Relaxed 12-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pisa to Bologna and Venice

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Italy, you’ll explore the area around Pisa, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Pisa will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Italy.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Pisa today. One of the most wondrous attractions included on the itinerary is Leaning Tower Of Pisa. This UNESCO world heritage-designated monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Battistero Di San Giovanni and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-listed church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the timeless Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. After exploring the public square, head to Pisa Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a highlight in Pisa. As your day continues, stop by Parco Regionale Migliarino, San Rossore, Massaciuccoli, known for its eye-catching features.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ristorante Capodimonte Pisa, a popular restaurant in Pisa. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pisa at La Locanda Dei Pisani Doc Pisa, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Baribaldi Pisa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pisa tonight.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Mocambo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Tree, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Chupiteria provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Pisa as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Italy is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bologna for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Italy.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the increasingly popular Mura Di Lucca, a history-steeped historical landmark in Pisa. Next, go to Piazza Napoleone.

After visiting Mura Di Lucca and Piazza Napoleone, have a stroll along Pisa's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St Martin Cathedral. This picture-perfect church offers a unique experience. Guinigi Tower is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Piazza Dell'anfiteatro, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Pisa.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bologna in this laid-back road trip in Italy. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible country cooking menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, I Portici is one of the best restaurants for creative and contemporary cuisine in Bologna. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Trattoria di Via Serra. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for emilian cuisine in the city.

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

Keep the evening going at Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Freud E Squisito, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Osteria Del Sole, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 4 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!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Bologna. Your adventure starts at Palazzo Re Enzo, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. This curiosity-inducing monument is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bologna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Bologna Cathedral. This breathtaking church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Piazza Maggiore is also worth visiting.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Italy. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bologna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bononia Cafè, 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 Via Con Me, a popular restaurant in Bologna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Continue your lively evening at Lime Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Onda Marina By Night ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Bologna as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bologna today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Two Towers. This instagrammable monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to International Museum And Library Of Music and learn what makes this visually striking museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Piazza Santo Stefano.

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.

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 Va Mo Là, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trattoria dal Biassanot offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bologna.

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.

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Italy!

Day 6 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!

Today's adventure in Bologna promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Palazzo Pallavicini. This respected palace is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Chiesa Del Santissimo Salvatore, another inviting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Basilica Of San Domenico, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pappare' - Bologna, a popular restaurant in Bologna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bologna at Mister Coffee Bistrò, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated All'Osteria Bottega. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bologna tonight.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Piratello, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Carlo, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Maurizio provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Italy!

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Italy is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Venice for 4 nights.

Bologna is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Prato Della Valle, an interesting public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find The Basilica Of St. Anthony, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Piazza Della Frutta. This public square is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bologna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. After exploring the public square, head to the captivating Scrovegni Chapel.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Venice. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Italy by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Venice has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Venice by booking a table at Local. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Wistèria, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and venetian menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Quadri, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Al Parlamento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Caffe Rosso, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Adagio also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Venice as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Venice, 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 Venice, and meet locals along the way!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Venice, including a historical landmark, a monument, a palace, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Venetian Arsenal. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bridge Of Sighs, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Venice 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 Doge's Palace, a captivating palace in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St Mark's Basilica and Piazza San Marco.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Italy by joining a traveler-approved tour in Venice. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Venice that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Italy more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Venice to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Venice has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Generator Venice, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nevodi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante La Piazza. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Il Mercante is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Irish Pub Venezia, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Ai Stagneri. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Venice, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Rialto Bridge, a timeless historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Venice, and when you are ready for more, go to Teatro La Fenice. This is one of the city’s most notable romantic spots of interest. After exploring the opera house, visit the locally renowned Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Not far away, you'll also find Santa Maria Della Salute. This church is an inviting highlight in Venice.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Venice offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Osteria Alla Staffa, a highly-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bistrot de Venise, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Corte Sconta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Dolce Vita Venezia, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Tarnowska's American Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar All'angolo is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Italy continues on day 10, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Italy and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Venice and beyond. With 1 night left in Venice, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Cannaregio is a fantastic place you can explore today in Venice. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Venice-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Santa Croce, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Start by visiting Gallerie Dell'accademia, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable art gallery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari, another must-visit landmark and often recommended church renowned for its historic 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 Parco San Giuliano. This enchanting park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Venice experience.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cantina Do Spade, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trattoria Al Gazzettino offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Local. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Venice.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Devils Forest Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Venetico offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook L'archivio, another top-rated bar in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Italy.

On day 11 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Italy. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Italy.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Venice, including a church and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Battistero Di San Giovanni In Corte. This underrated church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cathedral Of San Zeno, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Venice 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 Piazza Del Duomo, a curiosity-inducing public square in the city.

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

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 Pisa, 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 Restaurant -Pizzeria Il Mio Capriccio, a highly-rated dining destination in Pisa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ristorante alle Bandierine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Barrique Cocktail And Bistrot. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pisa this evening.

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 Pisa. The bars in Pisa make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Livorno, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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