7-Day Italy Road Trip from Rome to Florence, L'aquila, and Naples and surrounding area

Welcome to Rome, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Rome's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Rome is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Rome. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rome. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

La Pergola is the Bib Gourmand restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 3-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature mediterranean and contemporary meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Rome, Il Pagliaccio. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature creative and innovative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Rome you shouldn’t miss is Enoteca La Torre. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 2-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s mediterranean and creative menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend RoYaL Art Cafè Roma, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,972 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Ai Tre Scalini. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,950 customers.

Centro is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,488 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Italy!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rome. You’ll stay in Rome for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rome.

Reserve your spot at 433, a popular local restaurant in Rome. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,341 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Roma Sparita during your stay in Rome. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Ristorante Amedeo, a popular local gem in Rome. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,798 satisfied guests.

DEROMA - Farine Romane is one of the best bars in Rome and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,432 customers.

You may also want to check out Hotel Hassler Roma. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Hotel Hassler Roma is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 895 customers.

Alternatively, head out to VinAllegro. VinAllegro has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,167 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Italy, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Rome and Florence. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence. Florence will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Trevi Fountain. This much-appreciated sculpture is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 343,494 reviews.

Next up is Piazza di Spagna. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 113,658 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Spanish Steps. This monumental staircase has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 57,211 reviews.

Piazza del Popolo is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,807 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Villa Borghese. This urban zone of rome is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 69,749 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Florence. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Florence, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.

Reserve a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Florence. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious italian contemporary offering makes it a crowd favorite. Enoteca Pinchiorri is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Florence is Santa Elisabetta, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative and mediterranean menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Santa Elisabetta’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Florence for its appetizing selection of food, including its italian contemporary and international courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 1 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

Manifattura is one of the best bars in Florence and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

You may also want to check out Caffe Concerto Paszkowski. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Caffe Concerto Paszkowski is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,000 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Ristorante Buca Mario. Ristorante Buca Mario has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,879 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Florence and L'aquila, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in L'aquila. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, piazza della Signoria is a great place to start with. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Ponte Vecchio. The deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting piazzale Michelangelo. This square is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, L'aquila. This car ride takes around 3 hours 49 min.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of L'aquila. L'aquila offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of L'aquila's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy an outstanding luxury dining experience at FØRMA contemporary restaurant. Holding an impressive rating and a remarkable menu, FØRMA contemporary restaurant consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional contemporary and creative cuisine.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at L'Unico Posto during your stay in L'aquila. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 640 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Antologie Ristorante, a renowned dining destination in L'aquila. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 140 satisfied guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Via Verdi Irish Pub Restaurant. This place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 442 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at La Locanda del Puledro Impennato. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 803 customers.

Monthy's Irish Pub is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in L'aquila. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 399 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in L'aquila and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Amalfi, Pompei, and Naples. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Naples. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of L'aquila, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Amalfi may take around 3 hours 54 min. Upon your arrival in Amalfi, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amalfi and set your GPS to Pompei. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. Upon reaching Pompei, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Archaeological Park of Pompeii. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,465 visitors.

Teatro Grande is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,226 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Naples, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Naples.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Veritas, a restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature campanian and contemporary meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 1-star Michelin restaurant in Naples, Il Comandante. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature creative and mediterranean dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Naples you shouldn’t miss is ARIA. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s contemporary and modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

One of travelers' and locals' favorite bars in the city is L'antiquario. This claim is supported by 700 customers who have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to another popular place like The Penny Black. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,754 customers.

The options in Naples don’t end there. You could also spend some time at the excellent L'Oca Nera Irish Pub. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,766 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

On day 6 of your road trip in Italy, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Naples, Vatican City, and Rome. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rome, where you will stay for 1 night.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Rome, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rome. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, a distinguished dining establishment in Rome. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,637 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Rome is Maccheroni. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,633 happy diners.

RomAntica stands out as a local favorite in Rome. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,462 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in Rome. Ristorante Tema is a popular option, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 939 customers.

Continue your evening at La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 655 customers.

Sant' Eustachio Caffè is another place you could check out tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 9,555 customers.

Say good night to Rome and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!

Day 7 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Rome before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Rome’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy.

Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rome.

You’ll then say farewell to Rome. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Italy!