6-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Venice and Florence and surrounding area

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Italy. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Italy. You will spend 2 nights in Bologna, 1 night in Venice, and 2 nights 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 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 Ponte Vecchio, learn more about the unique Leaning Tower Of Pisa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.

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, accommodations, 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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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bologna - Arrival day
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  • Piazza Maggiore
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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 here for 1 night and explore what to see in Bologna, 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 Piazza Maggiore. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bologna. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 delicious meal at Ristorante Ciacco, a top-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ristorante Ballarini, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sfoglia Rina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

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 6-day road trip in Italy!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bologna
  • Venice
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 17 min

  • Portici di Bologna
  • Basilica of San Domenico
  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Santo Stefano
  • Porta Maggiore
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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 place, which are Bologna. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice, where will spend 1 night.

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Portici Di Bologna. This visually striking street will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of San Domenico and learn what makes this respected church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Two Towers. After exploring the monument, head to Piazza Santo Stefano. This up-and-coming public square is a highlight in Bologna. As your day continues, stop by Porta Maggiore, known for its heritage-rich features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Venice. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Venice, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Local offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Wistèria, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary and venetian cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Quadri, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Al Parlamento, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Caffe Rosso is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Adagio also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Venice
  • Florence
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Rialto Bridge
  • Teatro La Fenice
  • Piazza San Marco
  • Doge's Palace
  • Bridge of Sighs
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Venice are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Rialto Bridge is an ideal stop early in the day. This world-famous historical landmark is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Teatro La Fenice, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Venice 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 Piazza San Marco, a world-famous public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Doge's Palace and Bridge Of Sighs.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Florence is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Florence.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible italian contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Santa Elisabetta is one of the best restaurants for creative and mediterranean cuisine in Florence. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for italian contemporary and international cuisine in the city.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Florence
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • piazzale Michelangelo
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • piazza della Signoria
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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Day 4 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Florence. You have 1 night left in Florence. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Piazzale Michelangelo leaves a lasting impression. This observation deck is one of the most impressive places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Uffizi Gallery, an astonishing art gallery, known for its history-steeped features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Ponte Vecchio. This enchanting historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Piazza Della Signoria and Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Italy. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria Da Burde, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa Toscana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar 50 Rosso, known for its lively atmosphere. Bitter Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Archea Brewery offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Florence
  • Bologna
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Drive 265 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • Central Market
  • David
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Florence and Pisa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bologna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Central Market is must-visit food market and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to David, an interesting statue, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a picture-perfect monument, also available for your discovery today.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional country cooking menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, I Portici, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bologna is Trattoria di Via Serra, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious emilian menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lime Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Onda Marina By Night is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bologna - Departure day
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  • arco del Meloncello
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Arco Del Meloncello. This often recommended monument is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Bologna, we recommend the lively Via d'Azeglio. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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