6-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna traveling east to Rimini, Rome, 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 Tombs of the glossators of Bologna or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bologna. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional country cooking menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, I Portici, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Bologna is Trattoria di Via Serra, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant , known for its delicious emilian menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Freud e Squisito, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Osteria del Sole is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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 Rimini. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,952 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Palazzo del Podestà, Bologna. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 202 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Piazza Maggiore. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Two Towers. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Piazza Santo Stefano. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,617 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Rimini, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rimini. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Rimini by securing a reservation at Osteria de Börg. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of from romagna and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Guido, celebrated for its delectable seafood and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Abocar Due Cucine, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Caffè Il Borgo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Primo Bacio città Lounge Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Hobo's. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 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 Rimini and San Vittore. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rome, where you will stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Square Tre Martiri. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 669 reviews.

Continue your journey at Arch of Augustus. This triumphal arch is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,375 travelers from near and far.

Rimini is also the home of Parco Federico Fellini. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,076 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Rimini, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of San Vittore. Your travel time is around 1 hour 30 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Frasassi Caves. This show cave is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 20,728 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Rome. Rome 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rome's best restaurants.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Rome by reserving a table at La Pergola. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Il Pagliaccio, renowned for its delectable creative and innovative 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 Enoteca La Torre, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-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 Rome.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sant' Eustachio Caffè is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffè Portofino also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rome. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Capitoline Hill, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable hill has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,557 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Roman Forum is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 114,450 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Rome is Colosseum. This spectacular roman amphitheatre gets over 7,400,000 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 328,821 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Rome offers an experience you will remember.

Pantheon is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Rome. This roman temple promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.8 out of 5 stars in 189,682 reviews. Each year, approximately 30,000,000 people travel to visit Pantheon.

Lastly, don't miss out on Trevi Fountain. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 343,494 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Florence.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Florence by reserving a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional italian contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Santa Elisabetta, recognized for its delicious creative and mediterranean dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a local favorite known for its delightful italian contemporary and international cuisine in Florence. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning italian contemporary and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Florence. Archea Brewery is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 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 Bologna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like piazza della Signoria. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 66,956 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 reviews.

While in Florence, we also recommend a visit to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,099 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Uffizi Gallery. This attraction gets around 2,011,219 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 travelers, this national museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Florence.

Make your way to piazzale Michelangelo, perhaps the most famous square in Florence. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bologna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to book a table at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a popular restaurant in Bologna. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bologna at Victoria Station, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Trattoria da Me. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bologna tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Senza Nome, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Maurizio, a bar catering to every mood and preference. BrewDog Bar Bologna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bologna’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy. Keep the spirit of your trip to Italy alive with these special souvenirs.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Portici di Bologna. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 101 reviews.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cantina Bentivoglio offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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!