One-Week Italy Road Trip from Bologna traveling west to Milan, Genoa, and Florence

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 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 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.

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Sfoglia Rina, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Va Mo Là offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Trattoria dal Biassanot is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bologna.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Freud e Squisito, known for its inviting atmosphere. Osteria del Sole is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bologna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bologna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Piazza Santo Stefano. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

Next up is Two Towers. This tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Bologna Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,852 reviews.

Piazza Maggiore is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,952 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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.

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Victoria Station offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Trattoria da Me is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bologna.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Senza Nome. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Maurizio offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook BrewDog Bar Bologna, 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Verona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Milan. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bologna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Verona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Castelvecchio Museum. Over 35,031 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,854 reviews.

Castelvecchio Bridge is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This arch bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,156 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Verona Arena. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 123,818 reviews. Every year, around 195,540 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Piazza delle Erbe is another outstanding experience in Verona. Around 11,777 travelers have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Milan. Milan offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Contraste, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Radisson Blu Hotel Milan? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bice Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Milan.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Nottingham Forest, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Armani/Bamboo Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mag Cafe also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Milan, 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 Genoa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Milan, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Genoa may take around 2 hours. Upon your arrival in Genoa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Duomo di Milano Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews. More than 341,609 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 91,394 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this commercial gallery every year.

La Scala is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,219 visitors.

When you’re finished at La Scala, the perfect next stop is Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This library is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 68,714 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Parco Sempione. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 72,914 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Genoa, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Trattoria Vegia Zena, a top-rated dining spot in Genoa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria delle Grazie, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Manhattan Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Genoa.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Scurreria Beer & Bagel. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Lepre offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

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 Genoa and Pisa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Genoa and set your GPS to Pisa. 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 3 min. Upon reaching Pisa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is piazza De Ferrari. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,312 reviews.

Continue your journey at Aquarium of Genoa. This public aquarium is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 62,259 travelers from near and far. Approximately 1,200,000 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Genoa.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pisa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Genoa to Pisa may take around 2 hours 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pisa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Piazza del Duomo, Pisa. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 104,550 visitors.

Leaning Tower of Pisa is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This bell tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 116,882 travelers. Up to 3,200,000 people visit Leaning Tower of Pisa every year.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, an iconic dining spot in Florence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Caffe San Firenze, a popular restaurant in Florence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ditta Artigianale, a hidden gem nestled in Florence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Manifattura, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Archea Brewery, another top-rated place 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.

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Florence, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 visitors.

Uffizi Gallery is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,794 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 2,011,219 people visit this national museum every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to piazza della Signoria. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a church rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 28,544 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic piazzale Michelangelo, perhaps the most famous square in Florence. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 77,744 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Florence has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Florence offers and add your favorites to your Italy travel package below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria Da Burde, an iconic dining spot in Florence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ristorante Buca Mario, a popular restaurant in Florence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Eataly Firenze, a hidden gem nestled in Florence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Florence and Siena. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bologna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Florence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Siena. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 visitors.

Galleria dell'Accademia is another popular attraction you could visit today. This national museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,429 visitors. Galleria dell'Accademia attracts up to 1,719,645 visitors every year.

Central Market is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 43,100 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Siena. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, piazza del Campo is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 64,175 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bologna. Bologna offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a top-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cantina Bentivoglio, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante San Pietro. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Kinotto Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mio Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

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.

Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Bologna’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Italy, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Italy home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Donatello, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Naama Cafè beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!