One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Parma, Modena, Ferrara, and Ravenna and surrounding area

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Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in Italy as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bologna, Parma, Modena, Ferrara, Ravenna, and Faenza.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bologna, 1 night in Parma, 1 night in Modena, 1 night in Ferrara, and 1 night in Ravenna. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Italy. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Bologna, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Italy on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Italy. Piazza Maggiore and Two Towers are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Castello Estense, learn more about the unique Enzo Ferrari Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Duomo Di Modena.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Parma, Modena, Ferrara, Ravenna, and Faenza, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Italy. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Italy.

Throughout your road trip in Italy, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Italy.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
arco del Meloncello
Piazza MaggioreFountain of Neptune, BolognaBologna CathedralTwo TowersPiazza Santo Stefano
Cittadella ParkParma CathedralPalazzo della PilottaTeatro RegioGiuseppe Garibaldi Monument
Ferrari parkParco Giovanni AmendolaEnzo Ferrari MuseumModena Cathedralpiazza Grande
Diamanti PalacePiazza Ariostea (Ferrara)Cathedral of FerraraEste Castle
Basilica of San VitaleFontanella Piazza del PopoloDante's TombBasilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
Parco BucciInternational Museum of CeramicsFaenza Cathedral
Porta Maggiore

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bologna - Arrival day
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  • arco del Meloncello
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Welcome to Bologna, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Bologna's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bologna 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 Arco Del Meloncello, or just 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 Bologna. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bologna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Ristorante Ciacco, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ristorante Ballarini beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sfoglia Rina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Freud E Squisito is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Osteria Del Sole ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bologna
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Drive 1 km, 20 min

  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
  • Bologna Cathedral
  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Santo Stefano
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bologna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Piazza Maggiore. This widely recognized public square is an enchanting place to see in Bologna. Continue your discovery at Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna, a photogenic monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bologna, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Bologna Cathedral. This locally appreciated church offers a breathtaking encounter with Bologna. Next, make your way to Two Towers to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Piazza Santo Stefano, a locally appreciated public square that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bononia Cafè, a highly-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Via Con Me, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bologna
  • Parma
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Drive 105 km, 1 hour 53 min

  • Cittadella Park
  • Parma Cathedral
  • Palazzo della Pilotta
  • Teatro Regio
  • Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Parma. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Parma, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bologna, including a park, a church, a palace, an opera house, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Cittadella Park. This up-and-coming park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Parma Cathedral located in Bologna for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Palazzo Della Pilotta. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the palace, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Teatro Regio. This opera house has a romantic appeal. For a change of pace, head to Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument. As one of the most up-and-coming attractions in Bologna, this monument is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Parma. Parma 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 Parma's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Bistrò Pub L'alchemist, a top-rated dining destination in Parma. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tempi Moderni - Fabbrica del gusto 1957, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Parma this evening.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Parma
  • Modena
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Drive 72 km, 1 hour 39 min

  • Ferrari park
  • Parco Giovanni Amendola
  • Enzo Ferrari Museum
  • Modena Cathedral
  • piazza Grande
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Modena, 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 Modena. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Parma covers several incredible sights, including a park, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Enzo Ferrari Park. This up-and-coming park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picturesque wonders of Parco Giovanni Amendola, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Enzo Ferrari Museum. This popular museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Duomo Di Modena, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Piazza Grande and Piazza Grande. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Modena, 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 Modena. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Dispensa Emilia_ Via Emilia Est Modena, an iconic dining spot in Modena. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Trattoria Aldina, a popular restaurant in Modena. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante Europa 92 Ristorante Pavarotti, a hidden gem nestled in Modena. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Chiaro Cafe' after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Major Tom for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cesare Modena — Caffè Malagoli Dal 1934 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Modena
  • Ferrara
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Drive 92 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Diamanti Palace
  • Piazza Ariostea (Ferrara)
  • Cathedral of Ferrara
  • Este Castle
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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 Ferrara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ferrara, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Modena promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Diamanti Palace. This UNESCO world heritage-listed palace is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Piazza Ariostea (ferrara), another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cathedral Of Ferrara, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Castello Estense. This UNESCO world heritage-listed castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ferrara. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Chance Café di Canetti Elena Bar Tabacchi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Osteria Il Frantoio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Osteria La Compagnia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ferrara.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Gallery, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Retrobottega Travagli is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Encio's Tiki Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Ferrara
  • Ravenna
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Drive 91 km, 1 hour 49 min

  • Basilica of San Vitale
  • Fontanella Piazza del Popolo
  • Dante's Tomb
  • Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Ravenna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ravenna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Ferrara. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a public square, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Basilica Of San Vitale. This is an intriguing church you should not miss. Another must-see is Fontanella Piazza Del Popolo, a beloved public square in Ferrara.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dante's Tomb. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of Sant'apollinare Nuovo, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Caffè della Lirica, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Antica Trattoria Al Gallo 1909 is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Heaven Pub Ravenna. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ravenna tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bollicine after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Merikipe Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Ravenna
  • Bologna
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Drive 104 km, 2 hours 6 min

  • Parco Bucci
  • International Museum of Ceramics
  • Faenza Cathedral
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Faenza. 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.

Ravenna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Parco Bucci. Just a short distance away is International Museum Of Ceramics, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Faenza Cathedral, one of the town’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Va Mo Là, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trattoria dal Biassanot beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bologna - Departure day
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  • Porta Maggiore
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Day 8 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bologna before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Porta Maggiore. This underrated monument is a popular place to see in the city.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bologna's best shopping area, Galleria Cavour. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mister Coffee Bistrò, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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!

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