They embraced the Fiat 500, the Vespa, even tuk-tuks. But will Romans draw the line at the golf cart?

Golf-cart tours have become more common around Rome’s major sights, offering visitors a way to travel through the heat and over uneven streets. Some residents and taxi drivers say the vehicles add to congestion and tourism pressures.

Police recently inspected 131 carts near several central landmarks and issued €38,000 in fines. Reported violations included operating without a licence and parking illegally.

Tour prices can range from about €100 to more than €400 per person, depending on the trip. One US visitor said he and his companion paid €310 for a three-hour tour and enjoyed the ride.

Some locals question what visitors gain from seeing the city in a cart, while tourists say walking can be difficult amid crowds. The article also notes that Rome offers sightseeing in Fiat 500s, Vespa sidecars and tuk-tuks.

Cart operators argue the vehicles help families and people with disabilities visit comfortably, are environmentally friendly and provide jobs. One operator, who passed the police inspection, said rule-breaking by some businesses unfairly damages the industry’s reputation.