One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence, San Gimignano, and La Spezia

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Bologna. You’ll stay in Bologna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you decide to explore Bologna on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Make time for Ducati Museum, an intriguing museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna, enchanting visitors with its noteworthy appeal. Continue your exploration at Bologna Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bologna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Piazza Maggiore. After exploring the public square, head to the locally renowned Two Towers. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Piazza Santo Stefano, a place of history-steeped interest in Bologna.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Italy. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bononia Cafè, an iconic dining spot in Bologna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Via Con Me, a popular restaurant in Bologna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lime Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Onda Marina By Night. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Florence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bologna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Florence. Your travel time is around 1 hour 30 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Piazzale Michelangelo, an extraordinary observation deck that everyone visiting Florence should see. Next, head to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This culturally significant church is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Uffizi Gallery, a picture-perfect art gallery popular among locals as well as travelers. Ponte Vecchio is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this globally renowned historical landmark before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Palazzo Vecchio, a romantic palace and a top attraction in the city.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Di Poneta Novoli? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Caffe San Firenze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Florence.

Keep the evening going at Manifattura, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Il Vinile, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Siena and San Gimignano. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in San Gimignano, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Siena. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Siena is Siena Cathedral, a popular church that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Piazza Del Campo, a romantic public square that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Tower Of Mangia, an increasingly popular monument that offers a unique experience.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to San Gimignano may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in San Gimignano, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Porta San Giovanni, an up-and-coming monument that everyone visiting San Gimignano should see. Next, head to Sangimignano1300. This respected museum is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Piazza Del Duomo, a history-steeped public square popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Gimignano. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the village.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in San Gimignano, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Italy includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Pisa and Lucca. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Pisa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pisa beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Pisa Cathedral and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, another highlight in Pisa. When you’re done exploring the public square, continue to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a culturally significant monument.

Lucca’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pisa behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Lucca welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Mura Di Lucca, a frequently visited historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Piazza Dell'anfiteatro and admire its romantic features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ditta Artigianale, a popular restaurant in Florence. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Florence at Trattoria Da Burde, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Casa Toscana. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Florence tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar 50 Rosso after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bitter Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Archea Brewery also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 3 places, which are Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Spezia, where will spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Florence and set your GPS to Corniglia. 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 2 hours 21 min. Upon reaching Corniglia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Cinque Terre National Park, a well-known national park known for its romantic features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Corniglia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Manarola. This drive usually takes around 15 min.

Manarola Overlook Viewpoint is an increasingly popular observation deck we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Riomaggiore, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Spezia. Your travel time is around 25 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Riomaggiore, an often recommended sightseeing destination that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Castle Of Riomaggiore and admire its visually striking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Church Of San Giovanni Battista Of Riomaggiore, a locally appreciated church beloved by locals and tourists alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to La Spezia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of La Spezia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Colombaio Park, an iconic dining spot in La Spezia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

On day 7 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Parma are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you explore Parma’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Parma may take around 1 hour 31 min. Upon your arrival in Parma, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Palazzo Della Pilotta, an often recommended palace that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Teatro Regio, where you can soak in the respected surroundings.

Next, explore Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to Parma Cathedral. This romantic church is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Cittadella Park, an underrated park you won’t want to miss.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Italy.