90 min Footbike tour in Florence

Exploring Florence on a 90-minute footbike tour offers a lively, active way to see the city’s most famous sights and lesser-known gems. Starting near the historic Palazzo Medici, this small-group experience takes you through bustling streets, picturesque neighborhoods, and past famous landmarks like Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria. For just around $33, you’ll enjoy a guided ride that balances informative commentary with the thrill of navigating Florence’s charming, sometimes crowded, streets.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the inclusion of a helmet and bicycle, which make it accessible and safe—even for those new to biking or with kids in tow. Plus, the route covers a fantastic mix of major sights and hidden corners, giving you a well-rounded glimpse of Florence’s beauty and history. The fact that it’s a small group (max 10 travelers) means you’ll get personalized attention and more room to enjoy the ride without feeling rushed.

One possible consideration is the lack of included entrance tickets to attractions. If you’re eager to go inside some of the landmarks, you’ll need to budget extra time and money for tickets. However, for many, just admiring these buildings from the outside on footbike offers plenty of appreciation for Florence’s architecture.

This tour suits travelers who want an active, engaging way to see Florence rather than just walking or bus tours. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a bit of fun on wheels and appreciate a guide who can share stories about the city’s sites along the way. Families with kids, as noted by reviews, also find it a hit, thanks to the provided kids bikes and helmets.

Key Points

Accessible and fun: This tour is perfect for those looking for a lively way to explore Florence.
Comprehensive route: From major landmarks to charming neighborhoods, it provides a well-rounded experience.
Small group size: Max 10 travelers for a more personalized, engaging tour.
Includes safety gear: Helmets and bikes are provided, making it suitable for beginners and kids.
No entrance fees included: You’ll admire the exteriors but need extra tickets for inside visits.
Great value: At around $33, it offers a memorable, active sightseeing option in Florence.

A Detailed Look at the 90-Min Footbike Tour in Florence

If you’re after a way to see Florence that mixes sightseeing with a touch of adventure, this footbike tour hits the spot. We loved the way it combines historical highlights with a fun, active approach. It’s a different rhythm from the typical walking tour, giving you the chance to cover more ground comfortably, especially if you’re traveling with family or just want some fresh air.

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

The tour begins at Via Camillo Cavour, conveniently located near public transportation. With a duration of about 90 minutes, it’s a manageable chunk of time that can fit into a busy day of sightseeing. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing the guide to focus on your interests and share stories without the chaos of large crowds.

The price point, approximately $33.42 per person, is quite reasonable considering it includes a helmet and a footbike. This makes it an excellent value for travelers who want to get the most out of their limited time in Florence without breaking the bank.

What You’ll See and Experience

The route covers a wonderful mix of Florence’s most iconic sights and some less touristy spots. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Piazza del Duomo: Our adventure kicks off here, right in the heart of Florence. You get a quick look at the cathedral, the Baptistery, and Giotto’s Campanile. While the tour doesn’t include tickets inside, we loved being able to view these masterpieces from the outside, imagining the centuries of devotion poured into their construction.

Piazza della Repubblica: Known as one of the city’s main squares, this bustling space is built over Florence’s old Jewish ghetto. The historic café Giubbe Rosse, where poets and writers gathered, adds a literary touch to the scenery. Our guide shared stories about the poets who once met here, making it more than just a photo stop.

Piazza della Signoria: This is Florence’s political and artistic hub. We marveled at the Neptune Fountain, the Loggia dei Lanzi sculptures, and the replica of Michelangelo’s David. It’s easy to lose track of time here, soaking in the lively atmosphere and incredible statues.

Mercato del Porcellino: A quick stop at the market famous for the bronze boar fountain, where tradition has it that rubbing the snout brings good luck. It’s a charming, lively spot that adds local flavor.

Ponte Vecchio: No visit to Florence is complete without a look at this medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops. Our guide explained its survival during WWII and its Renaissance makeover, making it clear why it’s such an enduring symbol.

Palazzo Pitti & Boboli Gardens: Cycling along the Arno River, we glimpsed the grand Palazzo Pitti, once home to the Medici family, and learned about its history as a ducal residence. Although entrance tickets aren’t included, the exterior views alone are worth the ride.

Santo Spirito & Ponte Santa Trinita: These quieter spots let us enjoy Florence’s diverse architecture and peaceful corners. The elliptical Ponte Santa Trinita, the oldest of its kind, was a highlight for lovers of engineering and history.

Basílica de la Santa Cruz: The tour ends near this Gothic church, notable for its role in Florentine life and its impressive façade.

Authenticity and Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention how much they enjoyed the guide Francesco, who made the experience lively and informative. One traveler noted that their kids, aged 5 and 8, especially loved the bikes and helmets, making it an ideal family outing.

Another comment highlighted the quality of the bikes and helmets, which reassured travelers worried about safety. The small group size meant everyone had space to enjoy the ride and listen to stories about Florence’s history and architecture.

While some might wish for inside visits to certain landmarks, most appreciated that the tour was about external appreciation and the experience of moving through the city on a footbike—an activity that offers a sense of freedom and fun.

Practical Considerations

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families and those new to biking, thanks to the provided bikes and helmets. Keep in mind that entrance tickets are not included—if you want inside access to sites like the Duomo or Palazzo Pitti, plan for extra time and budget accordingly.

Weather can influence the experience; the tour is canceled in case of poor weather, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s a good idea to dress comfortably and be prepared for some sun or rain, depending on the season.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This footbike tour is perfect for travelers who want an active, engaging way to see Florence without the fatigue of walking all day. It appeals especially to families looking for a fun outing, as kids get their own bikes and helmets. It’s also excellent for those who want to cover more ground in less time while soaking up the atmosphere from a different perspective.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate how the guide shares stories about the landmarks as you glide past them. For casual travelers, the relaxed pace and small group size make it easy to ask questions and enjoy a personalized experience. And for folks on a budget, it offers a good balance of value—covering many sites for a reasonable price without entrance fees included.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour provides kids bikes and helmets, making it accessible and fun for children. It’s especially appreciated by families as a lively outdoor activity.

Do I need to bring my own safety gear?
No, helmets and bicycles are included in the tour. Just wear comfortable clothes and be prepared for the weather.

Are entrance tickets to landmarks included?
No, the tour covers outside views of major sites. If you wish to go inside, you’ll need to buy tickets separately.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 90 minutes, making it a manageable activity that can fit into a day of sightseeing.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier navigation through Florence’s streets.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for cycling and weather conditions, with good shoes and sun protection if needed.

To sum it up, this footbike tour offers an engaging way to explore Florence for those who enjoy active experiences and want a different view of the city’s top sights. It’s especially suited for families, curious travelers, and anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun. While it doesn’t include inside visits, the outdoor beauty, stories, and the joy of riding through Florence’s historic streets make it a memorable addition to your trip. With its friendly guide, safety gear, and flexible scheduling, it provides excellent value and a fresh perspective on a city that’s best enjoyed on two wheels.