9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Verona traveling east to Florence, Bologna, and Venice

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

Verona is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Castelvecchio Bridge, a notable monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Castelvecchio Museum, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Piazza Delle Erbe. This public square is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Verona at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ponte Pietra. After exploring the historical landmark, head to the up-and-coming Castel San Pietro.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence 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 Florence's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible italian contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Santa Elisabetta is one of the best restaurants for creative and mediterranean cuisine in Florence. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for italian contemporary and international cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Manifattura, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Il Vinile 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!

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

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 romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore and learn what makes this symbolic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the world-famous Ponte Vecchio. After exploring the historical landmark, head to Uffizi Gallery. This impressive art gallery is a highlight in Florence. As your day continues, stop by Piazzale Michelangelo, known for its visually striking features.

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.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Ahimè in Bologna by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Ahimè offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious country cooking menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore I Portici, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Trattoria di Via Serra, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional emilian menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Al Bricco D'oro. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Freud E Squisito, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Osteria Del Sole provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bologna for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Bologna. Begin your sightseeing with Two Towers. This notable monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to International Museum And Library Of Music, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bologna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Piazza Santo Stefano. This beloved public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Basilica Of San Domenico, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bononia Cafè, an iconic dining spot in Bologna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Via Con Me, a popular restaurant in Bologna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela, a hidden gem nestled in Bologna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lime Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Onda Marina By Night is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

Day 5 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bologna allows for both. Start by heading to Palazzo D'accursio. This underrated palace provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Piazza Maggiore, a romantic public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Bologna Cathedral, an intriguing church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. Round off your day at Palazzo Re Enzo, another gem in Bologna with historic 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bologna. 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 delicious dinner at Va Mo Là, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trattoria dal Biassanot offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bologna.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bologna. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bologna, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at San Martino, an up-and-coming church in the city. Then, head to La Piccola Venezia and soak in the ambiance of this romantic street.

There are many interesting places to see in Bologna, and when you are ready for more, go to Botanical Garden And Herbarium. This is one of the city’s most beloved peaceful spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the intriguing Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna.

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.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Wistèria, known for its delicious contemporary and venetian cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Venice is Quadri, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Al Parlamento after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Caffe Rosso, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Adagio also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

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

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the globally renowned Piazza San Marco, an enchanting public square in Venice. Next, go to St Mark's Basilica.

After visiting Piazza San Marco and St Mark's Basilica, have a stroll along Venice's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Doge's Palace. This romantic palace offers a unique experience. Bridge Of Sighs is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Venetian Arsenal, one of the most historic places to visit in Venice.

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 Venice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Generator Venice, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Nevodi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ristorante La Piazza is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Venice.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Il Mercante stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Irish Pub Venezia offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Ai Stagneri is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Venice. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Verona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Venice allows for both. Start by heading to Rialto Bridge. This globally renowned historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo, a history-steeped palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Teatro La Fenice, a locally renowned opera house. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Round off your day at Santa Maria Della Salute, another gem in Venice with enchanting features to discover.

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

As you explore more of Verona, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Verona by booking a table at Osteria Mondo d'Oro. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of italian and seasonal cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Casa Perbellini 12 Apostoli, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Il Desco, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing italian contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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