Relaxed 12-Day Italy Road Trip from Florence to Bologna, and Venice

Your relaxed road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Florence, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Florence and begin your adventure in Italy.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Central Market. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 43,100 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Florence. 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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Florence.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Caffe San Firenze, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ditta Artigianale. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Manifattura, known for its inviting atmosphere. Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Archea Brewery provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy. Enjoy your first taste of Florence as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Florence, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Piazza Della Signoria, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Loggia Dei Lanzi. Loggia Dei Lanzi is a building with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,089 reviews.

Palazzo Vecchio is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This palazzo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,049 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Uffizi Gallery. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 visitors. Visiting Uffizi Gallery means you'll be one of 2,011,219 people who do so every year.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Ponte Vecchio, a famous deck arch bridge in Florence. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Florence 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.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Florence by securing a reservation at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative, and mediterranean 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 Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local spot known for its tantalizing italian contemporary, and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Italy.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Italy!

Day 3 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This extraordinary church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,544 visitors.

Next, make your way to Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo. This top attraction is an art museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,318 visitors. Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo welcomes 1,287,658 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This church is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 76,359 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi). This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 23,075 travelers.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Florence, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Italy.

Exploring the food culture in Florence 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.

Make sure to book a table at Tijuana, 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 Djària - American Bar, 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 Ristorante Buca Niccolini. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Florence tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Florence and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Italy gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Florence. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bologna, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Take the opportunity to see David. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,476 visitors.

Galleria Dell'accademia is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This national museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,429 travelers. Up to 1,719,645 people visit Galleria Dell'accademia every year.

Florence is also the home of Pitti Palace. This art museum gets more than 198,270 visitors on an annual basis. Around 23,445 people have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is The Boboli Gardens. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from a total of 25,341 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Florence is also your chance to admire Parco Delle Cascine. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,875 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bologna. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Begin 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.

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.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Italy!

On day 5 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!

When you're ready to see some sights, Porta Maggiore is a great place to start. This landmark is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,462 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Piazza Santo Stefano. This square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,617 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Two Towers. The tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting La Piccola Venezia. This sightseeing destination is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,491 reviews.

Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this art museum, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,400 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique. This attraction gets 15,573 visitors every year.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Italy more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bologna offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Victoria Station is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Trattoria da Me. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bologna tonight.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Senza Nome stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Maurizio offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Brewdog Bar Bologna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Italy!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bologna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Villa Ghigi. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,035 visitors.

When you’re finished at Villa Ghigi, head to Basilica Of San Domenico. This one-of-a-kind church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,380 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Porta Castiglione. This city gate is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,086 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Arco Del Meloncello. This arch is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,755 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Ducati Museum. This famous industry museum welcomes around 7,600 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,028 travelers.

Italy makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Italy also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Trattoria del Tempo Buono, 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 Cantina Bentivoglio, 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 Ristorante San Pietro, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kinotto Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Mio Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bologna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bologna. 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 Bologna!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Palazzo Pallavicini. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,173 reviews.

Next up is Bologna Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,852 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Piazza Maggiore. This square has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,523 reviews.

Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This fountain has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Palazzo Re Enzo. This palazzo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,072 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 7 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Italy. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Bologna itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Donatello, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Naama Cafè? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Trattoria di Via Serra as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bologna.

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

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

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Italy promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Padua and drive in the direction of the city of Venice for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Venice, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Padua and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Padua beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Prato Della Valle. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 47,576 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is The Basilica Of St. Anthony. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 38,852 visitors, this church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Piazza Della Frutta. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,397 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,510 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Scrovegni Chapel. This chapel gets around 9,387 annual visitors. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 11,849 travelers, this chapel is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Padua.

In the city of Venice, 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.

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.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Venice.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Al Parlamento stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Adagio offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Il Mercante is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Italy.

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Venice, where you'll stay for 2 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 Venice, and meet locals along the way!

Make Bridge Of Sighs your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this footbridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,223 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Doge's Palace. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this palace every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 318,104 annual visitors.

St Mark's Basilica is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 visitors.

When you’re finished at St Mark's Basilica, the perfect next stop is St Mark's Campanile. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,884 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Piazza San Marco. This square is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 reviews.

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!

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 delicious meal at Cantina Do Spade, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria Al Gazzettino, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Bar Pontini. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

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

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.

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

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lido, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to see Venetian Arsenal. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,749 visitors.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,128 travelers. Up to 92,922 people visit Peggy Guggenheim Collection every year.

Venice is also the home of Santa Maria Della Salute. Around 8,681 people have rated this votive church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Palanca, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Farini offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Trattoria Dona Onesta is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Venice.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Venice’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Italy.

Keep the evening going at Bar Al Vecio Calice, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

Day 11 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 1 night.

Make Rialto Bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this stone bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,745 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Teatro La Fenice is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,677 visitors.

When you’re finished at Teatro La Fenice, the perfect next stop is Gallerie Dell'accademia. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,950 reviews. Gallerie Dell'accademia attracts approximately 210,149 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Grand Canal. This sightseeing destination is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,806 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Florence in this laid-back road trip in Italy. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cibrèo Caffè, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ristorante Le Volte Firenze offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ristorante Romantico il Paiolo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Florence.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Italy. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Italy tomorrow with new energy.

Day 12 of your relaxed road trip in Italy is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Florence.

On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Florence’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Florence is the remarkable Piazzale Michelangelo. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Florence or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Ristorante La Spada, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Florence and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Italy is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.