Montepulciano: Twilight Saga New Moon Tour with Wine Tasting

If you’re a fan of the Twilight series or just love Tuscany’s charm, this Montepulciano Twilight Saga New Moon Tour offers a chance to walk the streets where Bella and Edward’s story was filmed. For about two and a half hours, you’ll get a glimpse of the famous film locations, enjoy a local wine tasting, and sip an aperitif in the historic heart of the town. It’s a package that promises a mix of pop culture and authentic Italian flavors, but like many guided experiences, it has its ups and downs.

What I find appealing about this tour is its focus on the movie set in Montepulciano — a place that’s already a favorite for lovers of Italian scenery and history. Plus, the inclusion of a wine cellar visit offers a real taste of Tuscany’s world-renowned wines. The guide’s friendly attitude is often praised, and the chance to walk through the Piazza Grande where Bella dashed around trying to find Edward is genuinely fun for fans. However, potential visitors should also consider some of the mixed reviews about the guide’s knowledge and the actual inclusions, like wine and food.

One possible drawback to keep in mind is the value for money. Several travelers have noted that the wine and snacks aren’t quite what they were promised, with some feeling the tour is overpriced for what it delivers. The guide’s level of English and Twilight knowledge also varies, which could impact your experience if you’re expecting an in-depth story or seamless communication. But if you’re flexible and curious about the film set, this tour can still serve as a light-hearted way to explore Montepulciano’s cinematic side.

Key points / Takeaways

• Film Locations: The tour highlights the most recognizable spots from New Moon, especially Piazza Grande and the clock tower palace.
• Wine & Food: Includes a visit to a historic cellar with a wine tasting, though some guests felt the included snacks and wine were disappointing.
• Guide Quality: Opinions vary; some find the guide personable but others mention limited Twilight knowledge and language barriers.
• Authentic Experience: Combines movie sightseeing with local Tuscan flavors, making it suitable for fans and casual visitors alike.
• Price & Value: At $134.81 per person, it’s on the higher side; reviews suggest some feel it’s not quite worth the cost, especially given the limited inclusions.
• Tour Length & Flexibility: Lasts about 2.5 hours, starting from the main square, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Experience in Detail

Entrance and Meeting Point in Piazza Grande

You’ll start your adventure right in Montepulciano’s main square, Piazza Grande, where the tour office is conveniently tucked behind the well. This central location makes it simple to find and start on time. The meeting point’s proximity to the town’s highlights is ideal, and the walk to the first film site is short and scenic.

Walking Tour of Montepulciano’s Historic Center

As soon as your guide — often described as friendly, if not always well-informed about Twilight — gathers the group, you’ll stroll through narrow alleyways, past medieval architecture, and into the heart of the town. The primary focus is on the locations used in New Moon, particularly the clock tower palace and Piazza Grande, where Bella swirled her red cloak while searching for Edward. I enjoyed the chance to stand in the same spots seen on screen, which adds a layer of fun for fans.

However, review comments suggest that some guides may not be deeply familiar with the movie details, which can be frustrating if you’re expecting in-depth commentary. One reviewer lamented that the guide “knew very little about Twilight and didn’t even read the books,” so your experience could vary depending on who’s leading.

The Movie Set and Photo Opportunities

The tour points out where specific scenes were shot, giving you a sense of cinematic history built into the authentic setting. The guide might show you the location where Bella ran through the streets or where Edward’s house might be imagined. While these spots are beautiful, don’t expect elaborate sets or Hollywood-level production, as they are actual parts of the medieval town.

Ending with an Aperitif at a Historic Restaurant

The final part of the tour is a visit to a historic restaurant — a charming setting where you’re offered an “aperitif with the Vampire.” Based on reviews, this is mostly a small plate of snacks, and for many, the wine isn’t included as advertised. One traveler showed the app indicating wine was part of the package, but the guide refused to provide it unless paid separately. The experience is somewhat informal; you’re left to enjoy your drinks and snacks on your own, which might feel a bit underwhelming for those expecting a guided tasting.

The Wine Tasting & Cellar Visit

After the aperitif, the group visits a historic cellar associated with the film set. The wine tasting typically features local varieties, and some reviews praise the quality of the wines as a highlight. That said, some guests felt the value was not quite there, especially considering the price. The tasting is a genuine Tuscan experience, but don’t expect a lavish wine and tapas pairing — the offerings are modest, and sometimes the included snacks are described as “disgusting” or just “a few appetizers” paying for yourself.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

Given the cost of nearly $135 per person, it’s worth weighing what you’re really getting. If you’re a Twilight fan, walking through Montepulciano’s streets and standing where Bella and Edward once did might justify the price. The wine tasting adds a nice local touch, but reviews suggest that the overall experience might be more about the setting than the guided service or the inclusions. For travelers who enjoy flexible, informal wine tastings or are on a tight budget, visiting the wineries independently might be a better value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for Twilight fans who want to see the filming locations in a charming Tuscan setting. It also suits travelers who appreciate local wine and authentic eateries but are willing to accept some inconsistency in guide knowledge and the tour’s overall value. If you’re looking for a deep historical or cinematic explanation, you may find the guide’s limited Twilight expertise disappointing. On the other hand, if you just want a fun walk through Montepulciano with a splash of wine and a bit of film lore, it can be a charming, if slightly overpriced, outing.

The Sum Up

The Montepulciano Twilight Saga New Moon Tour offers a playful way to combine movie sightseeing with a taste of Tuscany’s wine culture. It’s best suited for fans eager to relive iconic scenes and enjoy a relaxed walk through a stunning medieval town. The inclusion of a wine cellar visit and a local aperitif adds a genuine regional flavor, but the overall experience hinges on the guide and the expectations around what’s included.

If you’re someone who values a lively atmosphere and doesn’t mind some quirks, this tour can be a delightful highlight of your trip. But if your priority is quality, detailed storytelling, or exceptional value, you might want to explore the town independently or look for alternative wine tastings — many of which might offer better variety and service for a similar price.

In the end, Montepulciano’s cinematic charm combined with Tuscany’s wine heritage makes this tour a memorable, if imperfect, experience for the right traveler.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable activity in your day that fits well into a broader sightseeing schedule.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at the tourist office behind the well in Piazza Grande and ends back in the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

• Is the wine tasting included in the price?
  The tour claims to include a wine tasting, but some guests report that the wine is not provided unless paid for separately, so be prepared.

• Are food and snacks provided?
  An aperitif is included at a historic restaurant, but reviewers have called the snacks “disgusting” and said they had to pay for drinks themselves.

• Do guides speak English fluently?
  Experiences vary; some travelers found the guide personable and friendly, but others noted limited English and Twilight knowledge, which might affect your experience.

• Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

• Is this tour suitable for children or families?
  The tour is generally suitable for fans of the series and those interested in the film locations; kids might enjoy the walk and scenery.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and perhaps some cash for additional drinks or snacks not included.

• Can I do this tour on my own?
  Yes, many of the film locations are accessible without a guide, so if you prefer, you can explore the spots independently and enjoy tastings at your leisure.

• What is the main value of this experience?
  The chance to see Montepulciano’s streets and film locations with some regional wine and the ambiance of a historic Tuscan town, especially if you’re a Twilight superfan.