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This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller<\/i> (UK).<\/p>\n
Italy hasn\u2019t stopped moving since the Romans began building their extensive road network, and the country has a penchant for speed and drama \u2014 despite its reputation for a slow, savoured approach to life. Whether you choose to board a plucky Vespa or a zippy vaporino, ride a poker-red Ferrari or a sky-scraping cableway, this way of exploring brings a fresh perspective and up-close interaction with some masterful examples of Italian craftsmanship.<\/p>\n
Dark varnished wood, buffed to a bar-top lustre; curvaceous metallic detailing, glinting under sunlight; cushy leather banquettes, for kicking back with an icy glass \u2014 Lake Como\u2019s vintage vaporinas are part-artwork, part-motorboat. The sightseeing mode of choice since the late 1800s, these vessels ferry visitors between opulent hotels, waterside towns and tucked-away villas in high style. Operators like Como Classic Boats<\/a> offer driver-guides who\u2019ll zoom you across the peak-ringed expanse of blue, pointing out landmarks such as palatial Villa del Balbianello, featured in the James Bond film Casino Royale. One-hour tour from \u20ac370 (\u00a3314).<\/p>\n Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck\u2019s 1953 film Roman Holiday made the Italian scooter world famous, and the vehicle retains plenty of star power today. Its 1940s-era design has barely changed over the decades, and the region that manufactures them has a similarly timeless appeal. Get behind the handlebars on a day-long guided trip with Tuscany Vespa Tours<\/a>. Its 20-mile route zooms past Chianti vineyards and cypress trees, and it includes a stop for lunch and an olive oil tasting. From \u20ac95 (\u00a382) per person.<\/p>\nTuscany by Vespa<\/h2>\n