Twilight Saga: the New Moon tour in Montepulciano

If you’re a Twilight fan planning a trip to Italy, you might have come across the New Moon filming locations in Montepulciano. While this tour claims to take you on that movie-related journey, it’s worth unpacking what you really get for the $138 price tag. From what we’ve gathered, it offers a blend of movie site sightseeing, local exploration, and a touch of Tuscan wine culture.

What stands out positively? The knowledgeable guides and the stunning views of Montepulciano are often praised. On the flip side, some reviews mention that expectations around film-specific insights didn’t quite hit the mark, and at times, the experience felt more like a general tour with some Twilight references sprinkled in. This tour is best suited for fans who love the scenery and want a taste of local flavors, but those seeking detailed behind-the-scenes info may want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Focus on Montepulciano’s scenic beauty and local history, with some Twilight film locations included.
• Guides are generally well-informed about the town and wine, making the experience engaging.
• Wine tasting at a local cellar is a highlight, offering genuine quality and insight.
• The film location details may not be as in-depth as some fans hope, according to reviews.
• The tour’s small group size (max 12 travelers) makes for a more intimate experience.
• Cost reflects a combination of sightseeing, wine, and a historic meal, but may be steep for some.

An Honest Look at the Montepulciano Twilight Tour

If you’re considering this tour, it helps to know what you’re signing up for. It’s a roughly 2.5-hour guided walk through the heart of Montepulciano, starting at Piazza Grande, and ending back at the same spot. The tour promises to connect you with the film set of “New Moon”, showcasing key sites like the clock tower and Piazza Grande—the scenes where Bella Swan rushes through in her desperate search for Edward.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Valdichiana Living in Piazza Grande around 10 a.m. and begins with an overview of Montepulciano’s medieval charm. Here, you’ll get a general introduction to the town’s history and architecture, which is often appreciated. Your guide, generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, will lead you through narrow cobblestone streets, pointing out the film locations that have appeared in the saga.

While some reviews mention that more detailed info about the filming process or specific set locations would have been appreciated, many still enjoy the walk’s atmosphere and scenery. Expect to see the palace with the clock tower and the vivid Piazza Grande, which served as a dramatic backdrop for the movie.

The Film Locations and Their Value

Most of the filming sites are public, historic locations, so you’ll get a sense of the town’s authentic charm. The site of Bella’s frantic dash through the square, for instance, remains a lively, picturesque spot. But be aware that the tour doesn’t focus exclusively on Twilight—much of it is dedicated to Montepulciano’s architecture, history, and local life.

A notable highlight for many visitors is the visit to a historic restaurant for an aperitif, where you’ll enjoy local wines and perhaps some antipasti. This is often seen as a nice touch that offers a moment to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen.

Wine Tasting and Local Culture

Wine lovers will likely find the wine cellar visit a real treat. Elena, from DeRicci wine cellar, is frequently praised for her insights into both Montepulciano’s wines and its history. The tasting is described as generous and enjoyable, with some reviewers calling it “great wine, great conversation.” It’s a genuine highlight for those interested in Tuscan wine culture and adds real value to the experience.

The Good and the Less Good

People generally agree that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the walk enjoyable. However, a few reviews highlight disappointments—notably, one review stating the guide struggled with English and that the visit to a wine cellar unrelated to Twilight felt out of place or underwhelming. Some thought the film-related content was limited or not as detailed as they expected.

Price-wise, at $138.21 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, especially if your main goal is to explore Twilight filming sites exclusively. But if you value local culture, scenic views, and good wine, it offers a well-rounded experience.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re a fan of Twilight and want to see Montepulciano from a movie lover’s perspective, this tour will give you some fun moments. But don’t expect a deep dive into film production—think of it more as a scenic walk with some Twilight-themed stops and wine tasting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate Tuscan scenery, local wines, and a friendly guide more than detailed behind-the-scenes film trivia. It’s also suitable for small groups, which allows for more personalized attention and conversations. Families with older children who enjoy walking and wine tasting may also find it an enjoyable way to spend part of their day.

However, if you’re a hardcore Twilight enthusiast looking for an in-depth exploration of filming secrets, you might find it a bit light on film-specific content. Similarly, if your main goal is only to visit Twilight locations, some reviews suggest this tour doesn’t meet those expectations fully.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point is Valdichiana Living at Piazza Grande, so plan to arrive a little early.
• The tour starts at 10:00 am and lasts about 2.5 hours.
• Group size is limited to 12, which makes interactions more personal.
• The cost covers the guided walk, wine tasting, and aperitif—a fair deal if you’re into local culture and scenery.
• Be prepared for walking on cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
• The tour requires good weather, as it’s mostly outdoor walking—bad weather might mean rescheduling or refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a moderate taste of Montepulciano’s charm, with a sprinkle of Twilight magic. You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, the scenic setting, and the quality local wines. It’s a relaxed, intimate experience that combines sightseeing with local food and drink, making it a worthwhile pick if you’re craving a laid-back day focused on Tuscan life.

However, if your primary goal is to learn in-depth details about the Twilight filming process, this might fall short. The experience leans more toward a beautiful town walk with a bit of film and wine thrown in—which is perfectly fine for many travelers, just keep your expectations aligned.

All in all, it’s a decent option for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, wine, and a touch of movie nostalgia, especially if you appreciate small-group tours and authentic local experiences.

FAQs

Q: How long is the tour?
A: The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including walking and the wine tasting.

Q: What is included in the price?
A: The guided walk through Montepulciano, visits to film locations, a wine cellar tour, wine tasting, and a historic aperitif at the end.

Q: Is the tour suitable for children?
A: While not specifically advertised for children, it involves walking on cobblestone streets and wine tasting, so older children should be fine if supervised.

Q: Do I need to book in advance?
A: Yes, most travelers book about 24 days ahead. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start.

Q: What if the weather is bad?
A: The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other poor weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Q: Can I expect detailed film location information?
A: Not necessarily. Reviews suggest that while some film locations are visited, the focus is more on Montepulciano itself and its wines, with limited info about specific filming secrets.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, wine-filled day with some Twilight touches, this tour could be a charming choice. Just keep your expectations realistic, and you’ll enjoy your time exploring Montepulciano’s beautiful streets and tasting its extraordinary wines.