12-Day Italy Road Trip from Rome traveling south to Naples, Cosenza, and Province of Salerno

Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Rome and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Rome for 5 nights 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.

Rome 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 Trevi Fountain 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 Rome. 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 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at La Pergola, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Il Pagliaccio is one of the best restaurants for creative and innovative cuisine in Rome. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Enoteca La Torre. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for mediterranean and creative cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sant' Eustachio Caffè, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffè Portofino likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Spanish Steps. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 57,211 visitors.

Piazza di Spagna is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 113,658 travelers.

Rome is also the home of Pantheon. This roman temple gets more than 30,000,000 visitors on an annual basis. Around 189,682 people have rated this roman temple an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Roman Forum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 114,450 reviews, a visit to this square is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Rome is also your chance to admire Colosseum. This must-visit roman amphitheatre enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 328,821 reviews. Approximately 7,400,000 people travel to Rome every year to see this attraction with their own eyes.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Italy that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Rome has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Italy by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Make sure to book a table at DEROMA - Farine Romane, a popular restaurant in Rome. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rome at La Taverna Italiana, 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 Centro. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Rome tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Apartment Bar Roma, known for its inviting atmosphere. Hotel Hassler Roma is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Villa Borghese, a remarkable urban zone of rome where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 69,749 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at piazza del Popolo. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,807 travelers.

Castel Sant'Angelo is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 72,431 travelers and attracting 918,591 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Piazza Navona. This well-loved square boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 158,771 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Campo de' Fiori awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a square, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 51,133 previous visitors.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Rome, 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 Rome below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Tema, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Maccheroni offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RoYaL Art Cafè Roma. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Vatican City. You have 2 nights left in Vatican City. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Harry's Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ristorante Amedeo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, VinAllegro is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rome.

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Italy with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Rome for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Gaeta.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rome and set your GPS to Gaeta. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 18 min. Upon reaching Gaeta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Castello Angioino-Aragonese. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,062 visitors.

When you’re finished at Castello Angioino-Aragonese, head to Gaeta Medievale. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,733 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gaeta. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Piana Di Sant'Agostino. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,307 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cantina e Cucina, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bono Bottega Nostrana - Piazza Di Spagna? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ai Tre Scalini as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rome.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Gaeta. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Naples, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gaeta. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Sanctuary of Montagna Spaccata. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,892 visitors.

Parco Monte Orlando is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,815 travelers.

Gaeta is also the home of ulisse. Around 414 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Naples by reserving a table at Veritas. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional campanian and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Il Comandante, recognized for its delicious creative and mediterranean dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit ARIA, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and modern cuisine in Naples. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Happening cocktail bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Shanti Art Musik Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gran Caffè Gambrinus 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.

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

Make Ovo Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Naples. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,595 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Piazza del Plebiscito is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 58,141 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by San Carlo Theatre. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,015 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Castel Nuovo. A trip to this popular castle is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 28,032 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo. This church enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,437 local and international travelers.

Your discoveries in Naples do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Naples 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 Naples. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at La Lazzara Trattoria e Pizzeria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Trattoria Castel Nuovo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ristorante Amici Miei. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Naples tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Archivio Storico - Cocktail Bar & Wonderfood stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Babette Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gran Caffè Cimmino is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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

Kick off the day at Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,592 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Napoli Sotterranea Percorso Ufficiale. Napoli Sotterranea Percorso Ufficiale is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,274 reviews.

Cappella Sansevero is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This former church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,405 visitors. In a single year, this former church hosts approximately 175,138 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Naples National Archaeological Museum. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,352 visitors. Visiting Naples National Archaeological Museum means you'll be one of 616,878 people who do so every year.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Naples. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Amoroso dal 1876 - Ristorante e Pizzeria Napoli, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vittoria Black & White St. John boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Antichi Sapori Partenopei Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Naples.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Flanagan's Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Parthenope Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Gianni Unica sede dal 1970 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ercolano and Pompei. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cosenza, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Naples, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ercolano may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Ercolano, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Archaeological Park of Herculaneum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,913 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pompei, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cosenza. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 59 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Archaeological Park of Pompeii. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,465 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cosenza, 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 Cosenza, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Osteria San Lorenzo, a highly-rated dining destination in Cosenza. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trattoria Il Paesello, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hippocampus. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cosenza this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, 1930 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Bodega is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. People Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Ravello, Province of Salerno, Morano Calabro, and Amalfi. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Province of Salerno. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria degli Angeli, San Matteo and San Gregorio VII. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,680 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Amalfi, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ravello to Amalfi may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Amalfi, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Villa Rufolo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,456 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Province of Salerno. Province of Salerno 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Province of Salerno. 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 Province of Salerno by booking a table at Re Maurì. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Embarcadero, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vasilico. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Province of Salerno this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hilton Bar e Gastronomia. Alternatively, go to The Black Monday speakeasy TBM, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Dòmo i' vinaino Wine Bar - Enogastronomia provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Caserta, Tivoli, and San Leucio-complex, 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 Rome. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Province of Salerno, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caserta. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Palace of Caserta. This extraordinary mountain park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,840 visitors. Each year, around 296,577 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Giardini Reali - Parco Reggia di Caserta. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,740 visitors.

Set your GPS to Tivoli and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 2 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Tivoli beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Villa d'Este is a great place to start. This giardino all'italiana is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,000 visitors. Villa d'Este attracts more than 139,855 visitors every year.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roma Sparita, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tonnarello offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tigelleria Romana - Bistrot & Cafè. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 Rome before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Rome’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Italy, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Italy home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at 433, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Rome. 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!