One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Genoa to Florence
Description
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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 4 nights in Genoa and 3 nights in Florence. 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 Genoa, 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. Ponte Vecchio and Leaning Tower Of Pisa are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, learn more about the unique Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Della Signoria.
As you hit the open road and drive through Genoa, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, Lucca, and Bologna, 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
- Genoa - Arrival day
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- Aquarium of Genoa
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Say hello to Genoa! 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 Genoa for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!
Genoa 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 Aquarium Of Genoa, 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 Genoa. 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 Genoa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at 7 Sensi cucina decontaminata, a top-rated dining destination in Genoa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Alla Lunga Ristorante, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Grand Hotel Savoia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Genoa this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Scurreria Beer & Bagel, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Lepre provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Pisacane Iii offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Genoa
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 22 min
- porto antico
- Galata - Museo del mare
- Via Garibaldi
- Palazzo Podestà
- Piazza della Vittoria
- Lighthouse of Genoa
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Genoa. You’ll stay in Genoa for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Genoa today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Porto Antico. This romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Galata Museo Del Mare (complex) and learn what makes this visually striking maritime museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Via Garibaldi. After exploring the street, head to Palazzo Podestà. This increasingly popular palace is a highlight in Genoa. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the frequently visited Piazza Della Vittoria. Enjoy exploring this incredible public square 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Genoa's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Zeffirino, a highly-rated dining destination in Genoa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trattoria Vegia Zena, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria delle Grazie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Genoa this evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 3
- Genoa
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Drive 245 km, 4 hours 46 min
- Riomaggiore
- Manarola Overlook Viewpoint
- Cinque Terre National Park
- Ruins of Doria Tower
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Italy. With 1 night left in Genoa, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Riomaggiore. Continue your discovery at Manarola Overlook Viewpoint, a romantic observation deck with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Genoa, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cinque Terre National Park. This interesting national park offers a romantic encounter with Genoa. Ruins Of Doria Tower 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 Genoa.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Genoa.
As you explore more of Genoa, 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 Osteria Sant'Ilario, a top-rated dining destination in Genoa. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Cialtroneria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Manhattan Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Genoa this evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 4
- Genoa
- Florence
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Piazza della Repubblica
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- piazza della Signoria
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Florence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Start by visiting Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Uffizi Gallery, another must-visit landmark and top-rated art gallery renowned for its romantic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Genoa by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Ponte Vecchio. This romantic historical landmark is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Piazza Della Repubblica also adds charm to your journey, and Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore wraps up your day with its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Di Poneta Novoli? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Caffe San Firenze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Florence.
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 Il Vinile, another top-rated place in the area.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.
Day 5
- Florence
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Drive 178 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Fortezza Medicea
- Palazzo Salimbeni
- Tower of Mangia
- piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Florence, including a monument, a palace, a public square, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Fortezza Medicea (siena). This up-and-coming monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Palazzo Salimbeni, which may be one of the most symbolic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Florence 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 Tower Of Mangia, a worthwhile monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Piazza Del Campo and Siena Cathedral.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ditta Artigianale, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Trattoria Da Burde? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Casa Toscana as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Florence.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar 50 Rosso after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bitter Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Archea Brewery also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.
Day 6
- Florence
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 13 min
- Battistero di San Giovanni
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Guinigi Tower
- San Michele in Foro
- Walls of Lucca
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On day 6 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 Pisa and Lucca. You still have 1 night left in Florence.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Florence. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Battistero Di San Giovanni is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, an iconic public square, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated 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 Leaning Tower Of Pisa. This noteworthy monument offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Guinigi Tower adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to San Michele In Foro, a stunning church in Florence.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Florence.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gosh*, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Quelo Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 7
- Florence
- Genoa
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Drive 431 km, 5 hours 21 min
- Portici di Bologna
- Piazza Maggiore
- Two Towers
- Bologna Cathedral
- Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bologna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Genoa, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Florence. Your adventure starts at Portici Di Bologna, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Piazza Maggiore. This spectacular public square is known for its enchanting 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 Two Towers. This historic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Bologna Cathedral is also worth visiting, along with Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Genoa. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Genoa's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Vivarelli, a top-rated dining spot in Genoa. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria Ugo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at TAZZE PAZZE Specialty Coffee. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Genoa.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 8
- Genoa - Departure day
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- piazza De Ferrari
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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 Genoa 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 Piazza De Ferrari, an enchanting public square before you head out.
On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Genoa’s popular marketplace, Porto Antico. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Genoa.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Il Marin, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Genoa. 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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