5-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling north to Venice and Milan

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Explore the best of Italy on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bologna, Venice, Verona, and Milan. 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 Bologna, 1 night in Venice, and 1 night in Milan. 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. Marvel at the remarkable Duomo Di Milano Museum, learn more about the unique Verona Arena, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Venice, Verona, and Milan, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Portici di Bologna
Piazza MaggioreFountain of Neptune, BolognaBologna CathedralTwo TowersPiazza Santo Stefano
Rialto BridgePiazza San MarcoDoge's PalaceVerona Arena
Duomo di MilanoGalleria Vittorio Emanuele IILa ScalaCastello SforzescoSempione Park
Tombs of the glossators of Bologna

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bologna - Arrival day
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  • Portici di Bologna
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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 Portici Di Bologna, 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 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. 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Al Bricco D'oro, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Freud E Squisito is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Osteria Del Sole also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bologna
  • Venice
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours

  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
  • Bologna Cathedral
  • 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.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Bologna on today’s itinerary. First up is the extraordinary 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 Bologna Cathedral. This underrated church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Two Towers, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Piazza Santo Stefano, a frequently visited public square in the city.

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

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Wistèria is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and venetian cuisine in Venice. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Quadri. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Al Parlamento, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Caffe Rosso provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Adagio offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Venice
  • Milan
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Drive 277 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Rialto Bridge
  • Piazza San Marco
  • Doge's Palace
  • Verona Arena
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Venice and Verona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Milan. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Venice. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a public square, a palace, a stadium and much more! Begin your adventure at Rialto Bridge. This is an iconic historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Piazza San Marco, an iconic public square in Venice.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Doge's Palace. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Verona Arena, another of the city’s timeless attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Milan, 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 Milan, 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 Milan by reserving a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Seta by Antonio Guida, renowned for its delectable international and contemporary dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Milan.

Continue your lively evening at Nottingham Forest, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Armani/bamboo Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mag Cafe ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Milan
  • Bologna
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Duomo di Milano
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • La Scala
  • Castello Sforzesco
  • Sempione Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Milan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bologna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Milan is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a shopping mall, an opera house, a castle, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Duomo Di Milano Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, a romantic shopping mall that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to La Scala, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the extraordinary Sforzesco Castle Art Library. When you're finished at the castle, Parco Sempione awaits your visit. This park is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Ahimè in Bologna by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Ahimè delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious country cooking cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at I Portici, acclaimed for its delectable creative and contemporary 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 Trattoria di Via Serra, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for emilian cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lime Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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 5

Day 5

  • Bologna - Departure day
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  • Tombs of the glossators of Bologna
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Tombs Of The Glossators Of Bologna, a culturally significant monument before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Va Mo Là, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trattoria dal Biassanot offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia.

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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