7-Day Italy Road Trip from Venice traveling south to Florence and Bologna

Say hello to Venice! 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 Venice for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Venice 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 Venetian Arsenal or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Venice. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Nevodi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ristorante La Piazza is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistrot de Venise. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Venice tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Al Parlamento. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Adagio offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Il Mercante, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Venice has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Venice by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, St Mark's Basilica is a great place to start. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Piazza San Marco. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Doge's Palace. This site gets more than 318,104 visitors annually. The palace has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Bridge of Sighs. This footbridge is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Italy that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Venice has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Italy by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cantina Do Spade, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trattoria Al Gazzettino offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Trattoria Bar Pontini. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Venice.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Irish Pub Venezia, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dolce Vita Venezia. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Devils Forest Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 3 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Venice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Florence. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,745 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Teatro La Fenice. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,677 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this opera house every year.

Gallerie dell'Accademia is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,950 visitors. Up to 210,149 travelers come to Venice every year to see Gallerie dell'Accademia with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Gallerie dell'Accademia, the perfect next stop is Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,128 reviews. Peggy Guggenheim Collection attracts approximately 92,922 visitors annually.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Caffe San Firenze, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ditta Artigianale. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Manifattura, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Archea Brewery offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Florence for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to piazzale Michelangelo. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,544 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to piazza della Signoria. This square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 66,956 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Uffizi Gallery. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 visitors. Visiting Uffizi Gallery means you'll be one of 2,011,219 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 visitors.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Florence on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Florence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay 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 24 min. Bologna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 visitors.

Galleria dell'Accademia is another popular attraction you could visit today. This national museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,429 visitors. Galleria dell'Accademia attracts up to 1,719,645 visitors every year.

Central Market is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 43,100 visitors.

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (FI) is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This archives is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 23,075 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bologna, 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 Bologna.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Sfoglia Rina, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Va Mo Là is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Trattoria dal Biassanot. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bologna tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Freud e Squisito, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Osteria del Sole offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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.

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 - Bologna. 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bologna, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Venice may take around 1 hour 46 min. Upon your arrival in Venice, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Piazza Maggiore. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

When you’re finished at Piazza Maggiore, head to Bologna Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,852 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,952 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Two Towers. This tower is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Piazza Santo Stefano. This famous square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,617 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Venice, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Palanca, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Farini? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Trattoria Dona Onesta as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Venice.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Al Vecio Calice stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

Day 7 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Venice before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Venice’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy. Keep the spirit of your trip to Italy alive with these special souvenirs.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

You’ll then say farewell to Venice. 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!