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

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 Bologna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bologna, including a church, a monument, and a public square. Start your adventure at Bologna Cathedral. This locally appreciated church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna located in Bologna for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Piazza Maggiore. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Two Towers. This monument has a breathtaking appeal. For a change of pace, head to Piazza Santo Stefano. As one of the most often recommended attractions in Bologna, this public square is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lime Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Macondo - Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Padua. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Padua’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bologna behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min. Padua welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Prato Della Valle, a locally renowned public square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to The Basilica Of St. Anthony, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings. Next, explore Piazza Della Frutta, yet another intriguing place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. This enchanting public square is well worthwhile the visit. Lastly, head to Scrovegni Chapel, a notable church you won’t want to miss.

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 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Venice by securing a table at Local. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Wistèria, famous for its scrumptious contemporary and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Quadri, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Venice. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Al Parlamento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Caffe Rosso, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Adagio also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Venice. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Venice is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a gorgeous, a photogenic, a history-steeped, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed! Start at Rialto Bridge, a globally renowned historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Teatro La Fenice, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Piazza San Marco. This public square is one of the city’s most globally renowned 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 well-known Bridge Of Sighs. This monument will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Florence by reserving a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Santa Elisabetta, renowned for its delectable creative and mediterranean 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 Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-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 Florence.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Manifattura, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Il Vinile. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Florence. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Ponte Vecchio is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most timeless places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Uffizi Gallery, an impressive art gallery, known for its romantic 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 Piazza Della Signoria. This enchanting public square offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Piazza Della Repubblica adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, a history-steeped church in Florence.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Ditta Artigianale, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Trattoria Da Burde boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Casa Toscana. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Florence.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar 50 Rosso, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bitter Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Archea Brewery is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence, 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 Bologna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Florence, including a food market, an art gallery, a church, an observation deck, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Central Market. This locally renowned food market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Galleria Dell'accademia located in Florence for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo. This observation deck has a grand appeal. For a change of pace, head to The Boboli Gardens. As one of the most well-known attractions in Florence, this botanical garden is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

Dine in style at Va Mo Là, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Trattoria dal Biassanot boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bologna.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!