9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling west to Milan, Pisa, and Florence

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bologna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bologna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bologna, including a palace, a monument, and a public square. Start your day at Palazzo Re Enzo. This gorgeous palace is an increasingly popular place to see in Bologna. Then, wander over to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. If symbolic sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Piazza Maggiore. This enchanting public square is a favorite among visitors.

Bologna offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Two Towers is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Piazza Santo Stefano. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended public square in Bologna.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional country cooking menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, I Portici, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Bologna is Trattoria di Via Serra, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant, known for its delicious emilian menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lime Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Macondo - Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Onda Marina By Night is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Verona, 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 Milan. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bologna and set your GPS to Verona. 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 47 min. Upon reaching Verona, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Castelvecchio Museum, a captivating museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Castelvecchio Bridge and admire its awe-inspiring features. When you’re ready, continue to Verona Arena, a wondrous stadium beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Piazza Delle Erbe, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Milan. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Milan by reserving a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Seta by Antonio Guida, recognized for its delicious international and contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a local favorite known for its delightful italian contemporary and modern cuisine in Milan. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning italian contemporary and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Nottingham Forest, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Armani/bamboo Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mag Cafe 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!

Day 4 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Milan. You have 1 night left in Milan. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Milan allows for both. Start by heading to Arch Of Peace. This locally renowned monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Parco Sempione, an instagrammable park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sforzesco Castle Art Library, a top-rated castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Pinacoteca Di Brera. Round off your day at Piazza Gae Aulenti, another gem in Milan with instagrammable features to discover.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Milan. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Dessert Bar Milano, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel Milan is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ristorante Qui Si Mangia. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Milan tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Frida is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Friends Pub Milano is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 5 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 Milan and Genoa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pisa, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Milan allows for both. Start by heading to Cathedral Square. This locally appreciated public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, a visually striking shopping mall, promising a delightful encounter.

When you’ve had your share of Milan, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Genoa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 58 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Spiaggia Pubblica Di Priaruggia, a curiosity-inducing beach that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pisa, 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 Pisa, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Anima di Grano Pizzeria Napoletana Pisa Italy, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try il Mercante? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Ghiotteria as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pisa.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Jeffer Cocktails & Friends, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Parisien Wine Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Las Volta Cocktailbar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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

Pisa is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square and a monument. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Knights' Square. Just a short distance away is Leaning Tower Of Pisa, an UNESCO world heritage-designated monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, one of the city’s most world-famous spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Siena, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pisa to Siena may take around 1 hour 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Siena, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Piazza Del Campo is a spectacular public square we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour to Siena Cathedral, a history-steeped church that’s well-regarded in the area.

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 Florence. Florence 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 Florence's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Florence by booking a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Manifattura. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Il Vinile provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with an eye-catching, a standout, a remarkable, a romantic, a breathtaking, an inviting, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at the interesting Galleria Dell'accademia, a photogenic art gallery in Florence. Next, go to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore.

After visiting Galleria Dell'accademia and Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, take time to explore Florence's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Central Market. This photogenic food market offers a unique experience. Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi) is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Ponte Vecchio, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Florence.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ditta Artigianale, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trattoria Da Burde offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Casa Toscana is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Florence.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar 50 Rosso. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bitter Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Archea Brewery, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Florence. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bologna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Florence today. One of the most top-rated attractions included on the itinerary is Piazza Della Signoria. This history-steeped public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Uffizi Gallery and learn what makes this romantic art gallery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. After exploring the church, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. This widely recognized observation deck is a highlight in Florence.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Va Mo Là, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trattoria dal Biassanot beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!