6-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling north to Milan and Venice

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 Milan, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Bologna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a street, a monument, a public square, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended La Piccola Venezia and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Two Towers, a historic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Piazza Santo Stefano, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Basilica Of San Domenico. When you're finished at the church, Arco Del Meloncello awaits your visit. This monument is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Milan. 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 Milan. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Seta by Antonio Guida, known for its delicious international and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Milan is Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious italian contemporary and modern menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Nottingham Forest, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Armani/bamboo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mag Cafe. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Milan for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top thing to do today is to explore Brera, a must-see neighborhood in Milan. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Milan, including a church, a shopping mall, a castle, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Duomo Di Milano Museum. This world-famous church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Milan 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 Sforzesco Castle Art Library, an impressive castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Parco Sempione.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Milan, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Dessert Bar Milano, a highly-rated dining destination in Milan. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel Milan, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Qui Si Mangia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Milan this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Frida is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Friends Pub Milano ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Valeggio sul Mincio and Verona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Venice, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Milan’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Parco Giardino Sigurtà. This serene botanical garden is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Castelvecchio Bridge, a must-visit monument in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Castelvecchio Museum, a popular museum. For a change of scene, check out Verona Arena, known for its visually striking features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Venice. Venice offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Venice by securing a reservation at Local. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Wistèria, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and venetian 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 Quadri, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 Bologna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Venice on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Rialto Bridge is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring historical landmark before continuing your journey. Piazza San Marco is your next stop. This world-famous public square is one of the best-rated sights in Venice.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit St Mark's Basilica. This history-steeped church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Doge's Palace and Bridge Of Sighs.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bologna by booking a table at Ahimè, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional country cooking menu. For a different culinary experience in Bologna, I Portici shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Trattoria di Via Serra is known as a top local spot for its delicious emilian cuisine in Bologna. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!