If you are wondering what to see on a Vespa in Florence during your next holiday, follow the tips of NTSR.
In Florence, certain parts of the city center (“ZTL”) are restricted to traffic, with only residents and authorized vehicles allowed to enter.
ZTL stands for "Zona a Traffico Limitato" in Florence, which translates to Limited Traffic Zone. This area is supposed to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and protect the historic city center. Visitors driving in Florence should be aware of the ZTL zones and the specific access restrictions to avoid fines.
Vespa tours of Florence: the fundamental destinations
Some landmarks in Florence that you should absolutely visit but you cannot ride by with a scooter include:
- Ponte Vecchio: The famous medieval bridge lined with shops and a popular tourist attraction.
- Piazza del Duomo: The main square in Florence, dominated by the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo).
- Uffizi Gallery: One of the most important art museums in the world, located in the heart of Florence.
- Palazzo Pitti: A grand Renaissance palace that houses several museums and the beautiful Boboli Gardens.
- Piazza della Signoria: The main square in Florence lined with impressive sculptures and historic buildings, including the Palazzo Vecchio.
- Basilica of Santa Croce: A beautiful church known for its frescoes and as the burial place of many famous Italians, such as Michelangelo and Galileo.
- Mercato Centrale: A bustling food market in Florence, perfect for trying local delicacies and shopping for fresh produce.
- Galleria dell'Accademia: Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
How to visit Florence on a Vespa without worrying about the ZTL
However there are differences in ZTL regulations in Florence for scooters and cars.
In general, cars are typically more restricted in terms of where they can drive and park within the city center, while scooters have practically full access to the ZTL.
So, you cannot ride one of our Vespas to Piazza della Signoria, but you can park a few meters away from it!
Must-see in Florence on a Vespa outside the restricted traffic zone
There are also some beautiful places to ride by Vespa outside the ZTL. Some popular routes include:
- Fiesole: Ride up to the picturesque hilltop town of Fiesole for panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding countryside.
- Piazzale Michelangelo: Ride up to this famous viewpoint for a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence and the Arno River.
- San Miniato al Monte: Visit this beautiful church located on a hill near Piazzale Michelangelo for stunning views of the city below
And of course you can (and you should!) leave the city and take a scenic ride through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Chianti region, stopping at wineries along the way for tastings.
