Relaxed 10-Day Italy Road Trip from Venice to Florence, and Bologna

Your relaxed road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Venice, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Venice and begin your adventure in Italy.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Rialto Bridge. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Venice.

Discover the culinary delights of Venice by securing a reservation at Local. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of contemporary cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Wistèria, renowned for its delicious contemporary, and venetian dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Quadri, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Venice and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Al Parlamento, known for its lively atmosphere. Adagio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Il Mercante offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy. Enjoy your first taste of Venice as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Venice, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Piazza San Marco. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 152,982 reviews.

Next up is St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,439 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Doge's Palace. This palace has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 24,775 reviews. Every year, 318,104 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Bridge of Sighs is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This footbridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 reviews.

Italy makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Italy also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Italy, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Venice.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cantina Do Spade, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria Al Gazzettino, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Bar Pontini. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Venice. The bars in Venice make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Irish Pub Venezia, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dolce Vita Venezia is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Devils Forest Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Italy!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Italy will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Italy, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,745 reviews.

Continue your journey at Teatro La Fenice. This opera house is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,677 travelers from near and far.

Venice is also the home of Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,128 visitors. Each year, around 92,922 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Santa Maria della Salute. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,681 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Florence. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Italy, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Florence.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Florence by securing a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Esteemed as a much-enjoyed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional italian contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Santa Elisabetta, famous for its scrumptious creative, and mediterranean dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite italian contemporary, and international cuisine in Florence. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for italian contemporary, and international cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Florence and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Manifattura stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Archea Brewery is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Italy!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Florence, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Florence, and meet locals along the way!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to piazzale Michelangelo. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Uffizi Gallery. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,794 visitors. Up to 2,011,219 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palazzo Vecchio. This palazzo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,049 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to piazza della Signoria. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 66,956 visitors.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Italy more special is by joining unique tours and activities in Italy. Florence offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Florence offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to book a table at Trattoria Da Burde, a popular restaurant in Florence. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Florence at Ristorante Buca Mario, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Eataly Firenze. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Florence tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Italy.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Italy.

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Florence. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Florence!

Drop by the renowned David. This popular statue has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,476 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Galleria dell'Accademia. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,429 visitors, this national museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence. This church and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,544 local and international travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Italy. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Florence itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Florence, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tijuana, a highly-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're eager to try something different, consider Djària - American Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Buca Niccolini. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Florence can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Italy!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Italy gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Florence. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bologna, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Central Market. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 43,100 reviews.

Next up is Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (FI). This archives has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 23,075 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Pitti Palace. This art museum has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,445 reviews. Every year, 198,270 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

The Boboli Gardens is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 25,341 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Parco delle Cascine. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,875 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bologna. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Italy by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bologna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Ahimè in Bologna by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Ahimè delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious country cooking cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at I Portici, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and contemporary 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 Trattoria di Via Serra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for emilian cuisine in the city.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bologna. The bars in Bologna make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Freud e Squisito, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Osteria del Sole. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Macondo - Cocktail Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Italy!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bologna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Piazza Santo Stefano. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,617 visitors.

Next, make your way to Two Towers. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,975 reviews.

While in Bologna, we also recommend a visit to Bologna Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,852 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Piazza Maggiore. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 travelers, this square is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bologna.

Make your way to Fountain of Neptune, Bologna, perhaps the most famous fountain in Bologna. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,952 reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Bologna by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bologna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Victoria Station is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Trattoria da Me. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bologna tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bologna.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Senza Nome, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Maurizio. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at BrewDog Bar Bologna, another top-rated place in the area.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Italy.

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Bologna, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bologna, and meet locals along the way!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Villa Ghigi. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,035 reviews.

Continue your journey at Basilica of San Domenico. This church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,380 travelers from near and far.

Bologna is also the home of Porta Maggiore. This landmark has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,462 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Arco del Meloncello. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,755 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Ducati Museum. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,028 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this industry museum. Approximately 7,600 people visit this attraction every year.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Italy. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bologna has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, an iconic dining spot in Bologna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cantina Bentivoglio, a popular restaurant in Bologna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante San Pietro, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bologna’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Italy.

Continue your lively evening at Kinotto Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mio Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bologna!

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Italy is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Venice for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bologna and set your GPS to Padua. 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 1 hour 30 min. Upon reaching Padua, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to prato della Valle. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 47,576 reviews.

Next up, make your way to The Basilica of St. Anthony. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,852 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Piazza della Frutta. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,397 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Piazza dei Signori, Padua. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,510 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Scrovegni Chapel. This chapel is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 11,849 visitors. Approximately 9,387 travelers visit Scrovegni Chapel every year.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Italy at Venice. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Palanca, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Farini offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Trattoria Dona Onesta is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Venice.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Italy.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Al Vecio Calice after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Italy is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Venice.

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

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Venice is the remarkable Venetian Arsenal. This naval arsenal and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,749 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Venice or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Irish Pub Santa Lucia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Venice and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Italy is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.