If you’re looking to experience Tuscany beyond the typical tourist spots, a Chianti Tour by Vespa from Florence might just be the adventure you need. We’ve come across this tour a few times and heard wonderful things from travelers who’ve taken it—so we’re here to give you a clear, honest overview. Think of it as a chance to see the rolling hills, medieval villages, and vineyards from a unique vantage point, all while riding a classic Italian scooter.

What immediately catches our eye about this experience is how it combines authentic local vibes with a bit of adrenaline—zip through countryside roads on your Vespa, stopping at picturesque spots and enjoying a traditional Tuscan meal paired with Chianti wines. Plus, the opportunity for photo moments at scenic overlooks makes it feel like a real Italian adventure.

That said, there are a few things to consider. The tour involves riding through sometimes busy roads and requires a valid motorcycle or Vespa experience if you plan to drive yourself. If you’re not comfortable on two wheels or have little riding experience, opting for a guided ride might be a safer bet. It’s also worth noting that the tour can be postponed due to weather, which isn’t unusual in Tuscany, but that can impact your plans.

Overall, we think this experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of excitement, love scenic drives, and want to taste authentic Chianti flavors. It’s a fantastic way to see a side of Tuscany that many don’t — especially if you’re comfortable riding a scooter or don’t mind being a passenger.

Key Points

Authentic Vespa Experience: Drive your own scooter or ride with a guide to explore Tuscany like a local.
Stunning Scenery: Expect scenic views of vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages along hillside roads.
Culinary Highlights: Enjoy a Tuscan lunch at a local farm with wine and olive oil tastings.
Flexible Options: Small group sizes and the possibility to reserve and pay later add convenience.
Weather Flexibility: Tours may be postponed in bad weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
Age & Experience Requirements: Must be at least 14 to ride, with previous Vespa experience recommended; children over 5 can be passengers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

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Starting Point and Group Size

The tour kicks off from Via Ghibellina, 34 R in Florence at 8:30 am, where you’ll meet your guides at Tuscany Bike Tours. It’s a pretty straightforward location in the heart of Florence, and it’s worth arriving a little early to settle in. The tours are typically small groups, which means more personalized attention and chances for everyone to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Vespa Ride: City Streets and Countryside Roads

You’ll start with a safety briefing and perhaps some practice if you’re new to riding a Vespa—something many reviews praise. As several travelers have mentioned, it’s a good idea to be confident on two wheels before joining if you plan to drive yourself, since the ride involves navigating city streets, busy roundabouts, and winding country roads.

If you’re not comfortable as a driver, you can opt to ride as a passenger, which many find equally enjoyable. Guides are experienced and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting tidbits about the areas you pass through. Expect about 2 hours of riding through the scenic Chianti hills, with plenty of stops for photos and taking in the views.

Panoramic Stops & Photo Moments

Many reviews highlight the “stunning views” and “beautiful viewpoints” that the guides take you to. These are usually well-timed photo stops, often at spots that overlook Florence or the rolling countryside. The guides seem to understand that capturing the scenery is part of the experience, and they often wait patiently while travelers snap away.

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The Tuscan Lunch & Wine Tasting

One of the tour’s standout moments is the stop at a local farm and winery. Here, you’ll enjoy a fresh Tuscan lunch—think simple, hearty, and flavorful dishes—paired with a tasting of Chianti wines and olive oils. Reviewers consistently mention how authentic and delicious the food is, with some even saying it exceeded expectations.

This part of the tour runs for about 2 hours, giving you time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the flavors of Tuscany. The wine and olive oil tastings are a highlight, especially for those who appreciate good local produce.

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Monteriggioni Stop & Free Time

The final stop is the medieval village of Monteriggioni, where you’ll have about an hour to explore at your own pace. It’s a charming spot, with ancient walls and a history that’s visible around every corner. Some reviews mention that guides are flexible, and you’ll have ample free time to wander, take photos, or grab a quick gelato.

Returning to Florence

The tour wraps up with a drive back to Florence, usually around 3:30 or 4 pm, depending on the group and pace. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a full-day adventure but still manageable for most.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides & Safety

From the reviews, guides like Luca, Gianmarco, Jimmy, and others seem to genuinely enjoy sharing their passion for Florence and Tuscany. They’re appreciated not only for their driving skills but also for their friendliness and willingness to share stories and tips. Many travelers note that guides make an effort not to rush and to ensure everyone feels safe and included, which can make all the difference if you’re new to Vespa riding.

The Scenery & Views

If you’re someone who loves striking landscapes and picturesque villages, this tour offers plenty of both. The routes are carefully chosen to include panoramic viewpoints, and the stops are well spaced out. Several reviews mention that they saw more of the Tuscany countryside in a few hours than they could have imagined.

Authentic Food & Wine

The inclusion of a local farm and winery for lunch is a real bonus. Unlike some tours that just drop you at a restaurant, this offers a genuine taste of local flavors—plus, the wine and olive oil tastings are highly praised.

Value for Money

Considering that the tour includes transportation, a guided Vespa ride, a traditional Tuscan lunch, wine and olive oil tastings, and scenic stops, most travelers agree it offers great value. It’s not the cheapest way to see Tuscany, but many reviewers feel it’s worth the price for the experience, especially given the personalized nature and the quality of the guides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for adventure-loving travelers comfortable with riding or being a passenger on a Vespa. If you’re someone with motorcycle or scooter experience, you’ll appreciate how smoothly it all goes. For those new to riding, the practice session and guided routes are reassuring, but some may prefer to sit as a passenger for a more relaxed experience.

It’s also ideal for food and wine lovers who want to combine scenic views with authentic Tuscan flavors. If you’re traveling with family, children over 5 can be passengers, but the ride itself requires a certain level of confidence.

Finally, this tour suits those who appreciate small-group, intimate experiences that allow for flexibility and personalized attention rather than large bus loads. It’s a day packed with sights, flavors, and fun—perfect if you’re looking for an active, memorable way to explore Tuscany.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have Vespa or motorcycle experience to join?
Yes, you need previous Vespa riding experience if you plan to drive your own scooter. For safety reasons, drivers must have a valid license and be at least 14 years old. If you’re not comfortable riding, you can opt to ride as a passenger, which is offered as an option.

Can children join this tour?
Children over 5 years old can be passengers, but the rider must be at least 14. The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or those who are not comfortable on two wheels.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
Tours are subject to weather conditions and can be postponed if necessary. If it rains or a storm occurs, the guide might cancel or reschedule the tour, or escort you back early for safety.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts around 7 hours, including riding, stops, lunch, and free time in Monteriggioni.

Is the tour suitable for people who have never ridden a Vespa?
The tour includes a practice session in a parking lot and guidance throughout. However, for safety and comfort, it’s best if you have some prior riding experience or are a confident beginner.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, and note that a credit card is required for pre-authorization for damages (cash or debit cards aren’t accepted).

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Via Ghibellina, 34 R in Florence.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and Italian.

Is the price justified?
Considering the guided scenic ride, lunch, wine tastings, and unique experience, most travelers find it offers good value—especially given the small group size and personalized service.

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Chianti Tour by Vespa from Florence

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Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day of genuine adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic Tuscan flavors, this Vespa tour offers a memorable way to see the countryside. The combination of guided riding, scenic stops, and a delicious local lunch makes it stand out from more traditional tours. It’s particularly suited for active travelers who love a bit of speed and want to experience Tuscany on a more personal level.

While it’s not ideal for absolute beginners or those uncomfortable on two wheels, the experience is flexible enough for most with some prior riding knowledge or a willingness to be a passenger. The guides’ professionalism and the breathtaking views make it a worthwhile splurge for many.

In the end, this tour delivers a lovely balance of fun, scenery, and local flavor—delivered with a friendly, relaxed touch. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s well worth considering.