7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona traveling west to Bologna, Florence, Venice, and Padua

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 3 vibrant destinations - Ancona, Loreto, and Senigallia. 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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Ancona. Your adventure starts at Lazzaretto Of Ancona, a beloved local hot spot.

Loreto’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ancona behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Loreto welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Sanctuary Of The Holy House Of Loreto, a popular church in Loreto. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Loreto’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Senigallia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in Senigallia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Rocca Roveresca, an intriguing castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bologna by booking a table at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional country cooking menu. For a different flavor experience, head to I Portici, renowned for its delectable creative and contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Trattoria di Via Serra, a local gem known for its delightful emilian cuisine in Bologna. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bologna and Pisa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bologna. Begin your sightseeing with Piazza Maggiore. This impressive public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Two Towers, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

After soaking in Bologna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pisa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 20 min. When you arrive in Pisa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a world-famous monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa and admire its stunning features. When you’re ready, continue to Knights' Square, an often recommended public square beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Florence by securing a reservation at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of italian contemporary cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Santa Elisabetta, renowned for its delicious creative and mediterranean dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering italian contemporary and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Il Vinile is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

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 Florence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Florence includes a public square, an art gallery, a historical landmark, an observation deck and much more! Piazza Della Signoria is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Uffizi Gallery, a spectacular art gallery, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Ponte Vecchio, a standout historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Florence. If you’re looking for more, Piazzale Michelangelo is also an astonishing attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Venice, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Venice, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Local delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Wistèria, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and venetian specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Quadri, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Al Parlamento. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Caffe Rosso, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Adagio provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 5 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 Padua. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Venice is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Rialto Bridge, a globally renowned historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Piazza San Marco, enchanting visitors with its UNESCO world heritage-listed appeal. Continue your exploration at St Mark's Basilica. This church is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Venice at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Doge's Palace. After exploring the palace, head to the popular Bridge Of Sighs. This monument will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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 delicious meal at Veganda, a top-rated dining destination in Padua. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Osteria Ai Scarponi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Padua this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Il Gottino - Wine Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Brutal provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Al Buscaglione offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Padua and Rimini. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ancona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Padua on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Piazza Dei Signori, Padua is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking public square before continuing your journey. Piazza Della Frutta is your next stop. This underrated public square is one of the best-rated sights in Padua.

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 Prato Della Valle. This remarkable public square is a sight to behold.

Set your GPS to Rimini and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rimini beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Arch Of Augustus, a well-known monument that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Ancona. Ancona offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Ancona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Sot'Ajarchi, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood and from the marches menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bontà delle Marche is another top choice with a popular menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Alla Tazza D'oro, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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.