9-Day Italy Road Trip from Ancona traveling south to Pescara, Bari, Province of Salerno, Naples, and L'aquila

Welcome to Ancona, 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 Ancona's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Ancona 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 piazza del Plebiscito or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Ancona. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Playa Solero, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zucchero a Velò boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ristorante Il Giardino. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ancona.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Posa bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar four roses is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Amarillo Beer Bar Ancona is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, Loreto, and Ancona. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pescara, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ancona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Serra San Quirico. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,515 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Serra San Quirico, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to San Vittore may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in San Vittore, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Frasassi Caves. This extraordinary show cave has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20,728 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Pescara. Pescara offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Taverna 58, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ristorante Carlo Ferraioli offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar Sara is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pescara.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Posa Caffè Pescara, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Mixer offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Temple Bar Irish Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Trani and Ortona, 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 Bari. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Trani’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ortona behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 35 min. Trani welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Basilica Cattedrale Beata Maria Vergine Assunta, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,517 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Porto di Trani. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,673 travelers.

Villa Comunale is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,567 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pescara and set your GPS to Ortona. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Ortona, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Castello Aragonese, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,068 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bari, 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 Bari. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at AncheCinema, an iconic dining spot in Bari. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Tana del Polpo, a popular restaurant in Bari. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Lo Svevo, a hidden gem nestled in Bari. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Luau Tiki Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. MercantileNove is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Steam pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bari and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

On day 4 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 Matera and Bari. In the evening, you’ll end up in Province of Salerno, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Make Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,750 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Sassi di Matera. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,582 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this archaeological site every year.

Set your GPS to Matera and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Matera beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parco 2 Giugno. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 8,436 visitors.

Basilica di San Nicola is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cathedral has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,196 visitors. Basilica di San Nicola attracts up to 445,000 visitors every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Province of Salerno, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Province of Salerno, 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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at L'Unico Drink & Food Salerno, a top-rated dining destination in Province of Salerno. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Embarcadero, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vasilico. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Province of Salerno this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Hilton Bar e Gastronomia. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Black Monday speakeasy TBM offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Dòmo i' vinaino Wine Bar - Enogastronomia, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Caserta, Ravello, Province of Salerno, and Amalfi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Naples, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caserta. This car ride takes around 1 hour 42 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Palace of Caserta. This extraordinary mountain park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,840 visitors. Each year, around 296,577 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Giardini Reali - Parco Reggia di Caserta. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,740 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Province of Salerno, 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 7 min.

Make Villa Rufolo one of your first sightseeing stops in Ravello. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,456 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Naples. Naples offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. 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 Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Naples.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Happening cocktail bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Shanti Art Musik Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gran Caffè Gambrinus 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!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Italy. With 1 night left in Naples, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Ercolano and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ercolano beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Archaeological Park of Herculaneum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,913 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pompei. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Amphitheatre of Pompeii. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Pompei, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,759 visitors.

Teatro Grande is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,226 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Archaeological Park of Pompeii. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,465 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Naples, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sorrento may take around 1 hour 12 min. Upon your arrival in Sorrento, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Villa Comunale di Sorrento. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,691 reviews.

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

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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at La Lazzara Trattoria e Pizzeria, a top-rated dining destination in Naples. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria Castel Nuovo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Amici Miei. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Naples this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Archivio Storico - Cocktail Bar & Wonderfood, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Babette Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gran Caffè Cimmino 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Naples. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in L'aquila. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to L'aquila and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 59 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. L'aquila beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see piazza del Plebiscito. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 58,141 visitors.

Ovo Castle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,595 travelers.

Naples is also the home of Naples National Archaeological Museum. This archaeological museum gets more than 616,878 visitors on an annual basis. Around 27,352 people have rated this archaeological museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Cappella Sansevero, which hosts up to 175,138 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 25,405 reviews, a visit to this former church is a great idea.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in L'aquila.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Ristorante Ernesto, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, DECA boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ristorante Antiche Mura Osteria. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in L'aquila.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Art Cafè L'Aquila, a prime location for a drink.

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. L'aquila, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in L'aquila, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Basilica of San Bernardino. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,348 reviews.

Continue your journey at Castle Park. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,974 travelers from near and far.

L'aquila is also the home of Luminous fountain. This fountain has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,564 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fano Adriano.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, a remarkable national park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,303 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Ancona, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Amarcord, a highly-rated dining destination in Ancona. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bontà delle Marche, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Donegal Irish Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ancona this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Alla Tazza D'Oro, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ancona before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Italy, take a moment for some retail therapy in Ancona’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Italy, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Italy with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Vino E Cucina Miscia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mixer Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Ancona. 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!