One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence, San Gimignano, and La Spezia

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bologna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Ducati Museum. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Bologna Cathedral, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Bologna. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Piazza Maggiore. Wander around and soak in the majestic atmosphere this public square offers. Then, head to Two Towers, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the beloved Piazza Santo Stefano, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bononia Cafè, a popular restaurant in Bologna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bologna at Via Con Me, 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 Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bologna tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Lime Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Onda Marina By Night ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 3 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 Florence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bologna, including an observation deck, a church, an art gallery, a historical landmark, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Piazzale Michelangelo. This extraordinary observation deck is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence located in Bologna for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Uffizi Gallery. Its historic features will captivate you. After the art gallery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Ponte Vecchio. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this historical landmark. Next up is Palazzo Vecchio, a highly recommended palace. For a change of pace, head to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. As one of the most astonishing attractions in Bologna, this church is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Florence, 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 Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Di Poneta Novoli, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Caffe San Firenze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Il Vinile is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Siena and San Gimignano. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Gimignano. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Florence promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Siena Cathedral. This romantic church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Piazza Del Campo, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Tower Of Mangia, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Porta San Giovanni. This picture-perfect monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Sangimignano1300, a worthwhile museum, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Piazza Del Duomo before you head back to your hotel.

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

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

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 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pisa and Lucca. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in San Gimignano. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a public square, a monument, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your adventure at Pisa Cathedral. This is an increasingly popular church you should not miss. Another must-see is Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a timeless public square in San Gimignano.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Mura Di Lucca, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Piazza Dell'anfiteatro, a standout place of interest in the city.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Trattoria Da Burde is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Casa Toscana. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Florence tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar 50 Rosso offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bitter Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Archea Brewery is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, 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 La Spezia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Florence allows for both. Start by heading to Cinque Terre National Park. This captivating national park provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Manarola Overlook Viewpoint, an eye-catching observation deck, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Riomaggiore, a beloved point of interest. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Castle Of Riomaggiore. Round off your day at Church Of San Giovanni Battista Of Riomaggiore, another gem in Florence with stunning features to discover.

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

As you explore more of La Spezia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Colombaio Park, a highly-rated dining destination in La Spezia.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Parma. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bologna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore La Spezia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palazzo Della Pilotta is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich palace before continuing your journey. Teatro Regio is your next stop. This beloved opera house is one of the best-rated sights in La Spezia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument. This heritage-rich monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parma Cathedral and Cittadella Park.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Va Mo Là, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trattoria dal Biassanot beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Aurum stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Senza Nome offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffè Ristretto is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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