Everything you want to know before your tour, short and practical.
Tips and planning for your motorcycle tour in Tuscany
Motezza: personal, practical, direttamente da me.
ZTL, traffic rules, parking, getting there: here I gather my best tips so you set off in Tuscany with no nasty surprises. Plus new guides from the blog, about once a month. The starting point is Greve in Chianti, perfect for day trips towards Florence, Siena and the Val d'Orcia.
★★★★★Travelers’ Choice · Greve in ChiantiView tours
LicenceA or A2EU/EFTA direct, otherwise with IDP
Starting pointGreve in Chianti45 min from Florence
Best timeSpring & FallMild, clear, few crowds
CitiesAvoid ZTLPark outside
Emergency112Across Europe
Info and tips
Traffic rules and ZTL
That way you get through smoothly, especially in cities. In detail in Rules and dangers.
ZTL, the Zona a Traffico Limitato: In many old towns, access is restricted and monitored by cameras. Avoid the ZTL and park outside. I'll point you to the right spots and alternative routes.
Signage: Follow the signs. Access, parking and closures here are not a suggestion but a rule.
Speeds: Ride at the posted speed. In rain or roadworks, ease off a little, the checks are thorough.
Helmet requirement: A helmet is mandatory, for you and your pillion. You get both helmets from me.
Alcohol: Ride sober. The Chianti waits for the evening and tastes better anyway after a good day in the saddle.
Speed cameras: Speed cameras aren't only in cities. The scenic country roads are measured too, fixed and mobile.
Out in Chianti, among cypresses and olive trees.
Toll / motorway
Motorways are toll roads. Have a card or cash ready at the toll stations.
Country roads
Perfect for cruising. Tractors and cyclists, mind your sightlines and distance.
Emergency
Europe-wide: 112.
Old towns
Parking and cities
Enjoy the old towns, without tickets or scratches.
Park legally: Use the designated motorcycle bays, the Area Moto.
No pavement parking: Keep the pavement, pedestrian zone and crossings clear. Parked there, the motorcycle is quickly gone or expensive.
Park safely: Park the motorcycle where there's light and people. A busy spot is the best protection.
Edge of the ZTL: Park at the edge of the old town and walk the last few metres. That saves you the ZTL and usually the parking search too.
Gear
Gear and safety
What works on Tuscan roads.
Helmets incl.: Two helmets are always included, for you and your companion. No need to book anything extra.
Layering: Dress in layers. Morning and evening it's cool in the hills, at midday it warms up.
Gloves and shoes: Sturdy shoes above the ankle and proper gloves make the day more pleasant and safer.
Rain and sun: Pack a light rain jacket and remember sunscreen and sunglasses. In Tuscany you often get both in one day.
Navigation: You get the phone mount from me. Download the maps offline beforehand, in the backcountry the signal is temperamental.
Motorcycle check and longer rentals: My motorcycles are checked and ready to go. For longer rentals only, every few days please briefly oil the chain and check tyre pressure and lights. I'll show you how.
Best time
Season, weather and roads
When it's at its finest, and what to watch for.
Spring and autumn: Spring and autumn are my favourite time: mild weather, clear views and much quieter roads.
Summer: In summer set off early, plan breaks in the shade and bring enough water. At midday it gets really hot.
After rain: After rain there can be grit on the road. Ease off the throttle a little in bends.
Harvest: During the harvest more tractors are out. Ride attentively, especially in tight bends and at farm entrances.
Taking a break is part of the best view.
On the road
Planning and etiquette
Well on the road, for you and everyone else.
Loops instead of rush: Better to plan a shorter loop with time for the view and an espresso than to clock up as many kilometres as possible. I'm happy to share suitable GPX loops, inspiration in my Tours.
Respect in the village: Roll through the villages slowly and quietly. People live here, and a Motezza guest leaves a good impression.
Breaks: Take a short break every one to one and a half hours: stretch your legs, drink something, take a photo. That way you arrive more rested.
Plan B: Keep an alternative route without city traffic in mind. On busy days it saves you a lot of nerves.
Ready for Tuscany? Unlimited miles, helmets included and route tips from me, starting in Greve in Chianti.
Driver's license from outside the EU/EFTA: additional IDP required
Credit card for deposit / toll
Phone with offline maps
Packing List: The Essentials
Rain Jacket & Mid-Layer
Sun cream, sunglasses, water
Camera / charging cable
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick FAQ: Tips & Planning
The most common questions asked before the tour, answered briefly. For more details, see the Complete FAQ.
What is a ZTL, and how can I avoid getting a ticket?
ZTLs are restricted traffic zones in cities like Florence. Stay outside the ZTL and follow the signs. The cameras are fast, and tickets are often mailed to you later.
International driving license: Do foreigners need one in Italy?
Within the EU and EFTA (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland), your national driver's license is sufficient. If your license is from outside these regions, you'll also need an International Driver's Permit (IDP) in Italy, in addition to your national license. You can obtain it before your trip from the automobile club in your country.
Where is the best place to park a motorcycle in Florence & Co?
The easiest option is to use official parking lots or secure parking garages, which are often located just outside the city center. In city centers, don't just park your motorcycle anywhere—that can quickly get expensive.
What clothing should I plan for Tuscany?
Layered look: cool in the morning, warm at noon, and cooler again in the evening. A thin layer of rain and wind protection, along with plenty of water, will make your day much more comfortable.
Which time of year is best for motorcycling in Tuscany?
If you have a choice: Spring and fall are often the most pleasant times of year—from the weather and the light to the lighter traffic. Mid-summer is also a great time to go, though you’ll want to take a few more breaks, bring plenty of water, and plan realistic daily distances. December through February is the winter break.
Do you have any questions before your tour?
Message me directly. I know the routes, the rules, and the little details that'll make your day easier. I usually reply the same day.
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