One-Week Relaxed Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona to Rome

On day 2 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Italy, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ancona and set your GPS to Loreto. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 31 min. Upon reaching Loreto, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Sanctuary Of The Holy House Of Loreto, a captivating church known for its grand features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Serra San Quirico may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in Serra San Quirico, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Parco Naturale Regionale Gola Della Rossa E Di Frasassi, an underrated nature reserve in Serra San Quirico. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to San Vittore may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in San Vittore, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Frasassi Caves is a captivating cave system we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Rome. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Italy.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Rome by securing a reservation at La Pergola. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a top local spot known for its tantalizing mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Keep the evening going at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Almalu Trastevere, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Italy.

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Rome. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Rome. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Rome!

No visit to Rome is complete without Colosseum. This world-famous archeological site is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Circus Maximus, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Rome, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Roman Forum. This wondrous archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Altare Della Patria, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Pantheon is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Italy makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Italy also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Rome offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at RomAntica, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Coso Ristorante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider DEROMA - Farine Romane. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rome tonight.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Sant' Eustachio Caffè, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Yellowsquare Rome is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Caffè Portofino also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Rome, where you'll stay for 3 nights, 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 Rome, and meet locals along the way!

Awaiting your discovery is the globally renowned Trevi Fountain, an enchanting monument in Rome. Next, go to Piazza Di Spagna.

After visiting Trevi Fountain and Piazza Di Spagna, have a stroll along Rome's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Spanish Steps. This visually striking public square offers a unique experience. Piazza Del Popolo is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Villa Borghese, one of the most standout places to visit in Rome.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Italy. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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 Rome, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel de Russie, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Taverna Italiana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Parrot Bar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.

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 Rome. The bars in Rome make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Apartment Bar Roma, known for its lively atmosphere. Hotel Hassler Roma is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Italy.

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rome, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Piazza Navona leaves a lasting impression. This public square is one of the most globally renowned places to visit in Rome. Next, head to Castel Sant'angelo, a widely recognized castle, known for its enchanting 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 Campo De' Fiori. This picture-perfect public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Largo Di Torre Argentina and Basilica Di Santa Maria Maggiore Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Italy more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Rome offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 Rome, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese, an iconic dining spot in Rome. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Centro, a popular restaurant in Rome. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante Tema, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. 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 Rome.

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

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Italy, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Rome and visit amazing attractions in Vatican City, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Rome, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rome and set your GPS to Vatican City, Vatican City. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 10 min. Upon reaching Vatican City, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Saint Peter's Square. Then, head to St. Peter's Basilica. This iconic major basilica is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Sistine Chapel. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the chapel. Next, take your journey to Vatican Museums, a globally renowned art museum.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rome.

Exploring the food culture in Rome offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ristorante Va. Do. , a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Giulia Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Archeologia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rome.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Rome and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Italy!

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Italy offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in L'aquila and end it in Ancona. You’ll stay in Ancona for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Italy.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rome, you’ll hit the road in the direction of L'aquila. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min.

Fountain Of The 99 Water Spouts is an underrated monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its masterful features before continuing your self-guided tour to Castle Park, a majestic park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Luminous Fountain, a romantic monument.

Rocca Calascio’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of L'aquila behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Rocca Calascio welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rocca Calascio, a frequently visited castle known for its enchanting features.

You'll be staying in Ancona on this laid-back road trip through Italy. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Ancona.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Ancona by booking a table at Sot'Ajarchi, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood and from the marches menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bontà delle Marche, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Ancona and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Alla Tazza D'oro. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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