7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling west to Milan, Genoa, and Florence

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bologna. You’ll stay in Bologna for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bologna, including a church, a public square, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Basilica Of San Domenico. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Piazza Santo Stefano, which may be one of the most symbolic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bologna 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 Two Towers, a notable monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Piazza Maggiore and Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna.

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.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Bologna by securing a reservation at Ahimè. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of country cooking cuisine. For another dining delight, visit I Portici, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary 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 Trattoria di Via Serra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing emilian menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lime Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Macondo - Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Onda Marina By Night provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Verona, 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 Milan. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Bologna includes a museum, a monument, a stadium, a public square and much more! Castelvecchio Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Castelvecchio Bridge, a captivating monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Verona Arena, an enchanting stadium, also available for your discovery today.

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

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Seta by Antonio Guida is one of the best restaurants for international and contemporary cuisine in Milan. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for italian contemporary and modern cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Nottingham Forest, known for its lively atmosphere. Armani/bamboo Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mag Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Milan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Genoa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Duomo Di Milano Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, another must-visit landmark and impressive shopping mall renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Milan by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to La Scala. This historic opera house is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Milan experience. We also recommend visiting Sforzesco Castle Art Library, a top-rated castle. Nearby, you'll also find Parco Sempione, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Genoa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a symphony of flavors at San Giorgio in Genoa by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, San Giorgio delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and ligurian cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at The Cook, acclaimed for its delectable modern 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 Il Marin, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for seafood and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Scurreria Beer & Bagel, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Lepre is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Pisacane Iii ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 5 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 Genoa and Pisa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Genoa, including a public square, an aquarium, and a monument. Start your day at Piazza De Ferrari. This enchanting public square is a popular place to see in Genoa. Then, wander over to Aquarium Of Genoa. If instagrammable sites excite you, this aquarium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. This symbolic public square is a favorite among visitors.

Genoa offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Leaning Tower Of Pisa is a world-famous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Florence by booking a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Manifattura after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Il Vinile also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Say good night to Florence and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Florence. 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Florence today. One of the most extraordinary attractions included on the itinerary is Piazza Della Signoria. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore and learn what makes this enchanting church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the wondrous Ponte Vecchio. After exploring the historical landmark, head to Uffizi Gallery. This impressive art gallery is a highlight in Florence. As your day continues, stop by Piazzale Michelangelo, 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 Bologna. Bologna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Bologna, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Va Mo Là, a top-rated dining spot in Bologna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria dal Biassanot, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bologna.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Aurum, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Senza Nome. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Caffè Ristretto, another top-rated place in the area.

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