11-Day Italy Road Trip from Venice to Udine, Trieste, Bologna, Rome, and Florence and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Venice and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Venice for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Venice 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 Teatro La Fenice 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 Venice. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Venice by reserving a table at Local. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Wistèria, recognized for its delicious contemporary and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Quadri, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Venice. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Al Parlamento after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Adagio for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Il Mercante is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Venice. You have 2 nights left in Venice. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Drop by the renowned Piazza San Marco. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 152,982 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Doge's Palace. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors, this palace deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Bridge of Sighs. This footbridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,223 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,439 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Rialto Bridge. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 141,666 travelers, this stone bridge is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Venice.

Your discoveries in Venice do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Venice on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As you explore more of Venice, 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.

Dine in style at Cantina Do Spade, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Trattoria Al Gazzettino boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Trattoria Bar Pontini. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Venice.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Irish Pub Venezia after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dolce Vita Venezia for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Devils Forest Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Venice. You’ll stay in Venice for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari. This parish church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,174 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Gallerie dell'Accademia. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,950 reviews. Usually, around 210,149 people visit Gallerie dell'Accademia every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Santa Maria della Salute. This votive church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,681 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,128 visitors. Visiting Peggy Guggenheim Collection means you'll be one of 92,922 people who do so every year.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Venice 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 Venice. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at La Palanca, an iconic dining spot in Venice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Farini, a popular restaurant in Venice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Trattoria Dona Onesta, a hidden gem nestled in Venice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 4 vibrant destinations - Aquileia, Palmanova, Cividale del Friuli, and Casali Lini. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Udine. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Venice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aquileia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, St. Hermagoras and St. Fortunatus, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,197 reviews. Every year, Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, St. Hermagoras and St. Fortunatus welcomes more than 195,000 curious visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Aquileia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Palmanova may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Palmanova, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Main Square (Piazza Grande) is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,868 visitors.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Udine by booking a table at Agli Amici, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional country cooking and modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Osteria al Ponte, a popular restaurant in Udine. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Trattoria Alla Vedova, a hidden gem nestled in Udine. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Udine, Duino / Devin, and Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trieste, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Drop by the renowned piazza Libertà. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,307 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Udine Castle. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,068 visitors, this castle deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Piazza Giacomo Matteotti. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,598 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duino / Devin, 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 Udine to Duino / Devin may take around 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duino / Devin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rilke trail / Pešpot Rilke. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Duino / Devin, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,022 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Trieste, 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 Trieste. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Trieste by booking a table at Harry's Piccolo. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Al Barattolo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Caffè San Marco. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Trieste this evening.

Keep the evening going at Bar X, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Antico Caffè Torinese, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Urbanis, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Miramare / Miramar for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Molo Audace one of your first sightseeing stops in Trieste. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,849 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Revoltella Museum is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,536 reviews. Up to 23,457 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Trieste special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by San Sabba Rice Mill National Monument and Museum. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,204 visitors.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Miramare / Miramar has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Miramare / Miramar offers and add your favorites to your Italy travel package below.

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

Savor the flavors at Osteria Marise, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Caffè degli Specchi beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Trieste tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at coktail bar Trieste | La Preferita, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out "LIFE" New Bar Torinese Snc, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, White Cafe 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 7 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Trieste, 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 Bologna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Cattedrale di San Giusto Martire, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,288 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Civico museo del Castello di San Giusto. Civico museo del Castello di San Giusto is a castle with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,982 reviews. Attracting more than 53,625 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Piazza Unità d'Italia is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 46,036 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Piazza della Borsa. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,409 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bologna. Bologna 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 Bologna.

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.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 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 Bologna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rome, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza Maggiore. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 visitors.

Two Towers is another popular attraction you could visit today. This tower has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 visitors.

Piazza Santo Stefano is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,617 visitors.

Arco del Meloncello is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This arch is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,755 reviews.

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.

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 , 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni. Alternatively, go to Sant' Eustachio Caffè, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffè Portofino provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rome. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Forum. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Rome, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 114,450 visitors.

Colosseum is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 328,821 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 7,400,000 people visit this roman amphitheatre every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Pantheon. Visitors have rated this roman temple an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 189,682 reviews. Pantheon receives around 30,000,000 visitors every year.

Piazza Navona is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a square rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 158,771 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Trevi Fountain, perhaps the most famous sculpture in Rome. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 343,494 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Florence, 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 Florence, 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.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Manifattura. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Archea Brewery, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 2 vibrant destinations - Verona and Padua. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Florence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Verona. Your travel time is around 2 hours 46 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Verona Arena. This extraordinary opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 123,818 visitors. Each year, around 195,540 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to piazza delle Erbe. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,777 visitors.

Padua’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Verona behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Padua welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at The Basilica of St. Anthony, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 38,852 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit prato della Valle. Prato della Valle is a square with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 47,576 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Venice. Venice 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Birreria Barbanera, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Irish Pub Santa Lucia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Rio Novo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Venice tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 Venice before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Venice’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy. Take home a piece of Italy with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Grand Canal. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,806 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Farini, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Impronta offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Osteria Bancogiro.

You’ll then say farewell to Venice. 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!