One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling west to Venice and Florence

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Venice. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Venice, where you'll spend 2 nights.

As you explore Venice’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Set your GPS to Venice and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Venice beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Chiesa Di San Zaccaria, an up-and-coming church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Bridge Of Sighs and admire its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

When you’re ready, continue to Doge's Palace, a notable palace beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on St Mark's Basilica, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Piazza San Marco, an UNESCO world heritage-designated place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

Venice is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Venice.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Al Parlamento, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Caffe Rosso. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Adagio, another top-rated place in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Trieste. You’ll stay in Venice for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top thing to do today is to explore Cannaregio, a must-see neighborhood in Venice. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

To truly experience Venice, make sure to drop by Santa Maria Della Salute. This increasingly popular church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Peggy Guggenheim Collection, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Gallerie Dell'accademia, one of the most intriguing places to see in Venice. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Teatro La Fenice. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this opera house offers. Then, head to Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo, a top-rated palace that adds another dimension to your day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Italy. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Venice's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Generator Venice, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nevodi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante La Piazza. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Il Mercante, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Irish Pub Venezia. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Ai Stagneri, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Padua, Bologna, and Florence are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Padua, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Venice to Padua may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Padua, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering The Basilica Of St. Anthony, a popular church known for its heritage-rich features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Prato Della Valle, a locally renowned public square.

Bologna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Padua behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. Bologna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Two Towers, an interesting monument that everyone visiting Bologna should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bologna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Florence. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Piazzale Michelangelo, an extraordinary observation deck known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Galleria Dell'accademia, an interesting art gallery.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore and uncover the details of this enchanting church.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Di Poneta Novoli offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Caffe San Firenze is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Florence.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Manifattura offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Il Vinile is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 2 nights.

Oltrarno is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Florence, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Ponte Vecchio leaves a lasting impression. This historical landmark is one of the most world-famous places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Uffizi Gallery, a top-rated art gallery, known for its historic 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 Palazzo Vecchio. This romantic palace is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Piazza Della Signoria and Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Italy. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar 50 Rosso stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bitter Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Archea Brewery is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, where you have 1 night left to stay.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Siena may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Siena, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Pubblico Palace, an increasingly popular palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Tower Of Mangia and admire its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re ready, continue to Piazza Del Campo, a top-rated public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Siena Cathedral, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Fontebranda, a photogenic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Florence.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Florence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Agricola Toscana boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Eataly Firenze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Florence.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Gosh*, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Quelo Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Italy includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bologna and Ferrara. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trieste, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Florence and set your GPS to Bologna. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Bologna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna is a curiosity-inducing monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its noteworthy features before continuing your self-guided tour to Piazza Maggiore, a romantic public square that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Porta Maggiore, an instagrammable monument.

Set your GPS to Ferrara and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ferrara beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cathedral Of Ferrara. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Castello Estense. This interesting castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Trieste. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Rustiko, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Caffè San Marco? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Osteria Marise as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Trieste.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!