Relaxed 7-Day Italy Road Trip Starting from Bologna to Florence

Your relaxed road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Bologna, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bologna and begin your adventure in Italy.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Arco del Meloncello. This much-appreciated arch is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,755 reviews.

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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Bologna.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bologna’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Italy.

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

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy. Enjoy your first taste of Bologna as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bologna. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Bologna!

When you're ready to see some sights, Bologna Cathedral is a great place to start. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Piazza Maggiore. The square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Two Towers. This tower is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 reviews.

Piazza Santo Stefano is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this square, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Bologna, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Italy.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bologna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a highly-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Victoria Station, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria da Me. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bologna. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Senza Nome offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Maurizio is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. BrewDog Bar Bologna is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bologna!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Italy promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Ferrara and drive in the direction of the city of Florence for some laid-back sightseeing.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ferrara. This drive usually takes around 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cathedral of Ferrara. This much-appreciated church is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,806 reviews.

Next up is Castello Estense. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,340 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Castello Estense welcomes 51,526 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Diamanti Palace. This museum has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,601 reviews.

Piazza Ariostea (Ferrara) is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,421 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Florence. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Italy by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Florence has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Enoteca Pinchiorri offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious italian contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Santa Elisabetta, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and mediterranean cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional italian contemporary and international menu.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Manifattura, known for its inviting atmosphere. SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Archea Brewery provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Italy!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Florence, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 28,544 reviews.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Pitti Palace. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,445 reviews. Every year, around 198,270 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

The Boboli Gardens is another outstanding experience in Florence. Around 25,341 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Italy.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Italy, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Florence.

Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria Da Burde, an iconic dining spot in Florence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ristorante Buca Mario, a popular restaurant in Florence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Eataly Firenze, a hidden gem nestled in Florence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Florence.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Italy!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Florence, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Florence, and meet locals along the way!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parco delle Cascine, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,875 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (FI). This archives has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 23,075 travelers.

Central Market is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 43,100 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Galleria dell'Accademia. This well-loved national museum boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 34,429 reviews. In a single year, approximately 1,719,645 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, David awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a statue, this is a top pick rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,476 previous visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Italy by joining a traveler-approved tour in Florence. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Florence that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Italy more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Florence to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tijuana, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Djària - American Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Buca Niccolini. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Florence. The bars in Florence make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Italy gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Florence. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bologna, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Bologna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Florence behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min. Bologna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, piazza della Signoria is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Palazzo Vecchio. This palazzo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,049 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Uffizi Gallery. This site gets more than 2,011,219 visitors annually. The national museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 reviews.

Piazzale Michelangelo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this square, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

In the city of Bologna, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Italy.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bologna, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cantina Bentivoglio boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ristorante San Pietro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bologna.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bologna’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Italy.

Continue your lively evening at Kinotto Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mio Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Bologna as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Italy is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bologna.

Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Bologna’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Italy, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Italy home with you through these charming souvenirs.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bologna or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bologna and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Italy is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.