Cheap 11-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna to Milan, Pisa, Perugia, Rome, and Florence

Your exciting road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Bologna, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Bologna and begin your adventure in Italy.

Bologna is a popular cheap holiday destination in Italy with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Italy, Bologna 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.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Italy, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Bologna that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

We recommend a local favorite like Sfoglia Rina. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,531 customers.

Celtic Druid Irish Pub is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Bologna. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,968 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Bologna you might want to check out is Trattoria da Me. Trattoria da Me is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,763 reviews.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Bologna, Va Mo Là. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,876 bar-goers.

Ca' Pelletti - Altabella is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Bologna, with its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,464 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by Cantina Bentivoglio, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,094 customers.

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

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,952 visitors.

When you’re finished at Fountain of Neptune, Bologna, head to Palazzo Re Enzo. This one-of-a-kind palazzo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,072 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Piazza Maggiore. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Two Towers. This tower is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Piazza Santo Stefano. This famous square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,617 travelers.

Set your GPS to Milan and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Milan beckons with new experiences!

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Milan, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Galleria Restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,024 customers.

Another dining option is Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,550 reviews.

Make sure to stop by Vento di Sardegna for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 1,063 customers have rated the irresistible Vento di Sardegna an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Mag Cafe is a fantastic bar many locals in Milan recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,270 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at Nottingham Forest, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,686 customers.

The Friends Pub Milano is a local favorite and a great place to hang out and socialize with other travelers in Milan. Customers have rated the exciting The Friends Pub Milano an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,689 reviews.

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

Day 3 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Milan, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Milan. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Italy, treat 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.

Visit the popular Primè. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,184 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Italy is Contraste. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 823 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Nero 9. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 573 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

Visit Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano, an excellent place to enjoy a couple of drinks. This bar is one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 954 customers.

BhangraBar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Milan. Customers have rated BhangraBar an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 4,036 reviews.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Milan, Genoa, and Pisa. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Pisa.

Make Cathedral Square one of your first sightseeing stops in Milan. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,539 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This commercial gallery is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 91,394 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Duomo di Milano Museum. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 138,554 visitors. Up to 341,609 people travel to this site annually.

After soaking in Milan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Genoa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 58 min. When you arrive in Genoa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Spiaggia Pubblica di Priaruggia. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,161 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pisa, 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 Genoa to Pisa may take around 2 hours 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Italy, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Pisa that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is Osteria I Santi. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,094 customers.

Filter Coffee Lab is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,414 customers.

Ristorante alle Bandierine has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,163 reviews.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Bar Mocambo. This place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 359 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Skyline American Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 510 customers.

Sud is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Pisa. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 784 customers.

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

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Pisa and Perugia. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Perugia.

Make Knights' Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,051 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Leaning Tower of Pisa. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 116,882 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this bell tower every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 3,200,000 annual visitors.

Pisa Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,361 visitors.

When you’re finished at Pisa Cathedral, the perfect next stop is Piazza del Duomo, Pisa. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 104,550 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Campo santo. This cemetery is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 586 reviews.

Perugia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pisa behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min. Perugia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Perugia 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.

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, Perugia is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Perugia is Ristorante Il Giurista. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 980 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Perugia, Ristorante Al Tartufo is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,056 diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Quei Bravi Ragazzi, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 543 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Elfo Pub Perugia, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 754 customers. This spot is known for its unique atmosphere and impressive selection of beverages, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

Bar Pellas is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 631 customers.

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

Day 6 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 exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Vatican City and Rome.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

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

We recommend a local favorite like Tonnarello. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 62,881 customers.

Ristorante Pancrazio dal 1922 is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Rome. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,946 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Rome you might want to check out is Cantina e Cucina. Cantina e Cucina is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,907 reviews.

If you're in the mood for an after-dinner drink, RoYaL Art Cafè Roma is our number one recommendation. Around 3,972 customers have rated this bar 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Ai Tre Scalini also has a great drinks menu. This bar is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,950 reviews.

Centro is another popular place to spend the evening in Rome. This bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,488 customers.

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

Day 7 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Italy. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Rome!

Your discovery of Rome does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Rome 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.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Rome, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

One musty-try restaurant is 433. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,341 customers.

Roma Sparita is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,073 reviews. Roma Sparita is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Ristorante Amedeo. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,798 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

DEROMA - Farine Romane is an excellent example of a great bar in Rome offering drinks at reasonable prices. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,432 customers.

You can also hang out at Hotel Hassler Roma, another of locals’ go-to bars in Rome. Hotel Hassler Roma is among the best city bars offering various beverages at different price points, with around 895 customers having rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

VinAllegro is for you if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Rome. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from more than 1,167 bar-goers.

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

Day 8’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rome, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

A cheap, budget vacation in Rome should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Rome, try some of our top recommendations.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,637 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Maccheroni, so you'll want to drop by this place. Maccheroni serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,633 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Rome is RomAntica. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,462 customers.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Rome, Ristorante Tema. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 939 bar-goers.

La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Rome, with its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 655 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by Sant' Eustachio Caffè, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 9,555 customers.

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

Day 9 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Florence, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Florence, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Rome and Florence.

When you're ready to see some sights, Trevi Fountain is a great place to start with. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 343,494 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Piazza di Spagna. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 113,658 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Spanish Steps. The monumental staircase has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 57,211 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting piazza del Popolo. This square is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,807 reviews.

Villa Borghese is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this urban zone of rome, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 69,749 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Florence, 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 Rome to Florence may take around 3 hours 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Florence should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Florence, try some of our top recommendations.

Eat at Ristorante Paoli. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 6,031 reviews.

You can also check out Osteria Vecchio Cancello. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,589 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Ristorante Oliviero 1962. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,046 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

Manifattura is one of our top recommendations. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Caffe Concerto Paszkowski. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,000 customers.

Ristorante Buca Mario is another top-rated bar in the city of Florence. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,879 customers.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Florence and Bologna. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bologna.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to piazza della Signoria. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Uffizi Gallery. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 visitors. Visiting Uffizi Gallery means you'll be one of 2,011,219 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to piazzale Michelangelo. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bologna. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Bologna 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.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Bologna has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Donatello is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,700 customers.

Trattoria dal Biassanot is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,616 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Trattoria di Via Serra, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,547 reviews.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Bologna. BrewDog Bar Bologna is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,504 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out Corner Bar. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 934 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Macondo - Cocktail Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 808 customers.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Italy is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bologna.

Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Bologna’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.

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

For example, Trattoria del Tempo Buono has a menu of appetizing food and refreshing beverages and is rated at an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,531 customers.

If you feel like eating something else, Naama Cafè is another restaurant worth trying out. This restaurant serves a variety of value-for-money savory dishes and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,538 customers.

Another restaurant popular among cheap holiday-goers is Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,633 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy unique flavors that will remind you of Italy and your fun memories in Bologna.

You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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!