Vespa in Florence???

If you DIY I hope you’re not planning to drink any wine

Are you an experienced cycle rider? If not I would rethink-Italy is not the place to learn

I would go on my own. Probably cheaper. I had motorcycles and Vespas for my entire youth when I was growing up in Florence.

But if you aren’t an experienced motorcycle driver I don’t think you should get on a Vespa at all. Italy is not the place where you want to learn how to ride one.

We spent a week in Florence visiting at least two and somethings three wineries a day. Not cheap. The better wineries will absolutely insisted on reservations. Walk-ins are not welcome. We free wheeled it but we were working from an article in Wine Spectator that listed several "Must Visit" wineries and always have reservations a day or two before. In addition some of the larger wineries will have restaurants associated with them and will offer multi-course meals supported with different wines for each course. Again, not cheap, but terrific experiences and a whole different level of appreciation for what can be achieved with great paring of wine and food. Skip the Vespa.

PS --- Only one luncheon or dinner per day and be super aware of the drinking and driving limit.

I remember with bitterness the line of 15. Vespas with hesitant middle aged tourists going up the hill to Volterra at about 15 miles an hour blocking all traffic behind them on the switchbacks. I also had a boss who decided a vespa would be great way to see the countryside and broke both arms.

We considered doing the same and took the advice of many in this forum to not rent Vespas in unfamiliar territory. Instead, we opted for e-bikes through e-bikesflorence.com. It was a great experience! They provided a route which we followed on our own, which included a stop at a winery for tastings and a light lunch. We set it up with John Shields via email before we arrived in Florence. He was really easy to work with and answered all our questions. Hope this helps!

You might find it better to book a wine tour with a local firm that transports visitors in a van or whatever. That way you could enjoy sampling some wines and leave the driving to an experienced local. Travelling in a vehicle would also allow you to cover more distance and perhaps more wineries in a day. I haven't checked, but the RS Italy guidebook should have some listings for reputable wine tours.

The drawback to using a bus tour is that the winery has to have a parking lot large enough for buses and room to turn around. Not all do so. There are many good wineries. And don't pass up Balsamic Vinegar tasting. Sometimes you can do both. One place we tasted 75 year old BV with an eye dropper and one small drop on the back of your hand. It was so good. Should be. I think it was 80 euro for about a cup size bottle.

@ Newbook.

Let us assume you are determined to ride a vespa around in the Tuscan region around Florence. No better prep than practicing by renting a vespa or similar scooter and rip roaring around the metropolis of Boise and nearby rurales.

May I congratulate you. Undertaking this adventure at the age of 70 is courageous. No doubt some of your fellow Idahoans and other US citizens can give you the full story on insurances etc. Also, advice on how to gauge when you have reached the Italian alcohol limit for driving/riding of .05.

Regards Ron

Forget it. Just forget it. Really bad idea. Your insurance probably does not cover the risk.

Do you hold a motorcycle licence?