9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling west to Venice and Florence
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 2 nights in Trieste, 2 nights in Venice, and 4 nights in Florence. 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 Trieste, 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. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ponte Vecchio, learn more about the unique Leaning Tower Of Pisa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.
As you hit the open road and drive through Trieste, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca, 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
- Triest - Arrival day
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- Unity of Italy Square
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Say hello to Trieste! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Trieste for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Trieste 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 Piazza Unità D'italia, 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 Trieste. 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 Trieste, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Murphy's Meeting Point, an iconic dining spot in Trieste. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Caffè Tommaseo, a popular restaurant in Trieste. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Al Barattolo, a hidden gem nestled in Trieste. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar G after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar X, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Antico Caffè Torinese also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Triest
- Venice
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Bridge of Sighs
- Doge's Palace
- St Mark's Basilica
- Piazza San Marco
- Teatro La Fenice
- Rialto Bridge
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Venice, 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 Venice. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Trieste, including a monument, a palace, a church, a public square, an opera house, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Bridge Of Sighs. This locally renowned monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Doge's Palace, which may be one of the most UNESCO world heritage-listed places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Trieste 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 St Mark's Basilica, a popular church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Piazza San Marco and Teatro La Fenice. End your day with a visit to Rialto Bridge, a timeless historical landmark that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Venice. Venice 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 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 Bauer Hotel, 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 L'Osteria Le Guglie, 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 Corner Pub, a hidden gem nestled in Venice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Al Parlamento. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Caffe Rosso, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Adagio provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 3
- Venice
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Drive 5 km, 42 min
- Grand Canal
- Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
- Gallerie dell'Accademia
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Venice for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Venice. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Grand Canal is the perfect place to start. This street is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Venice. Next, head to Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari, an intriguing church, known for its breathtaking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Gallerie Dell'accademia. This heritage-rich art gallery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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 Venice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Generator Venice, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Nevodi? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ristorante La Piazza as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Venice.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Il Mercante. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Irish Pub Venezia, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Ai Stagneri provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Venice and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Piazza Maggiore
- Biblioteca comunale dell'Archiginnasio
- Basilica of San Domenico
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Bologna. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Venice today. One of the most famous attractions included on the itinerary is Piazza Maggiore. This romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Biblioteca Comunale Dell'archiginnasio and learn what makes this historic library unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Basilica Of San Domenico.
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 explore more of Florence, 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 lovely dining experience at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a popular restaurant in Florence. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Florence at Di Poneta Novoli, 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 Caffe San Firenze. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Florence tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Manifattura, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Il Vinile provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!
Day 5
- Florence
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 5 min
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Ponte Vecchio
- Uffizi Gallery
- Palazzo Vecchio
- piazza della Signoria
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Florence is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an observation deck, a historical landmark, an art gallery, a palace, a public square, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the extraordinary Piazzale Michelangelo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Ponte Vecchio, an enchanting historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Uffizi Gallery, one of the city’s most spectacular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Palazzo Vecchio. When you're finished at the palace, Piazza Della Signoria awaits your visit. This public square is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a church - the astonishing Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore.
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 Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar 50 Rosso, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bitter Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Archea Brewery. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 6
- Florence
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Drive 154 km, 2 hours 53 min
- Fortezza Medicea
- Basilica of San Domenico
- Siena Cathedral
- piazza del Campo
- Tower of Mangia
- Pubblico Palace
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Italy with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Florence for your remaining 2 nights 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 Siena.
Florence is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a church, a public square, a palace and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Fortezza Medicea (siena) and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Basilica Of San Domenico, a majestic church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Siena Cathedral, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Piazza Del Campo. When you're finished at the public square, Tower Of Mangia awaits your visit. This monument is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a palace - the worthwhile Pubblico Palace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Buca Mario, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Agricola Toscana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Eataly Firenze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Florence.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gosh* offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Quelo Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 7
- Florence
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
- Guinigi Tower
- Walls of Lucca
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Florence. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most timeless places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a timeless monument, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Piazza Dell'anfiteatro. This romantic public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Guinigi Tower and Mura Di Lucca. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Florence.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Tijuana, an iconic dining spot in Florence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Djària - American Bar, a popular restaurant in Florence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Florence Irish Pub, a hidden gem nestled in Florence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!
Day 8
- Florence
- Triest
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Drive 414 km, 4 hours 49 min
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
- International Museum and Library of Music
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On day 8 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 Bologna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trieste, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Florence. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Two Towers is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most well-known places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Piazza Santo Stefano, a beloved public square, known for its inviting features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to International Museum And Library Of Music. This eye-catching museum is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Trieste. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Trieste's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Rustiko, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Caffè San Marco is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Osteria Marise. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Trieste tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mast after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Urbanis for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Triest - Departure day
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- Giants' Stairway
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Day 9 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Trieste 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 Giants' Stairway. This beloved point of interest is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Trieste’s popular marketplace, Piazza Unità d'Italia. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Trieste.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Trieste. 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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