Hi all, I know it sounds cheesey but I really want to whizz around Rome on a Vespa scooter/moped! Any clues as to where to hire them for a day, the cost and which documents I'll need. Big thanks

I think that most of us Rome veterans would urge you, in the name of your safety, NOT to rent or ride a Vespa in Rome. Driving in Rome, whether in a car or on a two-wheeler of any kind, is indeed a challenge to your health and safety!

It sounds like a fun a free spirited way top see Rome...but I feel it's extremely dangerous and they may be hesitant to rent to foreigners. Are you experienced driving motorbikes and scooters?

..Have you signed your organ donor card?

This is something that can be fun IF

You are an experienced rider

You are used to the vagaries of big city traffic

You have been to Rome before, have seen the traffic conditions, and feel comfortable driving in it

I have driven in Rome several times - but in a car - and am perfectly comfortable - but I live in New York and have been driving in Manhattan for years - and have been known to out-kamikazi the cab drivers. Unless you are happy driving with no traffic lights, no stop signs, no lanes, no rules - except who's fastest and most determined - in an interminable game of chicken - don;t risk it on a scooter.

Do you know that "Vespa" is Italian for "wasp" ? They are a nuisance.

If your heart is really set on renting a scooter in Rome, I believe I remember seeing a rental company located near Villa Borghese (I think it was in/near the underground parking area at the entrance to the park from Via V. Veneto).

I saw other rental locations around the city as well, but I mention this one because riding in the park (and I don't know if this is even allowed) would be much safer than dodging traffic.

I strongly agree with nytraveler that the streets of Rome are not the place for an inexperienced rider.