Rent your Electric Vespa 45 in Florence for 8 hours

If you’re planning a trip to Florence and want to see more than just the busy city streets, renting an electric Vespa might catch your eye. While I haven’t tried this experience myself, feedback from travelers paints a picture of a fun, flexible way to explore both Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. It’s especially appealing if you’re after an independent adventure without the emissions, and with the ease of parking small vehicles in historic spots.

What I love about this tour is the carefully curated route that guides you to the must-see sights and scenic roads, plus the fact that the scooters are eco-friendly. Also, the provision of sanitized helmets and an app with tailored tours makes it easy to feel safe and well-guided. However, a key consideration is that driving experience is essential—this isn’t suited for beginners or those unfamiliar with riding a Vespa or moped in traffic.

This experience seems perfect for travelers who are comfortable on two wheels, eager to go off the beaten path, and want a sense of freedom along with gorgeous views. If you’re seeking a laid-back, independent way to discover Florence and Tuscany, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Suitable for experienced drivers: The tour requires you to be confident driving a Vespa or moped.
• Eco-friendly exploration: The electric Vespa emits no emissions, making it a responsible choice.
• Flexible, scenic routes: Use the app to follow curated itineraries that highlight the best spots.
• Comfort and hygiene prioritized: Helmets are sanitized, and the scooters are well-maintained.
• Great for short-term rental: An 8-hour window is perfect for a full day of sightseeing.
• Limited to the local driving conditions: Hills and traffic may affect range and ease; staying within Florence or nearby is recommended.

A Deep Dive into the Electric Vespa Experience in Florence

The Setup: What’s Included and How It Works

For around $104.50 per group (up to 2 people), you get an electric Vespa rental that lasts for about eight hours. This is a solo or duo experience, so larger groups will need multiple bookings. The rental includes sanitized helmets, a phone holder, and a downloadable app loaded with scenic itineraries and tour suggestions. One thing to keep in mind is that driver insurance is not included, and there’s a $900 deposit per Vespa, which acts as a safeguard for the vehicle’s value.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Borgo Ognissanti, 65 r, Florence, a spot accessible by public transportation and easy to find. The activity kicks off at 10:00 am, giving you the entire day to explore.

Why Choose This Tour? The Highlights

What sets this experience apart is the combination of eco-consciousness and independence. Riding a Vespa allows you to maneuver through Florence’s narrow streets effortlessly, avoiding parking hassles and traffic restrictions (like ZTL zones). The app-driven routes are designed to maximize your time, leading you to the city’s key sights and along scenic routes through Tuscany’s countryside, especially the well-loved Chianti region.

Many reviews rave about the quality of the service and the helpfulness of the staff. For example, Julie_D mentioned that their Vespa ride was a highlight of their trip, thanks to thorough instructions and personalized route suggestions. Matt_F echoed this, highlighting how friendly staff stayed late to assist with returns, and they recommend staying within Florence because of range limitations.

The Ride: What to Expect from the Itinerary

Once you’re on the Vespa, you’ll notice how easy it is to handle, especially with the guidance of the app. The routes are planned to take you past Florence’s iconic landmarks, with enough stops to take photos and soak in the atmosphere—whether that’s the Duomo or the quiet vineyards outside the city.

Travelers have described the views as beautiful, often escaping the crowded city streets to enjoy peaceful hills and scenic vineyards. The electric Vespa’s slower pace compared to gasoline scooters isn’t a drawback; many find it part of the charm, allowing for a more relaxed experience and opportunities to smell the scenery and listen to nature’s sounds. Heidi_N called it a “fun day riding in the countryside,” emphasizing the informative rental guide.

The Pros: Why It Works Well

• Freedom to Explore: The Vespa gives you the ability to stop wherever you want, whether for photos or a quick snack.
• Ease of Parking: Unlike cars, the scooters can be parked with less fuss, especially in historic and small-town areas.
• Eco-Friendly: Traveling on electric power reduces your carbon footprint, a growing concern for many travelers.
• Authentic Experience: Navigating Tuscany on a vintage-style scooter feels like a scene straight out of a movie—casual, scenic, and fun.
• Guided Routes: The app offers curated itineraries, making self-guided exploration straightforward and enjoyable.

The Cons: Considerations Before Booking

While most reviews are glowing, there are some important points to note. Several travelers, like Desiree_B, faced issues around experience requirements. They booked well in advance but were turned away because they lacked Vespa-driving experience. This highlights that you must be confident and capable of riding in traffic—this isn’t for complete beginners.

Plus, the $900 deposit might seem steep, especially given the rental price, but it’s standard in case of damages. Some reviewers felt it was high for a one-day rental. It’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with that upfront cost.

Lastly, the range of the electric Vespa might be limited, especially in hilly areas. The suggestion from some guides is to stay within Florence or nearby to avoid running out of battery mid-ride.

Authenticity and Safety: Trusting the Experience

Safety and cleanliness are clearly priorities. Helmets are sanitized for each rider, and staff are described as knowledgeable and friendly. Many travelers comment on how well the staff explained scooter operation, making the experience accessible even if you’re not a seasoned rider.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for confident drivers who enjoy a bit of independence and scenic cruising. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the city’s crowds for a day, appreciate beautiful landscapes, and are comfortable riding in traffic. It’s not suitable for absolute beginners or travelers who prefer guided group tours. If you’re seeking an active, self-directed exploration with the charm of a vintage Vespa, then this is a solid pick.

FAQ

Do I need driving experience to rent the Vespa?
Yes, the tour is recommended only for those who are confident riding a Vespa or moped. It’s a self-guided experience, and safety is a priority.

Is this activity suitable for children or families?
This tour is focused on drivers, so it’s best suited for adults or teens capable of handling the scooter. It’s not specifically designed for children.

What is included in the rental?
You get sanitized helmets, a phone holder, and access to an app with curated routes. The activity lasts approximately 8 hours.

Are helmets sanitized?
Yes, helmets are disinfected for each rider, in line with health and hygiene standards.

What if I don’t have insurance?
Driver insurance is not included in the rental price, so you’ll need to consider your own coverage or pay attention to the deposit and damage policies.

Can I rent more than one Vespa?
The price is for up to 2 people per group, so if traveling with more, you’d need multiple bookings.

How is the route planned?
The route is provided via a smartphone app and includes suggestions for scenic stops and landmarks, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the rental time. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Since riding a Vespa requires driving skill and confidence, it’s best suited for adults and experienced riders.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to explore Florence on an electric Vespa can offer a fresh perspective on the city and its surroundings. It gives you the freedom to go off the main tourist trail, enjoy beautiful views, and experience Tuscany in a relaxed, eco-friendly way. The positive reviews highlight knowledgeable staff, scenic routes, and the fun of riding—all making for a memorable day.

This experience suits travelers who are self-assured drivers, appreciate independent exploration, and want to combine sightseeing with a touch of adventure. If you’re prepared for the deposit, confident on two wheels, and eager to enjoy Florence without emissions, then this Vespa adventure could be a highlight of your trip.

Important Tips

• Confirm you have enough driving confidence before booking.
• Stay within Florence or nearby areas to maximize your experience and avoid range issues.
• Use the app’s suggested routes but feel free to customize stops.
• Take advantage of the scenic stops for photos and quick snacks.
• Remember, the Vespa is slower than a car but offers a more immersive experience.

This ride might not be perfect for everyone, but for those who value independent touring and scenic views, it can add a memorable twist to your Florence stay. Happy riding!