9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona to Florence, Rome, and Naples

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Florence. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Florence, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ancona and set your GPS to Florence. 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 3 hours 21 min. Upon reaching Florence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, an interesting church in Florence. Explore its monumental features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Uffizi Gallery. This spectacular art gallery is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ponte Vecchio is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic historical landmark in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the widely recognized Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Piazza Della Signoria, a masterful public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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 Florence, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Manifattura, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Il Vinile offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Pisa.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Pisa, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Florence to Pisa may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pisa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Knights' Square, an often recommended public square known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Leaning Tower Of Pisa, an iconic monument.

Make sure to also explore Pisa Cathedral, an underrated church. For your last stop, consider Campo Santo, a noteworthy cemetery that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ditta Artigianale, a popular restaurant in Florence. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Florence at Trattoria Da Burde, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Casa Toscana. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Florence tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar 50 Rosso, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bitter Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Archea Brewery is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Italy.

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Italy. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Siena and San Gimignano. With 1 night to stay in Florence, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Siena is brimming with adventures.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Siena.

When you’ve had your share of Florence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Siena. Your travel time is around 1 hour 15 min.

Pubblico Palace is an increasingly popular palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Tower Of Mangia, an UNESCO world heritage-listed monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Piazza Del Campo, a visually striking public square. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Siena Cathedral, a romantic and truly unique church.

San Gimignano’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Siena behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. San Gimignano welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Porta San Giovanni, a worthwhile monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Piazza Del Duomo, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

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

Florence 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 Florence.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Buca Mario, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Agricola Toscana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Eataly Firenze. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Florence.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Gosh*, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Florence. Quelo Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Rome. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rome, where will spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rome. This car ride takes around 3 hours 9 min.

Colosseum is an iconic archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour to Roman Forum, an UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Trevi Fountain, a majestic monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Pantheon, a photogenic and truly unique monument. End your sightseeing at Piazza Navona, an iconic public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rome, 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 Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at La Bottega Roma, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pasta In Corso boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Trattoria Vecchia Roma. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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 your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Italy with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Rome, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Vatican City and Rome.

Experience Castel Sant'angelo, an impressive castle in the city. Then, head to Piazza Di Spagna and soak in the ambiance of this romantic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Rome, and when you are ready for more, go to Spanish Steps. This is one of the city’s most famous romantic spots of interest.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vatican City, Vatican City. This car ride takes around 12 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Vatican Museums, a world-famous art museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready, continue to Sistine Chapel, a spectacular chapel beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at RomAntica, a top-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Coso Ristorante, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at DEROMA - Farine Romane. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Sant' Eustachio Caffè, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Yellowsquare Rome offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Caffè Portofino. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 7 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Naples and Pompei are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Naples, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Naples. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Naples National Archaeological Museum, a notable museum 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 Piazza Del Plebiscito and admire its history-steeped features.

When you arrive in Pompei, it's time to take a break from the road.

Archaeological Park Of Pompeii is an interesting archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour to Basilica, an UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

Naples 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 Naples.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Oca Nera Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mimì alla Ferrovia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Spuzzulè Winebar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Naples.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Happening Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Shanti Art Musik Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gran Caffè Gambrinus likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Ravello and Amalfi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Ancona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

When you’ve had your share of Naples, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ravello. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Ravello is Villa Rufolo, an interesting historical landmark that draws attention for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ravello and set your GPS to Amalfi. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Amalfi, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Saint Andrew's Fountain Amalfi, a culturally significant monument that stands out in the village.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ancona. 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 Ancona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Amarcord, an iconic dining spot in Ancona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bontà delle Marche, a popular restaurant in Ancona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante Pizzeria Da Romano, a hidden gem nestled in Ancona. 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, Alla Tazza D'oro stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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