7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona to Rome, Florence, and Venice and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Loreto, Serra San Quirico, and San Vittore. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rome, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Ancona includes a church, a nature reserve, and a cave system. Sanctuary Of The Holy House Of Loreto is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Parco Naturale Regionale Gola Della Rossa E Di Frasassi, a worthwhile nature reserve, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Frasassi Caves, a visually striking cave system, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rome. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Rome by booking a table at La Pergola. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your dinner by heading to La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Almalu Trastevere is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Rome, 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 Florence. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Rome. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a monument, and a public square. Begin your adventure at Roman Forum. This is a wondrous archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Colosseum, a timeless archeological site in Rome.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Pantheon. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza Navona, another of the city’s world-famous attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Trevi Fountain, an enchanting place of interest in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Florence. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Florence by securing a reservation at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local spot known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Manifattura is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Il Vinile. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Padua. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Venice, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Florence, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at The Basilica Of St. Anthony, a popular church in the city. Then, head to Prato Della Valle and soak in the ambiance of this romantic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Florence, and when you are ready for more, go to Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the popular Scrovegni Chapel.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Venice. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Venice by booking a table at Local, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Venice, Wistèria shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary and venetian cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Quadri is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Venice. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Al Parlamento, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Caffe Rosso is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Adagio also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Italy with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Venice for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Miramare / Miramar and Trieste.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Venice, including a castle, a pier, and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Miramare Castle. This notable castle is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Molo Audace, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Venice on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Piazza Unità D'italia, a notable public square in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Piazza Della Borsa.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Venice.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Generator Venice, an iconic dining spot in Venice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nevodi, a popular restaurant in Venice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante La Piazza, a hidden gem nestled in Venice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Il Mercante, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Irish Pub Venezia, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Ai Stagneri provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Venice. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ancona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Rialto Bridge. This timeless historical landmark is a visually striking place to see in Venice. Continue your discovery at Doge's Palace, an enchanting palace with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Venice, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza San Marco. This wondrous public square offers a history-steeped encounter with Venice. Next, make your way to St Mark's Basilica to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Venice.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ancona. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Ancona by reserving a table at Sot'Ajarchi. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood and from the marches cuisine. Looking for something different? Bontà delle Marche offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ancona.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Alla Tazza D'oro, known for its lively atmosphere.

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