Activity Highlights

History Sneak Peek

What is a Vespa and where it came from?

Vespa scooter today is synonymous with style, freedom and, of course, Italy. What was the inspiration behind this stylish urban scooter? Unbelievably, a small olive-colored Cushman Airborne motorcycle used by the military during WWII.

The company behind Vespa has not always produced scooters. It started off as a manufacturer of rail carriages and coaches, got into the production of aircraft during WWI, made aircraft during WWII, and, in the end, high-tech P-180 engines for bombers. No wonder the enemy thoroughly bombed its factories for strategic advantage.

Luckily, after the war, the owner managed to rebuild the factories. Witnessing the destruction, he saw a need for a new mode of transport. So, he commissioned Corradino DAscanio to design a motorcycle suitable for getting around the bomb-damaged Italian cities. The skilled aeronautical designer thought motorcycles were too clunky and complicated, so he set his mind to make them user-friendly and easy to maintain!

For instance, he moved the gear lever onto the handlebar for easier access, designed the seat be both safe and comfortable, and hid all the workings behind panels to keep the rider's clothes in immaculate condition. Plus the frame made it ideal not just for men but also for skirt-wearing women. The prototype was first released in 1946. The owner, Enrico Piaggio, named the scooter Vespa meaning wasp because of the narrow waist and buzzing sound it made.

So, hop on and visit Florence attractions on a so-typically-Italian Vespa! It's a fun way to spice up your sightseeing routine. Book your Vespa Tour Florence today, a tour that is a perfect combination of history, authenticity, and style!