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

Day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Italy is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Trieste and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Miramare / Miramar and the village of Contovello / Kontovel. You’ll stay in Venice for 4 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, San Sabba Rice Mill National Monument And Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,204 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Miramare / Miramar. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Journey into the unknown at Miramare Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable giardino all'italiana has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,372 reviews. Every year, Miramare Castle welcomes more than 79,218 curious visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Contovello / Kontovel, 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 Miramare / Miramar to Contovello / Kontovel may take around 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Contovello / Kontovel, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Bivio Di Miramare Beach. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 364 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Venice. 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 Venice.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Al Parlamento. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Adagio offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Il Mercante, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Venice and visit amazing attractions in Venice, Campalto, and Burano destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Venice. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a great place to start. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,128 visitors. Peggy Guggenheim Collection attracts more than 92,922 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Santa Maria Della Salute. This votive church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,681 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Rialto Bridge. The stone bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 141,666 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Venice, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Campalto. Your travel time is around 9 min.

Journey into the unknown at Parco San Giuliano, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,776 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Burano. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Burano, a remarkable island where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,009 reviews.

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

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 La Palanca, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Farini, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Dona Onesta. 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Al Vecio Calice, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Venice. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Venice. 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 Venice!

Drop by the renowned Teatro La Fenice. This popular opera house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,677 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,174 visitors, this parish church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Grand Canal. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,806 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,745 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Gallerie Dell'accademia. This art museum gets around 210,149 annual visitors. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,950 travelers, this art museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Venice.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Birreria Barbanera, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Irish Pub Santa Lucia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rio Novo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Venice.

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

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

Day 6 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 5 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Venice and set your GPS to Verona. 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 1 hour 25 min. Upon reaching Verona, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Castelvecchio Museum. This art museum gets 35,031 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,854 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Castelvecchio Bridge. This arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,156 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Ponte Pietra. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,284 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Piazza Delle Erbe. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,777 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Verona Arena. This opera house is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 123,818 visitors. Approximately 195,540 travelers visit Verona Arena every year.

In the city of Bologna, 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.

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.

Start 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.

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.

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

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

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Bologna, where you'll stay for 4 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!

Make Bologna Cathedral one of your first sightseeing stops in Bologna. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This fountain is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Palazzo Re Enzo. This palazzo has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,072 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Piazza Maggiore. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 64,523 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Basilica Of San Domenico. This church enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,380 local and international travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Bologna 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.

Exploring the food culture in Bologna 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 Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a highly-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Victoria Station, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria da Me. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

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

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

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

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bologna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,400 visitors. Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna welcomes around 15,573 visitors every year.

La Piccola Venezia is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,491 visitors.

Two Towers is also highly recommended by travelers. This tower has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 visitors.

Piazza Santo Stefano is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 8 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.

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 Bologna, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cantina Bentivoglio beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ristorante San Pietro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kinotto Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mio Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Day 9 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ducati Museum. This industry museum gets 7,600 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,028 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Arco Del Meloncello. This arch has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,755 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Devotional Portico Of St. Luke. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 626 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palazzo Pallavicini. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,173 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Porta Galliera. This city gate is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,185 visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Bologna, 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.

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 meal at Donatello, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Naama Cafè is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Trattoria di Via Serra. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bologna tonight.

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

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

On day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Bologna, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Porta Maggiore. This extraordinary landmark is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,462 visitors.

Next, make your way to Porta Santo Stefano. This top attraction is a landmark with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 854 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Porta Castiglione. This city gate is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,086 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Villa Ghigi. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,035 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Eremo Di Ronzano. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 377 travelers.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ca' Pelletti - Altabella, 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 Corner Bar, 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 I Portici, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 11 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 village of Duino / Devin. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Trieste, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Duino / Devin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bologna behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 59 min. Duino / Devin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Duino Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,428 visitors.

Rilke Trail / Pešpot Rilke is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,022 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Duino / Devin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grotta Gigante. This show cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,534 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Italy at Trieste. 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 Trieste, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a memorable dining experience in Trieste by booking a table at Harry's Piccolo, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Caffè degli Specchi, a popular restaurant in Trieste. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. "life" New Bar Torinese Snc is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, White Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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