One-Week Relaxed Italy Road Trip from Genoa to Milan
Description
Summary
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in Italy with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Italy at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Genoa, Milan, Novara, and Candelo. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Genoa, and 4 nights in Milan. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Italy.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Italy. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Genoa, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Italy and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Italy with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Italy.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Italy. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Duomo di Milano Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Traveling leisurely through Italy means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Parco Sempione. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Italy's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Italy.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Italy. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Italy's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Italy.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Italy. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Italy. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Italy and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Italy today!
Included
Destinations
Map
Attractions
FlightsYesNo
Travel details
Flights
CarYesNo
Hotels
Personalize your itinerary
Day 1 – Genoa - arrival day
- Genoa - Arrival day
- More
- Via Garibaldi
- More
Your relaxed road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Genoa, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Genoa and begin your adventure in Italy.
Make Via Garibaldi one of your first sightseeing stops in Genoa. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,399 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Genoa. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Genoa.
Make sure to book a table at Trattoria Vegia Zena, a popular restaurant in Genoa. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Genoa at Trattoria delle Grazie, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Manhattan Bar. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Genoa tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Genoa’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Italy.
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.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy. Enjoy your first taste of Genoa as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Genoa
- Genoa
- More
Drive 8 km, 59 min
- Porto Antico
- Aquarium of Genoa
- Galata Museo del Mare
- Royal Palace Museum
- More
Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Genoa, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at porto antico. This port is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,414 visitors.
When you’re finished at porto antico, head to Aquarium of Genoa. This one-of-a-kind public aquarium is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 62,259 reviews. Every year, approximately 1,200,000 travelers come here to experience the public aquarium for themselves.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Galata Museo del Mare (complex). This building complex is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,322 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Royal Palace Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,800 visitors.
Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Italy.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Genoa, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Begin your culinary exploration in Genoa by securing a reservation at San Giorgio. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and ligurian cuisine. For another dining delight, visit The Cook, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Il Marin, a top local spot known for its tantalizing seafood, and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Genoa. The bars in Genoa make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Italy.
Day 3 – Genoa, and Milan
- Milan
- Genoa
- More
Drive 156 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Piazza De Ferrari
- Doge's Palace
- Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
- Piazza della Vittoria
- More
Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Italy is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Milan for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Italy.
Drop by the renowned piazza De Ferrari. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,312 visitors.
Another unforgettable place to experience is Doge's Palace. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,612 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.
We also recommend a visit to Genoa Cathedral. This cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,971 reviews.
Another favorite attraction in the area is Piazza della Vittoria. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,138 local and international travelers.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Spiaggia Pubblica di Priaruggia. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,161 travelers, this sightseeing destination is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Genoa.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Milan in this laid-back road trip in Italy. You'll stay here for 4 nights.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Milan by reserving a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Seta by Antonio Guida, renowned for its delectable international, and contemporary 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 Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary, and modern 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 Milan.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Milan and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Nottingham Forest, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Armani/Bamboo Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mag Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Milan as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!
Day 4 – Milan
- Milan
- More
Drive 1 km, 20 min
- Palazzo Reale di Milano
- Cathedral Square
- Duomo di Milano
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- Teatro alla Scala
- More
On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Milan, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Milan, and meet locals along the way!
Make Royal Palace of Milan one of your first sightseeing stops in Milan. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,538 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Cathedral Square is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,539 reviews.
Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Duomo di Milano Museum. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 138,554 visitors. Up to 341,609 people travel to this site annually.
If you’re keen to explore more, head to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. A trip to this popular commercial gallery is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 91,394 previous visitors.
Another top place to visit is La Scala. This opera house enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,219 local and international travelers.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Italy more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Milan offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Milan has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nero 9, a highly-rated dining destination in Milan. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ristorante la Brisa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at UNAHOTELS Cusani Milano. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Milan this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Milan and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Frida offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Friends Pub Milano. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 5 – Milan
- Milan
- More
Drive 11 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Arco della Pace
- Sempione Park
- Sforzesco Castle
- Pinacoteca di Brera
- Piazza Gae Aulenti
- More
Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Milan. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Milan. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Milan!
Make Arch of Peace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this monument an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,502 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Parco Sempione. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 72,914 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.
Sforzesco Castle Art Library is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This library has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 68,714 visitors.
When you’re finished at Sforzesco Castle Art Library, the perfect next stop is Pinacoteca di Brera. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,077 reviews. Pinacoteca di Brera attracts approximately 417 visitors annually.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Piazza Gae Aulenti. This square is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,398 reviews.
Get a more in-depth understanding of Milan by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Italy, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Milan.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Vento di Sardegna, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Galleria Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Milan.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Milan.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at BhangraBar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rufus Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Ostello Bello Grande is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Italy.
Day 6 – Milan
- Milan
- More
Drive 9 km, 59 min
- Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology
- Santa Maria delle Grazie
- Mudec
- More
Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Milan, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,883 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Museo della Scienza e della Tecnologia "Leonardo da Vinci". This technology museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 22,235 reviews. Usually, around 532,084 people visit Museo della Scienza e della Tecnologia "Leonardo da Vinci" every year.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Santa Maria delle Grazie Church. This convent has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,490 visitors.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit MUDEC - Museum of Cultures. This ethnographic museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 14,355 visitors. Visiting MUDEC - Museum of Cultures means you'll be one of 626,650 people who do so every year.
Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 6 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Italy. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Milan itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Milan, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Savor the flavors at Tommasi Milano, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, da Vic beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider G. B. Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Milan tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Milan. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like QC Termemilano, known for its lively atmosphere. Yguana Cafè is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 7 – Milan, Novara, Candelo, and Genoa
- Genoa
- Novara
- Candelo
- More
Drive 293 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Castello di Novara
- Allea Park of San Luca
- Ricetto
- More
Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Italy gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Novara. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Genoa, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Milan and set your GPS to Novara. 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 1 hour. Upon reaching Novara, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Journey into the unknown at Castello di Novara, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,674 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Allea Park of San Luca is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,549 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Novara is Children's Park. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,616 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Novara offers an experience you will remember.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Novara, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Candelo. This drive usually takes around 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
When you're ready to see some sights, Ricetto di Candelo is a great place to start. This ricetto is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,464 visitors. Ricetto di Candelo attracts more than 5,000 visitors every year.
In the city of Genoa, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Italy.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Italy, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Genoa.
Enjoy a delicious meal at OVER SEA. , a highly-rated dining destination in Genoa. If you're eager to try something different, consider Osteria di Vico Palla, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zimino. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Genoa this evening.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Genoa.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Genoa!
Day 8 – Genoa - departure day
- Genoa - Departure day
- More
- Piazza Corvetto
- More
Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Italy is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Genoa.
On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Genoa’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Genoa is the remarkable Piazza Corvetto. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,380 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Genoa or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Mattoni Rossi, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Genoa and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Italy is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
Similar travel packages
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.