10-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling west to Venice, Florence, Rome, Arezzo, and Padua

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 10-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, 1 night in Venice, 2 nights in Florence, 2 nights in Rome, 1 night in Arezzo, and 1 night in Padua. 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. Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Trieste, Contovello / Kontovel, Miramare / Miramar, Venice, Florence, Rome, Arezzo, Bologna, and Padua, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Giants' Stairway
Piazza della BorsaFountain of the Four ContinentsUnity of Italy SquareBivio di Miramare BeachMiramare Castle
Rialto BridgeTeatro La FenicePiazza San MarcoDoge's PalaceBridge of Sighs
piazzale MichelangeloUffizi GalleryPonte Vecchiopiazza della SignoriaCathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Vatican MuseumsSistine ChapelSaint Peter's SquareSt Peter's BasilicaPonte Vecchio
Castel Sant'AngeloPiazza NavonaPantheonRoman ForumColosseumTrevi Fountain

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Triest - Arrival day
  • More
  • Giants' Stairway
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Trieste and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Trieste for 1 night 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.

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 Giants' Stairway or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Trieste. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Trieste. 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 Murphy's Meeting Point, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Caffè Tommaseo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Al Barattolo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trieste.

Keep the evening going at Bar G, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar X, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Antico Caffè Torinese, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Italy!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Triest
  • Contovello / Kontovel
  • Miramare / Miramar
  • Venice
  • More

Drive 161 km, 2 hours 33 min

  • Piazza della Borsa
  • Fountain of the Four Continents
  • Unity of Italy Square
  • Bivio di Miramare Beach
  • Miramare Castle
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Trieste, Contovello / Kontovel, and Miramare / Miramar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Venice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Trieste, including a public square and a monument. Start your adventure at Piazza Della Borsa. This intriguing public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Fountain Of The Four Continents located in Trieste for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Piazza Unità D'italia. Its romantic features will captivate you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Contovello / Kontovel, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Trieste to Contovello / Kontovel may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Contovello / Kontovel, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bivio Di Miramare Beach, a curiosity-inducing beach known for its instagrammable features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Venice. This car ride takes around 1 hour 49 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Miramare Castle, a locally renowned castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Venice. Venice offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Venice, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Local delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Wistèria, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and venetian specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Quadri, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Al Parlamento offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Caffe Rosso is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Adagio 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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Venice
  • Florence
  • More

Drive 260 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • Rialto Bridge
  • Teatro La Fenice
  • Piazza San Marco
  • Doge's Palace
  • Bridge of Sighs
  • More

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 Venice. 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 2 nights.

Venice is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a stunning, a visually striking, a historic, a majestic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed! Start at Rialto Bridge, a globally renowned historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Teatro La Fenice, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Piazza San Marco. This public square is one of the city’s most globally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Venice at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Doge's Palace. After exploring the palace, head to the well-known Bridge Of Sighs. This monument will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Florence by booking a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional italian contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Florence, Santa Elisabetta shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and mediterranean cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura is known as a top local spot for its delicious italian contemporary and international cuisine in Florence. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Manifattura. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Il Vinile provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Florence
  • More

Drive 4 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • piazzale Michelangelo
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • piazza della Signoria
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Florence. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an observation deck, an art gallery, a historical landmark, a public square, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Piazzale Michelangelo. This is a top-rated observation deck you should not miss. Another must-see is Uffizi Gallery, an astonishing art gallery in Florence.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ponte Vecchio. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza Della Signoria, another of the city’s extraordinary attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a visually striking church. Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore is a truly remarkable place to visit in Florence.

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 Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Florence
  • Rome
  • More

Drive 283 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Saint Peter's Square
  • St Peter's Basilica
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Vatican City. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rome. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vatican City, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Florence to Vatican City may take around 3 hours 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vatican City, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Vatican Museums, a timeless art museum in Vatican City. This famous chapel is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Saint Peter's Square is an excellent choice. Next, continue your sightseeing at the wondrous St. Peter's Basilica and discover what makes this major basilica unique.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rome. 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 Rome. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at La Pergola in Rome by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, La Pergola offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious mediterranean and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Il Pagliaccio, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and innovative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Enoteca La Torre, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional mediterranean and creative menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Almalu Trastevere offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Rome
  • More

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 10 min

  • Castel Sant'Angelo
  • Piazza Navona
  • Pantheon
  • Roman Forum
  • Colosseum
  • Trevi Fountain
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Rome allows for both. Start by heading to Castel Sant'angelo. This spectacular castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Piazza Navona, a culturally significant public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Pantheon, a world-famous monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the globally renowned Roman Forum. Round off your day at Colosseum, another gem in Rome with historic features to discover.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at RomAntica, 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 Coso Ristorante, 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 DEROMA - Farine Romane, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Sant' Eustachio Caffè, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Yellowsquare Rome, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Caffè Portofino provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Rome
  • Arezzo
  • More

Drive 220 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Altare della Patria
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Piazza di Spagna
  • piazza del Popolo
  • Villa Borghese
  • More

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 Arezzo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rome, featuring a stunning, a visually striking, a respected, a culturally significant, a masterful, a romantic, and a serene. Start at Altare Della Patria, a well-known monument in the city. Then, head to Piazza Di Spagna and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Rome and when you are ready for more, go to Piazza Del Popolo. This is one of the city’s most widely recognized spots. After exploring the public square, visit the impressive Villa Borghese.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Arezzo. Arezzo offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Arezzo. 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 an outstanding dining experience at Octavin, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Arezzo at La Clandestina, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Continue your lively evening at Liquid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Arezzo
  • Bologna
  • Padua
  • More

Drive 298 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • piazza Grande
  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Santo Stefano
  • More

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Arezzo and Bologna, 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 Padua. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your adventure at Piazza Grande. This is a locally renowned public square you should not miss.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arezzo and set your GPS to Bologna. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 7 min. Upon reaching Bologna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Piazza Maggiore and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Two Towers, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Piazza Santo Stefano, an enchanting public square.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Veganda, a top-rated dining spot in Padua. If you're in the mood for something new, try Osteria Ai Scarponi, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C). Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Padua.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Padua
  • Triest
  • More

Drive 188 km, 3 hours 1 min

  • Piazza dei Signori, Padua
  • Palazzo Bo
  • Scrovegni Chapel
  • The Basilica of St Anthony
  • Prato della Valle
  • More

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Padua. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Trieste, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with a romantic, a stunning, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a symbolic, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a remarkable in the charming city of Padua. Your adventure starts at Piazza Dei Signori, Padua, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Bo Palace. This underrated university is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Padua's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Scrovegni Chapel. This historic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. The Basilica Of St. Anthony is also worth visiting, along with Prato Della Valle. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Harry's Piccolo, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Caffè San Marco is another top choice with a popular menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mast, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Urbanis is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Triest - Departure day
  • More
  • James Joyce statue
  • Unity of Italy Square
  • More

Day 10 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Immerse yourself in Trieste’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at James Joyce Statue.

Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Trieste.

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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