Florence by golf Cart Piazzale Michelangelo

If you’re considering a quick yet comprehensive way to get a feel for Florence’s highlights, a golf cart tour might be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but looking at the details, reviews, and itinerary, it seems like a solid option for visitors wanting an overview without the exhaustion of walking. It’s especially useful if you want to see the main sights in a short period or need a more accessible way to explore the city.

What really stands out about this experience are two things: first, the ability to see Florence’s major landmarks from a comfortable, mobile vantage point, and second, the insightful guidance from knowledgeable drivers who can share tidbits about the city’s history and architecture. The fact that it’s tailored to be accessible for disabled visitors is an added plus, making it a versatile choice for many.

However, there are some considerations. As some reviewers pointed out, the tour can feel a bit rushed at times, and the outdoor environment—traffic noise, pedestrians—may make listening a challenge, even with speakers. Also, the weather can impact your experience, with some finding it less enjoyable on colder days.

This tour seems best suited for those with limited time in Florence, folks who prefer a relaxed ride over strenuous walking, or visitors who want a quick introduction to the city’s top sights. If you’re someone who values comfort and expert commentary, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Comfortable sightseeing: The golf cart offers a relaxed way to cover many major sights efficiently.
• Expert guidance: Drivers are knowledgeable and provide explanations, making the experience more enriching.
• Accessibility: The tour is a good option for travelers with mobility challenges or disabilities.
• Time-efficient: At 1.5 hours, it’s perfect for those on a tight schedule or wanting a quick overview.
• Weather considerations: Cold or rainy days might make the experience less comfortable.
• Limited walking: If you love walking, this tour might feel too restrictive, but it’s great for a hassle-free introduction.

A Deep Dive into the Florence Golf Cart Tour

If you’re trying to decide whether this tour fits your travel style, here’s a detailed look at what you’ll experience, what’s good, and what could be better.

The Itinerary & Its Highlights

This guided tour covers many of Florence’s most iconic spots, giving you a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s beauty, architecture, and history—all from the comfort of a golf cart.

Starting Point: Piazza del Mercato Centrale
The tour kicks off in the vibrant Piazza del Mercato Centrale, a lively hub for local food and crafts. Being just outside the city center, it’s a convenient spot to gather, and it sets the tone for an engaging exploration.

Medici Chapels (Cappelle Medicee)
The first stop is the Medici Chapels, built as the burial place of Florence’s powerful ruling family. While entry tickets aren’t included, you’ll get a quick peek at this fascinating site—an essential for understanding Florence’s Renaissance heritage. Expect a brief stop of about 5 minutes, enough to appreciate the exterior or snap some photos.

Santa Maria Novella
Next, the tour pauses at Piazza Santa Maria Novella, home to a grand basilica. It’s a lively square and offers a good chance to take in Florence’s bustling city vibe—another 5-minute stop, free to admire the façade and maybe grab a quick photo.

Piazza Ognissanti & Ponte Santa Trìnita
Moving on, the cart glides along to Piazza Ognissanti, a charming square along the Arno, and then to the Santa Trìnita Bridge, regarded as one of Italy’s most beautiful bridges. These stops are brief but give you a sense of Florence’s scenic riverbanks and stunning architecture.

Santo Spirito & the Vasari Corridor
The Church of Santo Spirito in the Oltrarno district is a highlight for its simple façade and historical roots dating back to the 13th century. The tour also mentions the Vasari Corridor, a narrow passage connecting Uffizi Gallery with Pitti Palace. While you won’t go inside, seeing its exterior from the cart offers a glimpse into Florence’s opulent past.

Ponte Vecchio & Pitti Palace
You’ll pass by the world-famous Ponte Vecchio, often called the “jewelers’ bridge,” which is a top photo op. The Palazzo Pitti follows, historically a Medici residence, though tickets aren’t included, so it’s more about the view than entering.

San Niccolò & the Uffizi & the Library
In the Oltrarno district, San Niccolò retains its medieval charm—quiet, historic, and picturesque. The tour also mentions the Uffizi Gallery and Florence’s National Central Library, giving a sense of the city’s cultural riches, even if just from outside.

Piazza Santa Croce & Brunelleschi’s Dome & Duomo
The iconic Piazza Santa Croce offers a lively atmosphere, with the basilica’s impressive façade. You’ll get a quick look at Brunelleschi’s Dome, once the largest in the world, and the Duomo itself. These are Florence’s crown jewels, and although you won’t enter, seeing them up close from the cart makes for memorable sightseeing.

San Lorenzo & Piazzale Michelangelo
The tour ends at San Lorenzo — one of Florence’s oldest churches. Then, you’re headed to Piazzale Michelangelo, the panoramic viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of the cityscape. The stop here is about 10 minutes, giving enough time to soak in the views, take photos, and reflect on the tour.

What’s Good About the Tour

1. The Comfort and Accessibility
Many travelers, especially those with mobility issues, appreciate the ease of exploring Florence from a golf cart. It’s a laid-back alternative to walking long distances, while still allowing close-up views of sites that are often crowded or difficult to navigate.

2. The Expertise of the Drivers
Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the drivers are, often providing interesting facts or local insights that you might not get from a guidebook. This adds a layer of depth to the experience, making it more than just a ride.

3. The Efficiency
In just about 1.5 hours, you get a solid overview of Florence’s key attractions. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a quick orientation before venturing off on their own or for those limited on time, like cruise passengers.

4. The Views from Piazzale Michelangelo
The final stop at the panoramic viewpoint is frequently praised. The sweeping views of Florence, especially at sunset or clear days, make it a highlight. It’s a classic photo opportunity, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the scenery.

What Could Be Improved

1. Weather Sensitivity
On colder days or rainy weather, the experience might be less enjoyable. A reviewer noted that the tour felt uncomfortable on a chilly day, and outdoor environments make it tricky to hear instructions clearly. If you’re visiting in late spring or early fall, consider the weather forecast.

2. Sound & Communication
Due to traffic and pedestrian noise, even with speakers, some found it hard to catch all the commentary. If you’re a detail-oriented person or traveling with children, this might be a downside.

3. Rushed Feelings
While many appreciated the brief stops, some reviews mentioned that the tour can sometimes feel hurried, especially if you want to linger at certain sites. It’s a whirlwind overview, so if you’re craving depth or inside visits, this isn’t the tour for you.

Price & Value

At around $102 per person, this tour offers a decent bang for your buck if you want a quick, guided overview of Florence without the hassle of walking. With tickets not included for some major sites, consider that the main benefit is the sightseeing and storytelling. For those who value convenience and a panoramic view, the cost is justified, especially given the positive reviews about the driver’s knowledge and the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• First-time visitors wanting a quick introduction to Florence’s main sights.
• Travelers with limited mobility or those who prefer not to walk long distances.
• Those interested in photo opportunities and scenic viewpoints without the hassle.
• Visitors with tight schedules who want to maximize sightseeing in a short time.
• Anyone who appreciates friendly, informative guides and a comfortable ride.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

• Travelers seeking an in-depth, inside access to museums or historical sites.
• Those who want a walking tour or prefer exploring on foot.
• Visitors who are sensitive to weather or noise, especially in colder months.
• People who are on a very strict budget since entrance tickets are separate.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for disabled visitors?
Yes, the tour is described as the best choice for disabled people, making it accessible and comfortable for those with mobility challenges.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you a quick but thorough overview of the city’s main points.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza del Mercato Centrale and ends back at the same location.

Are tickets to major sites included?
Most entrance tickets aren’t included, but some stops like Ponte Vecchio have tickets included, and you’ll see many sites from outside.

Can the tour accommodate children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s relaxed nature and accessibility suggest it’s suitable for older children; check with the provider if traveling with young kids.

Is it a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group participates, making it more tailored and less rushed.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring a jacket if it’s cold, and wear comfortable shoes since there will be some brief stops and sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

A golf cart tour of Florence like this offers a practical way to see the city’s highlights without tiring yourself out. For first-timers, it’s an excellent way to get oriented, especially if you’re short on time. The combination of scenic views, expert drivers, and a relaxed pace makes it a worthwhile choice for many travelers.

However, if you’re craving in-depth visits or want to go inside the museums, you’ll want to supplement this tour with additional tickets or guides. Weather can also be a factor, so plan accordingly. Overall, it’s a good pick for anyone wanting a comfortable, informative, and scenic snapshot of Florence.

In essence, this tour is best suited for those who value a hassle-free way to see Florence’s main sights, especially if accessibility and comfort are priorities. It’s a quick, guided introduction that sets you up well for exploring further on your own.