Florence: Ferrari Test Driver with a Private Instructor

Imagine sitting behind the wheel of a sleek Ferrari Portofino, the engine’s roar echoing through Tuscany’s rolling hills, with a professional driver beside you to keep you safe. That’s exactly what this Ferrari test drive experience offers in Florence—an opportunity to feel the power and beauty of Italy’s most iconic supercar in a setting that’s anything but ordinary. With a stellar 4.8 out of 5 rating based on over 110 reviews, it’s clear this experience hits the right notes for most thrill-seekers and car enthusiasts alike.

One of the things I love about this experience is how it combines luxury driving with the charm of Florence’s countryside, all guided by knowledgeable instructors like Stefano and Esteban. You’ll appreciate the flexibility of route options, from a quick 10 km spin to a scenic 64 km adventure, perfect for either a quick adrenaline fix or a more leisurely exploration. Plus, many reviewers highlighted the expert guidance—instructors who explained the mechanics, offered personal driving tips, and made everyone feel comfortable, regardless of skill level.

A potential consideration is that this experience may not be suitable for everyone. You need a valid driver’s license issued for at least one year, and the activity isn’t designed for small children or those over 287 lbs. Also, a few travelers mentioned that the drive can feel too quick, especially if you’re craving a longer experience, but that’s a trade-off for the option to customize your route length.

This test drive offers great value for car lovers who want a taste of Italian automotive excellence without the commitment of a full race day. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion, families, or anyone who’s dreamed about driving a Ferrari through Tuscany’s picturesque landscape. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience so compelling—and what you can realistically expect.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Ferrari Experience: Drive a Ferrari Portofino with a professional instructor, not just a rental, for a safe yet exhilarating ride.
• Customizable Routes: Choose from four different routes, ranging from 10 km to 64 km, allowing for shorter thrill rides or longer scenic tours.
• Expert Guides: Instructors like Stefano and Esteban are praised for their knowledge, patience, and ability to make the experience comfortable for all skill levels.
• Scenic Tuscan Settings: The route takes you from Florence’s Piazzale Michelangelo through beautiful hills and charming villages, with spectacular views.
• Authentic Italian Vibe: Guides often share stories about the cars, racing tips, and local culture, enhancing the overall experience.
• Good Value for Enthusiasts: At around $170, you get a professionally guided drive in a luxury Ferrari, with fuel included—an exciting deal for petrolheads.

The Experience’s Core Appeal: Speed and Scenery

Driving a Ferrari Portofino in Florence is not just about the car—it’s about feeling the raw power of a V8 engine as you wind through Tuscany’s hills. The experience begins with a warm welcome from your guide, who will be dressed in Tuscany Test Drive-branded clothing and waiting next to the Ferrari at Piazzale Michelangelo. This is an iconic spot offering panoramic views of Florence, making it a fitting start for an adventure that blends urban beauty with countryside charm.

Your instructor, often praised for their professionalism and engaging manner, will give you a short safety briefing—usually around five minutes—before you hit the road. The goal here is to ensure you’re comfortable, understand how the car works, and get some basic tips on handling such a powerful machine. Expect to be offered insights into Ferrari’s engineering and racing lineage, making your drive educational as well as adrenaline-pumping.

Once underway, the routes vary based on your selection. The shortest options may focus on a quick blast through Florence’s outskirts, while the longer routes take you into the Chianti region, passing vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages. Reviewers mentioned meticulous guidance from guides like Elena, who was praised for her confidence-inspiring instructions—crucial for first-timers or nervous drivers.

The Itinerary: From Florence to the Chianti Hills

The typical itinerary involves several key stops designed for safety, scenic beauty, and photo opportunities. The drive starts at Piazzale Michelangelo, where you’ll receive your safety briefing and get acquainted with the car. From there, the route takes you through Florence’s scenic streets, giving you a chance to enjoy the city’s lush vistas before venturing into the countryside.

The first leg is a scenic drive of approximately 45 minutes that passes through iconic areas, allowing you to admire Florence’s architecture and history from a different perspective. Then, a stop in Greve in Chianti offers a brief break for photos and enjoying the local atmosphere—many reviewers appreciated these moments, with one noting, “Our guide Stefano was an excellent tour guide love my Ferrari tour and test drive.”

Next, the route continues into the rolling Chianti hills, often described as “picture-perfect,” with vineyards and cypress trees lining winding roads. The second scenic drive, also about 45 minutes, wraps up with a return to Piazzale Michelangelo, where you can compare your initial impressions with the thrill of your drive.

What It’s Like Behind the Wheel

The real magic happens when you are driving the Ferrari. Many reviewers marveled at how easy handling was, despite the car’s over 600 horsepower. One mentioned, “The handling of the car is comparatively easy, but you should not underestimate it,” highlighting that while the Ferrari looks intimidating, guides do a good job of easing newcomers into the experience.

The sound of the engine frequently drew praise, with some describing it as “overwhelming” and the perfect soundtrack for a scenic drive. The tunnels, in particular, offer moments to open up the throttle and listen to that glorious roar—something experienced drivers and novices alike cherish.

Guides like Esteban are lauded for their personal tips—such as proper steering, braking points, and throttle control—that make the drive not only fun but also instructive. One reviewer noted Esteban was “the best instructor ever,” who “explains the basics really quick yet thorough, gets a feel of how experienced a driver you are and then he lets you explore the car with the throttle and have some real fun!”

Who Will Appreciate This Drive?

This experience suits a broad range of travelers. If you’re a car enthusiast or simply curious about Ferrari’s driving dynamics, the guided approach ensures safety while delivering excitement. It’s also great for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays—many reviews mention how the experience made an unforgettable gift.

Families or groups can carry up to two passengers for an additional fee, turning it into a shared adventure. However, it’s important to remember that drivers need a valid license issued for at least one year, and it’s not suitable for children under two or those with weight restrictions.

The price point of approximately $170 per person is reasonable considering the luxury vehicle, guided instruction, scenic routes, and fuel included. For petrolheads, or those wanting a snapshot of Italy’s car culture, this offers excellent value compared to a full racing experience.

Logistics, Duration, and Flexibility

The activity ranges from 15 minutes to two hours, allowing you to pick a short ride or a more extensive tour. Check availability beforehand, as starting times vary, and booking in advance guarantees your spot.

The tour provider emphasizes cancellation flexibility—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—and the option to reserve now and pay later adds convenience, especially if you’re finalizing plans in Florence.

The meeting point is straightforward: your driver will be waiting next to the Ferrari at Piazzale Michelangelo, and the activity ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple.

This Ferrari test drive delivers authenticity, adventure, and scenic beauty for a fair price. The guides’ professionalism, combined with the stunning views of Tuscany, makes this a memorable experience. It’s especially suitable for those who want to feel the thrill of driving a Ferrari without the commitment of a racing school or a full-day event.

If you’re a car lover, celebrating a special occasion, or simply seeking an exhilarating way to see Florence and beyond, this activity is worth considering. The ability to customize routes, coupled with excellent reviews praising the knowledgeable instructors and spectacular scenery, makes it stand out among other luxury experiences in Italy.

Just keep in mind that the drive is relatively short, and the thrill is intense—all of which means you should temper expectations with the understanding that it’s a guided, semi-private taster rather than a full racing course. That said, it’s a fantastic taste of Italian glamour and engineering, with enough flexibility and scenic variety to make it a highlight of any Florence visit.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license issued for at least one year to participate.

Can I bring passengers?
Yes, you can carry up to two passengers for an additional fee of $20 each.

Is the experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years old and not recommended for those over 287 lbs.

How long does the drive last?
The duration varies from 15 minutes up to 2 hours, depending on your route choice.

What routes are available?
You can choose from four routes, ranging from 10 km to 64 km, with scenic drives through Florence and Tuscan hills.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, and Spanish.

Is the activity flexible in case of delays?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve your spot without paying upfront.

What is included in the price?
The test drive, fuel, and a professional instructor’s guidance are included. Additional costs are optional, such as extra passengers.

This Ferrari drive in Florence offers a rare glimpse into Italy’s automotive soul, set against some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. Whether you’re a speed enthusiast or just want to tick off a bucket list item, it’s a memorable way to experience Tuscany’s charm from behind the wheel of a true masterpiece.