Affordable 11-Day Relaxed Italy Road Trip Vacation from Trieste to Venice, and Bologna

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

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

One thing you have to know about Trieste is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Trieste.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Molo Audace. This extraordinary landmark is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,849 visitors.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Caffè Tommaseo, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Al Barattolo is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Caffè San Marco.

Bar X is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Antico Caffè Torinese is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Urbanis, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Italy! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Italy!

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cattedrale Di San Giusto Martire. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,288 visitors.

Next, make your way to Roman Theatre Of Trieste. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,576 reviews.

While in Trieste, we also recommend a visit to Piazza Della Borsa. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,409 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Piazza Unità D'italia. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 46,036 travelers, this square is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Trieste.

After soaking in Trieste’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Miramare / Miramar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Miramare / Miramar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Miramare Castle, a remarkable giardino all'italiana where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,372 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 79,218 visitors.

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

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 Venice that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Al Parlamento offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Venice, check out Adagio. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Il Mercante.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Italy! Make every second of your affordable travels in Venice count!

Day 3 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Italy. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Venice and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Piazza San Marco. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 152,982 reviews.

Continue your journey at St Mark's Campanile. This bell tower is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,884 travelers from near and far.

Venice is also the home of St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,439 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Doge's Palace. A total of 318,104 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Bridge Of Sighs. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this footbridge.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Venice. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Venice offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Italy worth remembering for a lifetime.

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

Discover the heart of Venice through its culinary scene, starting with Cantina Do Spade. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Trattoria Al Gazzettino, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Trattoria Bar Pontini, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Visit The Irish Pub Venezia, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Dolce Vita Venezia serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Venice. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Devils Forest Pub.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Italy!

Day 4 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lido, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the town. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Venice, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Venetian Arsenal. This naval arsenal is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,749 visitors.

When you’re finished at Venetian Arsenal, head to Teatro La Fenice. This one-of-a-kind opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,677 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,745 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Grand Canal. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,806 visitors.

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 Venice that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

La Palanca 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, Farini offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Trattoria Dona Onesta, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Bar Al Vecio Calice offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Italy! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Venice!

Day 5’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Venice, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Venice. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Gallerie Dell'accademia. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,950 visitors. Gallerie Dell'accademia welcomes around 210,149 visitors every year.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,128 visitors. Peggy Guggenheim Collection attracts up to 92,922 visitors every year.

Santa Maria Della Salute is also highly recommended by travelers. This votive church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,681 visitors.

Punta Della Dogana - Pinault Collection is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,371 reviews.

Make your vacation in Italy more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Italy and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

Savor the culinary delights of Venice, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Pizzeria Birreria Barbanera, 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 Irish Pub Santa Lucia - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Rio Novo promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Venice. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bologna, where you'll stay for 4 nights.

Make Rialto Bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in Venice. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 141,666 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Ca' Pesaro International Gallery Of Modern Art is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,185 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Grassi Palace. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,160 visitors.

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.

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

Bar Freud E Squisito offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Osteria Del Sole is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Macondo - Cocktail Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Italy! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Bologna!

Day 7 means another chance to make the best memories in Bologna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bologna and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

When you're ready to see some sights, Palazzo D'accursio is a great place to start. This palazzo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 969 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Bologna Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,852 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Piazza Maggiore. The square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 reviews.

Palazzo Re Enzo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this palazzo, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,072 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Italy is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Italy, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Italy. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Italy that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Victoria Station is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Trattoria da Me, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Bar Senza Nome, considered one of the best bars in Bologna. You can also enjoy drinks at Bar Maurizio, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Brewdog Bar Bologna, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Bologna.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Italy.

On day 8 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Italy, you’ll go deep into Bologna 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 Bologna — 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Palazzo Pallavicini. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bologna, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,173 visitors.

Two Towers is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Piazza Santo Stefano. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

Porta Maggiore is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a landmark rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,462 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Porta Santo Stefano, perhaps the most famous landmark in Bologna. This attraction is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 854 travelers.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Bologna, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Bologna and the culture of past or present-day Italy.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Bologna, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Cantina Bentivoglio - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Ristorante San Pietro, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Kinotto Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Mio Bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Italy! Make every second of your affordable travels in Bologna count!

Day 9 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Italy. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Bologna and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Porta Galliera. Previous visitors have rated this city gate an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,185 reviews.

La Piccola Venezia is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,491 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,400 reviews. Every year, around 15,573 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Botanical Garden And Herbarium is another outstanding experience in Bologna. Around 680 travelers have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Villa Ghigi is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,035 reviews.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Italy. To have the best affordable travel experience in Italy, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Italy unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Italy.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Bologna has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Donatello offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Naama Cafè. Or, try Trattoria di Via Serra, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Italy!

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Trieste, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Trieste, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Bologna.

Drop by the renowned Basilica Of San Domenico. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,380 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Porta Castiglione. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,086 visitors, this city gate deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Arco Del Meloncello. This arch has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,755 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Ducati Museum, drawing over 7,600 yearly visitors. This industry museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,028 local and international travelers.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Trieste, 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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Osteria Marise, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Caffè degli Specchi is another must-visit dining spot.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita, considered one of the best bars in Trieste. You can also enjoy drinks at "life" New Bar Torinese Snc, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to White Cafe, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Trieste.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Italy.

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Italy as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Trieste.

On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Trieste’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Trieste is the remarkable Giants' Stairway. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 955 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Trieste or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Trieste, consider a top-rated restaurant like Chimera di Bacco, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Sbecolez Trieste is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Ristorante Menarosti, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Trieste.

You’ll then say farewell to Trieste and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Italy!