €1-€2 per hour. Consider using the EasyPark app to pay for parking.
Discover more about Bravio delle botti
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Palazzo Nobile di San Donato Luxury B&B Guest House
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Discover the charm of Tuscany at Palazzo Nobile di San Donato, a luxurious B&B in the heart of Montepulciano, perfect for an unforgettable retreat.
Palazzo Nobili-Tarugi
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Roman Catholic Diocese of Montepulciano-Chiusi-Pienza
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Via Talosa, 8
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Meublé Il Riccio
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ALBERGO LA TERRAZZA DI MONTEPULCIANO
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Holiday Apartment in Historical Palace
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Vicolo dell'Oste
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La Locanda di San Francesco
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Orfanotrofio Antoniano
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IL PALAZZETTO
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Lalma Cafe & Tearoom
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Ristorante La Grotta
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Antica Trattoria Il Marzocco
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La Vineria di Montepulciano
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cathedral Saint Mary Of The Assumption
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Piazza Grande
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Palazzo Comunale
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Comune di Montepulciano
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Pozzo dei Grifi e dei Leoni
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Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano e dei Sapori della Valdichiana Senese
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Valdichiana Living
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Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo
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Val d Orcia da Montepulciano
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Museo della Tortura di Montepulciano
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Contucci
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Osteria del Borgo
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Talosa - Cantina Storica
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Museo Civico Pinacoteca Crociani
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Punto panoramico
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Essential places to dine
Ristorante ai 4 Venti
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RE AL QUADRATO MONTEPULCIANO Impasti Speciali e Pizze di Ricerca
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Romantico
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Il Teatro Cucina Toscana
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Lieviti Pizzeria-Beer-Italian food
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Boscarelli In Città
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Rosso Rubino Trattoria
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La Corte Dell' Ulivo
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Trattoria di Cagnano
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La Bottega del Vino Food&Drinks
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La Pentolaccia
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Baccano Hostarìa Montepulciano
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Bistrot Del Tribunale
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Osteria Del Conte Montepulciano
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L'OSTERIA ACQUACHETA pranzo e cena tutti i giorni esluso il martedì e mercoledì L'OSTESSA E L'OSTE AUGURANO BUONA VITA
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Civico 34 Abbigliamento
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Che c'è di Bello a Montepulciano
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Nobile Seduzione Intimondo
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Pane E Tulipani
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Uscio E Bottega Di Pisanzio Alessandra
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Bottega del Rame
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Voltaia 102
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Il Pozzo Dei Desideri Siena
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Frassineti
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TRA NINNOLI & NANNOLI ABBIGLIAMENTO DONNA WOMEN'S FASHION STORE
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Manicomio Italia
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Maledetti Toscani Montepulciano
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Tra Ninnoli E Nannoli Uomo - Men's Fashion Store
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Voltaia28 Montepulciano
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L'Elisir di Fattorini Daniela C.
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Gelateria Duomo
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Perbacco Wine Club
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Opificio 16 - Enoteca & Wine Bar
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La Bottega dell'Ange Montepulciano
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Enoteca La Dolce Vita - Montepulciano
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Enoteca Caratello's - Piccola enoteca alternativa
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Sax Wine Bar
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Canaebam
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Chiacchiera Cantina
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Bar Enoteca Piazza Delle Erbe
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Wine Barrique
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La Corte Medicea
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Bar Il Grifo
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Bar Sport
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Bar La Crocetta
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