Cheap 12-Day Italy Road Trip from Trieste to Venice, Verona, Milan, Genoa, Florence, and Bologna

Your exciting 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Umberto Saba Statue, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 270 reviews.

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

Caffè Tommaseo offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Al Barattolo. Or, try Caffè San Marco, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Bar X offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Trieste, check out Antico Caffè Torinese. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Urbanis.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Trieste, and Miramare / Miramar. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Venice, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Make Piazza Della Borsa one of your first sightseeing stops in Trieste. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,409 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Piazza Unità D'italia is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 46,036 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Molo Audace. This landmark has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,849 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to San Sabba Rice Mill National Monument And Museum. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 5,204 previous visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Trieste, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Miramare / Miramar. This drive usually takes around 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Al Parlamento offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Adagio is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Il Mercante is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 3 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 2 nights.

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

Piazza San Marco is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 visitors.

St Mark's Basilica is also highly recommended by travelers. This cathedral has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,439 visitors.

Doge's Palace is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 318,104 people visit this place every year. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 24,775 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Bridge Of Sighs. This footbridge has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 travelers.

Verona 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Verona, 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.

Continue your lively evening at Archivio, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Segreteria Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Duchi Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 4 means another chance to make the best memories in Verona. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Verona and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ponte Pietra. Previous visitors have rated this deck arch bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,284 reviews.

Piazza Delle Erbe is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,777 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Verona Arena. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 123,818 reviews. Every year, around 195,540 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Castelvecchio Museum is another outstanding experience in Verona. Around 13,854 travelers have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 35,031 visitors annually.

If you long for more, Castelvecchio Bridge is not far away. This arch bridge is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,156 reviews.

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.

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. Verona has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Discover the heart of Verona through its culinary scene, starting with Re Teodorico. 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 La Piazzetta Osteria Enoteca, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Terrazza Bar Al Ponte, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Verona, Cappa Café.

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 cheap holiday travels in Italy, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Valeggio sul Mincio, Ronchi, and Peschiera del Garda. You'll stay in Milan for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Set your GPS to Valeggio sul Mincio and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Valeggio sul Mincio beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parco Giardino Sigurtà, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,387 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Valeggio sul Mincio, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ronchi. Your travel time is around 31 min.

Take the opportunity to see Gardaland Resort. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 99,291 visitors.

Set your GPS to Peschiera del Garda and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Peschiera del Garda beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Fortifications. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,840 reviews.

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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Nottingham Forest, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Armani/bamboo Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mag Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 6 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 Milan and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Royal Palace Of Milan. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,538 visitors.

Next, make your way to Duomo Di Milano Museum. This art museum welcomes around 341,609 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews.

While in Milan, we also recommend a visit to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii. This commercial gallery has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 91,394 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to La Scala. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,219 travelers, this opera house is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Milan.

Make your way to Piazza Gae Aulenti, perhaps the most famous square in Milan. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,398 reviews.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Milan, 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.

Nero 9 offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Ristorante la Brisa. Or, try UNAHOTELS Cusani Milano, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Milan, check out Bar Frida. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at The Friends Pub Milano.

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

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pinacoteca Di Brera. This extraordinary art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,077 visitors. Each year, around 417 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This top attraction is a library with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 68,714 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Parco Sempione. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 72,914 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Arch Of Peace. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,502 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Museo Della Scienza E Della Tecnologia "leonardo Da Vinci". This technology museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 22,235 travelers. It’s estimated that 532,084 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Genoa. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Genoa, 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 Genoa that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Scurreria Beer & Bagel, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Lepre offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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 8 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza De Ferrari. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Genoa, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,312 visitors.

Aquarium Of Genoa is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 62,259 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 1,200,000 people visit this public aquarium every year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pisa. This car ride takes around 2 hours 5 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Leaning Tower Of Pisa is a great place to start. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 116,882 visitors. Leaning Tower Of Pisa attracts more than 3,200,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 104,550 travelers.

Florence 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, 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.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Manifattura. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Archea Brewery provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 9 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 Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi). This archives is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 23,075 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Central Market. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 43,100 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Galleria Dell'accademia. This national museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,429 visitors. Visiting Galleria Dell'accademia means you'll be one of 1,719,645 people who do so every year.

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.

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

Start your foodie adventure at Trattoria Da Burde, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Ristorante Buca Mario, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Eataly Firenze, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Florence. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bologna, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Piazza Della Signoria. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Next up is Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Uffizi Gallery. This national museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,794 reviews. Every year, 2,011,219 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,544 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Piazzale Michelangelo. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews.

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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Freud E Squisito, known for its inviting atmosphere. Osteria Del Sole is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Macondo - Cocktail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 11 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 2 wonderful destinations — Bologna, and Padua. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Trieste, where you'll be spending 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Piazza Maggiore. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,523 reviews.

Continue your journey at Two Towers. This tower is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 travelers from near and far.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like The Basilica Of St. Anthony. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,852 visitors.

Next, make your way to Prato Della Valle. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 47,576 reviews.

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

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Osteria Marise, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Caffè degli Specchi offers delightful dishes and desserts.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita, known for its lively atmosphere. "life" New Bar Torinese Snc is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, White Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Italy is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Trieste.

Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Trieste’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.

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.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Trieste, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Chimera di Bacco, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Sbecolez Trieste features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Ristorante Menarosti is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Trieste. 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!