9-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna traveling south to Arezzo, Rome, Siena, and Florence

On day 2 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 Bologna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Arezzo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Piazza Maggiore. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

When you’re finished at Piazza Maggiore, head to Piazza Santo Stefano. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Two Towers. This tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Bologna Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,852 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. This famous fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,952 travelers.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Arezzo. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Arezzo by securing a reservation at Octavin. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. Alternatively, La Clandestina beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Liquid Bar, a prime location for a drink.

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

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 Vatican City. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rome, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arezzo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Vatican City! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vatican City may take around 2 hours 32 min. Upon your arrival in Vatican City, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Vatican Museums, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 1,612,530 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 133,310 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Saint Peter's Square. Saint Peter's Square is a square with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,954 reviews.

Sistine Chapel is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This chapel is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 52,083 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit St. Peter's Basilica. This major basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 131,043 visitors. Visiting St. Peter's Basilica means you'll be one of 11,000,000 people who do so every year.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Rome. Rome offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Rome's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Rome by booking a table at La Pergola. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean, and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative, and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing mediterranean, and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sant' Eustachio Caffè is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Caffè Portofino provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rome for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you're ready to see some sights, Colosseum is a great place to start. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 328,821 visitors. Colosseum attracts more than 7,400,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Roman Forum. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 114,450 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Pantheon. This site gets more than 30,000,000 visitors annually. The roman temple has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 189,682 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Piazza Navona. This square is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 158,771 reviews.

Castel Sant'angelo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this museum, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 72,431 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique. This attraction gets 918,591 visitors every year.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Rome has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Rome offers and add your favorites to your Italy travel package below.

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

Make sure to book a table at DEROMA - Farine Romane, a popular restaurant in Rome. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rome at La Taverna Italiana, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Centro. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Rome tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Apartment Bar Roma, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Hotel Hassler Roma is another popular option for a drink or two.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Rome, 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 Siena. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Altare Della Patria. This extraordinary architectural structure is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 49,843 visitors. Each year, around 1,683,070 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Trevi Fountain. This top attraction is a sculpture with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 343,494 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Piazza Di Spagna. This square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 113,658 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Piazza Del Popolo. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,807 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Villa Borghese. This urban zone of rome is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 69,749 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Siena, 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 Siena's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to book a table at Antica Trattoria Papei, a popular restaurant in Siena. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Siena at Osteria Quattro Venti, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Osteria da Divo. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Siena tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Meet Life Cafè after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Maudit Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Impero Siena also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Siena, and Pisa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Florence, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Make Tower Of Mangia your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 673 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Piazza Del Campo. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 64,175 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

Siena Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This domus has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 21,656 visitors.

After soaking in Siena’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pisa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 48 min. When you arrive in Pisa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 104,550 visitors.

Leaning Tower Of Pisa is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This bell tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 116,882 travelers. Up to 3,200,000 people visit Leaning Tower Of Pisa every year.

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

As you explore more of Florence, 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Florence by securing a reservation at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative, and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Il Palagio, a top local spot known for its tantalizing italian contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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, Archea Brewery provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Florence has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Florence by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,544 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Piazza Della Signoria. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,099 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Uffizi Gallery, drawing over 2,011,219 yearly visitors. This national museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,794 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 travelers, this square is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Florence.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

As you explore more of Florence, 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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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 Bologna. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 reviews.

Continue your journey at Galleria Dell'accademia. This national museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,429 travelers from near and far. Approximately 1,719,645 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Florence.

Florence is also the home of Central Market. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 43,100 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi). Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 23,075 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bologna by reserving a table at Ahimè. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional country cooking menu. For a different taste experience, head to I Portici, recognized for its delicious creative, and contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Trattoria di Via Serra, a local favorite known for its delightful emilian cuisine in Bologna. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning emilian foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Senza Nome after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Maurizio for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Brewdog Bar Bologna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!