Has anyone ever rented a scooter in Rome? What's it like? Is it easy to park/navigate? Is it fun or stressful? I don't mind getting lost. Do I have to seriously worry about theft? I heard it is a great way to see the city, especially in evenings because Rome is supposedly all lit up at night. What are your thoughts?
Thanks
The traffic in both Rome and Paris is horrific! It's difficult to navigate at times even as a pedestrian. I suppose there's a certain "nostalgia" to driving a Vespa in Rome (as depicted in some of the old '60s movies).
Although I'm sure many have driven in Rome without problems, it's not something I'd be too anxious to do. Aside from being involved in a collision, there's also the aspects of parking and theft.
I found it much easier just to use the Metro and walk most places. It tends to make the trip much less complicated IMO.
Happy travels!
Think again. Rome is a wonderful place to walk, but the scooter traffic is wild and dangerous for all concerned. I have jumped out of perfectly good airplanes but would NEVER drive a scooter in Rome!
I wouldn't drive a tank in Rome...never mind a scooter. Almost everything you need to see is within walking distance.....Rome's center is a very compact place.
Yikes. Scary thought. We drive all over Italy- but not in Rome - and certainly would never even think about renting a scooter there!!! oy.
Well that settles that! I read this suggestion in I think "travel" magazine. It was a British version of an American publication. I like my fair share of questionable activities but from your responses, it just sounds overwhelmingly stupid.
Thanks
I think it would depend on your skill as a scooter driver. IF you skills are quite advance, then I think you would be OK. Running a scooter, finding places to park, etc. would be a significant challenge in Rome BUT much, much easier than even thinking about driving a car.
Came home from our Italy/Switzerland trip this summer and decided I am going to buy a scooter locally and learn how to ride well before I attempt it in Europe. There have been time when I thiink it would been beneficially to have rented a scooter. Good luck but take out extra medical insurance.
I think it would be overwhelmingly stressful. The other thing is you may not see much as you will be so busy looking out for obstacles and other road users.
I think many "fantasy" articles romantisize the idea of zipping around Rome on a Vespa...Hey, wait a minute, that does sound like a great idea and a lot of fun...but the reality is probably some time in an emergency room. Scooters and Rome/Paris/Greek Island/Just about any destination...not a great idea.
