Florence: Old Town Golf Cart Excursion

Taking a tour of Florence by electric golf cart sounds like a charming way to see the city, and based on the glowing reviews, it’s a popular choice for visitors wanting an easy, insightful overview. At a price of just over $63 per person, this 1 to 1.5-hour experience offers a smooth ride through some of Florence’s most iconic sights, all while staying environmentally friendly.

What really makes this tour stand out is the combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning viewpoints, and the fact that it’s accessible for those who might find walking long distances tiring. The quieter, eco-friendly nature of the electric carts ensures a relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to take in the sights without the noise and fumes of typical tour buses.

However, one thing to consider is that not all attractions are accessible directly by cart, meaning you’ll need to get out and walk at certain points. This is worth keeping in mind if you’re planning a day packed with sightseeing or have mobility concerns. Still, for most travelers, this tour is a fantastic introduction to Florence, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed way to explore.

This tour suits first-time visitors eager for a broad overview, couples looking for a romantic yet practical way to see the city, or anyone who wants to combine comfort with a dash of adventure. Let’s explore what makes this excursion both fun and informative.

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly Transportation: Electric golf carts provide a silent, emissions-free way to see Florence.
• Expert Guides & Commentary: Many reviewers praise their guides’ deep knowledge about Florence’s history, architecture, and art.
• Stunning Views & Vantage Points: The tour includes some of Florence’s most beautiful spots, including viewpoints like Piazzale Michelangelo.
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple stops including major landmarks, squares, and hidden gems, with the ability to hop on and off.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of stops allow for picture-taking, with guides often helping guests capture great shots.
• Suitable for Most Travelers: The tour is ideal for those who prefer not to walk long distances or need a quick overview of Florence.

A Deep Dive into the Florence Old Town Golf Cart Excursion

When considering a city tour—especially in a city as dense and historic as Florence—balancing convenience, insight, and value is key. This electric golf cart tour hits all those marks, offering a way to relax while covering a surprising amount of ground.

Why Choose an Electric Golf Cart Tour in Florence?

Florence’s historic center is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and vibrant life. Walking can be tiring, especially in the heat or if you have limited time. Pedaling around on an eco-friendly cart solves that problem, allowing you to see more without exhaustion. The electric nature of the carts means no noise pollution or fumes—just a smooth, silent glide past the landmarks.

A standout feature is the audio commentary, available in multiple languages including English, Italian, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, and Russian. This allows you to sit back, relax, and absorb details about Florence’s past and present, even if you’re not with a guided group. Many reviews praise guides like Jasmine, Claudio, and Laura for their passion and knowledge, often highlighting how they make the stories of Florence come alive.

How the Tour Works: Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at one of six flexible starting points around Piazza San Firenze—meaning you can choose the most convenient location. From there, the cart makes its way through the city, stopping at notable sites including:

• Medici Chapel: A short 10-minute stop to admire the intricate architecture associated with Florence’s powerful Medici family.
• Santa Maria Novella: The church’s ornate façade and beautiful interior are worth a quick visit, with another 10-minute stop.
• Ognissanti Church: Known for its stunning façade and historical significance, this stop is also about 10 minutes long.
• Ponte Santa Trinita: A picturesque bridge along the Arno, perfect for photos and enjoying views of the river.
• Piazza Santo Spirito: One of Florence’s lively squares, offering a taste of local life.
• Pitti Palace & Ponte Vecchio: No trip to Florence is complete without these iconic landmarks. The tour includes a 10-minute stop at each, giving you the chance to get up close and snap some photos.
• Vasari Corridor: A quick 10-minute photo stop to appreciate this secret passageway connecting the Pitti Palace to the Uffizi Gallery—famous among art lovers.
• Basilica of Santa Croce: Known for its beautiful façade and tombs of illustrious Florentines, this is a highlight.
• Palazzo Medici Riccardi & Basilica of San Lorenzo: Additional stops that enrich your understanding of Florence’s Renaissance history.

Some reviewers, like Diana and Madeleine, mention how guides take them to views and vantage points that they’d never find on foot—highlighting the unanticipated value of the tour. Others appreciate the flexibility to stop, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What You’ll Experience: From the Streets to the Banks of the Arno

Driving along the banks of the Arno River, you’ll pass through some of Florence’s most photogenic spots. The guides often share insights about the city’s development, stories about prominent families, and anecdotes about the local architecture. A common praise from reviewers like Linda and Kimberly is the friendliness and knowledgeability of guides such as Jasmine and Laura—sometimes stopping to clarify details or help guests capture perfect photos.

One of the tour’s special features is the chance to see the Vasari Corridor from outside, with a brief 10-minute photo stop. This corridor, once hidden from public view, is a favorite among visitors for its historical significance and unique architecture.

How the Tour Fits into Your Day

With durations of around 1 to 1.5 hours, this tour fits well into a busy itinerary. It’s especially good as an introductory tour—a way to get your bearings and decide which sites to revisit later on foot or with a deeper dive.

The multiple starting and ending points make it convenient, and the possibility of private or small group options adds a personal touch. It’s worth noting that entry to sites is not included, so if you want to explore the interiors of places like Santa Maria Novella or the Medici Chapel, you’ll need to buy tickets separately.

The Experience: Comfort, Value, and Practical Tips

The carts are designed for comfort, with enough space for most travelers. The quiet operation makes it easy to listen to the commentary and chat with your group. Reviews mention that guides like Claudio and Norberto are particularly helpful, offering insights that go beyond just surface-level facts.

In terms of value, many reviewers feel that the cost is justified by the ability to see a lot in a short time and the quality of the guides. The audio guides help ensure everyone can follow along, even in bustling areas.

A few practical notes: Luggage or large bags are not allowed, and the tour proceeds rain or shine—so dress appropriately. Some parts of the city’s historic center are inaccessible by cart, so be prepared to walk a short distance at certain stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for those who want a comfortable, engaging overview of Florence. It’s especially suited for first-timers who want to see the major sights without tiring themselves out. Couples, small groups, or families with mobility considerations will appreciate the relaxed pace and ease of the ride.

If you’re on a tight schedule, this tour offers great value for the time spent and covers many key landmarks in one go. It’s also an excellent way to find out where to return later for deeper exploration.

While this isn’t a comprehensive art or history tour, it provides enough context to appreciate Florence’s charm and significance. If you’re after an active, walking-heavy experience, this might not be your best fit, but for most travelers, it hits the sweet spot between fun and informative.

The Sum Up

The Florence: Old Town Golf Cart Excursion offers a relaxed, eco-friendly way to get acquainted with one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. The combination of expert guides, stunning viewpoints, and the convenience of electric vehicles makes it a compelling choice. The tour’s flexibility, multiple stops, and insightful commentary make it suitable for a wide range of travelers, especially those wanting to minimize walking but still see the highlights.

While you’ll need to step out for some attractions and entry isn’t included, the overall experience delivers great value for its price. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, as well as the scenic stops that add to the charm. It’s a memorable, practical way to kick off your Florence adventure and get a sense of where to spend your later days.

If you’re visiting Florence for the first time and want a gentle, rundown—this tour is definitely worth considering, especially if you’re keen on eco-friendly travel and comfortable sightseeing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since some parts of the tour require getting out of the golf cart to walk and see certain attractions, it might not be ideal for guests with mobility concerns. However, the ride itself is accessible and comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the option booked and the pace of stops.

Are tickets included for the attractions visited?
No, entry fees for sites like the Medici Chapel or Santa Maria Novella are not included. You’ll visit the exteriors and admire the architecture, but admission is separate.

Can I choose my starting point?
Yes, there are six starting locations, so you can pick the most convenient one for your accommodations or plans.

What languages are available for the commentary?
The audio guide is offered in English, Italian, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, and Russian.

Is this tour private or shared?
Both private and small group options are available, which can enhance the experience and intimacy.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the golf carts.

Is the tour conducted rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place regardless of weather, so dress accordingly.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is generally fixed, but guides may be flexible with brief photo stops or additional commentary if time allows.

How do I book the tour?
You can reserve your spot online through platforms like GetYourGuide, with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

In short, this Florence golf cart tour is a practical, eco-friendly way to see the city’s highlights comfortably, backed by knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or short on time, it’s a charming option to kickstart your Florence experience.