4-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Venice traveling south to Bologna
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Description
Explore the best of Italy on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Venice, Bologna, and Ferrara. This road trip itinerary in Italy seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Venice and 1 night in Bologna. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Italy. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Venice, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Italy on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Italy. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Piazza Maggiore, learn more about the unique Two Towers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Castello Estense.
As you hit the open road and drive through Venice, Bologna, and Ferrara, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Italy. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Italy.
Throughout your road trip in Italy, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Italy.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Venice - Arrival day
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- Teatro La Fenice
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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Venice and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Venice for 1 night 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.
Venice 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 Teatro La Fenice, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Venice. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Venice, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bauer Hotel, a popular restaurant in Venice. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Venice at L'Osteria Le Guglie, 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 Corner Pub. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Venice tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Al Parlamento, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Caffe Rosso. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Adagio, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Venice
- Bologna
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Piazza San Marco
- St Mark's Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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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 Venice. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Venice on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Piazza San Marco is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting public square before continuing your journey. St Mark's Basilica is your next stop. This popular church is one of the best-rated sights in Venice.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Doge's Palace. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Bridge Of Sighs.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bologna. Bologna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Bologna by securing a table at Ahimè. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional country cooking menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit I Portici, famous for its scrumptious creative and contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Trattoria di Via Serra, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite emilian cuisine in Bologna. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for emilian cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Al Bricco D'oro after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Freud E Squisito for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Osteria Del Sole is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 3
- Bologna
- Venice
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Piazza Maggiore
- Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
- Este Castle
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bologna and Ferrara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Venice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Bologna on today’s itinerary. First up is the astonishing public square, Piazza Maggiore. Afterward, continue to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna, a monument every traveler should visit.
As you explore Bologna’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Two Towers. This interesting monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Piazza Santo Stefano, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Castello Estense, a popular castle in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Venice. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. 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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Local delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Wistèria, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and venetian 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 Quadri, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Il Mercante, known for its lively atmosphere. The Irish Pub Venezia is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Ai Stagneri offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Venice and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Venice - Departure day
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- Rialto Bridge
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Day 4 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Venice before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Rialto Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark before you head out.
On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Venice’s popular marketplace, Calle Larga XXII Marzo. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Venice.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Bistrot de Venise, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Venice. 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!
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