Piazza Grande, Montepulciano

Travel along one of the most panoramic roads in Tuscany, driving the characteristic moonscape of the Crete Senesi en route to the medieval hamlet of Pienza in the Val d’Orcia valley. One of the first towns to be entirely planned on paper by important architects and artists of the time, Pienza was commissioned by Pope Pius II - the humanist pope - to help him renovate his native town and bring it to new splendor. A wholesome lunch, based on fresh local ingredients will be waiting on a beautiful terrace (weather permitting) at a local farm. Continue in the afternoon to Montepulciano, one of Tuscany’s largest hill towns. Under the dominance of Siena in the Middle Ages, and Florence during the Renaissance, today it is renowned for its wine. See influences from both towns in the architecture and art of the historic center, located on a steep hill with beautiful views of the Tuscan and Umbrian border. Go to the main Piazza Grande, tour one of the many wineries carved out of the earth below the city and discover some of the palaces of the noble families that once lived here. Taste the Vino Nobile local wine and continue to explore the palaces, churches and streets on your own. As you follow the route of the main road downhill, imagine how hard the “Bravio delle Botti” festival must be; a competition to race wine barrels from the bottom to the top of the hill!

Start at Piazza Grande and discover the history of Montepulciano and the deep roots that for centuries have shaped the local people and the Vino Nobile. A guide will lead you inside 2 underground cellars, through tunnels dug into the spectacular brick vaults.  Here, you'll find the gigantic oak barrels, inside which the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and the Rosso di Montepulciano DOC “rest”. At the conclusion of your visit, enjoy a tasting of the wines, with an explanation of their basic characteristics.

Explore the charming alleyways and historic squares of Montepulciano and Montalcino on a guided tour. Capture the perfect shot at the Piazza Grande, the Church of San Biagio, and the Montepulciano Fortress. In Montepulciano, visit the Piazza Grande, where the Palazzo Comunale and the Church of San Biagio provide perfect backdrops for breathtaking shots. Don’t miss the view from the lookout near the Montepulciano Fortress, offering spectacular panoramas of the Tuscan countryside and its vineyards. In Montalcino, the historic center with its picturesque streets and the majestic Fortress offers enchanting views for your Instagram feed. The panoramic vistas from the fortress walls and the rolling hills dotted with vineyards are ideal for dreamy photographs. You can enjoy an excellent typical lunch, with cold cuts, cheeses, bruschetta and pici al ragù An expert sommelier will be at your disposal for the tasting. including one of the best Italian wines: the NOBILE of MONTEPULCIANO

Begin your journey by climbing aboard a van in Florence and making your way to Montepulciano, a famous Renaissance city bustling with culture and architecture. Stroll through the medieval streets, visit the historic wineries, and admire the views of the surrounding valleys. Don't forget to visit Piazza Grande, the heart of the village, and the Church of San Biagio, a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. After Montepulciano, stop at a countryside restaurant to taste typical delicacies at your own expense. Head over to Pienza, known for its pecorino cheese and for being entirely rebuilt as an ideal Renaissance city under Pope Pius II. Explore the historic center with its cathedral and splendid palaces, and enjoy the panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia. Finally, reach Montalcino, home of Brunello, one of the most renowned wines in the world. Stroll around the charming village, its fortress, and its winding streets leading to spectacular views of the surrounding hills. Finally, enjoy a return transfer to Florence.

Your private driver will pick you up in the morning at your hotel (or apartment) in Rome with a Mercedes sedan or minivan. You will leave behind the frenetic pace of Rome and drive through the beautiful countryside of Tuscany. Your first stop will be the ancient town of Montepulciano. Built in the Medieval times, this charming center sits on top of a hill and is well known for the production of the Nobile di Montepulciano wine. Right in the heart of the town of Montepulciano, Piazza Grande is an ancient square with Medieval buildings, little shops, various nice bars and restaurants. After Montepulciano, you will pass by the town of Monticchiello, driving through the beautiful countryside of Tuscany where you will have plenty of great photo opportunities. Next stop will be in the lovely town of Pienza, a jewel of the Renaissance. Here you may have lunch in one of the many local restaurants (lunch is not included but we will be happy to make a reservation for you). In the historical center you may visit the Duomo di Pienza, the cathedral that dominates the beautiful central square. Built around the 14th century, it is one of the most important churches of the Renaissance. Near the cathedral, the Piccolomini palace is a splendid example of Renaissance architecture. Here you may want to visit the lovely gardens, the courtyard and the old stables. In the afternoon you will reach the town of Montalcino, the capital of the region that produces Brunello, one of the best and most renowned red wines in the world. While in town you may explore the beautiful historical center and visit the Fortezza di Montalcino, a very well preserved Medieval castle. If you choose to have the optional wine tasting, you will also stop at one of the great wineries of the region. Here you will visit the estate, learn about the production process and finally enjoy a tasting of the great wines that they make. At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to your hotel or apartment in Rome.

This tour will allow you to discover the Italian film set of "New Moon - Twilight Saga" in Montepulciano. The palace with the clock tower, Piazza Grande filled with red cloaks, witnessed the desperate rush of the young mortal Bella Swan, looking for her charming good vampire Edward Cullen. Along with a guide, you will walk through the historic center of Montepulciano. At the end of the tour, stop at a historic restaurant in Montepulciano, for a very special aperitif.