One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling east to Venice, Florence, Rome, and Perugia

On day 2 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 Bologna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bologna allows for both. Start by heading to Bologna Cathedral. This increasingly popular church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Two Towers, a picture-perfect monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza Maggiore, an extraordinary public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. Round off your day at Palazzo Re Enzo, another gem in Bologna with respected features to discover.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Local offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Wistèria, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary and venetian cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Quadri, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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

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

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 Venice. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Venice. Begin your sightseeing with Rialto Bridge. This iconic historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Teatro La Fenice, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Venice, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Piazza San Marco. This globally renowned public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Doge's Palace, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Bridge Of Sighs 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 Florence. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Florence by reserving a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Santa Elisabetta, renowned for its delectable creative and mediterranean dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Florence.

Continue your lively evening at Manifattura, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Il Vinile ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence, 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 Rome. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Florence. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a historical landmark, a church, an observation deck, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Piazza Della Signoria. This is an extraordinary public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Ponte Vecchio, a world-famous historical landmark in Florence.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Piazzale Michelangelo, another of the city’s extraordinary attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Tower Of San Niccolò, a history-steeped place of interest in the city.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Pergola, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional mediterranean and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Il Pagliaccio, known for its delicious creative and innovative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Rome is Enoteca La Torre, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious mediterranean and creative menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Almalu Trastevere. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rome. You’ll stay in Rome for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rome, including an archeological site, a monument, a public square, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Colosseum. This world-famous archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Roman Forum, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rome on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Pantheon, an iconic monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Piazza Navona and Castel Sant'angelo.

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 Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at RomAntica, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Coso Ristorante offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss DEROMA - Farine Romane. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Rome and Vatican City. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Perugia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rome. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Trevi Fountain is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most timeless places to visit in Rome. Next, head to Piazza Di Spagna, an iconic public square, known for its symbolic 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 Piazza Del Popolo. This history-steeped public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Saint Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Tommi Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Valentina, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Caffe Dal Perugino likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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 - Ravenna. 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Perugia, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Fontanella Piazza Del Popolo, a curiosity-inducing public square in the city. Then, head to Basilica Of San Vitale and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant church.

There are many interesting places to see in Perugia, and when you are ready for more, go to Mausoleum Of Galla Placidia. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile inviting spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the curiosity-inducing National Museum Of Ravenna.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. 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 Bologna. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bologna by booking a table at Ahimè. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of country cooking cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to I Portici, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Trattoria di Via Serra, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing emilian menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lime Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Macondo - Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bologna and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!