9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Florence, San Gimignano, Monterosso al Mare, and Modena

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

Experience Piazza Maggiore, a widely recognized public square in the city. Then, head to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Bologna, and when you are ready for more, go to Bologna Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile majestic spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the captivating Two Towers. Not far away, you'll also find Piazza Santo Stefano. This public square is a history-steeped highlight in Bologna. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna, a locally appreciated art gallery in the city.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, 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 Di Poneta Novoli, 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 Caffe San Firenze, a hidden gem nestled in Florence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Manifattura, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Il Vinile provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Florence. You have 1 night left in Florence. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Florence is brimming with adventures.

Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore leaves a lasting impression. This church is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Piazza Della Signoria, an extraordinary public square, known for its visually striking 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 history-steeped palace is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo, an awe-inspiring observation deck in Florence.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Trattoria Da Burde is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Casa Toscana. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Florence tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar 50 Rosso, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bitter Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Florence. Archea Brewery is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Siena and San Gimignano. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in San Gimignano, where you'll spend 1 night.

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 12 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Siena Cathedral, a locally renowned church in Siena. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Piazza Del Campo. This astonishing public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Tower Of Mangia is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most historic monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the curiosity-inducing Pubblico Palace and discover what makes this palace unique.

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 43 min. San Gimignano welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Porta San Giovanni, a locally appreciated monument 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 Duomo and admire its enchanting features.

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

San Gimignano 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 San Gimignano.

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

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

Set your GPS to Pisa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pisa beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa. This wondrous monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lucca may take around 31 min. Upon your arrival in Lucca, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Mura Di Lucca is an often recommended historical landmark we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to San Michele In Foro, a breathtaking church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Piazza Dell'anfiteatro, a romantic public square.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Monterosso al Mare. Monterosso al Mare 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Monterosso al Mare, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria La Smorfia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Taverna di Monterosso is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Albergo Degli Amici. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Monterosso al Mare tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Enoteca Da Eliseo, a prime location for a drink.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Italy. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Riomaggiore and Manarola. With 1 night to stay in Monterosso al Mare, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the village’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Riomaggiore. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Next, make your way to Castle Of Riomaggiore, another highlight in Riomaggiore.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Manarola, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Monterosso al Mare. This drive usually takes around 41 min.

Savor the day by heading to Manarola Overlook Viewpoint, an increasingly popular observation deck that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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 Monterosso al Mare, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Ely, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Cantina Di Miky? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Enoteca Internazionale as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Monterosso al Mare.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Montale Rangone and Modena are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your adventure in Modena is only getting started when you visit Duomo Di Modena, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Torre Civica - Ghirlandina. This underrated monument is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Modena's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Enzo Ferrari Museum. This photogenic museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Upon reaching Montale Rangone, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parco Archeologico E Museo All'aperto Della Terramara Di Montale, an increasingly popular archeological site known for its eye-catching features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bologna, 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 Bologna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bononia Cafè, a top-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Via Con Me, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lime Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Macondo - Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bologna. Bar Onda Marina By Night is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Italy.