Interview: Roberta, Vespa & Fiat 500 Specialist in Italy

Roadtrip moto Italie often brings to mind big passes and fast itineraries. Roberta’s Italy is different: slower, closer, built around the sound of a 125cc engine and the feel of a small convertible on a backroad. Based in Italy, she has been designing Vespa and Fiat 500 cabriolet trips since 2003—routes where the ride itself is the destination, and where “non-touristic” doesn’t mean remote for the sake of it, but authentic because it’s lived-in. We spoke with her about why she returned home, how she works with Planet Ride, and what makes a motorized trip in Italy truly unforgettable.

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

Name: Roberta
Destination: Italy
Agency started: 2003

Why did you choose Italy as your base?

“It’s my country. I came back in 2002 after living a few years in Africa. After that absence, I saw Italy with different eyes—so beautiful, with an incredible variety of landscapes, and a heritage that’s artistic but also deeply human. It felt like the perfect place to organize rides by Vespa and Fiat 500 cabriolet.”

What makes your agency different from others?

“Our agency chose to own the vehicles we rent out. It’s the best way to guarantee consistent maintenance standards.”

What’s your story—how did you end up creating motorized trips in Italy?

“In 2002 I was living and working in Zanzibar, my daughter was three. I decided to return to Italy so she could grow up with Italian culture—Dante and the Divina Commedia first of all. Today she’s 16 and not very interested… but I haven’t lost hope!”

“Once back in Italy, my husband had the idea to run Vespa tours. We started with a small fleet that grew year after year.”

What do riders drive when they travel with you and Planet Ride?

“Our fleet includes 120 Vespa Piaggio LX and Special 125cc with automatic transmission—so they can be ridden with a standard car license (B)—and 10 Fiat 500 cabriolets.”

Why choose these vehicles?

“Because Vespa and Fiat 500 are global symbols of a certain Italy: Fellini’s Italy, the hard-working post-war Italy, the economic boom of the 1960s—ultimately, the Italian way of life.”

What makes a trip in your destination unmissable?

“Our trips give you the chance to discover lesser-known corners of Italy—places that aren’t touristy, yet still surprise you with their landscapes and the authenticity of the people.”

In your view, what’s the real difference between a simple trip and a motorized roadtrip?

“On a motorized trip, moving from one stage to the next is part of the journey itself. It’s how you discover the territory—almost a way of making it yours. A motorized roadtrip values freedom and curiosity.”

What’s the biggest advantage of a motorized trip in Italy with you?

“The beauty of the scenery, the quality of the food, and how easy our vehicles are to handle. Our Vespas are automatic.”

Your favorite place in Italy for this kind of ride?

“Hard to choose… every region leaves me with strong images. But Puglia is truly special—unique, fascinating, almost magical. Sometimes you feel like you’re not really in Italy. One traveler told me that in front of the Trulli of Alberobello, she expected little gnomes to come out!”

“And then there are the millennial olive trees—works of art made by nature. They express power and wisdom at the same time.”

Your best ‘Ride’ memory?

“I was following a group of about thirty Vespas. Suddenly, a storm brought rain and hail. We stopped at the first house along the road and asked for shelter in their shed. The owners invited us into a big room warmed by a traditional wood stove. A real nonna was taking care of a good minestrone, and she pulled out a 10-cup moka pot to offer coffee—again and again.”

“Travel inconveniences often lead to the best surprises: unpredictable, authentic moments.”

A word for future Planet Riders?

“Whether it’s by Vespa or motorbike, by Fiat 500 or quad, a motorized trip leaves a deep and lasting feeling—because it comes from an active experience.”

Concrete pointers if you ride with Roberta

Her approach fits travelers who want an Italy roadtrip with real rhythm: roads that invite you to stop, villages that reward curiosity, and daily distances that don’t turn into endurance. A few practical realities to keep in mind:

• Riding pace: on a Vespa 125cc, the most enjoyable days are usually built around secondary roads, frequent stops, and moderate daily mileage rather than long fast transfers.
• Group size reality: her best memory mentions a group of around 30 Vespas—a good reminder to keep your spacing, ride predictably, and plan regroup points.
• Weather can flip fast: even in Italy, hail and heavy rain happen. Pack a compact waterproof layer and gloves you can still operate controls with.
• License detail: her 125cc automatic Vespas can be ridden with a car license (B)—still, always verify your specific license validity and any local requirements before departure.
• Vehicle philosophy: owning the fleet means maintenance is central; it also usually implies clearer handovers and consistent vehicle condition across the trip.
• One Planet Ride pro tip: to reduce fatigue and risk, we like to “break” the day early—plan your first real stop within the first hour. It stabilizes pace, lets everyone settle into the machine, and prevents pushing too hard too soon.

Mini-FAQ (Italy Vespa & Fiat 500 roadtrip)

Can I ride a 125cc Vespa in Italy with a car license?
Roberta’s fleet is designed for that (125cc automatic, rideable with a B license). Always double-check your own license situation and any required formalities before you go.

Is Puglia a good region for a first-time Vespa roadtrip?
Yes—Roberta highlights it for its unique atmosphere, the Trulli of Alberobello, and the olive groves. It’s a region that rewards slow travel and frequent stops.

What season is most comfortable for a Vespa roadtrip in Italy?
Aim for mild temperatures and stable weather, and avoid periods where heat or sudden storms can make long days less enjoyable. Your ideal window depends on the region (coastal vs inland).

À savoir aujourd’hui

Roberta’s vision—slower routes, authentic places, and the ride as part of the experience—remains exactly what makes these trips compelling. What should be checked before leaving: current license requirements for 125cc scooters, any local traffic restrictions, and seasonal weather patterns on your chosen route.