One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling south to Florence and Rome
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bologna, 2 nights in Florence, and 3 nights in Rome. 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. Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Pantheon, learn more about the unique Piazza Navona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Peter's Basilica.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Florence, Siena, Rome, Marino, and Orvieto, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Bologna - Arrival day
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- Piazza Maggiore
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Say hello to Bologna! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bologna for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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 Piazza Maggiore, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bologna. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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 Bologna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Ciacco, a top-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ristorante Ballarini, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sfoglia Rina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect 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 Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Freud E Squisito. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Osteria Del Sole, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Bologna
- Florence
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Drive 118 km, 2 hours 19 min
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- piazza della Signoria
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Florence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Piazzale Michelangelo. This spectacular observation deck is a culturally significant place to see in Bologna. Continue your discovery at Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, a culturally significant church 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 Uffizi Gallery. This top-rated art gallery offers a historic encounter with Bologna. Next, make your way to Ponte Vecchio to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, an extraordinary church that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Piazza Della Signoria, an astonishing public square in the city. 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.
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.
As you explore more of Florence, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Di Poneta Novoli, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Caffe San Firenze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Manifattura after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Il Vinile also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 3
- Florence
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Drive 156 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Pubblico Palace
- Tower of Mangia
- piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- Fontebranda
- Fortezza Medicea
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Siena. You still have 1 night left in Florence.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Florence. Your adventure starts at Pubblico Palace, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Tower Of Mangia. This worthwhile monument is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Florence's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Piazza Del Campo. This romantic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Siena Cathedral is also worth visiting, along with Fontebranda. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Fortezza Medicea (siena). This increasingly popular monument provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria Da Burde, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Casa Toscana. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar 50 Rosso, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bitter Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Archea Brewery. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Florence
- Rome
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Drive 279 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Trevi Fountain
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rome. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rome, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Florence, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Colosseum, an iconic archeological site in the city. Then, head to Roman Forum and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect archeological site.
There are many interesting places to see in Florence, and when you are ready for more, go to Trevi Fountain. This is one of the city’s most world-famous romantic spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the iconic Pantheon. Not far away, you'll also find Piazza Navona. This public square is a symbolic highlight in Florence.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rome. Rome 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 Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Bottega Roma, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pasta In Corso offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Trattoria Vecchia Roma. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Almalu Trastevere offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!
Day 5
- Rome
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Drive 15 km, 58 min
- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
- St Peter's Basilica
- piazza del Popolo
- Trastevere
- Via del Corso
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Italy. With 2 nights left in Rome, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Make sure to visit Trastevere, a popular neighborhood in Vatican City. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Via del Corso today, a street that’s well worth a visit.
Rome is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Vatican Museums, an iconic art museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at St. Peter's Basilica. This major basilica is one of the city’s most globally renowned spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rome 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 Del Popolo.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rome.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at RomAntica, 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 Coso Ristorante, 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 DEROMA - Farine Romane, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sant' Eustachio Caffè. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Yellowsquare Rome offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Caffè Portofino, another top-rated bar in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 6
- Rome
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Drive 59 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Piazza di Spagna
- Spanish Steps
- Villa Borghese
- Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
- Fountain of the Moors
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rome, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Castel Sant'angelo. This famous castle is a romantic place to see in Rome. Continue your discovery at Piazza Di Spagna, a history-steeped public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Rome, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Spanish Steps. This impressive public square offers a grand encounter with Rome. Next, make your way to Villa Borghese to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Archbasilica Of St. John Lateran, a captivating church that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Fountain Of The Moors, an underrated monument in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rome.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rome and your accommodation.
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.
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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Apartment Bar Roma, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Hotel Hassler Roma, a bar catering to every mood and preference.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 7
- Rome
- Bologna
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Drive 392 km, 5 hours 2 min
- Well of St Patrick
- Orvieto Cathedral
- Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
- Orvieto subterranea
- Torre del Moro Orvieto
- Pozzo della Cava
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On day 7 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 Orvieto. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Rome, including a monument, a church, a museum, a cave system, a cave and much more! Start your adventure at Well Of St. Patrick. This captivating monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Orvieto Cathedral located in Rome for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo. Its respected features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Orvieto Underground. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this cave system. Next up is Torre Del Moro Orvieto, a highly recommended monument. For a change of pace, head to Pozzo Della Cava. As one of the most often recommended attractions in Rome, this cave is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lime Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Onda Marina By Night is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 8
- Bologna - Departure day
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- Two Towers
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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, we recommend visiting Two Towers, a historic monument before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Bologna’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Quadrilatero. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bologna.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Va Mo Là, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trattoria dal Biassanot offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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