12-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Milan, Venice, Arezzo, Rome, and Florence and surrounding area

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bologna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Milan, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bologna today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Two Towers. This breathtaking monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza Santo Stefano and learn what makes this majestic public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated International Museum And Library Of Music.

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. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Seta by Antonio Guida, known for its delicious international and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Milan is Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious italian contemporary and modern menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Nottingham Forest, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Armani/bamboo Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mag Cafe offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Milan, including a park, a castle, an opera house, a shopping mall, a church and much more! Start your day at Parco Sempione. This serene park is a widely recognized place to see in Milan. Then, wander over to Sforzesco Castle Art Library. If culturally significant sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find La Scala. This instagrammable opera house is a favorite among visitors.

Milan offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii is an astonishing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the shopping mall, don’t forget to check out the romantic Duomo Di Milano Museum. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this world-famous church.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Dessert Bar Milano, an iconic dining spot in Milan. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Radisson Blu Hotel Milan, a popular restaurant in Milan. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante Qui Si Mangia, a hidden gem nestled in Milan. 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 Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Frida, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Friends Pub Milano 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!

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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Milan, including a botanical garden, a stadium, a historical landmark, a public square and much more! Start your day at Parco Giardino Sigurtà. This romantic botanical garden is a well-known place to see in Milan. Then, wander over to Verona Arena. If history-steeped sites excite you, this stadium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Porta Borsari. This standout historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Milan offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Piazza Delle Erbe is a well-known spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Al Parlamento, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Caffe Rosso is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Adagio is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Venice, 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 Arezzo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start by visiting Rialto Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. This enchanting historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Piazza San Marco, another must-visit landmark and world-famous public square renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Venice by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to St Mark's Basilica. This culturally significant church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Venice experience. We also recommend visiting Doge's Palace, a notable palace.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Octavin in Arezzo by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Octavin offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're looking to mix things up, La Clandestina offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Liquid Bar, a prime location for a drink.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

Your adventure starts at Vatican Museums, a wondrous local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Saint Peter's Square.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Arezzo's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Sistine Chapel. St. Peter's Basilica is also worth visiting.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Rome by securing a reservation at La Pergola. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a top local spot known for its tantalizing mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Almalu Trastevere, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rome for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Rome on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Colosseum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site before continuing your journey. Roman Forum is your next stop. This iconic archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Rome.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Campo De' Fiori. This historic public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Piazza Navona and Castel Sant'angelo.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at RomAntica, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Coso Ristorante? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at DEROMA - Farine Romane as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rome.

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

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rome, including a public square, a monument, a church, an archeological site and much more! Start your day with a visit to Spanish Steps. This extraordinary public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Piazza Di Spagna, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rome 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 Trevi Fountain, a wondrous monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Basilica Di Santa Maria Maggiore and Circus Maximus.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel de Russie, a highly-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Taverna Italiana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Parrot Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Apartment Bar Roma, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Hotel Hassler Roma, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Rome. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Rome promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Altare Della Patria. This picture-perfect monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Largo Di Torre Argentina, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Pantheon, one of the city’s most timeless attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Piazza Del Popolo. This enchanting public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Villa Borghese, a widely recognized park, and take a stroll around the area.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Florence. 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 Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Enoteca Pinchiorri delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious italian contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Santa Elisabetta, acclaimed for its delectable creative and mediterranean specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for italian contemporary and international cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Manifattura, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Il Vinile also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Florence. You have 1 night left in Florence. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Florence is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, an art gallery, a historical landmark, an observation deck and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Piazza Della Signoria and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Galleria Dell'accademia, a detailed art gallery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Uffizi Gallery, one of the city’s most widely recognized spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the wondrous Ponte Vecchio. When you're finished at the historical landmark, Piazzale Michelangelo awaits your visit. This observation deck is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria Da Burde, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Casa Toscana. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar 50 Rosso. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bitter Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Archea Brewery, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Florence and Pisa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bologna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Florence is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a food market, a monument, a public square and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Central Market, an instagrammable food market that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, one of the city’s most globally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the wondrous Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Bologna by securing a reservation at Ahimè. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of country cooking cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try I Portici, renowned for its delicious creative and contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Trattoria di Via Serra, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering emilian menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lime Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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