9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Venice to Milan, Florence, Rome, and Arezzo
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Explore the best of Italy on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Venice, Milan, Florence, Rome, Arezzo, Bologna, and Padua. This road trip itinerary in Italy seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Venice, 1 night in Milan, 1 night in Florence, 3 nights in Rome, and 1 night in Arezzo. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Italy. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Venice, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Italy on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Italy. Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Venice, Milan, Florence, Rome, Arezzo, Bologna, and Padua, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Italy. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Italy.
Throughout your road trip in Italy, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Italy.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Venice - Arrival day
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- Rialto Bridge
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Say hello to Venice! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Venice for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Venice is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Rialto Bridge or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Venice. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bauer Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'Osteria Le Guglie? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Corner Pub as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Venice.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Al Parlamento, known for its lively atmosphere. The Caffe Rosso is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Adagio offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Venice
- Milan
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Drive 265 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Piazza San Marco
- St Mark's Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Venice, 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 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Venice, including a public square, a church, a palace, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Piazza San Marco. This wondrous public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to St Mark's Basilica, which may be one of the most inviting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Venice on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Doge's Palace, one of the city’s most captivating palace. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Bridge Of Sighs.
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 Milan. Milan 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 Milan's best restaurants.
Have a memorable dining experience in Milan by booking a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Milan, Seta by Antonio Guida shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious international and contemporary cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia is known as a top local spot for its delicious italian contemporary and modern cuisine in Milan. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Nottingham Forest, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Armani/bamboo Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mag Cafe offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 3
- Milan
- Florence
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Drive 319 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Duomo di Milano
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- Castello Sforzesco
- Sempione Park
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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 Milan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, an enchanting, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, an inviting, a culturally significant, a detailed, and an idyllic. Start at the iconic Duomo Di Milano Museum, an inviting church in Milan. Next, go to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii.
After visiting Duomo Di Milano Museum and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, take time to explore Milan's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This breathtaking castle offers a unique experience. Parco Sempione is another noteworthy stop.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Florence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Florence by reserving a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional italian contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Santa Elisabetta, recognized for its delicious creative and mediterranean dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a local favorite known for its delightful italian contemporary and international cuisine in Florence. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning italian contemporary and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Manifattura after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Il Vinile also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Say good night to Florence and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Florence
- Rome
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Drive 295 km, 3 hours 58 min
- piazza della Signoria
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Ponte Vecchio
- piazzale Michelangelo
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On day 4 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 Florence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rome, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Discover a day packed with a charming, a stunning, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a grand, a detailed, a sacred, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated in Florence. Begin your sightseeing with Piazza Della Signoria. This famous public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Florence, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Ponte Vecchio. This wondrous historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Piazzale Michelangelo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rome. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rome. 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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Rome by booking a table at La Pergola, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional mediterranean and contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Il Pagliaccio, renowned for its delectable creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Enoteca La Torre, a local gem known for its delightful mediterranean and creative cuisine in Rome. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
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. Almalu Trastevere is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.
Day 5
- Rome
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Trevi Fountain
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Rome for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Prepare for a day full of an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a historic, a symbolic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, a monumental, a romantic, and a detailed. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Colosseum. This timeless archeological site is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Roman Forum, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Pantheon, one of the most iconic places to see in Rome. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Piazza Navona. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this public square offers. Finally, take the path to the spectacular Castel Sant'angelo, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sant' Eustachio Caffè after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Yellowsquare Rome, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Caffè Portofino also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 6
- Rome
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Altare della Patria
- Trevi Fountain
- Piazza di Spagna
- piazza del Popolo
- Villa Borghese
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Day 6 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rome today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Altare Della Patria. This picture-perfect monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza Di Spagna and learn what makes this romantic public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the famous Piazza Del Popolo. After exploring the public square, head to Villa Borghese. This impressive park is a highlight in Rome.
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 Rome, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Hotel de Russie, a top-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Taverna Italiana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Parrot Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Apartment Bar Roma, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Hotel Hassler Roma offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rome.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 7
- Rome
- Arezzo
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Drive 225 km, 3 hours 10 min
- St Peter's Basilica
- Sistine Chapel
- Saint Peter's Square
- Vatican Museums
- Trevi Fountain
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Vatican City. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Arezzo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set your GPS to Vatican City, Vatican City and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vatican City beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is St. Peter's Basilica. Then, head to Sistine Chapel. This famous chapel is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Saint Peter's Square. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the square. Next, continue your journey to Vatican Museums, a wondrous art museum.
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 Arezzo. Arezzo 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 Arezzo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Arezzo by securing a table at Octavin. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Clandestina, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Keep the evening going at Liquid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Arezzo
- Bologna
- Padua
- Venice
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Drive 333 km, 4 hours 32 min
- Two Towers
- Piazza Maggiore
- Prato della Valle
- The Basilica of St Anthony
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bologna and Padua. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Venice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bologna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arezzo behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min. Bologna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Two Towers, a popular monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Piazza Maggiore, where you can soak in the grand surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Padua. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Prato Della Valle, a locally renowned public square known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to The Basilica Of St. Anthony, an interesting church that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Venice, 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 Venice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Venice by reserving a table at Local. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Wistèria, renowned for its delectable contemporary and venetian dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Quadri, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Venice.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Il Mercante after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Irish Pub Venezia for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Ai Stagneri is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Venice and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 9
- Venice - Departure day
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- Teatro La Fenice
- Piazza San Marco
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Day 9 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Venice before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Venice’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Italy.
Venice is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, an instagrammable, and a historic! Start at Teatro La Fenice, a captivating opera house that is worthwhile a visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Venice.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Osteria Alla Staffa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bistrot de Venise? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Venice. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Italy!
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