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

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Explore the best of Italy on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bologna, Parma, Modena, Ferrara, Ravenna, and Faenza.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Italy. 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 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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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 discovering what to see in Bologna 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.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bologna. Make yourself at home and unwind 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.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Al Bricco D'oro, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Freud E Squisito is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Osteria Del Sole is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Bologna. You’ll stay in Bologna for 1 night.

Experience Piazza Maggiore, an impressive public square in the city. Then, head to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Bologna, and when you are ready for more, go to Bologna Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the notable Two Towers. Not far away, you'll also find Piazza Santo Stefano. This public square is an enchanting highlight 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.

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 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 delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lime Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

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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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Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Italy includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Parma. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Parma, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Cittadella Park is always a good idea. This often recommended park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the grand wonders of Parma Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Palazzo Della Pilotta. This beloved palace offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Teatro Regio, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Gianni, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Peter Pan Wine Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gazebo Di Nottingham -cocktail Bar- likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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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On day 4 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Modena are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Modena, where you will stay for 1 night.

No visit to Parma is complete without Enzo Ferrari Park. This underrated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Parco Giovanni Amendola, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Parma, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Enzo Ferrari Museum. This captivating museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Duomo Di Modena, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Piazza Grande is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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 Modena, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Dispensa Emilia_ Via Emilia Est Modena, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Trattoria Aldina is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ristorante Europa 92 Ristorante Pavarotti. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Modena tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Chiaro Cafe' stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Major Tom offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cesare Modena — Caffè Malagoli Dal 1934 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Ferrara. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ferrara, where will spend 1 night.

Diamanti Palace leaves a lasting impression. This palace is one of the most underrated places to visit in Modena. Next, head to Piazza Ariostea (ferrara), a curiosity-inducing public square, known for its history-steeped 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 Cathedral Of Ferrara. This historic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Castello Estense. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ferrara, 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 Ferrara. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Chance Café di Canetti Elena Bar Tabacchi, an iconic dining spot in Ferrara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Osteria Il Frantoio, a popular restaurant in Ferrara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Osteria La Compagnia, a hidden gem nestled in Ferrara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Gallery offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Retrobottega Travagli is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Encio's Tiki Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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, including Ravenna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Ravenna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Let Basilica Of San Vitale set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this stunning church before continuing your journey. Fontanella Piazza Del Popolo is your next stop. This underrated public square is one of the best-rated sights in Ferrara.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Dante's Tomb. This photogenic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Basilica Of Sant'apollinare Nuovo.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Caffè della Lirica, a popular restaurant in Ravenna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ravenna at Antica Trattoria Al Gallo 1909, 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 Heaven Pub Ravenna. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ravenna tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bollicine. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Merikipe Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Faenza. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bologna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Ravenna is only getting started when you visit Parco Bucci, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is International Museum Of Ceramics. This frequently visited museum is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Ravenna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Faenza Cathedral. This culturally significant church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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.

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

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Aurum is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Senza Nome, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Caffè Ristretto. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 increasingly popular monument is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Bologna’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

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 for something new, try Mister Coffee Bistrò, another premier location with a delectable 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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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