Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Montepulciano

First Day in Tuscany: Discovering Montepulciano's Charms

After a long journey from Kelowna, with a layover in Rome, we finally arrived in Montepulciano! The drive through the Tuscan countryside was breathtaking, a perfect introduction to the beauty that awaited us. Though I realized I’d forgotten the travel adapter and Maya’s favorite bedtime storybook, the excitement of being here overshadowed those minor setbacks. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the town's unique atmosphere, and I couldn't wait to share every moment with Liam and Maya.

Our first stop was breakfast at Caffè Poliziano. Perched high with stunning views overlooking the rolling hills, the cafe was a delightful step back in time. The art nouveau decor was charming, and the pastries were heavenly. Maya, of course, opted for a chocolate croissant, while Liam and I enjoyed cappuccinos and biscotti. Sipping my coffee while gazing out at the Tuscan landscape, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was the perfect way to start our adventure.


Discover the flavors of Italy at Caffè Poliziano in Montepulciano – where tradition meets taste in every delightful bite.

With our appetites satisfied, it was time for our main activity: the Caccia al Tesoro a Montepulciano - Segreti e Magie, a treasure hunt designed to unveil the town’s hidden gems. Alessandro, the charismatic magician and creator of the treasure hunt, met us at Giardino Poggiofanti. He explained the rules, handed us our first clue, and we were off! It was such a unique and engaging way to explore Montepulciano. Maya was particularly thrilled, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she deciphered each clue. We wandered through narrow cobblestone streets, discovered hidden piazzas, and learned fascinating facts about the town's history and architecture.


Discover the enchanting secrets of Montepulciano through an engaging treasure hunt that blends history, culture, and adventure in the heart of Tuscany.

Visiting Montepulciano is like stepping into a painting, where every corner reveals a new layer of history and beauty.

The treasure hunt led us to the Viewpoint Montepulciano, which offered panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia. The vista was simply stunning. The rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, stretched out before us in a tapestry of greens and golds. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the sheer beauty of the landscape. Maya, ever the explorer, was fascinated by the distant farmhouses and the winding roads that snaked through the countryside.


Discover the stunning panoramic views and rich history at the Viewpoint Montepulciano, a top destination for travelers in Tuscany.

After working up an appetite with our treasure hunt, we headed to Osteria Del Conte Montepulciano for lunch. This charming osteria, tucked away on a quiet street, offered a cozy and authentic atmosphere. We started with bruschetta, topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, followed by homemade pasta. Liam chose the pici, a thick, hand-rolled pasta typical of the region, while I opted for the ravioli. Maya, predictably, went for spaghetti with tomato sauce. The food was simple, rustic, and incredibly delicious.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Del Conte in Montepulciano, where tradition meets exceptional dining in a charming setting.

Our next stop was the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio, a stunning Renaissance church located just outside the town walls. The travertine facade glowed in the afternoon sun, and the church's elegant dome dominated the surrounding landscape. Inside, the sanctuary was serene and peaceful. We admired the intricate details of the architecture, the beautiful frescoes, and the overall sense of harmony. Maya was particularly intrigued by the legend that the Virgin Mary's eyes had been known to move in the church's iconic Madonna with Child fresco. Even Liam, who typically isn't drawn to religious sites, was impressed by the church's beauty and tranquility.


Explore the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio, a serene Catholic church in Tuscany, blending spiritual reflection with breathtaking landscapes.

Before dinner, we took a detour to La Bottega di Pinocchio, a whimsical shop filled with wooden toys and souvenirs. Maya was in heaven, surrounded by puppets, figurines, and all things Pinocchio. She eventually chose a small wooden doll as a memento of our trip. It was a perfect little piece of Italy to take home with us.


Explore La Bottega di Pinocchio in Montepulciano for unique gifts, local crafts, and a taste of Tuscany's enchanting culture.

As evening approached, we made our way to Antica Trattoria Il Marzocco for dinner. This traditional trattoria, known for its regional Tuscan cuisine, was the perfect place to end our first day in Montepulciano. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by grilled steak. The food was hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.


Discover the heart of Tuscany at Antica Trattoria Il Marzocco – where authentic Italian cuisine meets warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Piazza Grande, delve into the Ercolani Cellars, and find more scenic viewpoints. I'm particularly excited about the wine cellar tour and museum; it sounds like a fascinating experience. And perhaps, after a long day of sightseeing, Liam and I can sneak away for a quiet glass of wine at Sax Wine Bar.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Montepulciano has already captured my heart with its beauty, history, and charm. I'm so glad to be sharing this adventure with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Even the little mishaps, like forgetting the travel adapter, add to the story. After all, it's the unexpected moments that often make a trip truly special. And with that, I'm off to bed, ready for another day of exploration in this enchanting Tuscan town.