These classic-style scooters have a long and famous history in Italy. Vespa, which is the Italian word for wasp, was named both for the sound the scooter makes when it buzzes along and for its symbolic shape, as the handlebars, mirror, and headlight sort of resemble an insect.
If you're ready to explore Italy’s best sites via the iconic Italian scooter, here’s everything you need to know before you hit the road and ride a Vespa.
Italy’s traffic may seem chaotic, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t strict laws governing the roads. Only licensed drivers can rent a basic 125cc Vespa scooter, and more powerful scooters require a motorcycle license.
“Licensed” means you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country plus an international license, officially known as an International Driving Permit (IDP). You must be at least 18 to be issued an IDP, so the minimum age for Vespa scooter rentals is also 18.
Did you know? Italians can obtain a license to drive a 50cc scooter at the tender age of 14 and a 125cc scooter at 16.
Italy also has very strict helmet laws, and all Vespa drivers and passengers are required to wear an approved helmet. Luckily, Vespa rentals generally include the use of a helmet for the duration of the rental, so you don’t need to pack one.
You should, however, pack comfortable, loose clothing to make it easier to get on and off your scooter and closed shoes or sandals with a back strap that stays securely on your feet. Avoid flip-flops, high heels, long scarves, or flowy skirts that can get caught in the wheels. Wearing a purse or shoulder bag may make it difficult to drive, too.
Insider tip: Don’t forget to ensure your helmet fits properly and that the chin strap closes securely before zipping off into the sunset.
Most Vespa rental companies require that drivers have a minimum amount of experience with a scooter before hitting the road. If you’re looking forward to a Vespa adventure in Italy, rent a scooter close to home a few times in advance of your trip to get the hang of driving and parking before renting in Italy.
Novices should opt for rentals in less-congested areas like the Umbrian countryside or the quiet coastline of Salento instead of Rome’s hectic traffic or the Amalfi Coast’s hairpin curves. You should also spend a few minutes familiarizing yourself with common Italian road signs and road rules, as things may be different than what you’re used to in your home country.
Insider tip: In Italy, it’s illegal to make a right turn on red, and vehicles in a roundabout have the right-of-way over vehicles entering.
Expect to pay less than €20 for an hourly rental and up to €100 for a full day, including your helmet and insurance. Fuel isn’t usually included, and you’ll usually be required to preauthorize a charge of up to €500 on your credit card as a security deposit.
If you’re unsure whether exploring by Vespa is for you, try a short, hour-long rental before going all-in on a full day. Most Vespa rentals offer hourly rates, half-day rates, full-day rates, and even multiple-day rates, but usually, Vespas are generally an affordable mode of transportation.
Did you know? The first Vespas were created from former World War II aircraft.
Rental Vespas get a lot of wear and tear. Take a few minutes to check your vehicle before you ride off to avoid charges for scratches and dents you didn’t cause.
Ensure that both mirrors are attached, and everything looks as it should. Call any pre-existing damage to the attention of the rental agent (take a photo with your smartphone just in case), and confirm how fuel refill works.
It’s fun to ride a Vespa in Italy, whether it’s on your own or with a passenger but keep in mind that the scooter is a bit more of a challenge to maneuver if there are two people on board.
If you’re an experienced driver, go ahead and have a friend hop on for the ride. If you and your group are new to the Vespa game, it’s better to opt to ride alone and have each person in your group rent their scooter. It may be more expensive, but it’ll be safer and more fun for everyone. Traveling families should be aware that there is a minimum age (five years old) rule and a height requirement for Vespa passengers, so not all kids will be able to ride.
You don’t need to be a seasoned driver to experience the thrill of exploring Italy by Vespa. There are a wide variety of Vespa tours that include a driver, so you can hop on as a passenger and focus on the view rather than navigating traffic.
Besides being safer and stress-free, these types of tours are led by specialized local guides, so you can combine a sightseeing or foodie itinerary with an authentic Italian Vespa adventure.