5-Day Italy Road Trip from Ancona traveling north to Bologna, and Padua

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Ancona, Serra San Quirico, Senigallia, Bologna, Verona, Padua, and Rimini. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Ancona, 1 night in Bologna, and 1 night in Padua. 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 Ancona, 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. Verona Arena and Piazza Maggiore are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Ancona, Serra San Quirico, Senigallia, Bologna, Verona, Padua, and Rimini, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Ancona - arrival day

  • Ancona - Arrival day
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  • Mole Vanvitelliana
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Welcome to Ancona, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Ancona's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Ancona 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 Lazzaretto Of Ancona 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 Ancona. 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 Ancona. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Playa Solero, a top-rated dining destination in Ancona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zucchero a Velò, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Il Giardino. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ancona this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Posa Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Four Roses, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Amarillo Beer Bar Ancona. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Italy!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Ancona, Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, Senigallia, and Bologna

  • Bologna
  • Serra San Quirico
  • Senigallia
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Drive 325 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi
  • Frasassi Caves
  • Rocca Roveresca
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, and Senigallia, 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 Bologna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ancona, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Serra San Quirico may take around 51 min. Upon your arrival in Serra San Quirico, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parco Naturale Regionale Gola Della Rossa E Di Frasassi. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,515 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, San Vittore. This car ride takes around 13 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Frasassi Caves is a great place to start. This show cave is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 20,728 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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bologna by reserving a table at Ahimè. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional country cooking menu. For a different taste experience, head to I Portici, recognized for its delicious creative, and contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Trattoria di Via Serra, a local favorite known for its delightful emilian cuisine in Bologna. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning emilian foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Freud E Squisito, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Osteria Del Sole, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Macondo - Cocktail Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Bologna, Verona, and Padua

  • Padua
  • Bologna
  • Verona
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Drive 229 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Castelvecchio Museum
  • Ponte Scaligero
  • Verona Arena
  • More

On day 3 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 Bologna, and Verona. In the evening, you’ll end up in Padua, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Two Towers, a remarkable tower where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,975 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Piazza Maggiore. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 travelers.

Set your GPS to Verona and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Verona beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Castelvecchio Museum. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,854 reviews. Each year, 35,031 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Castelvecchio Bridge. This arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,156 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Verona Arena. This opera house has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 123,818 reviews. Every year, 195,540 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Padua, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Osteria Ai Scarponi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C) is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Osteria l'Anfora. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Padua tonight.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Padua, Rimini, and Ancona

  • Ancona
  • Padua
  • Rimini
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Drive 347 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Piazza dei Signori
  • Prato della Valle
  • Arco di Augusto
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Padua, and Rimini. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ancona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,510 visitors.

Prato Della Valle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 47,576 travelers.

Rimini’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Padua behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 26 min. Rimini welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Arch Of Augustus. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,375 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Ancona, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Ancona by reserving a table at Sot'Ajarchi. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood, and from the marches cuisine. Looking for something different? Bontà delle Marche offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ancona.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Alla Tazza D'oro offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Ancona - departure day

  • Ancona - Departure day
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  • Piazza del Plebiscito
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Day 5 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ancona 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 Ancona’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Italy.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza Del Plebiscito. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,631 reviews.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Vino E Cucina Miscia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mixer Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Ancona. 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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