Electric Vespa self-drive Tour of Florence Hills with local products Tasting

If you’re looking to see a different side of Florence beyond its famous artworks and bustling streets, an electric Vespa tour might just be your next best idea. This self-drive experience takes you through some of the most beautiful scenic spots surrounding the city, with the added bonus of tasting local products and Tuscan wines at the end. We’ve been curious about this tour and pulled together what you need to know before booking.

What we love about this experience is how it blends adventure and relaxation. Riding an electric Vespa through quiet hills is surprisingly easy and eco-friendly, making it a fun alternative to traditional sightseeing. The guided app makes navigation simple, so you can focus on soaking in the views without stressing over directions. Plus, the tasting stop at a cozy Food & Wine bar offers a genuine taste of local flavors that most travelers miss.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a self-drive tour, which means you’ll need previous Vespa or scooter experience. For some, that could be a barrier, especially if you’re nervous about riding in unfamiliar surroundings. Also, the scheduling can feel a bit rushed if there’s a wait at the start, so arrive on time to avoid losing precious sightseeing minutes. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a bit of independence, scenic drives, and good food.

This tour suits those who want a more active, engaging experience outside the standard museum visits—think adventure lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting a day out that mixes nature with culture. If you’re comfortable riding scooters and love exploring on your own terms, this might be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly and fun transportation using electric Vespa scooters that are easy to operate with some prior experience
• Scenic routes through Florence’s hills, with highlights including Fiesole and Piazzale Michelangelo
• Use of a dedicated app-guide to navigate easily and safely
• Ends with a local product and wine tasting in a cozy Food & Wine bar
• Group size is small, with a maximum of 10 travelers, enhancing personalized attention
• Requires moderate physical fitness and valid driving licenses; not suitable for absolute beginners or children

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and How It Feels to Ride

The experience begins at Borgo Ognissanti, a convenient location close to public transportation in Florence. After a quick check-in, you’re handed your electric Vespa along with sanitized helmets. The scooters are suitable for two people, so if you’re traveling with a partner, you can share the ride, or opt for a solo Vespa if you prefer more privacy and control.

The scooters are surprisingly simple to get the hang of for those with prior riding experience, and you’ll appreciate how quiet and clean they are. Riding electric means you don’t have to worry about emissions or noise pollution—just enjoy the breeze and the scenic surroundings.

Fiesole: The First Stop

The journey kicks off with a trip to Fiesole, one of the most picturesque villages in the area. This stop is a highlight thanks to its Roman Theatre, medieval architecture, and tranquil natural paths. We loved the way the tour allows you to reach spots that are tricky to access by car, offering an intimate experience with nature and history.

Many reviews mention the spectacular views of Florence and the valley below from Fiesole, which are truly worth the ride. As Beth pointed out, it’s a great way to escape the city’s hustle while enjoying Tuscany’s charm. The visit is about an hour and a half, giving you enough time to stroll, take photos, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

Piazzale Michelangelo: The Perfect Panorama

Next, you’ll make your way to Piazzale Michelangelo, the iconic terrace overlooking Florence. The road uphill is a highlight in itself—winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the city’s rooftops and the Arno River. You’ll want to take plenty of photos here because the panoramic vistas are some of the best in Florence.

From reviews, we gather that this part of the tour is highly appreciated. It’s a favorite for many, including Lead_T, who said, “Be careful because the route guide may run down phone battery,” so bringing a portable charger might be smart.

Basilica San Miniato al Monte

After descending from Piazzale Michelangelo, the tour includes a quick stop at Basilica San Miniato al Monte. This church is celebrated for its architecture and the breathtaking views it offers over Florence. It’s a brief stop, approximately 30 minutes, but enough time to admire the façade and perhaps snap a few more photos.

Porta Romana and the Tasting Experience

The last part of the ride takes you towards Porta Romana, where the group relaxes at a cozy Food & Wine bar in Oltrarno. Here, the focus shifts from sightseeing to savoring local products paired with Tuscan wine. Reviewers like Michael_L and Kathryn_P raved about the quality of the food and drinks, describing the tasting as a fantastic finish to the tour.

The tasting includes a platter of cold cuts and cheese, complemented by a glass of wine. It’s a lovely way to unwind after the scenic ride, and many mention how the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge made the experience even better.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

This tour is excellent value for money at around $68.50 per person, considering all that’s included:

• Electric Vespa at your disposal for 4 hours—enough time to explore the area comfortably
• Sanitized helmets—a small but important detail for safety and hygiene
• Dedicated app-guide on your phone—making navigation straightforward
• Insurance cover for collision, theft, and vandalism
• Local product tasting, including wine and a cheese platter

However, a few things to keep in mind:

• Lunch and hotel transfers are not included, so plan to eat beforehand or afterward
• There’s no tour leader guiding you physically, only the app, so independent navigation is key
• The tour is not suitable for complete beginners if they lack Vespa or scooter experience
• You’ll need to provide your international driving license and passport

Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience maintains a personal touch, but it also means you should book ahead—on average, trips are booked 38 days in advance. The scheduled start is at 10:00 am, and the tour lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

What do people really say? Many reviews sing its praises for guides who are patient, helpful, and full of local insights. Parissa_L mentioned, “We had such a fun time! The ride was rushed at the start, but overall, it was a memorable experience.” Others appreciated the scenic drives and excellent wine and food at the end.

Some practical concerns include the need for prior riding experience and the potential for the navigation app to drain your phone battery. A tip from reviewers is to bring a portable charger or ensure your phone is fully charged before starting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers who enjoy active exploration and are comfortable riding scooters. It’s ideal for those seeking a unique way to see Florence’s surroundings—more than just the city center but not a full-day commitment. If you’re a foodie or wine lover, the tasting adds a nice touch, especially after a scenic drive.

It’s less suitable for families with small children or for those who aren’t confident on two wheels. Also, if you’re new to scooter riding, you might want to practice or look into beginner-friendly options.

The Sum Up

All in all, the electric Vespa self-drive tour of Florence Hills offers a refreshing and eco-conscious way to explore Tuscany’s scenic landscapes. It’s a flexible, engaging activity that combines adventure with cultural highlights, topped with local flavors. The small group size and dedicated app-guide mean you’ll get a more personalized experience than large bus tours.

For travelers with some riding experience who want to combine photo-worthy vistas, history, and culinary delights, this tour is a solid choice. It offers a good balance of independent exploration and guided comfort, making your day in Florence a memorable one.

If you’re after a relaxed yet active adventure that showcases the countryside’s beauty and gives you a taste of local life, this Vespa tour is worth considering. Just remember to book early and come prepared with your driving license and some patience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this is a self-drive experience for those with prior Vespa or scooter riding experience. You should be comfortable handling a scooter before booking.

Do I need a special license?
Yes, you need an international driving license. For participants from certain regions, like the Middle East, Africa, China, India, South America, and Eastern Europe, an international license is required.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the electric Vespa, sanitized helmets, a dedicated app-guide, insurance, and a local product tasting with wine and cheese. Lunch and hotel transfers aren’t included.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts around 4 hours, including riding and tasting time.

Can I book this tour for just myself?
Yes, there’s an option for a single Vespa only driver. Otherwise, the Vespa can be shared with a passenger.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be riding the Vespa. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring sunscreen if sunny.

Overall, this Vespa tour offers a lively, scenic, and tasty way to experience Florence’s surroundings for travelers ready to ride. It’s a blend of adventure, culture, and good food that can make your trip truly special—just remember, some riding experience is key!