Relaxed 11-Day Italy Road Trip from Trieste to Venice, and Bologna

Your relaxed road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Trieste, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Trieste and begin your adventure in Italy.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Molo Audace. This landmark is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,849 reviews.

Find your way to your hotel in Trieste. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Trieste.

Savor the flavors at Caffè Tommaseo, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Al Barattolo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Caffè San Marco. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Trieste tonight.

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

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

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 Trieste as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Italy is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Trieste and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Miramare / Miramar and the city of Venice. You’ll stay in Venice for 4 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Cattedrale Di San Giusto Martire. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,288 visitors.

Roman Theatre Of Trieste is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This archaeological site has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,576 travelers.

Trieste is also the home of Piazza Della Borsa. Around 4,409 people have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Piazza Unità D'italia. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 46,036 reviews, a visit to this square is a great idea.

When you’ve had your share of Trieste, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Miramare / Miramar. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Journey into the unknown at Miramare Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable giardino all'italiana has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,372 reviews. Every year, Miramare Castle welcomes more than 79,218 curious visitors.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Venice by booking a table at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Wistèria, renowned for its delectable contemporary, and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Quadri, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Venice. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Al Parlamento, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Adagio, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Il Mercante likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Venice, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Make Piazza San Marco one of your first sightseeing stops in Venice. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 152,982 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

St Mark's Campanile is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This bell tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,884 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Doge's Palace and find out why 318,104 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular palace is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 24,775 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Bridge Of Sighs. This footbridge enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 local and international travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 3 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Italy. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Venice itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cantina Do Spade, a top-rated dining spot in Venice. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria Al Gazzettino, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Trattoria Bar Pontini. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Venice.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Irish Pub Venezia, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dolce Vita Venezia is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Devils Forest Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Italy. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Italy tomorrow with new energy.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Venetian Arsenal. This much-appreciated naval arsenal is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,749 reviews.

Next up is Teatro La Fenice. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,677 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. This point of interest has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,745 reviews.

Grand Canal is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,806 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Italy.

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.

Make sure to book a table at La Palanca, a popular restaurant in Venice. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Venice at Farini, 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 Trattoria Dona Onesta. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Venice tonight.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Al Vecio Calice, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Day 5 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!

Journey into the unknown at Gallerie Dell'accademia, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,950 reviews. Every year, Gallerie Dell'accademia welcomes more than 210,149 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a recommended place to visit. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,128 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 92,922 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Venice is Santa Maria Della Salute. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,681 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Venice offers an experience you will remember.

Punta Della Dogana - Pinault Collection is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Venice. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,371 reviews.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Venice, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Italy.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Birreria Barbanera, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub Santa Lucia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rio Novo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

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

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

Day 6 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 4 nights. 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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Rialto Bridge. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 141,666 visitors.

When you’re finished at Rialto Bridge, head to Ca' Pesaro International Gallery Of Modern Art. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,185 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Grassi Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,160 visitors.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Freud E Squisito. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Osteria Del Sole offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Macondo - Cocktail Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip 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.

Kick off the day at Palazzo D'accursio, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palazzo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 969 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Bologna Cathedral. Bologna Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,852 reviews.

Piazza Maggiore is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,952 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Palazzo Re Enzo, a famous palazzo in Bologna. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,072 travelers.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a top-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Victoria Station, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria da Me. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars 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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Bologna 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 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Bologna, 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 Bologna, and meet locals along the way!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Palazzo Pallavicini. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,173 reviews.

Two Towers is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,975 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Piazza Santo Stefano. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

Porta Maggiore is another outstanding experience in Bologna. Around 1,462 travelers have rated this landmark an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Porta Santo Stefano is not far away. This landmark is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 854 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.

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 Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cantina Bentivoglio is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ristorante San Pietro. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bologna 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 Bologna. The bars in Bologna make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kinotto Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mio Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bologna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bologna. 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 Bologna!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Porta Galliera. This extraordinary city gate is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,185 visitors.

Next, make your way to La Piccola Venezia. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,491 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna. Hosting 15,573 visitors every year, Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna is one of the most popular places to visit in Bologna. This art museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,400 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Botanical Garden And Herbarium. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 680 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Villa Ghigi. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,035 travelers.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Donatello, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Naama Cafè beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Trattoria di Via Serra. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

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

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

Day 10 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 Basilica Of San Domenico. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,380 reviews.

Continue your journey at Porta Castiglione. This city gate is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,086 travelers from near and far.

Bologna is also the home of Arco Del Meloncello. This arch has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,755 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Ducati Museum. A total of 7,600 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,028 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Trieste in this laid-back road trip in Italy. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Trieste.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Harry's Piccolo, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Trieste at Caffè degli Specchi, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, "life" New Bar Torinese Snc is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. White Cafe is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 11 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 Trieste.

On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Trieste’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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 Trieste is the remarkable Giants' Stairway. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 955 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Trieste or just grab something light to keep you going.

Dine in style at Chimera di Bacco, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sbecolez Trieste boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Trieste and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Italy is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.