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

On day 2 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!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Piazza San Marco. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 visitors.

Next, make your way to St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,439 reviews.

While in Venice, we also recommend a visit to Doge's Palace. Hosting around 318,104 visitors every year, Doge's Palace is one of the best places to visit. This palace has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 24,775 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Bridge Of Sighs. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,223 travelers, this footbridge is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Venice.

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!

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Wistèria is one of the best restaurants for contemporary, and venetian cuisine in Venice. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Quadri. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Venice. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Irish Pub Venezia, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dolce Vita Venezia offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Devils Forest Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 3 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 3 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,745 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Teatro La Fenice. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,677 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,128 visitors. Up to 92,922 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Santa Maria Della Salute. This votive church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,681 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Italy at Florence. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 an outstanding dining experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional italian contemporary menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Santa Elisabetta, known for its delicious creative, and mediterranean cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Florence is Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious italian contemporary, and international menu.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Florence. Archea Brewery is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 4 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!

Take the opportunity to see Piazzale Michelangelo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 visitors.

Ponte Vecchio is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 travelers.

Florence is also the home of Uffizi Gallery. This national museum gets more than 2,011,219 visitors on an annual basis. Around 61,794 people have rated this national museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Palazzo Vecchio. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 19,049 reviews, a visit to this palazzo is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Florence is also your chance to admire Piazza Della Signoria. This must-visit square enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 66,956 reviews.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Florence, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is David. Previous visitors have rated this statue an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,476 reviews.

Galleria Dell'accademia is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This national museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,429 reviews. The attraction welcomes 1,719,645 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Central Market. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 43,100 reviews.

Pitti Palace is another outstanding experience in Florence. Around 23,445 travelers have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 198,270 visitors annually.

If you long for more, The Boboli Gardens is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 25,341 reviews. The attraction gets an estimated 1,719,645 visitors every year.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Italy. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Florence itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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 Florence, 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 Tijuana, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Djària - American Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ristorante Buca Niccolini. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Florence.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Florence and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Florence!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Italy promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Florence and drive in the direction of the city of Bologna for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bologna, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Drop by the renowned Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,544 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,318 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This church has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi). This archives and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 23,075 local and international travelers.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Bologna by booking a table at Ahimè, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional country cooking menu. For a different culinary experience in Bologna, I Portici shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative, and contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Trattoria di Via Serra is known as a top local spot for its delicious emilian cuisine in Bologna. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bologna. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Freud E Squisito is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Osteria Del Sole, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Macondo - Cocktail Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bologna!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Bologna, where you'll stay for 3 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!

Make Palazzo Pallavicini your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,173 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Bologna Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this catholic cathedral every year.

Piazza Maggiore is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

When you’re finished at Piazza Maggiore, the perfect next stop is Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,952 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palazzo Re Enzo. This palazzo is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,072 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.

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 Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, 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 Victoria Station, 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 Trattoria da Me, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Senza Nome, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Maurizio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Brewdog Bar Bologna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bologna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to La Piccola Venezia. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bologna, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,491 visitors.

Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,400 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 15,573 people visit this art museum every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Villa Ghigi. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,035 reviews.

Arco Del Meloncello is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an arch rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,755 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Ducati Museum, perhaps the most famous industry museum in Bologna. This attraction welcomes around 7,600 visitors annually and is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,028 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.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bologna 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 Donatello, a top-rated dining spot in Bologna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Naama Cafè, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Trattoria di Via Serra. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bologna.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure 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 Venice 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Padua, 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 Bologna to Padua may take around 1 hour 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Padua, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Prato Della Valle. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 47,576 reviews.

Next up is The Basilica Of St. Anthony. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,852 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Piazza Della Frutta. This square has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,397 reviews.

Piazza Dei Signori, Padua is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,510 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Scrovegni Chapel. This chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 11,849 reviews. Approximately 9,387 people come to see this attraction every year.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Palanca, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Farini is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Trattoria Dona Onesta. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Venice tonight.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Al Vecio Calice, a top-rated bar in the area.

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