Twilight Saga: the New Moon tour in Montepulciano

If you’re a Twilight fan dreaming of stepping into the movies, or just someone who loves Tuscany’s charming villages, this “New Moon” filming locations tour in Montepulciano** offers a mix of cinematic history, stunning scenery, and local flavor. Priced at around $138, it lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, and is guided by knowledgeable hosts who can enrich your understanding of both the film and the town itself. The tour starts in the morning at Valdichiana Living and ends back there, making it a manageable chunk of your day for scenic exploration.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines movie magic with the authentic charm of Montepulciano — a hilltop town famed for its medieval streets and fantastic wines. First, the guide’s local insights help bring the town’s history alive, and the included wine tastings at esteemed cellars are a real highlight. Second, the scenic views from the key filming sites give you a taste of why this landscape was chosen for the vampire saga’s romantic tension.

However, some travelers have expressed reservations about the focus of the tour, especially if your main goal is to learn about the filming locations. A few felt that the film-related information was limited, and the visit to the wine cellar didn’t always tie directly into Twilight. For those more interested in exploring Montepulciano’s history and wine culture, this might be a bonus; if you’re craving a deep dive into Twilight filming secrets, it might fall a bit short.

This tour is best suited for Twilight fans who also appreciate Tuscan scenery and wine. It’s a good fit if you want a guided experience that offers a taste of both film lore and local flavor, but perhaps less ideal if your main focus is a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the movies.

Key Points

• Authentic Montelpuciano charm with medieval streets and scenic vistas
• Knowledgeable guides who share local insights and history
• Wine tastings at renowned cellars, adding authentic taste experiences
• Limited focus on filming locations according to some reviews
• Small group size (max 12), enhancing personalized attention
• Two and a half hours is a manageable duration for a half-day excursion

A Closer Look at the Experience

What the Tour Offers

This tour is designed to take you through the film set of “New Moon,” with a focus on Montepluciano’s iconic sites. As you walk through the historic center, you’ll see key landmarks like Piazza Grande and the clock tower, which viewers might recognize from the film scenes where Bella Swan races through the town in desperation or agrees to her vampire lover’s proposal. The tour guide narrates the film’s story and points out the locations where the scenes were shot, making the experience feel like a guided movie treasure hunt.

The highlight for many is the visit to the wine cellars, which are a part of Montepulciano’s renowned wine culture. Elena, the guide from one of the praised wineries, impresses visitors with her wealth of knowledge about local wines and the history of the town. The tastings are described as “great,” with some guests appreciating the chance to sample local Vino Nobile and other regional wines. One reviewer called it “great wine, great conversation,” emphasizing how the experience extends beyond just tasting.

Walking through Montepulciano

The historic streets are narrow, uphill, and full of character. Walking through these medieval alleys gives travelers a real sense of standing in a place where ancient history mixes with modern life. You’re likely to see locals in colorful cloaks (as depicted in the film) and the vibrant Piazza Grande filled with activity. The tour emphasizes the visual appeal of the town, making it clear why filmmakers chose Montepulciano as a backdrop.

The Film Locations

While the tour’s primary focus is on Montepulciano’s scenery and wine, it does mention the filming of “New Moon”. However, some reviews note that the film-specific insights may be limited. One review states, “We were expecting more information about the filming of New Moon and more about the filming locations,” indicating that some travelers might feel they didn’t get as much film history as hoped.

The Final Aperitif

The experience concludes with a special aperitif at a historic restaurant, a delightful way to soak in the local atmosphere and enjoy a taste of Tuscany. This culinary ending adds a nice touch of authenticity, giving guests a chance to relax and reflect on their visit.

Practical Details and Logistics

• Meeting Point: Valdichiana Living, Piazza Grande, at 10:00am.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Group Size: Small groups (max 12) make for a more intimate experience.
• Cost: About $138 per person, which includes the guided walking tour, wine tastings, and the aperitif.
• Booking: Recommended to book about 24 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

What to Keep in Mind

While the tour’s main draw is the film locations and wine tastings, if your primary goal is to learn detailed behind-the-scenes filming secrets, some guests have found the film-related commentary limited. It’s more of a scenic and culinary experience with a Twilight theme rather than an in-depth movie set tour.

The cost might seem high for those solely interested in film locations, but the inclusion of high-quality wine tastings and the charming town can make it worth it, especially if you’re a fan of both films and local wine culture.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for Twilight enthusiasts who also love Tuscany’s scenery and wine. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a small-group setting and want a relaxed, informative walk through a picturesque town, with the bonus of tasting regional wines. If you’re a fan of Italy’s medieval towns and enjoy discovering film locations with a bit of local flavor, this tour offers a balanced blend.

However, if your main interest is film lore, and you’re expecting a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look, you might find the focus somewhat limited. Also, if you prefer more extensive wine tasting or a deeper dive into Montepulciano’s history, consider other local experiences.

The Bottom Line

This “New Moon” filming locations tour in Montepulciano offers a charming way to see one of Tuscany’s most picturesque towns while engaging with Twilight’s cinematic world—or simply enjoying good wine and stunning views. The small group size and local guides make it intimate, while the scenic streets and historic sites provide an authentic experience.

If you’re a Twilight fan who values local culture, or a wine lover eager to taste some of Tuscany’s best, this tour provides a nice mix of both. Just be aware that the film-specific content may not be as in-depth as some might hope, and set your expectations accordingly.

Overall, it’s a balanced, enjoyable outing that showcases Montepulciano’s beauty, wine, and a touch of movie magic—a worthwhile addition to your Tuscany itinerary if it aligns with your interests.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves walking and wine tastings, it’s best suited for older children or teens who can enjoy the walk and are interested in wine or films.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering walking through historic streets, visiting film sites, and wine tasting.

What’s included in the price?
The guided tour, wine tastings at a reputable cellar, and a final aperitif at a historic restaurant.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What makes Montepulciano special?
Its medieval architecture, scenic hilltop views, and renowned wines make it a charming place to explore on your own or with a guide.

Are the filming locations highlighted?
Yes, but some travelers feel that the film-related commentary could be more detailed.

Is the tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size encourages interaction, making it a friendly environment for solo travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you’ll be exploring uneven streets and historic sites.

Is there any transportation involved?
The tour primarily involves walking; no additional transportation is specified.

Will I learn about Montepulciano’s history?
Yes, guides share insights about the town’s past, especially related to its wine culture and architecture.

In essence, if your goal is to combine movie locations, wine, and authentic Tuscan scenery in a manageable, small-group setting, this tour offers a balanced experience. It’s particularly appealing if you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic walk with some film lore and tasting thrown in.