11-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna to Milan, Pisa, Siena, Rome, and Florence

Say hello to Bologna! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bologna for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bologna 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 Portici di Bologna or 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 Bologna. 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 in Bologna. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bologna by booking a table at Ahimè. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of country cooking cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to I Portici, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Trattoria di Via Serra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing emilian menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Freud e Squisito, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Osteria del Sole offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bologna. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Italy!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bologna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Milan, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Bologna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Milan. Your travel time is around 2 hours 28 min.

Drop by the renowned Two Towers. This popular tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,400 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Piazza Santo Stefano. This square has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is International Museum and Library of Music, drawing over 13,413 yearly visitors. This music museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 742 local and international travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Milan, 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 Milan's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Milan by reserving a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Seta by Antonio Guida, renowned for its delectable international and contemporary dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Milan.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Nottingham Forest, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Armani/Bamboo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mag Cafe. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Milan. You have 1 night left in Milan. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Pinacoteca di Brera, a remarkable art museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,077 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 417 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This library has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,714 travelers.

Parco Sempione is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 72,914 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Arch of Peace. This well-loved monument boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 27,502 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Piazza Gae Aulenti awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a square, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,398 previous visitors.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Milan on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Milan. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nero 9, a top-rated dining destination in Milan. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ristorante la Brisa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at UNAHOTELS Cusani Milano. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Milan this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Frida provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Friends Pub Milano offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Genoa and Milan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pisa. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Genoa, 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 Milan to Genoa may take around 1 hour 58 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Genoa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aquarium of Genoa. This much-appreciated public aquarium is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 62,259 reviews. Each year, 1,200,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

After soaking in Milan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Genoa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 58 min. When you arrive in Genoa, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This commercial gallery is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 91,394 reviews.

Continue your journey at Duomo di Milano Museum. This art museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 138,554 travelers from near and far. Approximately 341,609 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Milan.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pisa.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Capodimonte Pisa, a top-rated dining destination in Pisa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Baribaldi Pisa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant -Pizzeria Il Mio Capriccio. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pisa this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at JEFFER cocktails & friends. Alternatively, go to Le Parisien Wine Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Las Volta cocktailbar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pisa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Siena, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Knights' Square. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Pisa, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,051 visitors.

Leaning Tower of Pisa is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 116,882 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 3,200,000 people visit this bell tower every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Pisa Cathedral. Visitors have rated this cathedral an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,361 reviews.

Piazza del Duomo, Pisa is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a square rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 104,550 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Campo santo, perhaps the most famous cemetery in Pisa. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 586 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Siena, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Siena, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Make sure to book a table at Antica Trattoria Papei, a popular restaurant in Siena. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Siena at Osteria Quattro Venti, 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 Osteria da Divo. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Siena tonight.

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.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Vatican City, 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 Rome. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Upon your arrival in Vatican City, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sistine Chapel is a great place to start. This chapel is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 52,083 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is St. Peter's Basilica. This major basilica has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 131,043 travelers. Every year, 11,000,000 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Vatican City.

We also recommend a stop at Saint Peter's Square. The square has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 38,954 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Vatican Museums. This art museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 133,310 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 1,612,530 people visit Vatican Museums every year.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Rome by securing a table at La Pergola. Esteemed as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional mediterranean and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Il Pagliaccio, famous for its scrumptious creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite mediterranean and creative cuisine in Rome. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for mediterranean and creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni, known for its lively atmosphere. Sant' Eustachio Caffè is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Caffè Portofino offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rome for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Campo de' Fiori. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 51,133 visitors.

Altare della Patria is another popular attraction you could visit today. This architectural structure has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 49,843 visitors. Altare della Patria attracts up to 1,683,070 visitors every year.

Roman Forum is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 114,450 visitors.

Colosseum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 7,400,000 people visit this place every year. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 328,821 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. This major basilica has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 27,678 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Savor the flavors at DEROMA - Farine Romane, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Taverna Italiana beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Centro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rome tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Day 8 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.

Make Piazza Navona your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 158,771 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Pantheon. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 189,682 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this roman temple every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 30,000,000 annual visitors.

Largo di Torre Argentina is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 30,433 visitors.

When you’re finished at largo di Torre Argentina, the perfect next stop is Circus Maximus. This circus is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,741 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo. This museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 72,431 reviews. Castel Sant'Angelo hosts around 918,591 visitors every year.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Italy that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Rome has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Italy by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Tema, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maccheroni? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RoYaL Art Cafè Roma as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rome.

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.

On day 9 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 Florence, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Rome’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Florence. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 4 min. When you arrive in Florence, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Trevi Fountain. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 343,494 visitors.

Piazza di Spagna is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 113,658 visitors.

Spanish Steps is also highly recommended by travelers. This monumental staircase has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 57,211 visitors.

Piazza del Popolo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 89,807 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Villa Borghese. This urban zone of rome has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 69,749 travelers.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Enoteca Pinchiorri delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious italian contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Santa Elisabetta, acclaimed for its delectable creative and mediterranean specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for italian contemporary and international cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Manifattura, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Archea Brewery offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Florence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bologna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bologna. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see piazza della Signoria. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 66,956 visitors.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This church has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 76,359 travelers.

Florence is also the home of Ponte Vecchio. Around 118,099 people have rated this deck arch bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Uffizi Gallery, which hosts up to 2,011,219 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 61,794 reviews, a visit to this national museum is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Florence is also your chance to admire piazzale Michelangelo. This must-visit square enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bologna, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Victoria Station beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Trattoria da Me. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

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

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bologna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bologna’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy. Keep the spirit of your trip to Italy alive with these special souvenirs.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cantina Bentivoglio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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!