9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brindisi traveling west to Taranto, Salerno, Rome, Naples, and Bari

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 Brindisi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Taranto, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Brindisi allows for both. Start by heading to Plaza De La Catedral. This intriguing public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Cathedral Of The Visitation And Saint John Baptist, a culturally significant church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to End Of The Via Appia Antica, an underrated monument.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Taranto. Taranto offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Come Vuoi Pane & Condimenti, a highly-rated dining destination in Taranto. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ricci - Pizzaioli dal 1963, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante La Pignata. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Taranto this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Center, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Tabir is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Old Fashion ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Taranto and Bernalda. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Salerno, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start by visiting Monumento Ai Caduti, a prime spot to begin your journey. This noteworthy monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Piazza Della Vittoria, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming public square renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Taranto by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Temple Of Hera / Palatine Tables. This picture-perfect archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Taranto experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Salerno. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Salerno. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Salerno by securing a reservation at Re Maurì. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, L'Unico Drink & Food Salerno boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Hilton Bar E Gastronomia, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Black Monday Speakeasy Tbm offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Salerno. Dòmo I' Vinaino Wine Bar - Enogastronomia is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pompei and 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Salerno, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Archaeological Park Of Pompeii, a notable archeological site in the town. Then, head to Basilica and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic archeological site.

After exploring the square, visit the timeless St. Peter's Basilica.

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.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Rome by securing a reservation at La Pergola. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative 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 Enoteca La Torre, a top local spot known for its tantalizing mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Almalu Trastevere provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Rome. You have 1 night left in Rome. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Don’t miss Trastevere in Rome today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Start by visiting Piazza Di Spagna, a prime spot to begin your journey. This symbolic public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Trevi Fountain, another must-visit landmark and iconic monument renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Rome by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Pantheon. This photogenic monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Rome experience. We also recommend visiting Piazza Navona, an iconic public square.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Sant' Eustachio Caffè is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Yellowsquare Rome, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Caffè Portofino. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 8 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 Bari and Polignano a Mare. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brindisi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bari today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino. This heritage-rich church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Di San Nicola and learn what makes this culturally significant church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Teatro Petruzzelli. After exploring the performing arts theater, head to Lama Monachile. This captivating beach is a highlight in Bari.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Brindisi, 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 Brindisi, 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 delicious meal at Betty - Gelateria Cafe Ristorante Pizzeria a Brindisi, a top-rated dining destination in Brindisi. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bento, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cozza Nera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brindisi this evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.