5-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence

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Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in Italy as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bologna, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, and San Gimignano.

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 Bologna and 2 nights in Florence. 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 Bologna, 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. Ponte Vecchio and Leaning Tower Of Pisa are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, learn more about the unique Piazzale Michelangelo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, and San Gimignano, 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
Piazza Maggiore
piazzale MichelangeloUffizi GalleryPonte VecchioCathedral of Santa Maria del Fiorepiazza della Signoria
Piazza del Duomo, PisaPisa CathedralLeaning Tower of PisaGuinigi TowerPiazza dell'Anfiteatro
Fortezza Mediceapiazza del CampoSiena CathedralPiazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
Porta Maggiore

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bologna - Arrival day
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  • Piazza Maggiore
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Say hello to Bologna! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bologna for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bologna 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 Piazza Maggiore or 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 Bologna. 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 Bologna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ristorante Ciacco, a popular restaurant in Bologna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bologna at Ristorante Ballarini, 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 Sfoglia Rina. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bologna tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Al Bricco D'oro, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Freud E Squisito is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Osteria Del Sole offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bologna
  • Florence
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Drive 117 km, 2 hours 10 min

  • piazzale Michelangelo
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
  • piazza della Signoria
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Florence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Bologna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Florence. Your travel time is around 1 hour 30 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Piazzale Michelangelo. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Uffizi Gallery. This extraordinary art gallery is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Ponte Vecchio. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, continue your journey to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, an impressive church. End your day at Piazza Della Signoria, known for its noteworthy features.

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.

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

Dine in style at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Di Poneta Novoli boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Caffe San Firenze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Florence.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Manifattura stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Il Vinile is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Florence
  • Pisa
  • Lucca
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Drive 199 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
  • Pisa Cathedral
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Guinigi Tower
  • Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Pisa and Lucca. You still have 1 night left in Florence.

Set your GPS to Pisa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 16 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 self-guided tour starts at Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a globally renowned public square that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Pisa Cathedral and admire its UNESCO world heritage-designated features. When you’re ready, continue to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a globally renowned monument beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lucca, 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 Pisa to Lucca may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucca, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Guinigi Tower, an underrated monument that everyone visiting Lucca should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Piazza Dell'anfiteatro. This romantic public square is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

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

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

Dine in style at Ditta Artigianale, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Trattoria Da Burde boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Casa Toscana. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Florence.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar 50 Rosso, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bitter Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Florence. Archea Brewery is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Florence
  • Siena
  • Bologna
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Drive 271 km, 4 hours 19 min

  • Fortezza Medicea
  • piazza del Campo
  • Siena Cathedral
  • Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Siena and San Gimignano. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bologna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Siena, 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 Florence to Siena may take around 1 hour 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Siena, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Fortezza Medicea (siena), a frequently visited monument known for its picture-perfect features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Piazza Del Campo, a spectacular public square that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Siena Cathedral and uncover the details of this inviting church.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in San Gimignano. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Piazza Del Duomo, an underrated public square that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bononia Cafè, a top-rated dining spot in Bologna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Via Con Me, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bologna.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lime Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Macondo - Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Onda Marina By Night is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bologna - Departure day
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  • Porta Maggiore
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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 Bologna 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 Bologna’s shopping center, the lively Via d'Azeglio. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Italy. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bologna today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Porta Maggiore. This heritage-rich monument will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Trattoria dal Biassanot, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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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