One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rome traveling east to Naples and L'aquila
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Rome, 3 nights in Naples, and 1 night in L'aquila. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Italy. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Rome, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Italy on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Italy. Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Pantheon, learn more about the unique Piazza Navona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Roman Forum.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rome, Naples, Ravello, Amalfi, Pompei, Caserta, and L'aquila, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Italy. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Italy.
Throughout your road trip in Italy, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Italy.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!
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Day 1
- Rome - Arrival day
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- Trevi Fountain
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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. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Trevi Fountain, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Rome. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Rome, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Bottega Roma, a top-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pasta In Corso, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Vecchia Roma. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.
Continue your lively evening at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Almalu Trastevere is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Rome
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 10 min
- piazza del Popolo
- Piazza di Spagna
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- Castel Sant'Angelo
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rome for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rome today. One of the most impressive attractions included on the itinerary is Piazza Del Popolo. This detailed public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza Di Spagna and learn what makes this romantic public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the timeless Pantheon. After exploring the monument, head to Piazza Navona. This timeless public square is a highlight in Rome. As your day continues, stop by Castel Sant'angelo, known for its symbolic features.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
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.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Rome by reserving a table at La Pergola. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional mediterranean and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Il Pagliaccio, recognized for its delicious creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Enoteca La Torre, a local favorite known for its delightful mediterranean and creative cuisine in Rome. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning mediterranean and creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Sant' Eustachio Caffè, known for its inviting atmosphere. Yellowsquare Rome is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffè Portofino provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 3
- Rome
- Naples
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Drive 229 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Roman Forum
- Colosseum
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rome. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Naples, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Rome is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Roman Forum, a timeless archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Colosseum, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Naples. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Naples. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Veritas, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible campanian and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Il Comandante is one of the best restaurants for creative and mediterranean cuisine in Naples. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at ARIA. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for contemporary and modern cuisine in the city.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Happening Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Shanti Art Musik Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gran Caffè Gambrinus provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Naples
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Drive 130 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Villa Rufolo
- Amalfi Coast
- Archaeological Park of Pompeii
- Teatro Grande
- Amphitheatre of Pompeii
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Naples, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Naples today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Villa Rufolo. This visually striking historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Archaeological Park Of Pompeii. After exploring the archeological site, head to Teatro Grande. This intriguing archeological site is a highlight in Naples. As your day continues, stop by Amphitheatre Of Pompeii, known for its culturally significant features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Naples.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Naples's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo, a popular restaurant in Naples. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Naples at Mercure Napoli Centro Angioino, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated La Lazzara Trattoria e Pizzeria. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Naples tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Archivio Storico - Cocktail Bar & Wonderfood, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Archeobar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Babette Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Say good night to Naples and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 5
- Naples
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 10 min
- Ovo Castle
- piazza del Plebiscito
- San Carlo Theatre
- Castel Nuovo
- Naples National Archaeological Museum
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Naples. You’ll stay in Naples for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the interesting Ovo Castle, a respected castle in Naples. Next, go to Piazza Del Plebiscito.
After visiting Ovo Castle and Piazza Del Plebiscito, have a stroll along Naples's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to San Carlo Theatre. This picture-perfect opera house offers a unique experience. Castel Nuovo is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Naples National Archaeological Museum, one of the most detailed places to visit in Naples.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Naples. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Opera Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Naples. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Naples at Trattoria San Ferdinando, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Anonymous Trattoria Gourmet. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Naples tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Gran Caffè Cimmino is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Flanagan's Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Napoli. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Head back to your accommodation in Naples and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 6
- Naples
- L'Aquila
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Drive 242 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Palace of Caserta
- Giardini Reali - Parco Reggia di Caserta
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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 Caserta. In the evening, you’ll end up in L'aquila, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Naples. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Palace Of Caserta is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most well-known places to visit in Naples. Next, head to Giardini Reali - Parco Reggia Di Caserta, a notable park, known for its history-steeped features.
Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in L'aquila. L'aquila offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in L'aquila. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in L'aquila by securing a reservation at FØRMA contemporary restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and creative cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, DECA boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Art Cafè L'aquila after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 7
- L'Aquila
- Rome
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Drive 120 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Basilica of San Bernardino
- Castle Park
- Luminous fountain
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of L'aquila. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rome, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in L'aquila allows for both. Start by heading to Basilica Of San Bernardino. This underrated church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Castle Park, a peaceful park, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Luminous Fountain, a worthwhile monument.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Rome, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel de Russie, an iconic dining spot in Rome. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Taverna Italiana, a popular restaurant in Rome. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Parrot Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your lively evening at The Apartment Bar Roma, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Hotel Hassler Roma is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 8
- Rome - Departure day
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- Altare della Patria
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Day 8 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Altare Della Patria. This captivating monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Rome’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Via Condotti. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rome.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Centro, another premier location with a delectable menu.
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!
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