13-Day Italy Road Trip from Rimini traveling south to Bologna, Milan, Parma, Florence, Rome, and L'aquila

On day 2 of your road trip in Italy, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Rimini, and Viserbella. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Castel Sismondo. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,286 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rimini and set your GPS to Viserbella. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Viserbella, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Europa In Miniatura. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,912 visitors.

Next, make your way to Italia In Miniatura. This top attraction is a miniature park with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,510 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bologna. Bologna offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Ahimè in Bologna by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Ahimè delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious country cooking cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at I Portici, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Trattoria di Via Serra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for emilian cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Freud E Squisito, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Osteria Del Sole offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bologna. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Bologna, 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 Milan. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bologna Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bologna, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 visitors.

Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Piazza Maggiore. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,523 reviews.

Two Towers is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a tower rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,975 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Piazza Santo Stefano, perhaps the most famous square in Bologna. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,617 travelers.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Milan by booking a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Milan, Seta by Antonio Guida shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious international, and contemporary cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia is known as a top local spot for its delicious italian contemporary, and modern cuisine in Milan. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Nottingham Forest. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Armani/bamboo Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mag Cafe, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Duomo Di Milano Museum. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 138,554 visitors. Each year, around 341,609 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii. This commercial gallery is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 91,394 reviews.

While in Milan, we also recommend a visit to La Scala. This opera house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,219 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Sforzesco Castle Art Library. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 68,714 travelers, this library is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Milan.

Make your way to Parco Sempione, perhaps the most famous park in Milan. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 72,914 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Parma, 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 Parma. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Parma by reserving a table at I Tri Siochètt. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional emilian menu. For a different taste experience, head to Inkiostro, recognized for its delicious creative, and contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Gianni, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Peter Pan Wine Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gazebo Di Nottingham -cocktail Bar- 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pisa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Pisa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pisa beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Knights' Square, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,051 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Leaning Tower Of Pisa. This bell tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 116,882 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 3,200,000 people visit it every year.

Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 104,550 travelers, 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 Pisa Cathedral. This well-loved cathedral boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 8,361 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional italian contemporary menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Santa Elisabetta, known for its delicious creative, and mediterranean cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Florence is Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious italian contemporary, and international menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Manifattura. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Archea Brewery provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Florence. You have 2 nights left in Florence. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Kick off the day at Piazzale Michelangelo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Uffizi Gallery. Uffizi Gallery is a national museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,794 reviews. Attracting more than 2,011,219 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Ponte Vecchio is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Piazza Della Signoria. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, a famous church in Florence. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 76,359 travelers.

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

As you explore more of Florence, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Trattoria Da Burde, a highly-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ristorante Buca Mario, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Eataly Firenze. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Journey into the unknown at Galleria Dell'accademia, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable national museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,429 reviews. Every year, Galleria Dell'accademia welcomes more than 1,719,645 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Central Market is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 43,100 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Florence is The Boboli Gardens. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 25,341 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Florence offers an experience you will remember.

Siena’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Florence behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. Siena welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Siena Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this domus an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 21,656 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Piazza Del Campo. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 64,175 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tijuana, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Djària - American Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ristorante Buca Niccolini. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Florence.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Tivoli, and Vatican City. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rome, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Tivoli’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Florence behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 7 min. Tivoli welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Villa D'este. This extraordinary giardino all'italiana is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,000 visitors. Each year, around 139,855 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Fontana Dell'ovato (o Di Tivoli). This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 176 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vatican City, 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 Tivoli to Vatican City may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vatican City, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Saint Peter's Square, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,954 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, St. Peter's Basilica is a recommended place to visit. This major basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 131,043 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 11,000,000 visitors per year.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Rome by booking a table at La Pergola. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean, and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative, and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing mediterranean, and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rome. You’ll stay in Rome for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Castel Sant'angelo one of your first sightseeing stops in Rome. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 72,431 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This museum attracts 918,591 visitors every year.

Circus Maximus is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This circus is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,741 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Campo De' Fiori. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 51,133 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Piazza Navona. 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 158,771 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Piazza Del Popolo. This square enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,807 local and international travelers.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at DEROMA - Farine Romane, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Taverna Italiana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Centro. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rome tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Apartment Bar Roma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Hotel Hassler Roma offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rome.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Pantheon. This much-appreciated roman temple is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 189,682 reviews. Each year, 30,000,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Largo Di Torre Argentina. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,433 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Altare Della Patria. This architectural structure has been rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 49,843 reviews. Every year, 1,683,070 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Trevi Fountain is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This sculpture has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 343,494 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Basilica Di Santa Maria Maggiore. This major basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 27,678 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Rome on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

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.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in Italy, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Rome. In the evening, you’ll end up in L'aquila, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Roman Forum is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 114,450 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Colosseum. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 328,821 travelers. Every year, 7,400,000 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Rome.

We also recommend a stop at Piazza Di Spagna. The square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 113,658 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Spanish Steps. This monumental staircase is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 57,211 reviews.

Villa Borghese is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this urban zone of rome, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 69,749 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in L'aquila. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in L'aquila by reserving a table at FØRMA contemporary restaurant. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary, and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? DECA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in L'aquila.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Art Cafè L'aquila, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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