As an avid traveler, I am always looking for new ways to explore cities that offer a unique perspective of local life.
On my recent trip to Barcelona, I discovered that riding an electric scooter is an exciting way to navigate the city streets and take in the vibrant culture.
Zipping down narrow alleys and bike lanes on the scooter gave me a thrilling sense of freedom to roam while also allowing me to cover more ground than walking alone.
In this article, I share my experiences renting electric scooters in some of the world’s most fascinating cities like Barcelona, Paris, Berlin and beyond.
For any traveler looking to adventure around the world in a sustainable way, an electric scooter can be an ideal vehicle to chart your own course through cities at your own pace.
Join me as I recount the joys of scootering through vibrant metropolises, tasting delicious food along the journey and embracing the feeling of the open road.
Adventure awaits!
Why an Electric Scooter Is the Perfect Way to Explore a New City
As an avid traveler, I have explored many world cities on electric scooters and found them to be the perfect mode of transport.
Why You Should Rent an Electric Scooter
Renting an electric scooter allows you to cover more ground than walking and go where busses and taxis can’t.
You have the freedom to forge your own path at your own pace.
Electric scooters are also more eco-friendly and budget-friendly than taxis or rideshares.
Easy to Ride
Electric scooters are very easy to ride, even for beginners.
With a little practice in an open space, you’ll get the hang of starting, stopping, turning, and navigating.
The motors provide power so you don’t have to pedal.
The brakes bring you to a smooth stop.
Convenient and Fun
Using an app on your phone, you can locate and unlock an electric scooter on demand.
Zip down bike lanes and less-trafficked roads to explore all the city has to offer.
Feel the thrill of the ride and the wind in your face.
It’s a convenient, entertaining way to sightsee that will leave you with lasting memories.
Go Where Others Can’t
Electric scooters can take you places busses, taxis, and even bikes can’t.
Narrow alleys, pedestrian zones, and hard-to-reach attractions are all open for discovery.
Park your scooter nearly anywhere and continue exploring on foot.
With an electric scooter, you have the freedom to roam and create your own adventure.
In summary, renting an electric scooter is the ideal way for any traveler to discover all the hidden gems a city has to offer.
Next time you visit a new place, skip the crowded tourist busses and opt for an eco-friendly joyride on an electric scooter.
The memories you make will last long after your trip has ended.
Choosing the Right Electric Scooter Model for Travel
As an avid traveler always looking for new ways to explore cities, I have found electric scooters to be an ideal mode of transport.
However, choosing the right model for your needs is important to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Range and Battery Life
For day trips around a city, a scooter with a range of at least 15-20 miles on a single charge is good.
For longer excursions or in hilly areas, aim for 25-30 miles.
Check if the battery is removable so you can charge it at your accommodation.
Some scooters have swappable batteries, allowing you to carry charged spares.
Portability
If using trains or busses as part of your journey, choose a lightweight scooter that folds up compactly.
Look for one weighing no more than 30-40 pounds with a folding design.
Some scooters have useful extras like a built-in carrying handle or shoulder strap to make portaging easier.
Tires
For smooth city roads, small solid tires are fine and require little maintenance.
If traveling on rougher terrain or cobblestone streets, air-filled tires will provide more comfort and stability.
All-terrain tires can handle dirt and gravel paths.
Additional Features
Consider features like cruise control, speed settings, phone app connectivity and a secure luggage rack or basket.
A bright headlight and taillight are essential for safe riding at night.
By selecting an electric scooter with adequate range, portability, suitable tires and useful extras for your needs, you’ll be all set to freely and easily explore cities around the world.
The open road awaits!
Tips for Navigating a New City on a Scooter
As an avid traveler, I’ve found electric scooters to be an enjoyable way to explore new cities in an eco-friendly manner.
Here are some tips I’ve gathered from my experiences navigating metropolitan areas on these zippy vehicles:
Do your research beforehand
Before arriving in a new city, investigate if electric scooter rentals are available and any rules around riding and parking the scooters.
Some cities have restrictions on usage or designated parking zones to be aware of.
Check if your destination city offers any scooter touring routes or maps to help guide your adventure.
Start with a safety briefing
Once you locate scooters to rent, take a few minutes to become familiar with the vehicle.
Learn how the throttle, brakes and any other controls operate.
Check that safety features like lights, turn signals or a bell are functioning properly.
Review proper hand signals in case any features are malfunctioning.
Your safety is top priority, so take it slow until you get the hang of riding the scooter.
Explore at an easy pace
As tempting as it may be to zoom off immediately, start by casually riding around to get acquainted with the flow of traffic and any bike lanes.
Observe how experienced riders navigate the roads and always follow the rules of the road.
Ride at a speed you feel in control of, especially on uneven or hilly roads.
Take breaks when needed until you feel fully comfortable riding.
Stop for snacks or photos
One of the best parts of exploring a city by scooter is the ability to stop spontaneously.
See an interesting shop or restaurant? Pull over and check it out.
Come across an Instagram-worthy view? Stop for a quick photo.
Scooters give you the freedom to set your own itinerary and make unplanned stops that you may miss in a tour bus.
With some pre-planning and practicing safe riding techniques, electric scooters can be an exciting way to chart your own adventure in a new city at your own pace.
Follow these tips and you’ll be zipping around exploring in no time!
Must-Have Safety Gear for Scootering Abroad
When exploring cities abroad on an electric scooter, safety should be your top priority.
As an avid traveler and scooter enthusiast, I always pack the following essential gear to ensure safe riding.
Helmet
A helmet is arguably the most important piece of safety equipment for scootering.
Look for a helmet specifically rated for electric scooters or bicycles that properly fits your head.
I prefer a helmet with extra padding and a strap that securely fastens under my chin.
Wearing a helmet can help prevent serious injuries in the event of an accident or collision.
Protective Pads
Elbow and knee pads provide protection for joints that can easily be scraped or bruised if you take a tumble from your scooter.
I look for pads made of durable, impact-resistant materials with Velcro or snap closures for easy on and off.
Protective pads are especially useful when riding on uneven terrain or cobblestone roads.
High-Visibility Clothing
As a scooter rider, it’s critical that you make yourself as visible as possible to vehicles and pedestrians.
I pack brightly-colored jackets, reflective vests, and safety straps to increase my visibility.
At night, I also wear reflective tape on my helmet, scooter, and clothing which illuminates when headlights shine on it.
High-visibility gear helps others see you clearly to avoid potential collisions or mishaps.
Scooter Lock
To prevent theft of your scooter when parked, invest in a sturdy U-lock or chain lock.
I always lock my scooter to a bike rack, lamppost or other fixed object when leaving it unattended.
Be sure to lock through the wheel and frame for maximum security.
Scooter locks may not deter all thieves, but can help prevent opportunistic theft.
Following these tips for essential safety gear and taking necessary precautions will allow you to confidently explore any city on an electric scooter.
With the right gear and safety mindfulness, scootering can open up a new world of adventure in your travels abroad.
Top 10 Cities in the World for Scooter Travel
As an avid traveler and electric scooter enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many cities around the world on my trusty scooter.
Some locations are better suited than others for scooter travel, based on factors like bike lane infrastructure, terrain, and traffic conditions.
Below are my top 10 favorite cities for scooting around and discovering what each unique place has to offer.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s mild Mediterranean climate, seaside location, and over 180 miles of bike lanes make it an ideal city to explore on an e-scooter.
Glide down Las Ramblas, soak in the architecture of Sagrada FamÃlia church, or catch a sunset on the beach.
With a top speed of 15 mph, you can cover a lot of ground in a short time.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s flat terrain and over 580 miles of designated bike lanes provide the perfect environment for scooting.
Visit historical attractions like the Berlin Wall Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag building.
Stop for currywurst or a beer along the way at an outdoor cafe.
Berlin’s creative culture and alternative vibe create an exciting backdrop for any scooter adventure.
Paris, France
What better way to see the City of Light than on an electric scooter? Paris has embraced e-scooters, with over 15,000 available to rent.
Glide past the Eiffel Tower, Louvre museum, Notre Dame cathedral and Sacre-Coeur basilica.
End the day people-watching in the Jardin du Luxembourg or enjoying a crepe along the river Seine.
The romance of Paris is enhanced by experiencing it at a leisurely pace on a scooter.
Tel Aviv, Israel
With over 100 miles of bike lanes along the Mediterranean coast and typically fair weather, Tel Aviv is a scooter rider’s dream.
Explore Old Jaffa, check out the colorful Neve Tzedek neighborhood, or people-watch at a beachfront cafe.
Tel Aviv’s vibrant food, arts, and nightlife scenes provide plenty of reasons to park your scooter and stay a while.
The city’s forward-thinking vibe pairs well with this innovative mode of transport.
Conclusion
After 6 months and over 10,000 miles traveled, my electric scooter adventure has come to an end.
While I’m sad to park my trusty scooter, the experiences I’ve had will live on forever.
Traveling the world on two wheels at a leisurely pace allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the cities and cultures I explored.
Interacting with locals and fellow travelers created meaningful connections I will always cherish.
Though exhausting at times, the rewards of this journey far outweighed any challenges.
If you’re looking for an affordable, eco-friendly way to immerse yourself in new places at your own pace, consider an electric scooter your ticket to adventure.
The road ahead is open – where will you go?