One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rimini traveling east to Venice, Pesaro, Ancona, and L'aquila

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Photo of Aerial view on Rimini. Italian cityscape from above. Lighthouse on water sea canal. Rimini city. Summer vacation.
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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 Rimini, 1 night in Venice, 1 night in Pesaro, 1 night in Ancona, and 2 nights in L'aquila. 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 Rimini, 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. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St. Peter's Basilica, learn more about the unique Doge's Palace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Gradara Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Rimini, Viserbella, Venice, Cattolica, Pesaro, Gradara, Urbino, Ancona, Loreto, L'aquila, Teramo, and Ascoli Piceno, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Arco di Augusto
Fountain of the four horsesParco Federico FelliniItalia in miniatura
Rialto BridgePiazza San MarcoDoge's PalaceFontana delle Sirene
Big Sphere A PomodoroParco Naturale Monte San BartoloGradara CastlePalazzo Ducale
Parco Belvedere PosatoraFrasassi CavesSanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto
St Peter's BasilicaTrastevereMontiVia del CorsoVia dei Condotti
Roman Theatre of TeramoFontana dei Due LeoniPiazza del Popolo, Ascoli Piceno, AP
Cavour Square

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Rimini - Arrival day
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  • Arco di Augusto
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Welcome to Rimini, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Rimini's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Rimini 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 Arch Of Augustus, or just 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 Rimini. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Rimini, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Giusti, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Lento boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Amorimini. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rimini.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Sunflower Beach Backpacker Hostels & Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Caffè Il Borgo. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Primo Bacio Città Lounge Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Rimini
  • Venice
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Fountain of the four horses
  • Parco Federico Fellini
  • Italia in miniatura
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Rimini and Viserbella. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Rimini is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Fountain Of The Four Horses, a locally appreciated monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Parco Federico Fellini, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Italia In Miniatura. This amusement park is one of the city’s most popular spots.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Venice. Venice offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Venice by securing a reservation at Local. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Wistèria, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and venetian 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 Quadri, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Al Parlamento, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Caffe Rosso, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Adagio likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Venice
  • Pesaro
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Drive 299 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Rialto Bridge
  • Piazza San Marco
  • Doge's Palace
  • Fontana delle Sirene
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On day 3 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 Venice and Cattolica. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pesaro, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the iconic Rialto Bridge, a majestic historical landmark in Venice. Next, go to Piazza San Marco.

After visiting Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco, have a stroll along Venice's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Doge's Palace. This enchanting palace offers a unique experience. Fontana Delle Sirene is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pesaro, 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 Pesaro, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Pesaro by reserving a table at Nostrano. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of country cooking and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? Ristorante Camping Marinella offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pesaro.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Caffè Barrier, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Pesaro
  • Ancona
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Big Sphere A Pomodoro
  • Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo
  • Gradara Castle
  • Palazzo Ducale
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pesaro, Gradara, and Urbino. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ancona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Pesaro covers several incredible sights, including an art installation, a nature reserve, a castle, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Big Sphere A. Pomodoro. This curiosity-inducing art installation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the idyllic wonders of Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo, a must-see nature reserve in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Gradara Castle. This well-known castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Palazzo Ducale, where you can take in instagrammable features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ancona. 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 Ancona. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Ancona by securing a reservation at Sot'Ajarchi. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood and from the marches cuisine. Alternatively, Zucchero a Velò beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Posa Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Four Roses is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Amarillo Beer Bar Ancona also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Ancona
  • L'Aquila
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Drive 312 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Parco Belvedere Posatora
  • Frasassi Caves
  • Sanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Ancona, San Vittore, and Loreto, 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 L'aquila. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Ancona. Your adventure starts at Parco Belvedere Posatora, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Frasassi Caves. This interesting cave system is known for its serene appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Ancona's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Sanctuary Of The Holy House Of Loreto. This historic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in L'aquila. L'aquila offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of L'aquila's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at FØRMA contemporary restaurant, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of L'aquila at DECA, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Art Cafè L'aquila is an excellent place to start.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • L'Aquila
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Drive 244 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • St Peter's Basilica
  • Trastevere
  • Monti
  • Via del Corso
  • Via dei Condotti
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On day 6 of your road trip in Italy, you’ll start and end your day in L'aquila, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to L'aquila for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Vatican City to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Trastevere is a fantastic place you can explore today in Vatican City. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Vatican City-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Monti, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Start at St. Peter's Basilica, a globally renowned major basilica in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to L'aquila and your accommodation.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at L'Unico Posto, an iconic dining spot in L'aquila. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Antologie Ristorante, a popular restaurant in L'aquila. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante Il Baco da Seta, a hidden gem nestled in L'aquila. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • L'Aquila
  • Rimini
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Drive 321 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Roman Theatre of Teramo
  • Fontana dei Due Leoni
  • Piazza del Popolo, Ascoli Piceno, AP
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Teramo and Ascoli Piceno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rimini, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in L'aquila promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Roman Theatre Of Teramo. This respected archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Fontana Dei Due Leoni, another symbolic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Piazza Del Popolo, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its stunning features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rimini, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Osteria de Börg, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible from romagna and traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Guido is one of the best restaurants for seafood and modern cuisine in Rimini. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Abocar Due Cucine. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and international cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Hobo's, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sunflower City Backpacker, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Capogiro, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Rimini - Departure day
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  • Cavour Square
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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 Rimini 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 Cavour, an instagrammable public square before you head out.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Rimini's best shopping area, Rimini Factory Outlet. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Amarina, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Primo Miglio di Conti Mirco is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Rimini. 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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