One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rome to Naples, L'aquila, and Florence and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Italy on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Rome, Naples, Amalfi, L'aquila, and Florence. 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 Rome, 2 nights in Naples, 1 night in L'aquila, and 1 night 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 Rome, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Pantheon, learn more about the unique Piazza Navona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Vatican Museums.
As you hit the open road and drive through Rome, Naples, Amalfi, L'aquila, and Florence, 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
- Rome - Arrival day
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- Altare della Patria
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Welcome to Rome, 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 Rome's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Rome 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 Altare Della Patria, or just 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 Rome. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Rome, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Bottega Roma, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pasta In Corso offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Trattoria Vecchia Roma. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rome.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Almalu Trastevere is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Rome
- More
Drive 9 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- Castel Sant'Angelo
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rome. You’ll stay in Rome for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s itinerary in Rome covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a monument, a public square, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Colosseum. This iconic archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Roman Forum, a must-see archeological site 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 Pantheon. This iconic monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Piazza Navona, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Castel Sant'angelo and Castel Sant'angelo. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
Experience shopping bliss at Rome as you explore Via del Corso. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Via del Corso offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rome. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at La Pergola in Rome by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, La Pergola offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious mediterranean and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Il Pagliaccio, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and innovative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Enoteca La Torre, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional mediterranean and creative menu.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sant' Eustachio Caffè after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Yellowsquare Rome, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Caffè Portofino also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 3
- Rome
- Naples
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Trevi Fountain
- Piazza di Spagna
- Spanish Steps
- piazza del Popolo
- Villa Borghese
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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 - Rome. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Naples. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Trevi Fountain. This iconic monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Piazza Di Spagna, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Spanish Steps, one of the most astonishing places to see in Rome. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Piazza Del Popolo. Wander around and soak in the history-steeped atmosphere this public square offers. Then, head to Villa Borghese, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Naples. Naples 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 Naples. 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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Naples by securing a table at Veritas. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional campanian and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Il Comandante, famous for its scrumptious creative and mediterranean dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover ARIA, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and modern cuisine in Naples. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for contemporary and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Happening Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Shanti Art Musik Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gran Caffè Gambrinus is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Naples
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Castel Sant'Elmo
- Naples National Archaeological Museum
- Cappella Sansevero
- Castel Nuovo
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Naples for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Naples. Your adventure starts at Castel Sant'elmo, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Naples National Archaeological Museum. This popular museum is known for its culturally significant appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Naples's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cappella Sansevero. This heritage-rich museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Castel Nuovo is also worth visiting.
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 explore more of Naples, 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo, a top-rated dining spot in Naples. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mercure Napoli Centro Angioino, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Lazzara Trattoria e Pizzeria. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Naples.
Continue your lively evening at Archivio Storico - Cocktail Bar & Wonderfood, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Archeobar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Babette Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
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
- Naples
- L'Aquila
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Drive 347 km, 5 hours 44 min
- San Carlo Theatre
- piazza del Plebiscito
- Ovo Castle
- Amalfi Coast
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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 Naples and Amalfi. In the evening, you’ll end up in L'aquila, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Naples, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots. Start at San Carlo Theatre, a curiosity-inducing opera house in the city. Then, head to Piazza Del Plebiscito and soak in the ambiance of this majestic public square.
There are many interesting places to see in Naples and when you are ready for more, go to Ovo Castle. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots. After exploring the castle, visit the spectacular Amalfi Coast.
At the end of the day, you will drive to L'aquila, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of L'aquila's best restaurants.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in L'aquila by reserving a table at FØRMA contemporary restaurant. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? DECA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in L'aquila.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Art Cafè L'aquila, a top-rated bar 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 6
- L'Aquila
- Florence
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Drive 408 km, 5 hours 14 min
- Vatican Museums
- Saint Peter's Square
- Sistine Chapel
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 Florence, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
First up is the globally renowned art museum, Vatican Museums. Afterward, continue to Saint Peter's Square, a square every traveler should visit.
As you explore L'aquila’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Sistine Chapel. This astonishing chapel is an essential stop.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional italian contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Santa Elisabetta, known for its delicious creative and mediterranean cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Florence is Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious italian contemporary and international menu.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Manifattura. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Il Vinile, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 7
- Florence
- Rome
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Drive 295 km, 3 hours 58 min
- piazza della Signoria
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Ponte Vecchio
- piazzale Michelangelo
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On day 7 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 Rome, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Florence. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a church, a historical landmark, an observation deck and much more! Begin your adventure at Piazza Della Signoria. This is a widely recognized public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, a top-rated church in Florence.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ponte Vecchio. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Piazzale Michelangelo, another of the city’s famous attractions.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rome. Rome offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel de Russie, a top-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Taverna Italiana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Parrot Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Apartment Bar Roma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Hotel Hassler Roma offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rome.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 8
- Rome - Departure day
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- Campo de' Fiori
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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 Rome 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, begin at Campo De' Fiori. This extraordinary public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Rome’s shopping center, the lively Via del Corso. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Italy.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Rome.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Centro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Rome. 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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