9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Venice traveling south to Florence and Rome
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Italy as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Venice, Florence, Pisa, Siena, Rome, and Bologna.
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 Venice, 3 nights in Florence, and 2 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 Venice, 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 Piazza San Marco.
As you hit the open road and drive through Venice, Florence, Pisa, Siena, Rome, and Bologna, 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
- Venice - Arrival day
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- Rialto Bridge
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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Venice and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Venice for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Venice 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 Rialto Bridge, 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 Venice. 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 Venice, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bauer Hotel, 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 L'Osteria Le Guglie, 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 Corner Pub. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Venice tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Al Parlamento, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Caffe Rosso is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Adagio provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Venice
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Drive 4 km, 59 min
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection
- Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
- Piazza San Marco
- St Mark's Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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On day 2 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.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Venice, including an art gallery, a church, a public square, a palace, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This popular art gallery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari located in Venice for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Piazza San Marco. Its UNESCO world heritage-designated features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to St Mark's Basilica. Visitors usually appreciate the inviting features of this church. Next up is Doge's Palace, a highly recommended palace. For a change of pace, head to Bridge Of Sighs. As one of the most interesting attractions in Venice, this monument is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
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 Venice's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Generator Venice, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Nevodi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ristorante La Piazza is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Venice.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Il Mercante, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Irish Pub Venezia is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Ai Stagneri provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Venice and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 3
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 262 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Piazza della Repubblica
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- piazza della Signoria
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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 3 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in Venice. Begin your sightseeing with Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This popular church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Uffizi Gallery, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Venice, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Ponte Vecchio. This timeless historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Piazza Della Repubblica, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Piazza Della Signoria and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most extraordinary attractions.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Di Poneta Novoli beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Caffe San Firenze. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Florence tonight.
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.
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.
Day 4
- Florence
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Drive 176 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Palazzo Blu
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Battistero di San Giovanni
- Campo santo
- Pisa Cathedral
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Italy. With 2 nights left in Florence, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Florence, including an art gallery, a monument, a public square, a church, a cemetery and much more! Start your adventure at Palazzo Blu. This beloved art gallery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Leaning Tower Of Pisa located in Florence for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Battistero Di San Giovanni. Visitors usually appreciate the grand features of this church. Next up is Campo Santo, a highly recommended cemetery. For a change of pace, head to Pisa Cathedral. As one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in Florence, this church is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
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.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar 50 Rosso is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bitter Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Archea Brewery. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 5
- Florence
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Drive 158 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Pubblico Palace
- Tower of Mangia
- piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- Battistero di San Giovanni Battista
- Fontebranda
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On day 5 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 Siena. You still have 1 night left in Florence.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Florence. Begin your sightseeing with Pubblico Palace. This locally appreciated palace is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Tower Of Mangia, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Florence, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Piazza Del Campo. This widely recognized public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Siena Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Battistero Di San Giovanni Battista is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Fontebranda and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most beloved attractions.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Florence.
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.
Savor the flavors at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Agricola Toscana beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Eataly Firenze. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Florence tonight.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 6
- Florence
- Rome
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Drive 281 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Roman Forum
- Colosseum
- Arch of Constantine
- Spanish Steps
- Piazza di Spagna
- Trevi Fountain
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On day 6 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 Rome, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Florence’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Roman Forum. This UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of Colosseum, a must-visit archeological site 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 Arch Of Constantine, a worthwhile monument. For a change of scene, check out Spanish Steps, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Piazza Di Spagna. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Trevi Fountain, yet another world-famous attraction in Florence.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Bottega Roma, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pasta In Corso offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Trattoria Vecchia Roma. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Almalu Trastevere, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 7
- Rome
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Drive 10 km, 58 min
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
- St Peter's Basilica
- Trastevere
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Greet day 7 of your road trip in Italy with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Rome for your remaining 1 night 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 Rome and Vatican City.
Trastevere is a fantastic place you can explore today in Rome. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Rome-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Piazza Navona, an enchanting public square that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Vatican Museums, one of the city’s most world-famous spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the extraordinary Sistine Chapel. When you're finished at the chapel, St. Peter's Basilica awaits your visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rome and your accommodation.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at RomAntica, a top-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Coso Ristorante, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at DEROMA - Farine Romane. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.
Keep the evening going at Sant' Eustachio Caffè, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Yellowsquare Rome, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caffè Portofino, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
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.
Day 8
- Rome
- Venice
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Drive 531 km, 6 hours 11 min
- Tombs of the glossators of Bologna
- Piazza Maggiore
- Bologna Cathedral
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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 Venice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Rome, including a monument, a public square, and a church. Start your adventure at Tombs Of The Glossators Of Bologna. This frequently visited monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Piazza Maggiore located in Rome for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Bologna Cathedral. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Two Towers. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this monument. Next up is Piazza Santo Stefano, a highly recommended public square.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Osteria Alla Staffa, 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 Bistrot de Venise, 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 Corte Sconta, a hidden gem nestled in Venice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at Dolce Vita Venezia, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Tarnowska's American Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar All'angolo, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 9
- Venice - Departure day
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- Grand Canal
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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 Venice 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, we recommend visiting Grand Canal, a history-steeped street before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Venice.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Cantina Do Spade, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trattoria Al Gazzettino offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Venice. 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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