One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling south to Venice, Florence, Lucca, and San Gimignano

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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 Trieste, Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki, Miramare / Miramar, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, Riomaggiore, and Manarola. 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 Trieste, 1 night in Venice, 1 night in Florence, 1 night in Lucca, and 1 night in San Gimignano. 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 Trieste, 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 Ponte Vecchio, learn more about the unique Leaning Tower Of Pisa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.

As you hit the open road and drive through Trieste, Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki, Miramare / Miramar, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, Riomaggiore, and Manarola, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Giants' Stairway
Grotta Gigantecanale ponterosso triestePiazza della BorsaUnity of Italy SquareMuseo RevoltellaMiramare Castle
Bridge of SighsDoge's PalaceSt Mark's BasilicaPiazza San MarcoGrand CanalRialto Bridge
Galleria dell'AccademiaBasilica of Santa Croce in FlorenceUffizi GalleryPonte VecchioPiazza della Repubblicapiazza della Signoria
Pisa CathedralPiazza del Duomo, PisaLeaning Tower of PisaGuinigi TowerSan Michele in ForoWalls of Lucca
Siena Cathedralpiazza del CampoTower of MangiaPubblico PalacePorta San GiovanniPiazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
Church of San Giovanni Battista of RiomaggioreChiesa di San LorenzoManarola Overlook Viewpoint
Umberto Saba Statue

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Triest - Arrival day
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  • Giants' Stairway
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Welcome to Trieste, 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 Trieste's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Trieste 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 Giants' Stairway, 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 Trieste. 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 Trieste, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Murphy's Meeting Point, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Caffè Tommaseo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Al Barattolo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Trieste.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar G, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar X, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Antico Caffè Torinese provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Triest
  • More

Drive 37 km, 1 hour 29 min

  • Grotta Gigante
  • canale ponterosso trieste
  • Piazza della Borsa
  • Unity of Italy Square
  • Museo Revoltella
  • Miramare Castle
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Trieste by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the village.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Trieste, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Grotta Gigante, a worthwhile cave in the village. Then, head to Canale Ponterosso Trieste and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped street.

There are many interesting places to see in Trieste, and when you are ready for more, go to Piazza Della Borsa. This is one of the village’s most increasingly popular romantic spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the popular Piazza Unità D'italia. Not far away, you'll also find Revoltella Museum. This museum is a heritage-rich highlight in Trieste. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Miramare Castle, a well-known castle in the village.

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 Trieste's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Rustiko, an iconic dining spot in Trieste. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Caffè San Marco, a popular restaurant in Trieste. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Osteria Marise, a hidden gem nestled in Trieste. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Mast, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Urbanis is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Say good night to Trieste and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Triest
  • Venice
  • More

Drive 167 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Bridge of Sighs
  • Doge's Palace
  • St Mark's Basilica
  • Piazza San Marco
  • Grand Canal
  • Rialto Bridge
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Venice. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Venice, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Trieste covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a palace, a church, a public square, a street, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Bridge Of Sighs. This popular monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Doge's Palace, a must-see palace 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 St Mark's Basilica. This notable church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Piazza San Marco, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Venice's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bauer Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Venice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Osteria Le Guglie, a popular restaurant in Venice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Corner Pub, a hidden gem nestled in Venice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Al Parlamento, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Caffe Rosso provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Adagio offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

  • Venice
  • Florence
  • More

Drive 261 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • Galleria dell'Accademia
  • Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Piazza della Repubblica
  • piazza della Signoria
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Florence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Venice allows for both. Start by heading to Galleria Dell'accademia. This well-known art gallery provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, an instagrammable church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Uffizi Gallery, a widely recognized art gallery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the world-famous Ponte Vecchio. Not far away from the historical landmark, you will find the romantic Piazza Della Signoria, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Piazza Della Repubblica, another gem in Venice with enchanting features to discover.

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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Manifattura, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Il Vinile also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Florence
  • Lucca
  • More

Drive 107 km, 2 hours 12 min

  • Pisa Cathedral
  • Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Guinigi Tower
  • San Michele in Foro
  • Walls of Lucca
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pisa and Lucca. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lucca, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Florence. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a public square, a monument, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your adventure at Pisa Cathedral. This is an intriguing church you should not miss. Another must-see is Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, an iconic public square in Florence.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Guinigi Tower, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at San Michele In Foro, a breathtaking place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Mura Di Lucca to your itinerary. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Florence.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lucca. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gli Orti di Via Elisa, a highly-rated dining destination in Lucca. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar Caffè Ristretto, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Schiaffino. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lucca this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lebowski - Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Blend, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Franklin'33. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to Lucca and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Lucca
  • San Gimignano
  • More

Drive 187 km, 2 hours 42 min

  • Siena Cathedral
  • piazza del Campo
  • Tower of Mangia
  • Pubblico Palace
  • Porta San Giovanni
  • Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Siena and San Gimignano, 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 San Gimignano. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Lucca includes a church, a public square, a monument, a palace and much more! Siena Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Piazza Del Campo, an impressive public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Tower Of Mangia, a breathtaking monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Lucca. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Pubblico Palace. If you’re looking for more, Porta San Giovanni is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Piazza Del Duomo, a place of romantic interest in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in San Gimignano. San Gimignano 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 San Gimignano. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • San Gimignano
  • Triest
  • More

Drive 707 km, 8 hours 50 min

  • Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore
  • Chiesa di San Lorenzo
  • Manarola Overlook Viewpoint
  • 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 Riomaggiore and Manarola. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trieste, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in San Gimignano. Begin your sightseeing with Church Of San Giovanni Battista Of Riomaggiore. This often recommended church is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Chiesa Di San Lorenzo, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of San Gimignano, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Manarola Overlook Viewpoint. This curiosity-inducing observation deck is a traveler-favorite.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Trieste. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Caffè degli Specchi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chimera di Bacco as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Trieste.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, "life" New Bar Torinese Snc offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, White Cafe is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café James Joyce is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 8

Day 8

  • Triest - Departure day
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  • Umberto Saba Statue
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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 Trieste 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 Umberto Saba Statue. This frequently visited sightseeing destination is a popular place to see in the city.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Trieste's best shopping area, Il Giulia Shopping Center. 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 Trieste.

You’ll then say farewell to Trieste. 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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