Family Adventure in Montepulciano: Discovering Tuscany's Hidden Gem

A Fond Farewell to Montepulciano

As our ten-day Tuscan escape draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. Today was all about soaking up the last drops of Montepulciano's charm, from its historic cathedrals to its hidden wine cellars. It's amazing how a place can capture your heart in such a short time.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at La Corte Dell' Ulivo. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our last day in Montepulciano. Leela was especially excited about the pastries, and Thomas enjoyed a hearty helping of local cheese and ham. It felt like a comforting ritual, a familiar start to a day filled with exploration. The convenient location of the restaurant made it easy to reach. The staff was terrific and the service was fine. I savored every bite, knowing that I would soon be missing these simple Tuscan pleasures. The restaurant is known for traditional Tuscan cuisine and wines such as Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Corte Dell' Ulivo in Montepulciano, where delicious pizzas meet Tuscan charm.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Cattedrale San Lorenzo. The cathedral's impressive façade dominated the square, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as we stepped inside. The interior was a beautiful mix of architectural styles, reflecting the many centuries of history held within its walls. Leela was fascinated by the stained-glass windows, their colorful patterns dancing across the ancient stones. Thomas, ever the history buff, read aloud from our guidebook, sharing stories of the cathedral's past. I took a moment to light a candle, offering a silent thank you for the wonderful journey we've had. The Cattedrale Santa Maria dei Servi is also nearby.


Explore the stunning Cattedrale San Lorenzo in Perugia, a captivating blend of Gothic architecture and rich history set in a vibrant cultural hub.

Next on our itinerary was the Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a short drive from Montepulciano. As we drove through the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, I was struck once again by the sheer beauty of this region. The abbey itself was a sight to behold, its imposing structure rising majestically from the landscape. We spent hours wandering through its cloisters, admiring the intricate frescoes that adorned the walls. The artwork told stories of faith and history, each brushstroke a testament to the skill and dedication of the artists who created them. Leela enjoyed running around the courtyard, her laughter echoing through the ancient halls. Though it is outside the city, the abbey is best accessed with private transport.


Explore the serene beauty and rich history of the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Tuscany.

“Traveling—it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

For lunch, we chose Dispensa dei Golosi, a charming little deli known for its local specialties. We sampled a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal bread, each bite bursting with flavor. Leonardo, helped by his mom, offers a high-level gastronomic selection. The wine selection was excellent. It was the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed and informal meal, soaking in the atmosphere of the town. Thomas and I shared a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, while Leela devoured a plate of fresh pasta. The simple pleasures of good food and good company made this a truly memorable meal. The deli offers a selection of cheese, cured meats, and artisanal breads.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Dispensa dei Golosi in Montepulciano – a cozy wine bar and bistro offering local wines and artisanal dishes.

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring the De' Ricci Cantine Storiche, a wine cellar steeped in history and tradition. As we descended into the cool, dark depths of the cellar, I felt like we were stepping back in time. The ancient stone walls were lined with barrels of aging wine, their rich aromas filling the air. We learned about the winemaking process from a knowledgeable guide, who shared stories of the De' Ricci family and their dedication to producing exceptional wines. Of course, no visit to a wine cellar would be complete without a tasting. We sampled several different varieties of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, each one more delicious than the last. Thomas, a wine enthusiast, was in his element, asking questions and savoring every sip. The cellar is located in the center of Montepulciano, in a no-car zone.


Experience the rich heritage and exquisite wines at De' Ricci Cantine Storiche, a must-visit winery in the beautiful town of Montepulciano, Tuscany.

Before dinner, we took some time to shop for souvenirs at Maledetti Toscani Montepulciano. I was looking for something special to remind us of our trip, and I found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate depicting the Tuscan countryside. Leela chose a small wooden toy, while Thomas picked out a bottle of local olive oil. The shop was filled with unique and handcrafted items, each one a testament to the artistry of the region. The shop sells products that represent the toscanità.


Explore exquisite craftsmanship and unique leather goods at Maledetti Toscani in the heart of Montepulciano, Tuscany.

For our final dinner in Montepulciano, we decided to try Fra L'Altro - Osteria & Bottiglieria. This charming osteria is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff made us feel right at home. We ordered a variety of dishes, including pici alla carbonara, grilled steak, and roasted vegetables. Each dish was prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and the flavors were simply divine. The chef, Paolo Arnetoli, uses Tuscan traditions in every dish. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. Leela talked about the gelato we had in Florence, while Thomas raved about the Uffizi Gallery. I cherished the memory of our hike through the Cinque Terre, the stunning views of the coastline etched in my mind forever. It was the perfect ending to a perfect trip.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Fra L'Altro - Osteria & Bottiglieria in Montepulciano, where small plates meet exceptional flavor.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of sadness that our adventure is coming to an end. But I also feel grateful for the memories we've made and the experiences we've shared. Montepulciano has captured our hearts, and I know that we will carry a piece of this charming town with us wherever we go. I am so glad I got to share this experience with Thomas and Leela. It has truly brought us closer together. Tomorrow, we will be heading back to Florence to catch our flight back to Germany. While I am excited to return home, I know that I will miss the beauty and tranquility of Tuscany. Until next time, arrivederci!

I am already thinking about our next family trip. Maybe we will explore the Black Forest in Germany, or perhaps venture further afield to Southeast Asia. The possibilities are endless, and I can't wait to see where our adventures take us next.

It was a lovely end to our ten days in Italy, and I am looking forward to sharing more travel stories with you all soon. Thank you for following along on our journey!