Relaxed 9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste to Venice

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Italy, you’ll explore the area around Trieste, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Trieste will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Italy.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Trieste. Your adventure starts at Revoltella Museum, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Piazza Unità D'italia. This interesting public square is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Trieste's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Piazza Della Borsa. This eye-catching public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Canale Ponterosso Trieste is also worth visiting.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Miramare / Miramar. This drive usually takes around 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Miramare Castle, a captivating castle known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Trieste and your accommodation.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Trieste by securing a table at Harry's Piccolo. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Caffè San Marco, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Trieste.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Mast, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Urbanis. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita, another top-rated place in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Italy.

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Italy means 24 hours of making the best memories in Trieste. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Trieste. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Trieste!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Trieste on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Molo Audace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking pier before continuing your journey. Roman Theatre Of Trieste is your next stop. This underrated archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Trieste.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Cattedrale Di San Giusto Martire. This stunning church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Civico Museo Del Castello Di San Giusto and Giants' Stairway.

Italy makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Italy also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Trieste offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Caffè degli Specchi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chimera di Bacco is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Trieste.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Trieste and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, "life" New Bar Torinese Snc stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, White Cafe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café James Joyce is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Trieste as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Italy will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Italy, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bottazzo / Botač, 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 Trieste to Bottazzo / Botač may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bottazzo / Botač, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Waterfall Rosandra / Slap Glinščice and explore the romantic features.

After soaking in Bottazzo / Botač’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Grotta Gigante, a beloved cave that draws attention for its stunning features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duino / Devin may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Duino / Devin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Rilke Trail / Pešpot Rilke, an increasingly popular hiking area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Duino Castle and admire its romantic features.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Venice. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Venice, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Venice by booking a table at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Wistèria, renowned for its delectable contemporary and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Quadri, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Venice. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Al Parlamento, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Caffe Rosso. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Adagio, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Italy!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Italy, you’ll go deep into Venice, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Venice, and meet locals along the way!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Venice today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Bridge Of Sighs. This enchanting monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to St Mark's Campanile and learn what makes this visually striking monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular St Mark's Basilica. After exploring the church, head to Rialto Bridge. This world-famous historical landmark is a highlight in Venice. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the interesting Doge's Palace. Enjoy exploring this incredible palace at your own pace.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Italy by joining a traveler-approved tour in Venice. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Venice that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Italy more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Venice to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Venice has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Generator Venice, a highly-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're eager to try something different, consider Nevodi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante La Piazza. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Venice.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Il Mercante, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Irish Pub Venezia is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Ai Stagneri provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Italy!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Venice and visit amazing attractions in Venice, Murano, and Burano destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Venice. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today’s agenda in Venice includes a public square, a church, and an opera house. Piazza San Marco is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari, a frequently visited church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Teatro La Fenice, a picture-perfect opera house, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking in Venice’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Murano. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 6 min. When you arrive in Murano, it's time to take a break from the road.

Murano is a frequently visited handicraft store we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Murano and set your GPS to Burano. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Burano, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Burano, an intriguing street that everyone visiting Burano should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Venice, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Osteria Alla Staffa, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bistrot de Venise, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Corte Sconta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Venice and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Dolce Vita Venezia, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Tarnowska's American Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar All'angolo provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Italy!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Venice, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Italy are extraordinary.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Venice. Your adventure starts at Gallerie Dell'accademia, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Punta Della Dogana - Pinault Collection. This frequently visited museum is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Venice's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This visually striking art gallery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Santa Maria Della Salute is also worth visiting.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Italy. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Italy and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Venice, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at Cantina Do Spade, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trattoria Al Gazzettino beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Local. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Venice tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Italy.

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Italy is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Trieste for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Venice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bologna. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bologna Cathedral, an often recommended church known for its historic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Piazza Maggiore, an astonishing public square that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna and uncover the details of this noteworthy monument.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Italy at Trieste. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Trieste has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dine in style at Salsapariglia Italian Ristorantino Trieste, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sbecolez Trieste boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ristorante Menarosti. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Trieste.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Al Ciketo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Aqvedotto Caffè, offering a different kind of charm.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Italy!