Romantic Escape to Montepulciano: A Journey Through History and Wine

A Fond Farewell to Montepulciano

As our romantic escape to Montepulciano draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was a day of soaking in the last drops of Tuscan charm, from exploring historical landmarks to indulging in the region's exquisite culinary offerings. While saying goodbye is never easy, I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us forever.

Our final day in Montepulciano began with a delightful breakfast at Lieviti Pizzeria-Beer-Italian food. David, ever the early bird, was already downstairs, securing us a table. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, instantly invigorating us for the day ahead. I opted for a simple cornetto and cappuccino, while David, with his adventurous palate, chose a local pastry he couldn’t quite pronounce but devoured with gusto. It was the perfect start to a day filled with exploration and culinary delights. The reviews I read were right; it's a great place to start the day.

Fueled by caffeine and pastries, we set out to explore the historical heart of Montepulciano. Our first stop was the Pulcinella Tower. As we approached Piazza Michelozzo, the tower came into view, with its whimsical Pulcinella figure poised to strike the bell. It’s such a quirky and unexpected sight. I learned that the statue is made of wood with a metal covering and needs to be repainted every so often. Legend has it that a bishop from Naples brought the clock from his hometown in the 17th century. I couldn't help but smile at the thought of this little piece of Neapolitan culture finding a home in the Tuscan hills.


Discover the iconic Pulcinella Tower in Montepulciano, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Tuscany's rich history.

Travel is not about escaping life; it's about experiencing it.

Next on our list was the Palazzo Nobili-Tarugi, a magnificent Renaissance palace located on Piazza Grande. The palace, with its travertine facade and imposing portico, is a testament to the architectural prowess of the 16th century. It's believed that Antonio da Sangallo the Elder or Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola designed it. The Palazzo isn't open to the public, but its facade is still a sight to behold. David, with his background in history, was particularly fascinated by the palace's history, explaining that it was once home to the Nobili and Tarugi families. He pointed out the Ionic columns and Doric pilasters, explaining their significance in Renaissance architecture. I appreciated his insights, which added another layer of depth to our exploration.


Explore the historic Palazzo Nobili-Tarugi in Montepulciano, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and Italian nobility's rich heritage.

Our final historical stop was the Fortezza Medicea, a fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. As we walked through the fortress grounds, I imagined what life must have been like centuries ago, when Montepulciano was a strategic stronghold. The views from the top were breathtaking. The rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves stretched out before us, bathed in the warm Tuscan sun. I took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape. We learned that the fortress has been rebuilt several times, dating back to the 8th century. Today, it hosts events and exhibitions. I made a mental note to check the calendar for future events when we plan our return trip.


Discover the historic beauty and stunning views of Fortezza Medicea, a must-visit fortress in the heart of Siena, Italy.

After a morning of sightseeing, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We decided to try Bistrot Del Tribunale, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. David ordered the pici pasta with wild boar ragu, while I opted for the ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable soup. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, showcasing the region's fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff was friendly and attentive. I particularly enjoyed the ribollita, which was the perfect comfort food on a slightly breezy afternoon. David raved about his pici pasta, declaring it the best he'd had on the trip. We shared a bottle of local red wine, savoring each sip as we reminisced about our adventures in Montepulciano.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bistrot Del Tribunale in Montepulciano - where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to spend the afternoon wandering through the town's cobblestone streets, soaking in the atmosphere and browsing the local shops. We stumbled upon a small artisan shop selling handmade ceramics, and I couldn't resist purchasing a colorful bowl as a souvenir. David, ever the romantic, bought me a bouquet of sunflowers from a local flower stall. We strolled hand in hand, enjoying the simple pleasures of life, feeling grateful for the time we had together in this beautiful place.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to La Vineria di Montepulciano, a cozy wine bar known for its extensive selection of local wines. We settled into a quiet corner, ordered a bottle of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and toasted to our unforgettable trip. The wine was rich and full-bodied, with notes of cherry and spice. We savored each sip, reflecting on the incredible experiences we'd shared over the past nine days. The staff was super nice and helped me choose vegan options. We reminisced about our wine tour, our cooking class, and our leisurely strolls through the countryside. Montepulciano had captured our hearts, and we knew we'd be back someday.


Discover the authentic taste of Tuscany at La Vineria di Montepulciano, where exquisite small plates and exceptional wines await you.

For our final dinner in Montepulciano, we chose L'Altro Cantuccio Ristorante, a restaurant known for its innovative Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance was elegant yet inviting, with soft lighting and rustic decor. I decided to try the truffle pasta, while David, with his adventurous palate, ordered the beef cheek. Both dishes were exquisite, showcasing the chef's creativity and skill. The truffle pasta was rich and decadent, while the beef cheek was tender and flavorful. The staff was incredibly attentive, making us feel like royalty. We paired our meal with a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino, a robust red wine that complemented the flavors of our dishes perfectly. As we savored our last bites, we felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the incredible culinary journey we'd experienced in Montepulciano. The staff was incredibly nice and thoughtful, which made the experience even better.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at L'Altro Cantuccio Ristorante in Montepulciano - where every meal is a celebration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.

After dinner, we took one last stroll through the town, hand in hand, savoring the magical atmosphere. The streets were quiet, illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights. We stopped at a viewpoint overlooking the valley, taking in the breathtaking panorama. The stars twinkled above us, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. We stood there for a long time, lost in each other's arms, feeling grateful for the love we shared and the incredible journey we'd embarked on together.

As we prepare to leave Montepulciano tomorrow, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness. This hilltop town has woven its way into our hearts, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. While our romantic escape is coming to an end, the memories we've created here will last a lifetime. We'll cherish the moments we shared, the flavors we savored, and the beauty we witnessed. Montepulciano, thank you for the magic. We’ll be back.

“The best journey always takes us home.”

Tomorrow, we embark on our journey back to London, carrying with us the warmth of the Tuscan sun and the memories of our romantic escape. Until next time, arrivederci Montepulciano!