One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Florence traveling east to Venice, Arezzo, and Rome
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Explore the best of Italy on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Florence, Bologna, Venice, Arezzo, and Rome. This road trip itinerary in Italy seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Florence, 1 night in Venice, 1 night in Arezzo, and 2 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 Florence, 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Florence, Bologna, Venice, Arezzo, and Rome, 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 – Florence - arrival day
- Florence - Arrival day
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Say hello to Florence! 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 Florence for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Florence 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 Central Market or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Florence. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Florence. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
Keep the evening going at Manifattura, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Il Vinile, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2 – Florence
- Florence
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Drive 4 km, 55 min
- Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Ponte Vecchio
- More
On day 2 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.
Today’s route brings a romantic, a breathtaking, a photogenic, a standout, an inviting, a symbolic, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a noteworthy. The first attraction of today is Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi). This interesting church is a majestic place to see in Florence. Continue your discovery at Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, an inviting church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Florence, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Galleria Dell'accademia. This popular art gallery offers a heritage-rich encounter with Florence. Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Florence.
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 Florence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Florence by booking a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar 50 Rosso stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bitter Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Archea Brewery is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 3 – Florence, Bologna, and Venice
- Florence
- Bologna
- Venice
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 29 min
- piazza della Signoria
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Two Towers
- Piazza Maggiore
- More
Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence and Bologna, 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 Venice. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with a charming, an enchanting, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a grand, and a masterful. Start at the spectacular Piazza Della Signoria, a majestic public square in Florence. Next, go to Uffizi Gallery.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Florence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bologna may take around 1 hour 25 min. Upon your arrival in Bologna, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Two Towers, a locally renowned monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Piazza Maggiore, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Venice. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Venice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Venice by booking a table at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Wistèria, renowned for its delectable contemporary and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Quadri, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Venice. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Al Parlamento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Caffe Rosso, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Adagio also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 4 – Venice and Arezzo
- Venice
- Arezzo
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Drive 330 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Rialto Bridge
- Piazza San Marco
- St Mark's Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Venice. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Arezzo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Venice is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a public square, a church, a palace and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Rialto Bridge. Just a short distance away is Piazza San Marco, an UNESCO world heritage-designated public square that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to St Mark's Basilica, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Doge's Palace.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Arezzo, 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 Arezzo, 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.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Arezzo by reserving a table at Octavin. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Clandestina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Liquid Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 5 – Arezzo, Vatican City, and Rome
- Arezzo
- Rome
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Vatican Museums
- Saint Peter's Square
- Sistine Chapel
- St Peter's Basilica
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Vatican City. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rome, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Arezzo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vatican City, Vatican City. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Vatican City. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Vatican Museums, a globally renowned art museum that draws visitors from near and far. Next, explore Sistine Chapel, yet another astonishing place to see in the area. After the chapel, make time to go to St. Peter's Basilica.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Rome. Rome offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at La Pergola in Rome by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, La Pergola delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Il Pagliaccio, acclaimed for its delectable creative and innovative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Enoteca La Torre, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for mediterranean and creative cuisine in the city.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, known for its lively atmosphere. Almalu Trastevere is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 6 – Rome
- Rome
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Trevi Fountain
- More
Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rome today. One of the most iconic attractions included on the itinerary is Colosseum. This UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Roman Forum and learn what makes this culturally significant archeological site unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the iconic Pantheon. After exploring the monument, head to Piazza Navona. This timeless public square is a highlight in Rome. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the spectacular Castel Sant'angelo. Enjoy exploring this incredible castle at your own pace.
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.
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 delightful dinner at RomAntica, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Coso Ristorante? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at DEROMA - Farine Romane as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rome.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Sant' Eustachio Caffè offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Yellowsquare Rome is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Caffè Portofino is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Head back to your accommodation in Rome and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 7 – Rome and Florence
- Rome
- Florence
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Drive 280 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Altare della Patria
- Trevi Fountain
- Piazza di Spagna
- piazza del Popolo
- Villa Borghese
- More
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 Rome. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a standout, a symbolic, a remarkable, a romantic, and a serene. The first attraction of today is Altare Della Patria. This captivating monument is a noteworthy place to see in Rome. Continue your discovery at Piazza Di Spagna, a symbolic 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 Piazza Del Popolo. This spectacular public square offers a symbolic encounter with Rome. Villa Borghese is the last of our recommendations for today. 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 drive to your hotel in Florence. 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 Florence. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Agricola Toscana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Eataly Firenze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Gosh* after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Quelo Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 8 – Florence - departure day
- Florence - Departure day
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- piazzale Michelangelo
- Ponte Vecchio
- More
Day 8 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Florence before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Florence’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Florence. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Piazzale Michelangelo is the perfect place to start. This observation deck is one of the most widely recognized places to visit in Florence.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Florence.
You’ll then say farewell to Florence. 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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