6-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna to Venice and Florence

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 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 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.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Sfoglia Rina, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Va Mo Là beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Trattoria dal Biassanot. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

Keep the evening going at Bar Freud e Squisito, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Osteria del Sole, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Macondo - Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Italy!

On day 2 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 Bologna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 1 night.

Venice’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bologna behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min. Venice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bologna Cathedral is a great place to start. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Piazza Maggiore. The square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Two Towers. This tower is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 reviews.

Piazza Santo Stefano is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this square, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Venice, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Nevodi, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ristorante La Piazza, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistrot de Venise. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

Keep the evening going at Al Parlamento, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Adagio, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Il Mercante, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Venice, 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 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Florence. This car ride takes around 2 hours 55 min.

Kick off the day at Rialto Bridge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Teatro La Fenice. Teatro La Fenice is an opera house with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,677 reviews.

Piazza San Marco is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 152,982 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Doge's Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors. Visiting Doge's Palace means you'll be one of 318,104 people who do so every year.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Bridge of Sighs, a famous footbridge in Venice. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,223 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Florence.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Caffe San Firenze boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ditta Artigianale. 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 Archea Brewery, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Galleria dell'Accademia one of your first sightseeing stops in Florence. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,429 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This national museum attracts 1,719,645 visitors every year.

Piazza della Signoria is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 66,956 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Uffizi Gallery and find out why 2,011,219 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular national museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 61,794 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is piazzale Michelangelo. This square enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 local and international travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Florence, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Florence below.

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.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Trattoria Da Burde, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ristorante Buca Mario? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Eataly Firenze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Florence.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Florence and Pisa. 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Florence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pisa may take around 1 hour 18 min. Upon your arrival in Pisa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Central Market. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 43,100 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Florence, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pisa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Leaning Tower of Pisa. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 116,882 visitors. Leaning Tower of Pisa welcomes around 3,200,000 visitors every year.

Piazza del Duomo, Pisa is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 104,550 visitors.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bologna's best restaurants.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, an iconic dining spot in Bologna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Victoria Station, a popular restaurant in Bologna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Trattoria da Me, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Senza Nome, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Maurizio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, BrewDog Bar Bologna provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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.

Day 6 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. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Italy, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Italy home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cantina Bentivoglio, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!