Relaxed 11-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Venice and Florence

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

Today’s itinerary in Bologna covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a museum, and a monument. Start your adventure at Piazza Santo Stefano. This increasingly popular public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of International Museum And Library Of Music, a must-see museum 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 Two Towers. This popular monument offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Bologna as you explore Via d'Azeglio. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and high-end shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Via d'Azeglio offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

Exploring the food culture in Bologna 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Bologna by securing a reservation at Ahimè. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of country cooking cuisine. For another dining delight, visit I Portici, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Trattoria di Via Serra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing emilian menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lime Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Macondo - Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Onda Marina By Night offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Italy promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Padua and drive in the direction of the city of Venice for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Venice, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bologna allows for both. Start by heading to Prato Della Valle. This well-known public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover The Basilica Of St. Anthony, a heritage-rich church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza Della Frutta, an intriguing public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. Round off your day at Scrovegni Chapel, another gem in Bologna with picture-perfect features to discover.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Venice 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Venice by securing a table at Local. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Wistèria, famous for its scrumptious contemporary and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Quadri, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Venice. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Venice.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Al Parlamento. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Caffe Rosso offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Adagio, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Venice. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Venice. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Venice!

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Venice. Begin your sightseeing with Bridge Of Sighs. This notable monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Doge's Palace, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Venice, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to St Mark's Basilica. This locally renowned church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St Mark's Campanile, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Piazza San Marco is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Italy by joining a traveler-approved tour in Venice. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Venice that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Italy more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Venice to find the best options for you!

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.

Savor the flavors at Generator Venice, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Nevodi beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ristorante La Piazza. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Venice tonight.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Il Mercante, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Irish Pub Venezia is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Ai Stagneri is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Italy!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Venice, 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 Venice, and meet locals along the way!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Venice. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Venice. Next, head to Gallerie Dell'accademia, a curiosity-inducing art gallery, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This remarkable art gallery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Santa Maria Della Salute. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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 Venice, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Osteria Alla Staffa, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bistrot de Venise offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Corte Sconta. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Venice.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dolce Vita Venezia after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Tarnowska's American Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar All'angolo is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Italy!

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Italy is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Florence for 4 nights.

Today’s agenda in Venice includes a historical landmark, a palace, and an opera house. Rialto Bridge is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo, an interesting palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Teatro La Fenice, a picture-perfect opera house, also available for your discovery today.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Florence. 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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional italian contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Santa Elisabetta, known for its delicious creative and mediterranean cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Florence is Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious italian contemporary and international menu.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the evening going at Manifattura, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Il Vinile, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Florence as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Florence allows for both. Start by heading to Ponte Vecchio. This wondrous historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Uffizi Gallery, a romantic art gallery, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Palazzo Vecchio, a notable palace. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Fountain Of Neptune. Round off your day at Piazza Della Signoria, another gem in Florence with grand features to discover.

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, Florence has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ditta Artigianale, a highly-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trattoria Da Burde, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa Toscana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar 50 Rosso stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bitter 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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Italy!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Florence. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Florence. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Florence!

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Florence is Oltrarno. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the impressive Piazzale Michelangelo, a respected observation deck in Florence. Next, go to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence.

After visiting Piazzale Michelangelo and Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, have a stroll along Florence's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Pitti Palace. This romantic palace offers a unique experience. The Boboli Gardens is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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 Florence, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Agricola Toscana, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Eataly Firenze. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Florence and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Gosh*, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Quelo Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Florence as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Florence, 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 Florence, and meet locals along the way!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Giotto's Bell Tower. This underrated monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Brunelleschi's Dome, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Florence. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Galleria Dell'accademia. Wander around and soak in the detailed atmosphere this art gallery offers. Then, head to David, a top-rated statue that adds another dimension to your day.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Italy by joining a traveler-approved tour in Florence. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Florence that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Italy more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Florence to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Tijuana, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Djària - American Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Florence Irish Pub. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Florence tonight.

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 Florence. The bars in Florence make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Italy is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bologna for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Italy.

Florence is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Strozzi Palace Mantua, an underrated palace that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi), enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Basilica Of San Lorenzo. This church is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Florence at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Central Market.

In the city of Bologna, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Italy.

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 Bologna.

Make sure to reserve a table at Va Mo Là, 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 Trattoria dal Biassanot, 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 Enoteca da Lucia, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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