12-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna to Milan, Venice, Arezzo, Rome, and Florence

Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Bologna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bologna for 1 night 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.

Bologna 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 Piazza Maggiore or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bologna. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Ahimè in Bologna by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Ahimè delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious country cooking cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at I Portici, acclaimed for its delectable creative and contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Trattoria di Via Serra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for emilian cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Freud e Squisito, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Osteria del Sole offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bologna. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Italy!

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

Take the opportunity to see Two Towers. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 visitors.

Piazza Santo Stefano is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,617 travelers.

Bologna is also the home of International Museum and Library of Music. This music museum gets more than 13,413 visitors on an annual basis. Around 742 people have rated this music museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Milan, 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 Milan.

Discover the culinary delights of Milan by securing a reservation at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Seta by Antonio Guida, renowned for its delicious international and contemporary 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 Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering italian contemporary and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Nottingham Forest, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Armani/Bamboo Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mag Cafe provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Milan for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Parco Sempione. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 72,914 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This library has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,714 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to La Scala. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,219 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This commercial gallery is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 91,394 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Duomo di Milano Museum. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 138,554 visitors. Approximately 341,609 travelers visit Duomo di Milano Museum every year.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Milan, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Milan below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Nero 9, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ristorante la Brisa? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at UNAHOTELS Cusani Milano as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Milan.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Frida for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Friends Pub Milano is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 4 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 Valeggio sul Mincio and Verona. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Milan, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Valeggio sul Mincio. Your travel time is around 2 hours 3 min.

Make Parco Giardino Sigurtà one of your first sightseeing stops in Valeggio sul Mincio. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,387 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Set your GPS to Verona and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Verona beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Verona Arena. This opera house is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Verona, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 123,818 visitors. Around 195,540 people visit this attraction every year.

Porta Borsari is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,387 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to piazza delle Erbe. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,777 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Venice, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

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 it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Al Parlamento, known for its inviting atmosphere. Adagio is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Il Mercante provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Venice. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Arezzo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kick off the day at Rialto Bridge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Piazza San Marco. Piazza San Marco is a square with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 reviews.

St Mark's Basilica is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Doge's Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors. Visiting Doge's Palace means you'll be one of 318,104 people who do so every year.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Arezzo. Arezzo 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 Arezzo. 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 Arezzo by reserving a table at Octavin. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Clandestina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Logge Vasari. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Arezzo this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Liquid Bar is an excellent place to start.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Vatican City. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rome, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vatican City.

Drop by the renowned Vatican Museums. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 133,310 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 1,612,530 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Saint Peter's Square. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 38,954 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Sistine Chapel. This chapel has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 52,083 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is St. Peter's Basilica, drawing over 11,000,000 yearly visitors. This major basilica and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 131,043 local and international travelers.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rome. 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 Rome by booking a table at La Pergola. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sant' Eustachio Caffè is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffè Portofino is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rome. You’ll stay in Rome for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see Colosseum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 328,821 visitors and gets around 7,400,000 visits every year.

Roman Forum is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 114,450 travelers.

Rome is also the home of Campo de' Fiori. Around 51,133 people have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Piazza Navona. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 158,771 reviews, a visit to this square is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Rome is also your chance to admire Castel Sant'Angelo. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 72,431 reviews. Approximately 918,591 people travel to Rome every year to see this attraction with their own eyes.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rome. 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 DEROMA - Farine Romane, an iconic dining spot in Rome. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Taverna Italiana, a popular restaurant in Rome. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Centro, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Apartment Bar Roma, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Hotel Hassler Roma offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Rome. You have 1 night left in Rome. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Spanish Steps. This extraordinary monumental staircase has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 57,211 visitors.

Next, make your way to Piazza di Spagna. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 113,658 reviews.

While in Rome, we also recommend a visit to Trevi Fountain. This sculpture has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 343,494 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 27,678 travelers, this major basilica is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Rome.

Make your way to Circus Maximus, perhaps the most famous circus in Rome. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,741 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rome.

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

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 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 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Altare della Patria. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 49,843 visitors. Altare della Patria welcomes around 1,683,070 visitors every year.

Largo di Torre Argentina is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,433 visitors.

Pantheon is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 30,000,000 people visit this top attraction every year. This roman temple has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 189,682 visitors.

Piazza del Popolo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 89,807 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Villa Borghese. This urban zone of rome has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 69,749 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Manifattura, known for its lively atmosphere. SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Archea Brewery offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Florence has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Florence by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to piazza della Signoria. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Next up is Galleria dell'Accademia. This national museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,429 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Galleria dell'Accademia welcomes 1,719,645 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Uffizi Gallery. This national museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,794 reviews. Every year, 2,011,219 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Ponte Vecchio is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to piazzale Michelangelo. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Trattoria Da Burde, a popular restaurant in Florence. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Florence at Ristorante Buca Mario, 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 Eataly Firenze. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Florence tonight.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence and Pisa, 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 visitors.

Next, make your way to Central Market. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 43,100 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Florence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pisa may take around 1 hour 18 min. Upon your arrival in Pisa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Leaning Tower of Pisa. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 116,882 visitors and gets around 3,200,000 visits every year.

Piazza del Duomo, Pisa is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 104,550 travelers.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Victoria Station offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Trattoria da Me. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bologna.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Senza Nome, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Maurizio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, BrewDog Bar Bologna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Say good night to Bologna and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!

Day 12 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bologna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Italy, take a moment for some retail therapy in Bologna’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Italy, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Italy with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Portici di Bologna. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 101 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cantina Bentivoglio boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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!