12-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling west to Venice, Verona, Florence, and Bologna

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 Trieste and Miramare / Miramar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Trieste on today’s itinerary. First up is the up-and-coming street, Canale Ponterosso Trieste. Afterward, continue to Piazza Della Borsa, a public square every traveler should visit.

As you explore Trieste’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Fountain Of The Four Continents. This increasingly popular monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Piazza Unità D'italia, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Molo Audace, an up-and-coming pier in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Miramare Castle, a romantic castle that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bauer Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Osteria Le Guglie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Corner Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Venice. You’ll stay in Venice for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Venice on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated street, Grand Canal. Afterward, continue to Rialto Bridge, a historical landmark every traveler should visit.

As you explore Venice’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Piazza San Marco. This timeless public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to St Mark's Basilica, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Doge's Palace, a well-known palace in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Bridge Of Sighs, a visually striking monument that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Generator Venice, a popular restaurant in Venice. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Venice at Nevodi, 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 Ristorante La Piazza. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Venice tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Il Mercante, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Irish Pub Venezia offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Ai Stagneri provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Verona, 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 Verona. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Venice’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Basilica Di San Zeno Maggiore. This enchanting church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Castelvecchio Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Castelvecchio Bridge, a popular monument. For a change of scene, check out Ponte Pietra, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Piazza Delle Erbe. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Verona Arena, yet another iconic attraction in Venice.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Verona, 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 Verona, 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 La Griglia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vecio Macello is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Via Fama Cafè | Verona. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Verona tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Archivio, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Segreteria Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Grande Giove Cocktail Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Say good night to Verona and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Italy. With 1 night left in Verona, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Verona is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Archaeological Site Of Grotte Di Catullo, a notable archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Scaliger Castle, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Castello Di Desenzano Del Garda. This castle is one of the town’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Verona at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Duomo Di Santa Maria Maddalena. After exploring the church, head to the frequently visited Villa Romana Di Desenzano Del Garda. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Margy Beach, a place of romantic interest in Verona.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Trattoria I Masenini, a popular restaurant in Verona. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Verona at Osteria da Ugo, 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 Locanda 4 Cuochi. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Verona tonight.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Florence. 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 4 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Verona, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Ponte Vecchio, an iconic historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Uffizi Gallery and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in Verona, and when you are ready for more, go to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This is one of the city’s most popular heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the well-known Palazzo Vecchio. Not far away, you'll also find Piazza Della Signoria. This public square is a grand highlight in Verona.

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.

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

Dine in style at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Di Poneta Novoli boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Caffe San Firenze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Florence.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Manifattura, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Il Vinile provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Florence has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Florence by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Florence, including an observation deck, a botanical garden, a church, a food market, an art gallery and much more! Start your day at Piazzale Michelangelo. This visually striking observation deck is an impressive place to see in Florence. Then, wander over to The Boboli Gardens. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Basilica Of San Lorenzo. This photogenic church is a favorite among visitors.

Florence offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Central Market is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the food market, don’t forget to check out the heritage-rich Galleria Dell'accademia. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular art gallery. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Florence's top attractions with a visit to 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 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 delicious meal at Ditta Artigianale, a highly-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trattoria Da Burde, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa Toscana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar 50 Rosso, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bitter Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Archea Brewery also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Florence, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Florence on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited church, Santa Maria Della Spina. Afterward, continue to Palazzo Blu, an art gallery every traveler should visit.

As you explore Florence’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Knights' Square. This increasingly popular public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Pisa Cathedral, an underrated church in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a symbolic public square that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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 wonderful meal at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Agricola Toscana, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Eataly Firenze. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Gosh*, known for its inviting atmosphere. Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Quelo Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Italy, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Florence for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Manarola, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Immerse yourself in Florence’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Manarola Overlook Viewpoint. This eye-catching observation deck is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the serene features of Cinque Terre National Park, a must-visit national park in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Riomaggiore, an increasingly popular point of interest.

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

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.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 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 Bologna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Florence, including a palace, a church, a monument, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Palazzo Pallavicini. This increasingly popular palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bologna Cathedral located in Florence for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Two Towers. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this monument. Next up is Piazza Santo Stefano, a highly recommended public square. For a change of pace, head to Piazza Maggiore. As one of the most extraordinary attractions in Florence, this public square is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bologna. 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 wonderful meal at Ristorante Ciacco, a top-rated dining spot in Bologna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ristorante Ballarini, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sfoglia Rina. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bologna.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Al Bricco D'oro after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Freud E Squisito for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Osteria Del Sole is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Modena. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Trieste, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Enzo Ferrari Museum. This well-known museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Piazza Grande, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Duomo Di Modena, one of the most interesting 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, Parco Giovanni Amendola. Wander around and soak in the picturesque atmosphere this park offers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Rustiko, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Caffè San Marco offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Osteria Marise. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trieste.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mast after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Urbanis, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!