7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence and San Gimignano

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Medieval and Renaissance buildings and structures feature in Bologna, Italy
Photo of panoramic view of Bologna,Italy.
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence and San Gimignano
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence and San Gimignano
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence and San Gimignano
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence and San Gimignano
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence and San Gimignano
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 7-day road trip in Italy! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bologna, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, Lucca, Greve in Chianti, and Gaiole in Chianti.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Italy. You will spend 3 nights in Bologna, 2 nights in Florence, and 1 night in San Gimignano. 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. Ponte Vecchio and Leaning Tower Of Pisa are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, Lucca, Greve in Chianti, and Gaiole in Chianti, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Bologna - Arrival day
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  • arco del Meloncello
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Say hello to Bologna! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bologna for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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. 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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bologna. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in 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 Bologna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Ciacco, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ristorante Ballarini? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Sfoglia Rina as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bologna.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Al Bricco D'oro, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Freud E Squisito is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Osteria Del Sole offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Italy!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bologna
  • More

Drive 3 km, 42 min

  • Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Santo Stefano
  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Bologna Cathedral
  • Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bologna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bologna.

Make time for Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna, a curiosity-inducing art gallery that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Two Towers, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Piazza Santo Stefano. This public square is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bologna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Piazza Maggiore. After exploring the public square, head to the intriguing Bologna Cathedral. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna, a place of photogenic interest in Bologna.

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.

Bologna 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 Bologna.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bononia Cafè, a popular restaurant in Bologna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bologna at Via Con Me, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bologna tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lime Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Macondo - Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bologna. Bar Onda Marina By Night is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bologna
  • Florence
  • More

Drive 118 km, 2 hours 20 min

  • piazzale Michelangelo
  • Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Palazzo Vecchio
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
  • More

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Florence. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Piazzale Michelangelo. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This well-known church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Uffizi Gallery. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art gallery. Next, take your journey to Ponte Vecchio, a timeless historical landmark. Conclude your sightseeing at Palazzo Vecchio, known for its romantic features.

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.

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 lovely dining experience at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a popular restaurant in Florence. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Florence at Di Poneta Novoli, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Caffe San Firenze. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Florence tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Manifattura offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Il Vinile is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Florence
  • Siena
  • San Gimignano
  • More

Drive 121 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Fortezza Medicea
  • Basilica of San Domenico
  • Tower of Mangia
  • piazza del Campo
  • Siena Cathedral
  • Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Italy includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Siena and San Gimignano. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Gimignano, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Florence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Siena. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.

Fortezza Medicea (siena) is an up-and-coming monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Basilica Of San Domenico, a grand church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Tower Of Mangia, a breathtaking monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Piazza Del Campo, a visually striking and truly unique public square. End your sightseeing at Siena Cathedral, a notable church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in San Gimignano. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Piazza Del Duomo and explore the inviting features.

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

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

Head back to your accommodation in San Gimignano and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Italy.

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Day5

Day 5

  • San Gimignano
  • Pisa
  • Lucca
  • Florence
  • More

Drive 193 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • Pisa Cathedral
  • Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Walls of Lucca
  • Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Pisa and Lucca are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pisa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pisa Cathedral, a frequently visited church known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a globally renowned public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Leaning Tower Of Pisa and uncover the details of this historic monument.

Set your GPS to Lucca and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lucca beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Mura Di Lucca, an often recommended historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Piazza Dell'anfiteatro, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ditta Artigianale, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Trattoria Da Burde? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Casa Toscana as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Florence.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar 50 Rosso, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bitter Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Archea Brewery 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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Day6

Day 6

  • Florence
  • Greve in Chianti
  • Gaiole in Chianti
  • Bologna
  • More

Drive 249 km, 4 hours 18 min

  • Castle of Verrazzano
  • Castello di Brolio
  • Capannelle
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Greve in Chianti, San Regolo, and Gaiole in Chianti. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bologna, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Greve in Chianti may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Greve in Chianti, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Castle Of Verrazzano, a frequently visited castle that everyone visiting Greve in Chianti should see.

After soaking in Greve in Chianti’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: San Regolo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 59 min. When you arrive in San Regolo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Castello Di Brolio, a curiosity-inducing castle known for its romantic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gaiole in Chianti may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Gaiole in Chianti, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Capannelle, a frequently visited winery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Va Mo Là, a top-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria dal Biassanot, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Aurum after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Senza Nome for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffè Ristretto is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Bologna - Departure day
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  • Church of the Holy Savior
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Day 7 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, we recommend visiting Chiesa Del Santissimo Salvatore, a photogenic church before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Bologna’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Mister Coffee Bistrò, another premier location with a delectable 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!

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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.
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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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