5-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling west to Padua and Florence
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Description
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 Trieste, 1 night in Padua, 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 Trieste, 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 Ponte Vecchio, learn more about the unique Leaning Tower Of Pisa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazzale Michelangelo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Trieste, Venice, Padua, Florence, Pisa, and Lucca, 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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Day 1
- Triest - Arrival day
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- Unity of Italy Square
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Welcome to Trieste, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Trieste's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Trieste 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 Unità D'italia, 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 Trieste. 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 Trieste, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Murphy's Meeting Point, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Caffè Tommaseo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Al Barattolo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Trieste.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar G, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar X offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Antico Caffè Torinese. 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!
Day 2
- Triest
- Padua
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Drive 213 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Bridge of Sighs
- Doge's Palace
- St Mark's Basilica
- Piazza San Marco
- Grand Canal
- Rialto Bridge
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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 - Venice. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Padua. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Trieste. Your adventure starts at Bridge Of Sighs, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Doge's Palace. This popular palace is known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Trieste's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St Mark's Basilica. This history-steeped church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Piazza San Marco is also worth visiting, along with Grand Canal. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Rialto Bridge. This timeless historical landmark provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Padua. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Padua. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Veganda, a popular restaurant in Padua. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Padua at Osteria Ai Scarponi, 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 Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C). It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Padua tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Il Gottino - Wine Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brutal, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Al Buscaglione provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 3
- Padua
- Florence
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Drive 226 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- piazzale Michelangelo
- piazza della Signoria
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Florence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the well-known Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, a photogenic church in Padua. Next, go to Uffizi Gallery.
After visiting Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence and Uffizi Gallery, have a stroll along Padua's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Ponte Vecchio. This visually striking historical landmark offers a unique experience. Piazzale Michelangelo is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Piazza Della Signoria, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Padua.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Florence, 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.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Manifattura, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Il Vinile, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 4
- Florence
- Triest
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Drive 567 km, 6 hours 43 min
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
- St Martin Cathedral
- Porta San Pietro
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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 Pisa and Lucca. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trieste, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Florence. Begin your sightseeing with Leaning Tower Of Pisa. This wondrous monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Piazza Dell'anfiteatro, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Florence, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to St Martin Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Porta San Pietro, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Trieste, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Trieste. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Rustiko, a top-rated dining spot in Trieste. If you're in the mood for something new, try Caffè San Marco, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Osteria Marise. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Trieste.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Mast offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Urbanis is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Trieste and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 5
- Triest - Departure day
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- Roman Theatre of Trieste
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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 Trieste 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 Roman Theatre Of Trieste, a culturally significant archeological site before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Trieste’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Il Giulia Shopping Center. 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 Trieste.
Savor the flavors at Caffè degli Specchi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Trieste. 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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