Exploring Tuscany by Vespa: A Memorable Day Trip from Florence
Why a Vespa Tour in Tuscany is a Must-Do Experience
One of the most memorable experiences we had in Tuscany was taking a Vespa tour from Florence through the countryside.
Florence may be famous for Renaissance art and grand cathedrals, but just beyond the city lies a completely different side of Tuscany — winding country roads, vineyards stretching across rolling hills, and quiet stone farmhouses tucked among olive groves. It’s the kind of landscape that practically begs to be explored slowly.
One of the most iconic ways to explore it is on a Vespa. These classic Italian scooters are everywhere in Florence, zipping through narrow streets and parked in picturesque rows along ancient piazzas. Riding one through the Tuscan countryside felt like the ultimate Italian adventure — at least in theory.
In reality, my first few minutes on a Vespa were…less graceful.
Despite a slightly shaky start, our Vespa tour quickly became one of the most memorable parts of our trip. It combined scenic countryside riding with a relaxed lunch and wine tasting at a family-run estate just outside Florence.
If you’re considering a Vespa tour from Florence, here’s what the experience is really like — and everything you should know before booking one.
What It’s Like to Ride a Vespa in Tuscany
My Shaky Start
Our tour began with a short training session in a nearby parking area, where everyone had a chance to practice starting, stopping, and turning. For some people, like my husband, it clicked immediately. Within minutes he was confidently zipping around the lot.
I, on the other hand, required a bit more…supervision.
Finding My Rhythm
Under the watchful eye of the tour director, I took lap after lap around the practice area, slowly getting used to the balance and the feel of the scooter. It wasn’t graceful at first, but eventually things started to click.
By the time the group was ready to leave, I felt comfortable enough to join the ride, with the guide kindly placing me directly behind him for support.
In hindsight, I was grateful for that extra attention. Once we left the city and the roads opened up into the rolling hills of Tuscany, the nerves faded and the fun finally began.
Riding Through the Tuscan Countryside
Once we left Florence behind, the scenery changed almost immediately. The busy city streets gave way to quiet country roads weaving through the hills. With our guide leading the way, our small group of Vespas set off in a cheerful line, the soft buzz of engines echoing through the countryside.
Scenic Backroads & Vineyards
The route took us along narrow roads bordered by vineyards, olive groves, and rows of tall cypress trees that seemed to mark every curve in the landscape. Stone farmhouses appeared here and there on distant hillsides, their terracotta roofs glowing in the sunlight. It felt like every turn revealed another postcard-worthy view.
The pace made it easy to take in the scenery as we rode. Without the walls of a car around us we could smell the countryside, feel the warm breeze, and take in the views in every direction. Occasionally, the guide would pull over so we could regroup and snap a few photos.
Managing the Throttle
By that point, I had mostly stopped overthinking every turn. (Getting comfortable with the throttle took a little time — my right hand seemed to have only two settings at first: too much or not enough.)
I still had a few moments of hesitation — like stopping before a roundabout and needing to start again smoothly with cars nearby. It took a second of focus (and a very gentle hand on the throttle), but pulling it off without stalling felt like a small victory.
I found myself watching the guide closely, trying to match his pace without getting too close. Regulating my speed smoothly took more focus than I expected, and I was very aware of not wanting to hold up the group.
At one point I glanced back and saw my husband casually steering with one hand while filming the scenery. Meanwhile, I was gripping the handlebars with full concentration just trying to stay upright — but I was loving every minute.
Lunch & Wine Tasting at Castello di Poppiano
As our ride came to a close, we pulled up to the ivy-covered Castello di Poppiano. The guides collected the scooters, and we headed inside for a short tour before sitting down for lunch in an upstairs room with vineyard views.
It was a long, relaxed meal of simple, locally sourced dishes, accompanied by plenty of wine — the kind of food that makes you slow down and savor every bite.
After lunch, we enjoyed a wine tasting and sampled some of the estate’s award-winning olive oil.
Learning that the Guicciardini family has owned and run the estate for generations (since the 1300s) was so impressive. Their passion for the land and its produce is clear in every sip and bite.
📸 Photo tips:
- Rule of Thirds: Place the horizon along the top third to emphasize hills, or along the bottom third to highlight the sky.
- Look for Framing Opportunities: Use tall cypress trees or other natural elements to frame your subject.
- Use Leading Lines: Curving country roads and rows of trees create eye-catching lines in your photos.
- Protect Your Camera: Store it in the Vespa’s under-seat compartment while riding. I only carried my phone for quick shots.
Vespa Tour from Florence FAQ
Yes. You must have a valid driver’s license issued in your country. Most tours require riders to be at least 18 and comfortable on a scooter. If you prefer not to drive, you can ride as a passenger with a partner.
Absolutely. Tours start with a safety briefing and practice session. The guides ensure everyone feels confident before leaving. I needed a few extra laps, but once we reached quieter country roads, it became much easier.
If you have some scooter or bike riding experience, you’ll probably be like my husband and take to it very easily.
Most last 4–7 hours. Ours was 6 hours, including stops for photos, countryside riding, and a meal or wine tasting.
Tour companies prioritize safety. If a guide notices discomfort, they may suggest riding as a passenger. The initial practice session helps ensure everyone is ready before hitting the roads.
Wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothes that allow movement. Bring layers like a light jacket or windbreaker—the weather can change quickly, and you’ll want to stay comfortable while riding.
For many travelers, it’s one of the most memorable ways to explore Tuscany. You combine scenic countryside views with the fun of riding through vineyards, olive groves, and quiet roads. Our tour included a relaxed lunch and wine tasting, which made the day feel perfectly balanced between adventure and Tuscan hospitality.
The Vespa Tour Company We Used (and Recommend)
The company we chose made the experience approachable — even for beginners like me. Guides were patient and focused on each rider’s comfort. The training session allowed practice in a safe area, and our guide’s careful attention made me feel confident from the start.
The route itself was beautifully planned, including frequent photo stops that made the experience feel relaxed rather than rushed. Lunch and wine tasting at the family-run estate added an authentic Tuscan touch.
Overall, the combination of friendly guides, scenic routes, and a memorable countryside lunch made this one of our favorite experiences in Florence.
We booked our tour with Tuscany Bike Tours, which offers small-group Vespa tours departing from Florence.
Ready to experience Tuscany by Vespa? You can explore availability for the same tour we took with Tuscany Bike Tours and plan your own countryside ride here. This one is also top rated in the region.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Final Thoughts on Our Vespa Tour in Tuscany
This was one of the experiences I was most excited for when I was planning our 17 Day Trip to Italy, and it ended up being even better than I expected.
If you’re considering a Vespa tour in Tuscany, I can honestly say it was one of the most memorable ways we experienced the countryside. It was equal parts adventure, scenery, and pure fun—and a reminder that sometimes the slightly scary things end up being the most rewarding.
Would you try a Vespa tour in Tuscany?
Planning Your Trip? Read Next: ✈️
- The Perfect Tuscany Day Trip Itinerary – Siena, San Gimignano, & Pisa
- What to Eat in Florence – Must-try foods & local spots
- Florence Cooking Class Review – Make authentic pasta by hand
- Viewing Iconic Art in Florence – See Michelangelo’s David and top museums
- Climbing the Duomo in Florence – tickets, tips & views
- What to Wear in Italy in Summer – Packing tips for Florence & Tuscany
- 3 Days in Rome – Itinerary for first-time visitors
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