Explore Tuscany Like A Local On A Vespa

For many of us, a holiday in Italy is the ultimate escape from the stresses and worries ofeveryday life. There’s just something about the chance to experience ‘la bella vita’ thatevokes a sense of freedom and relaxation. Of all the destinations in Italy, Tuscany isperhaps the most aspirational – because after all, who wouldn’t want to eat, drink and livelife under the Tuscan sun for a week or so?

Explore Tuscany in Style

If you’re making a base in Florence, you’ll genuinely be spoiled for choice with things to seeand do. It’s not just the magnificent cultural attractions within the city we’re talking aboutthough, because getting out and about on a day trip from Florence opens you up to so muchmore.

There are plenty of options for a day trip from Florence, including visits to places like Siena,Pisa, San Gimignano and the Cinque Terre, but if you’re looking for a truly free-spiritedexperience, you absolutely can’t beat getting out on the road to explore on a vintage Vespa.

The Ultimate Italian Adventure on a Vintage Vespa

There’s absolutely no need to be nervous about exploring the Tuscan countryside on aVespa; if you’ve got a valid car licence and a sense of adventure, you’re good to go!

For the best experience, joining a small group tour with a local guide will ensure your day tripfrom Florence will run smoothly. If you head out on a tour with a guide, you won’t have toworry about map reading or getting lost – because your only job will be to have fun.

What to Expect

The first advice is to do your research and choose a reputable tour operator for your day tripfrom Florence so you can be sure all the details will be taken care of.

You’ll meet with your tour leader who will then go through the basic workings of your Vespaand provide a safety briefing. There’ll be time for introductions to the rest of your group, thenit’s helmets on and off you’ll zoom on your restored vintage Vespa. (If you want to share witha partner that’s fine, or you can each have your own.)

Be prepared to be the centre of attention as you buzz through the streets on your way out ofthe city – because a group of colourful Vespas makes for quite the sight, and sound! Youcan bet there’ll be a lot of jealous tourists eyeing you up and wishing they were comingalong.

Your tour guide will lead you along the banks of the famous River Arno and into the hills ofFiesole, where you’ll have the chance to stop for some very cute photo opportunities. Onceyou’ve got a feel for your Vespa, you’ll then be ready to venture out onto the undulating openroads of the Tuscan countryside.

There’s really nothing quite like this experience as you trundle along with the wind in yourface, passing olive groves, vineyards and ancient castles along the way. While this is awonderfully independent way of exploring, the best thing about travelling with a small groupand a guide is that you can really relax into it without having to worry about directions. Youare also guaranteed to discover the best the region has to offer!

The tours last around five hours, with plenty of stops for photos and food. By the time youreturn to Florence you’ll have a wonderful group of new friends and be an expert Vesparider!

This is a one day trip from Florence you really don’t want to miss and there’s no doubt it’ll bea highlight of your holiday in Tuscany.

Author Plate

Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offeringunforgettable tours and excursions around Italy as well as some great options for a day trip from Florence. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.