11-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona traveling south to Bologna, Florence, Siena, Rome, Naples, and L'aquila

On day 2 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Ancona and Loreto are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Let Palazzo Degli Anziani set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this stunning palace before continuing your journey. Museo Archeologico Nazionale Delle Marche is your next stop. This frequently visited museum is one of the best-rated sights in Ancona.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Cathedral Basilica Of St. Cyriacus. This stunning church is a sight to behold.

When you’ve had your share of Ancona, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Loreto. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Sanctuary Of The Holy House Of Loreto and explore the picture-perfect features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Bologna is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bologna.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Ahimè in Bologna by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Ahimè offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious country cooking menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore I Portici, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Trattoria di Via Serra, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional emilian menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Al Bricco D'oro offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Freud E Squisito is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Osteria Del Sole is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Bologna and Pisa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence, where will spend 1 night.

No visit to Bologna is complete without Piazza Maggiore. This top-rated public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Two Towers, another must-visit attraction.

Set your GPS to Pisa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pisa beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a world-famous monument known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, an iconic public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Knights' Square and uncover the details of this culturally significant public square.

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.

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 Florence, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Florence by reserving a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional italian contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Santa Elisabetta, recognized for its delicious creative and mediterranean dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a local favorite known for its delightful italian contemporary and international cuisine in Florence. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for italian contemporary and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Italy includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Florence. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Siena, where you'll spend 1 night.

Piazza Della Signoria is an ideal stop early in the day. This impressive public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, which may be one of the most inviting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Florence on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Ponte Vecchio, a world-famous historical landmark in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Uffizi Gallery and Piazzale Michelangelo.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Siena. Siena 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 Siena. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Enoteca I Terzi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ristorante Tar-Tufo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Antica Trattoria Papei. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Siena.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Meet Life Cafè, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Maudit Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Impero Siena provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Vatican City. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rome, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Vatican City, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vatican City. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Saint Peter's Square, a captivating square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Vatican Museums, a nearby art museum, highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rome. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Rome by securing a reservation at La Pergola. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Il Pagliaccio, renowned for its delicious creative and innovative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Enoteca La Torre, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering mediterranean and creative menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Almalu Trastevere, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Ancona. You’ll stay in Rome for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A visit to Trastevere is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Monti as well, a neighborhood that adds another layer to your exploration.

No visit to Rome is complete without Altare Della Patria. This well-known monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Roman Forum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Rome, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Colosseum. This timeless archeological site is a traveler-favorite.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Italy. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at RomAntica, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Coso Ristorante is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at DEROMA - Farine Romane. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rome tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sant' Eustachio Caffè after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Yellowsquare Rome, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Caffè Portofino also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Rome.

Set aside time today to explore Via del Corso, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

One of the most extraordinary attractions included on the itinerary is Castel Sant'angelo. This visually striking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza Navona and learn what makes this enchanting public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the iconic Pantheon. After exploring the monument, head to Piazza Del Popolo. This extraordinary public square is a highlight in Rome.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Italy. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel de Russie, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Taverna Italiana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Parrot Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rome.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Apartment Bar Roma, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Hotel Hassler Roma is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Rome. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Naples, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the wondrous Trevi Fountain and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Piazza Di Spagna, a history-steeped public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Spanish Steps, one of the city’s most extraordinary spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the spectacular Villa Borghese.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Naples, 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 Naples's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Veritas in Naples by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Veritas delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious campanian and contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Il Comandante, acclaimed for its delectable creative and mediterranean 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 ARIA, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary and modern cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Happening Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Shanti Art Musik Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gran Caffè Gambrinus provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 9 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Naples are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in L'aquila, where you will stay for 1 night.

Visiting Piazza Del Plebiscito is always a good idea. This astonishing public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Ovo Castle, a must-see castle in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Naples National Archaeological Museum. This popular museum offers an enriching experience.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in L'aquila. L'aquila offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at FØRMA contemporary restaurant, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible contemporary and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, DECA is another top choice with a popular menu.

Keep the evening going at Art Cafè L'aquila, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 3 places, which are L'aquila, Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia, and Fano Adriano. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ancona, where will spend 1 night.

Castle Park is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Luminous Fountain, a beloved monument, located just a leisurely stroll away.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia may take around 34 min. Upon your arrival in Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St. Gabriel's Shrine, a locally appreciated church that everyone visiting Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia should see.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Fano Adriano, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia to Fano Adriano may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Fano Adriano, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Gran Sasso E Monti Della Laga National Park, a locally renowned national park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ancona. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Ancona is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Ancona.

Start your culinary exploration in Ancona by securing a reservation at Sot'Ajarchi. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood and from the marches cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bontà delle Marche, a popular restaurant in Ancona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Continue your lively evening at Alla Tazza D'oro, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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