Ferrari Vip Day Tour with Test Drive

If you’ve ever dreamed of sitting behind the wheel of a Ferrari, this VIP day tour in Maranello promises just that—plus a lot more. It’s designed for lovers of speed, style, and Italian craftsmanship, combining a museum visit, a scenic shuttle tour, a thrilling test drive, and a luxe lunch. While the price tag of around $734 per person might seem steep, the value lies in the exclusive access and unforgettable memories you’re likely to create during this 7- to 8-hour adventure.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances iconic culture with adrenaline-pumping action. From the moment you’re picked up from Bologna or Modena, the entire day feels tailored and seamless. And, of course, the highlight—driving a Ferrari on actual roads—can be a game-changer for any car enthusiast. On the flip side, some travelers have found the tour slightly misleading in terms of access, especially regarding the factory visit, which is only viewed from the outside. But overall, this tour suits those craving a mix of history, scenic views, and heart-pounding driving, ideal for couples, groups of friends, or even dedicated Ferrari fans.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access to Ferrari Museum and scenic shuttle tour of the Ferrari Citadel.
• Thrilling Test Drive of a Ferrari California or Portofino, with requirements for valid licenses.
• In-depth Guided Tour of the Citadel and Fiorano racetrack, offering insider insights.
• Gourmet Lunch at chef Massimo Bottura’s acclaimed “Il Cavallino,” blending luxury and authenticity.
• Comprehensive Transportation with hotel pickup and private vehicle, simplifying logistics.
• Age & License Requirements ensure safety and compliance for the test drive.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Ferrari Museum: A Gateway into the Prancing Horse’s World

Your day begins with admission to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, where you’ll spend about 75 minutes exploring the displays. This part of the tour offers a deep dive into Ferrari’s evolution, from iconic models to racing legends. Many reviewers mention appreciating the well-curated exhibits, which include vintage cars and racing memorabilia. One guest noted, “The museum and test drive were great, so was the lunch,” highlighting how this initial stop sets a high tone for the day.

While the museum is a highlight, some travelers, like Norman, felt misled because the tour doesn’t include a factory tour inside the actual manufacturing plant. Instead, the shuttle takes you past visible aspects of the factory, with explanations from the guide. It’s important to know that access inside the factory is not part of this experience. If you’re expecting a full factory walk-through, this tour’s scope might fall short.

The Ferrari Simulator: A Virtual Ride in Maranello

Next, you’ll try your hand at the Ferrari F1 Simulator in Maranello, a fun way to experience racing dynamics. The 10-minute session is free, and reviewers rave about how immersive and realistic it feels. However, keep in mind the simulator has height restrictions—participants should be between 160cm and 185cm tall—to ensure safety and comfort.

Some guests, like Holly, noted that while the simulator was “fabulous,” it’s a quick experience. Still, it’s a good way to get a taste of what Ferrari racing feels like, especially if you’re a motorsport enthusiast.

The Ferrari Test Drive: Speed on Public Roads

The crown jewel of this tour is the 10-minute Ferrari road test on Maranello’s streets, featuring models like the Ferrari California or Portofino, subject to availability. It’s clear from reviews that this part excites most participants, offering a rare chance to drive a legendary car.

To participate, you need a valid European driver’s license with at least 3 years of driving experience, or an international license for non-European licenses. Both license types are acceptable, but there are conditions if licenses are obtained after December 13, 2023.

One guest, Sarah, said, “Driving a Ferrari was the best experience,” while another appreciated the “unforgettable sensations during the drive test.” These snippets show that, for many, this is the emotional highlight.

Remember, the test drive is a brief 10 minutes, but it’s enough to feel the power of a Ferrari on open roads. Some reviewers note that longer drives might be preferable but understand the constraints of a day tour.

Guided Shuttle Tour of the Ferrari Citadel and Fiorano Track

After the adrenaline rush, the tour continues with a guided panoramic shuttle tour of the Ferrari Citadel and Fiorano racetrack**, lasting about 50 minutes. Your guide provides insights into Ferrari’s history, the factory, and racing milestones.

Reviewers like Iordanescu praised the “good food and unforgettable sensations during the drive test,” emphasizing how this part of the tour offers context and a sense of the brand’s racing heritage. The shuttle itself, on a Ferrari minivan, is comfortable and offers excellent vantage points for photos and commentary.

Lunch at Il Cavallino by Chef Massimo Bottura

The tour culminates with a luxurious lunch at Il Cavallino, a restaurant curated by renowned chef Massimo Bottura. Guests describe the meal as top-notch, blending refined Italian cuisine with a relaxed ambiance. Sarah shared that the lunch was “top notch,” and many mention it as a perfect ending to the day’s high-energy activities.

This sit-down meal provides an opportunity to unwind, discuss the day’s highlights, and savor authentic flavors—an essential part of the Italian experience.

Practical Considerations and What to Expect

Transportation & Pickup: The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Bologna or Modena, with a private vehicle and driver, making the day stress-free. This is especially helpful given the busy traffic around Maranello and the timing of activities.

Duration & Timing: Expect the tour to last around 7 to 8 hours, with a well-paced schedule. The itinerary’s segments are timed to maximize experience without feeling overly rushed, though some reviews mention feeling a bit hurried, especially if traffic delays occur.

Group Size & Exclusivity: Being a private tour, your group will be the only participants, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility.

Pricing & Value: At about $733, this experience is on the premium side, but it includes nearly everything—museum entry, simulator, test drive, guided tour, and lunch. For Ferrari fans and adrenaline seekers, this is a packaged deal that offers significant value compared to booking each component separately.

Age & License Requirements: Since the scenic tour isn’t accessible under 3 years old and the test drive requires a minimum of 3 years holding a driver’s license, planning ahead is essential. Check your licenses carefully to ensure eligibility.

What the Reviews Reveal: Authentic Insights

While most reviews are positive, some pointed out that the factory visit is not inside the factory but only viewed externally from the shuttle, which was slightly misleading for some. We’ve noted that the tour provides an outside overview with explanations but doesn’t include an in-depth factory walk.

Another insight is how well the guides are regarded—many reviewers appreciated their knowledge and friendliness. Francesco, in particular, was singled out as a helpful and engaging driver who added a personal touch to the experience.

The lunch at Il Cavallino, curated by Massimo Bottura, consistently scores high, with guests describing it as a highlight. It’s clear that good food and excellent service are integral to this experience, elevating it beyond just a car tour.

Final Thoughts: Who’s This Tour Perfectly Suited For?

This Ferrari VIP day tour offers a rare combination of culture, speed, and gastronomy. It’s an ideal choice for car enthusiasts craving a taste of Ferrari’s legendary performance and adventure lovers wanting to feel the thrill of driving on real roads. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch makes it suitable for food lovers who appreciate fine Italian cuisine.

However, if your primary goal is to explore the factory’s inner workings or to spend hours behind the wheel, this tour might not meet those expectations. It’s also worth considering the price point—while it’s packed with memorable experiences, it’s a premium outing that appeals to those ready to indulge in a special day out.

For couples celebrating milestones, groups of friends chasing adrenaline, or anyone with a passion for Italian cars, this tour offers a well-rounded, exciting, and luxurious experience that’s worth the investment.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from Bologna or Modena with a private vehicle and driver, making logistics simple.

What’s the minimum age for participating? The scenic parts are not accessible for children under 3 years old, and the test drive requires participants to have a valid driver’s license with at least 3 years of experience.

Do I need a special license for the test drive? Yes, a valid European license with minimum 3 years or an international license for non-European licenses is required.

Can I enter the Ferrari factory? No, the tour only views the factory from the outside via shuttle, with explanations from the guide; inside visits are not part of this experience.

How long is the Ferrari test drive? The drive lasts approximately 10 minutes, offering a taste of Ferrari’s performance on public roads.

What is included in the lunch? You’ll enjoy a full meal at “Il Cavallino,” curated by Massimo Bottura, known for its authentic Italian flavors and high-quality ingredients.

Is this tour private? Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What should I wear or bring? Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and driving, and any personal driver’s licenses or licenses required for the test drive.

To sum it up, this Ferrari VIP day tour provides enthusiasts with a unique blend of history, adrenaline, and gastronomy. It’s best suited for those who want a curated, all-in-one experience that balances education with excitement—and are willing to invest in a day that promises memorable moments. Whether it’s the thrill of a Ferrari drive, the insights from expert guides, or the exquisite meal, this tour makes for a luxury outing full of genuine Italian charm.