5-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling south to Florence and Siena

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Bags included
Hotel
Select dates to customize hotels
Car rental
Customizable
Tours & tickets
Customizable
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

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, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa. 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 Florence, and 1 night in Siena. 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, Siena, San Gimignano, 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!

Read more

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
arco del Meloncello
Piazza MaggiorePiazza Santo StefanoTwo TowersBologna CathedralFountain of Neptune, Bologna
piazza della SignoriaCathedral of Santa Maria del FiorePonte VecchioUffizi Gallerypiazzale Michelangelo
Siena CathedralPiazza del Duomo, San GimignanoPiazza del Duomo, PisaLeaning Tower of Pisa
Porta Maggiore

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Bologna - Arrival day
  • More
  • arco del Meloncello
  • More

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 Arco Del Meloncello 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bologna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Ciacco, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ristorante Ballarini offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sfoglia Rina. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bologna.

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!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Bologna
  • Florence
  • More

Drive 121 km, 1 hour 57 min

  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Piazza Santo Stefano
  • Two Towers
  • Bologna Cathedral
  • Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
  • More

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 Florence. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bologna, including a public square, a monument, and a church. Start your day with a visit to Piazza Maggiore. This top-rated public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Piazza Santo Stefano, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bologna 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 Two Towers, one of the city’s most locally renowned monument. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Bologna Cathedral and Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Florence, 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 Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Di Poneta Novoli offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Caffe San Firenze is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Florence.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Manifattura. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Il Vinile provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Florence
  • Siena
  • More

Drive 71 km, 1 hour 46 min

  • piazza della Signoria
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • piazzale Michelangelo
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Florence. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Siena, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Florence covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a church, a historical landmark, an art gallery, an observation deck and much more! Start your adventure at Piazza Della Signoria. This impressive public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Ponte Vecchio. This wondrous historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Uffizi Gallery, where you can take in its instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo. This awe-inspiring observation deck offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Siena. 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 Siena. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Enoteca I Terzi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ristorante Tar-Tufo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Antica Trattoria Papei. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Siena tonight.

Keep the evening going at Meet Life Cafè, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Maudit Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Impero Siena, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Siena
  • Pisa
  • Bologna
  • More

Drive 298 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • Siena Cathedral
  • Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
  • Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • More

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 Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Siena. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Siena Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most notable places to visit in Siena.

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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pisa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a globally renowned public square known for its picture-perfect features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a wondrous monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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 you explore more of Bologna, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bononia Cafè, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Via Con Me? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bologna.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lime Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Macondo - Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Onda Marina By Night likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Bologna - Departure day
  • More
  • Porta Maggiore
  • More

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, Galleria Cavour. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

Begin your adventure at Porta Maggiore. This is an increasingly popular monument you should not miss.

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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Italy

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.