Motezza Blog - Florence & Chianti
Motorcycling near Florence | Discover Tuscany | Motezza
Florence is wonderful. Art, history, the light on the Arno. But if you hop on a motorcycle for a day and leave the city behind, you’ll discover a whole different side of Tuscany. Here’s what awaits you south of Florence, how much time you should set aside for it, and why Chianti and a Royal Enfield go so well together.
Why the streets outside Florence are so special
The reason is simple: Florence is located right on the edge of one of Italy’s best cycling regions. Just a few kilometers to the south, things get noticeably quieter. There’s less traffic, the views are more expansive, and you automatically slow down without even meaning to.
Unlike when you're driving a car, on a motorcycle you're right in the thick of it. You can smell the cypress trees, feel the temperature shifts between open fields and shady curves, and photo stops happen spontaneously rather than according to a schedule. That's not just a bonus—that's the whole point.
It's the contrast that makes it so appealing. Espresso in Florence in the morning, lunch among the vineyards, and an afternoon stroll through the villages of Chianti Classico. You can fit it all into a single day.
How much time is worth it?
More than you think. Half a day is enough to get a first impression. But it really starts to get good after a full day, and with two days, you’ll really get to know the region.
| Time | What you can expect | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Half day | What you can expect First bends south of Florence, a viewpoint, a coffee stop on the way. No stress, no program. | Ideal for If you're short on time but still want countryside instead of city. |
| 1 day | What you can expect Classic excursion towards Chianti: small villages, vineyards, beautiful routes and enough time for a good lunch. | Ideal for Guests who are spending several nights in Florence and want to take a full day trip. |
| 1 day, relaxed | What you can expect Less distance, more atmosphere. Really see a village, stop at a winery, enjoy rather than tick off. | Ideal for Anyone who wants to experience Tuscany mindfully, without rushing, without a checklist. |
| 2 days | What you can expect Places like Panzano, Greve, Radda or Castellina without haste. Small side roads that are not recommended on any map. | Ideal for If you don't just want to ride, but really immerse yourself in the region. |
| Several days | What you can expect Set out in the morning, get stuck somewhere in the afternoon. Tuscany without a set plan. | Ideal for Anyone who realizes after the second day that they don't want to go home yet. |
If you plan at least one day outside Florence, you will almost never regret it. Those who don't usually regret it on the return journey.
Gerhard - Motezza - Greve in ChiantiGreve in Chianti: Why the ride really starts here
Florence is a good place to stay. However, a little further south is better for driving. Greve in Chianti is located right at this crossroads—close enough to Florence and far enough away from the hustle and bustle.
This is where the SR222 runs—one of the most beautiful country roads in the region. Vineyards stretch out on both sides, gentle curves wind through the landscape, and villages where life moves at a slower pace.
Motezza is located in Greve. It’s a small rental shop for classic Royal Enfields where, when you pick up your bike, you can briefly discuss the best route for your day.
Practical tips for your day
- Don't plan too much route. The best moments happen between the points on the map, not at them.
- Start early. In the morning, the transition from Florence to the countryside is at its quietest, and the light is at its most beautiful.
- Make time for real stops: a scenic overlook, an espresso, the village square. That’s why you set out in the first place.
- Download offline maps. Reception is occasionally weak between Panzano, Radda and Castelnuovo Berardenga.
- One layer too many is better than one too few. It is often cooler than expected on the hills in the morning.
- Pack water. On a leisurely country road ride, you often notice the sun later than you think.
Answered briefly
Is a trip worthwhile if I only stay overnight in Florence?
Yes, definitely. Since you're in Florence anyway, a day trip along the country roads of Chianti is a great way to round out your visit. Culture in the morning, winding roads at noon—it's the perfect combination.
Is half a day enough?
For a first impression, yes. But to experience what most people have in mind when they dream of Tuscany, you'll need a whole day. Still, I wouldn't plan on covering too much ground.
Is Florence itself the best starting point?
As a starting point for your stay, yes. For the ride itself, though, starting further into the Chianti region—in Greve, for example—is often more relaxing. Less city traffic, more Tuscany right from the first turn.
Does Motezza offer organized tours?
No. Motezza rents out classic motorcycles and provides personalized route recommendations. You ride at your own pace, whenever and wherever you want.
What documents do I need for the rental?
A valid Class A2 or A motorcycle driver's license, as well as an ID card or passport. Drivers from outside the EU also need an international driver's license with a stamped Category A, because international driver's licenses do not recognize Class A2. All other details can be found in the FAQ.
Want to take a drive yourself?
Rent a motorcycle from Florence →Do you like Motezza? Set us as a preferred source on Google.
Prefer on GoogleReady for your first day in Chianti? Royal Enfield Classic 350, helmets included, unlimited kilometres and personal route tips from Greve in Chianti.
Book your motorcycle now