Cheap 10-Day Italy Road Trip from Milan to Genoa, Florence, Bologna, Venice, and Verona

Your exciting road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Milan, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Milan and begin your adventure in Italy.

Milan is a popular cheap holiday destination in Italy with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Italy, Milan is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Drop by the renowned Piazza Gae Aulenti. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,398 visitors.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Italy by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Milan that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Contraste, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Radisson Blu Hotel Milan offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Bice Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Nottingham Forest, considered one of the best bars in Milan. You can also enjoy drinks at Armani/Bamboo Bar, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Mag Cafe, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Milan.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Italy!

On day 2 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Italy, you’ll go deep into Milan and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Milan — 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Museo della Scienza e della Tecnologia "Leonardo da Vinci". This popular technology museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 22,235 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 532,084 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Arch of Peace. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,502 visitors, this monument deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Parco Sempione. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 72,914 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This library and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,714 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Pinacoteca di Brera. This art museum gets around 417 annual visitors. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,077 travelers, this art museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Milan.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Italy sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Italy. Italy has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Italy that will fill you with new inspiration.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Italy by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Milan that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Nero 9 stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Ristorante la Brisa offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at UNAHOTELS Cusani Milano, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano is an excellent example of a great bar in Milan offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Bar Frida, another of locals’ go-to bars in Milan. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Milan, The Friends Pub Milano is for you.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Italy!

Day 3 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Milan. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Genoa, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Genoa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Genoa beckons with new experiences!

Make Cathedral Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,539 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at La Scala. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,219 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this opera house every year.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This commercial gallery has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 91,394 visitors.

When you’re finished at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the perfect next stop is Duomo di Milano Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews. Duomo di Milano Museum attracts approximately 341,609 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Royal Palace of Milan. This art museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,538 reviews.

Genoa offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Italy. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Genoa, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Trattoria Vegia Zena, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Trattoria delle Grazie is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Manhattan Bar.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Scurreria Beer & Bagel stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Lepre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Italy!

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Genoa and Pisa. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Florence, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Genoa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pisa. Your travel time is around 2 hours 5 min.

Kick off the day at piazza De Ferrari, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,312 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Aquarium of Genoa. Aquarium of Genoa is a public aquarium with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 62,259 reviews. Attracting more than 1,200,000 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Pisa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Genoa behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min. Pisa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Leaning Tower of Pisa, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bell tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 116,882 reviews. Every year, Leaning Tower of Pisa welcomes more than 3,200,000 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Piazza del Duomo, Pisa is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 104,550 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Florence. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Florence, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Italy shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Florence is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Caffe San Firenze, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Ditta Artigianale, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

A road trip vacation in Genoa can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Italy!

Day 5 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Florence, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Florence, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Boboli Gardens. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 25,341 visitors.

Next, make your way to Central Market. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 43,100 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 76,359 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Galleria dell'Accademia. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,429 travelers. Around 1,719,645 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at David. This statue is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,476 travelers.

Your discovery of Florence does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Florence on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Italy.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Florence offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Trattoria Da Burde, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Ristorante Buca Mario, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Eataly Firenze, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Italy!

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in Italy, you’ll tour 1: Florence. You'll stay in Bologna for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bologna. This car ride takes around 1 hour 29 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to piazza della Signoria. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Florence, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors.

Ponte Vecchio is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Uffizi Gallery. Visitors have rated this national museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,794 reviews. Uffizi Gallery receives around 2,011,219 visitors every year.

Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a church rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 28,544 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic piazzale Michelangelo, perhaps the most famous square in Florence. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 77,744 travelers.

While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Bologna has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Bologna on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Bologna is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Sfoglia Rina stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Va Mo Là offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Trattoria dal Biassanot, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Freud e Squisito, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Osteria del Sole, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Macondo - Cocktail Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Italy!

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Venice, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Venice, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Padua and Bologna.

After soaking in Bologna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Padua. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 28 min. When you arrive in Padua, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Basilica of St. Anthony. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,852 visitors.

Prato della Valle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 47,576 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bologna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Padua. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Piazza Maggiore your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,523 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Two Towers. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this tower every year.

Piazza Santo Stefano is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,617 visitors.

Venice offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Italy. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Venice offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Nevodi, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Ristorante La Piazza offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Bistrot de Venise is the perfect spot for you!

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Al Parlamento, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Adagio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Il Mercante offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Italy. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Italy!

Day 8 of your road trip across Italy is another proof that cheap holidays in Italy can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Venice. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Verona, where you'll be spending 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Venice, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Verona may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Verona, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rialto Bridge. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Piazza San Marco. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,439 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Doge's Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors. Visiting Doge's Palace means you'll be one of 318,104 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Bridge of Sighs. This footbridge is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Verona. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Verona, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Verona. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to La Griglia, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Osteria da Ugo - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Locanda 4 Cuochi promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Keep the evening going at Archivio, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to La Segreteria Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Duchi Café, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Verona!

Day 9 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Verona and Sirmione. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Milan, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Verona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sirmione. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Verona Arena one of your first sightseeing stops in Verona. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 123,818 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This opera house attracts 195,540 visitors every year.

Castelvecchio Museum is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,854 reviews. Up to 35,031 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Verona special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Castelvecchio Bridge. This arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,156 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Ponte Pietra. A trip to this popular deck arch bridge is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 12,284 previous visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sirmione. This car ride takes around 48 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Scaliger Castle. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sirmione, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 54,592 visitors.

While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Milan has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Milan on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Milan should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Milan, try some of our top recommendations.

Start your foodie adventure at Vento di Sardegna, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Galleria Restaurant, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at BhangraBar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Rufus Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Milan. Ostello Bello Grande is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Italy! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Milan!

Your budget road trip vacation in Italy is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Milan.

As you approach the end of your journey in Italy, take a moment for some retail therapy in Milan’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Italy, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Italy with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Milan.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Milan, consider a top-rated restaurant like Tommasi Milano, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Da Vic is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is G. B. Bar, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Milan.

You’ll then say farewell to Milan. 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!