From Florence: All inclusive Tuscany Vespa tour in Chianti

If you’re dreaming of cruising through Tuscany’s rolling hills, sipping on local wines, and soaking in the views of ancient towns—all from the saddle of a classic Vespa—this tour might just be calling your name. We’ve taken a close look at this all-inclusive Tuscany Vespa tour in Chianti, and while we haven’t personally ridden along, the reviews and details suggest it offers a genuinely memorable way to experience Italy’s countryside.

What really appeals are the small group size, which promises personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe, and the combination of scenic drives and wine tasting—two things many travelers love about Tuscany. On the flip side, you’ll want to consider the mandatory riding experience and the safety procedures, which can lengthen the start-up process. If you’re comfortable on a scooter and eager to embrace the countryside in a fun, active way, this tour could be ideal.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy adventure, beautiful landscapes, and good wine, and who are confident on a Vespa or scooter. It’s not ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less hands-on day, or those with limited riding experience. Now, let’s unpack what this tour really involves and why it might be a perfect addition to your Tuscany trip.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures more attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Includes hotel transfers, making logistics smoother for travelers.
• Scenic stops and photo opportunities along the route showcase Tuscany’s beauty.
• Wine-tasting lunch at a local winery offers a genuine taste of regional flavors.
• Pre-ride safety checks and a brief test drive are essential, so confidence on a scooter is needed.
• Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, adding value to the experience.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers a well-rounded day, combining scenic riding, cultural highlights, and culinary delights. For $184.61 per person, you get much more than just a ride—you’re immersed in Tuscany’s essence, all arranged with comfort in mind.

The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting from Florence in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. Transportation from Florence is included, so you won’t need to worry about navigating or arranging transport yourself, which is a huge plus, especially after a day of exploring.

The tour is capped at 7 Vespas, keeping the group intimate and allowing guides to give personal attention. You’ll get a 50cc Original Piaggio Vespa scooter, with automatic transmission, helmet, and third-party insurance—all designed to prioritize safety while keeping the experience authentic.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Morning Start in Florence

You’ll meet your guides at the designated office in Florence at 9:30 am to check in and prepare for the day. Don’t forget your driving license, passport, and a credit card for the deposit—these are essential. The check-in process includes a safety briefing and a quick test drive to ensure everyone is comfortable with the Vespa’s controls.

Once ready, the group departs around 10:00 am for the scenic drive into Chianti. The journey itself is noteworthy: during the roughly one-hour drive, your guide will share stories about Tuscany’s history, culture, and landscape, setting the tone for the day.

Scenic Drive & San Gimignano Views

Unlike other Vespa tours that stick to nearby hills, this one takes you to an exclusive part of Chianti close to San Gimignano. This medieval town is famous for its skyline of tall towers, and from your vantage point, you’ll get stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Your guide will point out key sights, offer interesting anecdotes, and ensure everyone feels confident before heading into more remote countryside roads.

Test Drive & Riding in the Heart of Chianti

After arriving at the local headquarters in San Gimignano around 10:40 am, you’ll undergo a quick test drive to verify your riding skills. This is a crucial safety step, and reviews highlight its importance. Some travelers found the process lengthy, but most appreciated the thorough approach, especially since safety is a priority.

Once the test is complete, you’ll hit the scenic roads of Chianti, winding past vineyards, cypress trees, and rustic farmhouses. The riding phase lasts about 90 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy the rolling hills and picturesque charm of Tuscany.

Photo Stops & Village Views

Throughout the day, there will be opportunities for photo stops, allowing you to capture some of the most iconic Tuscan sights. Expect viewpoints overlooking the countryside, as well as glimpses of medieval villages like San Gimignano from afar.

Reviews mention that guides share stories about these villages, making the stops both scenic and educational. The views are often cited as a highlight, with travelers loving the chance to take in Tuscany’s quintessential landscape.

Winery Visit & Lunch

One of the tour’s standout features is a visit to a local winery. Here, the owners will welcome you and guide you through their vineyards, offering insights into wine production. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a Tuscan meal paired with local wines and extra virgin olive oil—a genuine taste of regional cuisine.

This part of the tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes and has been repeatedly praised in reviews for offering a generous and authentic tasting experience. Many reviewers mention the selection of wines, with some enjoying up to seven different varieties.

Final Leg & Return to Florence

Post-lunch, you’ll hop back on the Vespa for a scenic drive to Sant’Appiano, where the landscape features olive groves, farmhouses, and vineyards. The ride is roughly an hour, and travelers describe it as a sensory feast—sights, smells, and sounds blending into one unforgettable experience.

The day wraps up with a 45-minute ride back to Florence, arriving around 5 pm. Before concluding, there’s a quick vehicle check, and most travelers leave with their cameras full of photos and hearts full of memories.

Safety, Group Size, and Practicalities

This tour emphasizes safety and confidence. All drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid driving license, and some riding experience is recommended. The company conducts a safety test before departure to confirm everyone’s ability to handle the Vespa. Reviews show that this process can be time-consuming but is appreciated by most for the peace of mind it offers.

Group size is limited to 7 Vespas, fostering a small, friendly atmosphere. This means you’re not just a number—your guide can give more personalized attention, and you’re likely to feel more comfortable riding at your own pace.

The tour price includes roundtrip transfers from Florence, helmets, third-party insurance, and all the planned activities, which adds to the overall value—particularly if you’re looking for a day packed with variety and local flavor without the hassle of planning each step yourself.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Pros

• Guides like Vincenzo, Emma, and Alessandro are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism.
• The views and photo opportunities are frequently highlighted as spectacular.
• The wine tasting and lunch are described as top-notch, with a great selection of wines and generous portions.
• The small group size makes for a relaxed, intimate experience.

Cons

• The check-in and safety procedures can be lengthy, especially if you’re not familiar with scooter riding or if there’s a larger group.
• A few reviews mention that the tour can feel rushed or that waits for transportation can be long.
• For some, the mandatory riding test and safety checks may seem excessive, especially if they have limited scooter experience.
• The price point might seem high for some, but many consider the included meals and wine tastings worth it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers comfortable on a scooter or motorcycle, eager to explore Tuscany in a more personal, active way. If you enjoy scenic drives, wine tastings, and charming villages, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight. It’s ideal for those who want a small-group, personalized experience rather than a large bus tour.

However, if you’re nervous about riding or prefer a more relaxed, sit-back kind of day, this might not be the best fit. Also, those with limited riding experience should be prepared for the safety checks and test drive.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Do I need riding experience?
Yes, previous scooter or Vespa experience is required. The company conducts a safety test before departure to confirm you’re comfortable riding.

Are hotel pickups included?
No, the tour begins at the meeting point in Florence, specifically at Italy on a Budget Tours, Via Romana 132R.

What documents do I need to bring?
Bring your driving license, passport, and a credit card for the deposit. No pre-paid or debit cards, and no photocopies or pictures of documents.

What if it rains?
The tour can proceed in light rain, but if the weather is heavy enough to cancel for safety reasons, the itinerary will switch to a minivan. Rain gear is recommended.

Can I ride double?
Yes, if you’re not confident riding alone, you can ride double with a partner, but that depends on your comfort level and the scooter’s capacity.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s mostly aimed at adults comfortable with motorcycle-style riding. Travelers under 18 cannot participate as drivers, and passengers must be at least 11.

Final Thoughts

The From Florence: All-Inclusive Tuscany Vespa Tour in Chianti offers a lively, scenic, and authentic way to experience Tuscany’s famous landscape, food, and wine. The combination of guided riding, picturesque stops, and a delicious winery lunch makes it a comprehensive day out.

It’s best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy a bit of activity, confidence in riding, and are eager to see Tuscany from a unique vantage point. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, combined with the stunning scenery, generally make this a memorable experience—though patience with the check-in and safety procedures is key.

If you’re looking for a day that balances fun, local flavor, and scenic beauty, this tour promises to deliver. Just prepare yourself for the safety checks, ensure you’re comfortable on a scooter, and you’ll have a day full of beautiful vistas and delicious wines to remember.