12-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling south to Florence, Siena, and Rome
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 12-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 Bologna, 2 nights in Florence, 2 nights in Siena, and 4 nights in Rome. 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 Bologna, 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 St. Peter's Basilica.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Florence, Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, Castellina in Chianti, Rome, Tivoli, and Orvieto, 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
- Bologna - Arrival day
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- Church of the Holy Savior
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Welcome to Bologna, 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 Bologna's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bologna 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 Chiesa Del Santissimo Salvatore, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bologna. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bologna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Ciacco, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ristorante Ballarini offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sfoglia Rina. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bologna.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Freud E Squisito provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Osteria Del Sole offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Bologna
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Drive 0.5 km, 6 min
- Piazza Maggiore
- Biblioteca Salaborsa
- Bologna Cathedral
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Day 2 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Bologna. You have 1 night left in Bologna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bologna. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Piazza Maggiore is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most astonishing places to visit in Bologna. Next, head to Biblioteca Salaborsa, an underrated library, known for its photogenic 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 Bologna Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a highly recommended experience. 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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bononia Cafè, a highly-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Via Con Me, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lime Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Macondo - Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 3
- Bologna
- Florence
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Florence Baptistery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Uffizi Gallery
- piazza della Signoria
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Florence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Bologna on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Galleria Dell'accademia is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this respected art gallery before continuing your journey. Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore is your next stop. This impressive church is one of the best-rated sights in Bologna.
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 Florence Baptistery. This majestic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Ponte Vecchio and Uffizi Gallery. If time allows, end your day with Piazza Della Signoria, a culturally significant public square that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
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 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Di Poneta Novoli offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Caffe San Firenze. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Florence.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 4
- Florence
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 18 min
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Angelo Caduto
- Pisa Cathedral
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Florence and Pisa. You still have 1 night left in Florence.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the spectacular Piazzale Michelangelo, a majestic observation deck in Florence. Next, go to Leaning Tower Of Pisa.
Pisa Cathedral is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, one of the most stunning places to visit in Florence.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria Da Burde, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Casa Toscana. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar 50 Rosso, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bitter Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Florence. Archea Brewery is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 5
- Florence
- Siena
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Drive 79 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Siena Cathedral
- Pubblico Palace
- piazza del Campo
- Tower of Mangia
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Siena. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Siena, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Florence, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Siena Cathedral, a popular church in the city. Then, head to Pubblico Palace and soak in the ambiance of this historic palace.
There are many interesting places to see in Florence, and when you are ready for more, go to Piazza Del Campo. This is one of the city’s most widely recognized enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the underrated Tower Of Mangia.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Siena, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Siena. 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 Enoteca I Terzi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ristorante Tar-Tufo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Antica Trattoria Papei. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Siena tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Meet Life Cafè, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Maudit Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Impero Siena ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 6
- Siena
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Drive 90 km, 2 hours 6 min
- Parco della Rocca
- Tumulo di Montecalvario
- Rocca di Castellina in Chianti
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On day 6 of your road trip in Italy, you’ll start and end your day in Siena, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Siena for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience San Gimignano and Castellina in Chianti to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Parco Della Rocca. This increasingly popular park is a history-steeped place to see in Siena. Continue your discovery at Tumulo Di Montecalvario, an eye-catching archeological site with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Siena, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rocca Di Castellina In Chianti. This up-and-coming castle offers a history-steeped encounter with Siena. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Siena.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Siena.
As you explore more of Siena, 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 meal at Osteria Quattro Venti, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fischi per Fiaschi is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Osteria da Divo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Siena tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Charlie Mixology Bar Di Aldinucci Riccardo, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Pinacoteca offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out San Paolo Pub. 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 7
- Siena
- Rome
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 5 min
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Capitoline Museums
- Capitoline Hill
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On day 7 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 Rome. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rome, where you will stay for 4 nights.
Get ready for an exciting day in Siena. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a museum, and a public square. Begin your adventure at Colosseum. This is a timeless archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Roman Forum, a wondrous archeological site in Siena.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Capitoline Museums. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Capitoline Hill, another of the city’s captivating attractions.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rome. Rome 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 Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Bottega Roma, 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 Pasta In Corso, 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 Trattoria Vecchia Roma, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Almalu Trastevere. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 8
- Rome
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Drive 9 km, 41 min
- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
- St Peter's Basilica
- Trastevere
- Via del Corso
- Via dei Condotti
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Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Vatican City has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Vatican City is Trastevere. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Via del Corso, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.
Vatican Museums is must-visit art museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Sistine Chapel, an extraordinary chapel, located just a leisurely stroll away.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at RomAntica, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Coso Ristorante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider DEROMA - Farine Romane. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rome tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Sant' Eustachio Caffè, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Yellowsquare Rome is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Caffè Portofino ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Rome
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Drive 75 km, 2 hours 10 min
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Piazza Navona
- Pantheon
- Trevi Fountain
- Villa d'Este
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Wake up to day 9 of your extraordinary road trip in Italy. With 2 nights left in Rome, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Get ready for an exciting day in Rome. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a public square, a monument, a palace and much more! Begin your adventure at Castel Sant'angelo. This is an impressive castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Piazza Navona, a timeless public square in Rome.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Pantheon. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Trevi Fountain, another of the city’s iconic attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Villa D'este, a visually striking place of interest in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rome and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rome. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel de Russie, a highly-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Taverna Italiana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Parrot Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Apartment Bar Roma, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Hotel Hassler Roma, a bar that offers unique local touches.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!
Day 10
- Rome
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Drive 8 km, 56 min
- Piazza di Spagna
- Spanish Steps
- Villa Borghese
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Day 10 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 wondrous attractions included on the itinerary is Piazza Di Spagna. This respected public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Spanish Steps and learn what makes this awe-inspiring public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the top-rated Villa Borghese.
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 explore more of Rome, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese, 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 Centro, 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 Ristorante Tema, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. 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 11
- Rome
- Bologna
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Drive 391 km, 4 hours 59 min
- Well of St Patrick
- Orvieto Cathedral
- Orvieto subterranea
- Torre del Moro Orvieto
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Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Orvieto, 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 Bologna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Rome covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a church, and a cave system. Start your adventure at Well Of St. Patrick. This popular monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the inviting wonders of Orvieto Cathedral, a must-see church in the village.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Orvieto Underground. This worthwhile cave system offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Torre Del Moro Orvieto, where you can take in historic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. 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 Bologna's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Va Mo Là, a highly-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trattoria dal Biassanot, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.
Keep the evening going at Aurum, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Senza Nome, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caffè Ristretto, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 12
- Bologna - Departure day
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- Two Towers
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Day 12 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bologna 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 Two Towers. This interesting monument is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bologna's best shopping area, Via d'Azeglio. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bologna.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Pappare' - Bologna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mister Coffee Bistrò is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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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