12-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona traveling east to L'aquila, Naples, Salerno, Bari, and Pescara

On day 2 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 Ancona, Osimo, and Loreto. In the evening, you’ll end up in L'aquila, where you will stay for 1 night.

Ancona is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Lazzaretto Of Ancona, an increasingly popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Grotte Del Cantinone, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Sanctuary Of The Holy House Of Loreto. This church is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in L'aquila. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in L'aquila by reserving a table at FØRMA contemporary restaurant. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary and creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DECA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Art Cafè L'aquila, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Naples for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Naples, including a castle, a museum, and a cave system. Start your adventure at Castel Sant'elmo. This notable castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Naples National Archaeological Museum located in Naples for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cappella Sansevero. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Napoli Sotterranea Percorso Ufficiale. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this cave system.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Dine in style at Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mercure Napoli Centro Angioino boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Lazzara Trattoria e Pizzeria. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Naples.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Archivio Storico - Cocktail Bar & Wonderfood after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Archeobar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Babette Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Italy. With 2 nights left in Naples, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready for an exciting day in Naples. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a public square, a palace, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Castel Nuovo. This is a well-known castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Piazza Del Plebiscito, a spectacular public square in Naples.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ovo Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Palace Of Caserta, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Giardini Reali - Parco Reggia Di Caserta, a visually striking place of interest in the city.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Naples.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Naples. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Opera Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Trattoria San Ferdinando? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Anonymous Trattoria Gourmet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Naples.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gran Caffè Cimmino, known for its lively atmosphere. Flanagan's Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Napoli offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Naples, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your adventure at Archaeological Park Of Herculaneum. This intriguing archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Lupanare Di Pompei located in Naples for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Teatro Grande. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Archaeological Park Of Pompeii. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this archeological site. Next up is Amphitheatre Of Pompeii, a highly recommended archeological site.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Naples and your accommodation.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Piazza Sannazaro, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Osteria Il Gobbetto offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Trattoria Castel Nuovo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Naples.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Parthenope Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gran Caffè Mexico is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Novecento Wine Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Ravello, Amalfi, and Paestum. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Salerno. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your day with a visit to Villa Rufolo. This interesting historical landmark is a must-visit in the village.

One of the best things about exploring Naples on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Archaeological Park Of Paestum, a well-known archeological site in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Second Temple Of Hera.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Salerno. Salerno offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Re Maurì, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Salerno at L'Unico Drink & Food Salerno, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Hilton Bar E Gastronomia is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Black Monday Speakeasy Tbm, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Dòmo I' Vinaino Wine Bar - Enogastronomia. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Matera, 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 Bari. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Belvedere Di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli. This worthwhile observation deck is a stunning place to see in Salerno. Continue your discovery at Casa Grotta Nei Sassi Di Matera, a breathtaking museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Salerno, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sasso Caveoso. This frequently visited cave system offers an enchanting encounter with Salerno. Next, make your way to Sassi Di Matera to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Palombaro Lungo, an often recommended cave system that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Salerno.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bari. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fabulà Bari, a highly-rated dining destination in Bari. If you're eager to try something different, consider AncheCinema, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Tana del Polpo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bari this evening.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Italy with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bari for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Castellana Grotte, Alberobello, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Bari. Your adventure starts at Castellana Caves, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Trulli Di Alberobello Puglia. This popular historical landmark is known for its gorgeous appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bari's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cala Porta Vecchia. This eye-catching beach offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Lama Monachile is also worth visiting, along with Monumento A Domenico Modugno. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bari.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Cocktail Bar "Numero 75 ", an iconic dining spot in Bari. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Lo Svevo, a popular restaurant in Bari. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mezcla, a hidden gem nestled in Bari. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Steam Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cavanbah Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Piccolo Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bari and Trani. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pescara, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bari today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Parco 2 Giugno. This visually striking park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Di San Nicola and learn what makes this respected church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Porto Di Trani. After exploring the marina, head to Basilica Cattedrale Beata Maria Vergine Assunta. This underrated church is a highlight in Bari.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pescara, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pescara. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Pescara by securing a reservation at Nole. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary and italian cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Estrò, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and country cooking menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Taverna 58, a top local spot known for its tantalizing from abruzzo and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Posa Caffè Pescara, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Mixer, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Temple Bar Irish Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

On day 11 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 Guardia Vomano and Giulianova. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ancona, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Pescara promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Abbey Of San Clemente Al Volmano. This historic church is a highlight of any visit in the hamlet. Then, enjoy Belvedere, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Duomo Of Saint Flavian, one of the hamlet’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its standout features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Santuario Maria Santissima Dello Splendore. This breathtaking church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ancona. Ancona offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Ancona, 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Ancona by securing a reservation at Sot'Ajarchi. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood and from the marches cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Bontà delle Marche boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Alla Tazza D'oro. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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