5-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Venice and Florence and surrounding area
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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, Venice, Florence, and Pisa.
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, 1 night in Venice, and 1 night 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. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Venice, Florence, and Pisa, 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 – Bologna - arrival day
- Bologna - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Bologna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bologna 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.
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 Porta Maggiore or 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 Bologna. 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 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.
Savor the flavors at Ristorante Ciacco, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ristorante Ballarini beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sfoglia Rina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Freud E Squisito is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Osteria Del Sole ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2 – Bologna and Venice
- Bologna
- Venice
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours
- Bologna Cathedral
- Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
- Piazza Maggiore
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
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Dive into day 2 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 Venice. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bologna, featuring a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a historic, a monumental, a grand, a masterful, and a romantic. Start at Bologna Cathedral, a frequently visited church in the city. Then, head to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich monument.
There are many interesting places to see in Bologna and when you are ready for more, go to Piazza Maggiore. This is one of the city’s most extraordinary spots. After exploring the public square, visit the interesting Two Towers. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the underrated Piazza Santo Stefano, an underrated public square in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Venice, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Venice's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Venice by booking a table at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Wistèria, renowned for its delectable contemporary and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Quadri, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Venice. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Al Parlamento. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Caffe Rosso, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Adagio provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 3 – Venice and Florence
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Rialto Bridge
- Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
- Piazza San Marco
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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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 - Venice. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start by visiting Rialto Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo, another must-visit landmark and popular palace renowned for its enchanting features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Venice by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Piazza San Marco. This grand public square is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Doge's Palace also adds charm to your journey, and Bridge Of Sighs wraps up your day with its romantic appeal.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Florence. 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 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Florence by booking a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 4 – Florence, Pisa, and Bologna
- Florence
- Pisa
- Bologna
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 56 min
- piazza della Signoria
- Ponte Vecchio
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
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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 Florence and Pisa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings a charming, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a historic, a symbolic, and a remarkable. The first attraction of today is Piazza Della Signoria. This extraordinary public square is a visually striking place to see in Florence. Continue your discovery at Ponte Vecchio, a visually striking historical landmark with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Florence, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo. This astonishing observation deck offers a history-steeped encounter with Florence.
Pisa’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 19 min. Pisa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Leaning Tower Of Pisa is a globally renowned monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a majestic public square that’s well-regarded in the area.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in Bologna by securing a reservation at Ahimè. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of country cooking cuisine. For another dining delight, visit I Portici, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Trattoria di Via Serra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing emilian menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lime Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Onda Marina By Night. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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.
Day 5 – Bologna - departure day
- Bologna - Departure day
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- Tombs of the glossators of Bologna
- Piazza 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.
As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bologna's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bologna, featuring an instagrammable, a standout, and a grand. Start at Tombs Of The Glossators Of Bologna, a locally appreciated monument in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bologna.
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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