5-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona traveling south to L'aquila and Rome

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. 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 L'aquila, and 1 night in Rome. 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. St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican Museums are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Sistine Chapel, learn more about the unique Saint Peter's Square, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Villa D'este.

As you hit the open road and drive through Ancona, Senigallia, Loreto, L'aquila, Rome, Tivoli, and Teramo, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Passetto
Cattedrale di San CiriacoLazzaretto of AnconaRocca RoverescaSanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto
Vatican MuseumsSaint Peter's SquareSistine ChapelSt Peter's Basilica
Hadrian's VillaVilla d'EsteSantuario Madonna Delle Grazie
Piazza del Plebiscito

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Ancona - Arrival day
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  • Passetto
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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Ancona and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Ancona 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.

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 Passetto, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Ancona. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Ancona, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Playa Solero, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zucchero a Velò boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ristorante Il Giardino. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ancona.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Posa Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Four Roses offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Amarillo Beer Bar Ancona. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Ancona
  • L'Aquila
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Cattedrale di San Ciriaco
  • Lazzaretto of Ancona
  • Rocca Roveresca
  • Sanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Ancona, Senigallia, and Loreto, 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 L'aquila. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Ancona, including a church, a museum, and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Cathedral Basilica Of St. Cyriacus. This frequently visited church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lazzaretto Of Ancona, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Ancona on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Rocca Roveresca, an increasingly popular castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Sanctuary Of The Holy House Of Loreto.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in L'aquila by booking a table at FØRMA contemporary restaurant, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and creative menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider DECA, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Art Cafè L'aquila. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • L'Aquila
  • Rome
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Drive 135 km, 2 hours 21 min

  • Vatican Museums
  • Saint Peter's Square
  • Sistine Chapel
  • St Peter's Basilica
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Vatican City. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rome. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your adventure at Vatican Museums. This is a world-famous art museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Saint Peter's Square, a captivating square in L'aquila.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sistine Chapel. From there, take a leisurely stroll to St. Peter's Basilica, another of the city’s timeless attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rome. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Rome by securing a table at La Pergola. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional mediterranean and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Il Pagliaccio, famous for its scrumptious creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite mediterranean and creative cuisine in Rome. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for mediterranean and creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Almalu Trastevere is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Rome
  • Ancona
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Drive 318 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • Hadrian's Villa
  • Villa d'Este
  • Santuario Madonna Delle Grazie
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On day 4 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 Tivoli and Teramo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ancona, where you will stay for 1 night.

Rome is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Hadrian's Villa, an intriguing archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Villa D'este, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Santuario Madonna Delle Grazie. This church is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ancona. Ancona offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Sot'Ajarchi, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood and from the marches menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bontà delle Marche is another top choice with a popular menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Alla Tazza D'oro, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Piazza Del Plebiscito, a grand public square before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Ancona’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.

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

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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