Tuk-tuks ? ? ?

Posted by gstan22 (Pacific Northwest USA) on 05/31/26 11:56 PM

Me (79) my wife (69) and my 90 year old sister will be traveling Spain next spring. Our itinerary is not yet set but I've been watching a lot of Rick's video's, reading his guide book and web surfing about different cities/areas in Spain. Travel will be for 2-3 weeks.

I have run across "tuk-tuk" tours. They seem to be 4-6-8 person oversized golf cart type vehicles with a driver/guide. None of Rick's guide books mention them and none are mentioned in any of the videos I have watched.

Are they something new? Has anyone any experience with them? Are they worth the cost? It seems they would be a good way for some old geezers like us who don't move like 30 year olds to get around and see the high-lights. Experiences and opinions please.

Posted by Susie

06/01/26 12:08 AM

72 posts

I intend hiring a tuk tuk for a tour of Budapest next March (although we are younger than your group). Go for it and had I travelled with my 90 year old mother, would have done the same with her. The only city I would never use a tuk tuk is Bangkok as the road traffic is crazy.

Posted by Paul

Eastern Iowa, USA

06/01/26 12:17 AM

9415 posts

They have been around for some time, The classic Tuk-Tuk came from asia, small gas powered, three wheeled vehicles, the modern equivalent of rickshaws, now they are more modern, some electric, some with seating for 4 or 6. Are they worth it? reports vary, some people love them, some are outright scams (too little information and touring for the cost), I really do not have any experience with them, but just seeing them in a dozen or more cities, I did not get the impression that the guides were well educated locals, experts in the history of the city. They congregate in popular areas, with an army of touts trying to garner business.

But, if the price seems OK for the length of the tour, it really doesn't matter the stories they tell, just that you see the sights. A decent walking tour with a good guide is a better value, but if mobility is an issue, I get it. Many places now offer Golf Cart tours, larger (8 people or so) and arranged through a more traditional tour agency.

My advice would be to schedule something with a well rated agency rather than take your chances at the spur of the moment on the street.

Posted by Mr É 🇺🇸 🇺🇦 🇭🇺

Republic of Texas / U.S.A. / Magyarország / Budapest

06/01/26 08:36 AM

26572 posts

We have them in Budapest, many seem to enjoy them. Many here are electric now so they are quieter. From the few reports I have heard here is that they are "rides" which is fine because Budapest is beautiful. But the drivers, while they may talk to you, arent licensed tour guides and thats okay too. I presume, like everything in life some are better than others.