Affordable 12-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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Piazza Unità D'italia. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 46,036 visitors.

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 Caffè Tommaseo, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Al Barattolo is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Caffè San Marco, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Trieste, Bar X. Alternatively, visit Antico Caffè Torinese, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Urbanis, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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!

Day 2 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 3 wonderful destinations — Trieste, Miramare / Miramar, and Contovello / Kontovel. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Venice, where you'll be spending 4 nights.

Kick off the day at San Sabba Rice Mill National Monument And Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,204 reviews.

Set your GPS to Miramare / Miramar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Miramare / Miramar beckons with new experiences!

Make Miramare Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this giardino all'italiana an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,372 reviews. More than 79,218 people visit this place of interest every year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Miramare / Miramar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Contovello / Kontovel. This drive usually takes around 4 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Bivio Di Miramare Beach, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 364 reviews.

While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Venice has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Venice 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. Venice has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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.

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

Day 3 means another chance to make the best memories in Venice. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Venice 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St Mark's Campanile. This extraordinary bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,884 visitors.

Next, make your way to Piazza San Marco. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 152,982 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Bridge Of Sighs. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Doge's Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 travelers. It’s estimated that 318,104 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

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.

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, Venice 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.

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

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Venice, The Irish Pub Venezia. Alternatively, visit Dolce Vita Venezia, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Devils Forest Pub, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 4 of your exciting road trip across Italy is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Venice and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 2 nights left in Venice.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This art museum gets 92,922 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,128 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Santa Maria Della Salute. This votive church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,681 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Rialto Bridge. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 141,666 visitors.

Set your GPS to Campalto and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Campalto beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parco San Giuliano. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Campalto, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,776 visitors.

Set your GPS to Burano and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Burano beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Burano. This extraordinary island is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,009 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Venice and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at La Palanca, 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 Farini - 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 Trattoria Dona Onesta, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Bar Al Vecio Calice, considered one of the best bars in Venice.

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

Day 5 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.

Take the opportunity to see Teatro La Fenice. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,677 visitors.

Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This parish church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,174 travelers.

Venice is also the home of Grand Canal. Around 3,806 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 11,745 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Venice is also your chance to admire Gallerie Dell'accademia. This must-visit art museum enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,950 reviews. Approximately 210,149 people travel to Venice every year to see this attraction with their own eyes.

Touring the best attractions in Italy offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Italy you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Italy. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Italy.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Pizzeria Birreria Barbanera, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Irish Pub Santa Lucia offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Rio Novo is the perfect spot for you!

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 Verona. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bologna, where you'll stay for 5 nights.

After soaking in Venice’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Verona. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 25 min. When you arrive in Verona, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Castelvecchio Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Verona. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,854 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This art museum attracts 35,031 visitors every year.

Castelvecchio Bridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This arch bridge is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,156 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ponte Pietra. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,284 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Piazza Delle Erbe. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 11,777 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Verona Arena. This opera house enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 123,818 local and international travelers. Approximately 195,540 people visit this attraction every year.

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.

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

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Bologna, Bar Freud E Squisito. Alternatively, visit Osteria Del Sole, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Macondo - Cocktail Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

On day 7 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 — 4 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Bologna Cathedral, a remarkable catholic cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,852 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 travelers.

Palazzo Re Enzo is another must-visit attraction. This renowned palazzo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,072 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Piazza Maggiore. This well-loved square boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 64,523 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Basilica Of San Domenico awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a church, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,380 previous visitors.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Bologna. 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.

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.

Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Victoria Station. Or, try Trattoria da Me, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Bar Senza Nome offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Bologna, check out Bar Maurizio. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Brewdog Bar Bologna.

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

Day 8 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bologna, 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 Bologna, with 3 nights to stay in the area.

Drop by the renowned Pinacoteca Nazionale Di Bologna. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,400 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 15,573 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is La Piccola Venezia. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,491 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Two Towers. This tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,975 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Piazza Santo Stefano. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,617 local and international travelers.

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.

Savor the culinary delights of Bologna, 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 Trattoria del Tempo Buono, 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 Cantina Bentivoglio - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Ristorante San Pietro promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Kinotto Bar, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Mio Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment.

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

Day 9’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bologna, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary. You have 2 nights left in Bologna. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ducati Museum. This industry museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,028 visitors. Attracting more than 7,600 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Ducati Museum, head to Arco Del Meloncello. This one-of-a-kind arch is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,755 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Devotional Portico Of St. Luke. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 626 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Palazzo Pallavicini. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,173 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Porta Galliera. This famous city gate is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,185 travelers.

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

Discover the heart of Bologna through its culinary scene, starting with Donatello. 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 Naama Cafè, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Trattoria di Via Serra, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

Day 10 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 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Porta Maggiore. This much-appreciated landmark is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,462 reviews.

Next up is Porta Santo Stefano. This landmark has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 854 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Porta Castiglione. This city gate has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,086 reviews.

Villa Ghigi is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,035 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Eremo Di Ronzano. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 377 reviews.

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Ca' Pelletti - Altabella, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Corner Bar, 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 Ristorante I Portici, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 11 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 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Duino / Devin, and Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bologna, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duino / Devin may take around 2 hours 59 min. Upon your arrival in Duino / Devin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Duino Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,428 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Rilke Trail / Pešpot Rilke. Rilke Trail / Pešpot Rilke is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,022 reviews.

Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Duino / Devin behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grotta Gigante. This show cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,534 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.

Osteria Marise 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, Caffè degli Specchi offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at "life" New Bar Torinese Snc, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is White Cafe, known for offering a variety of 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 Trieste!

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Italy as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Trieste.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Trieste's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Trieste is the remarkable Molo Audace. This landmark and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,849 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 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!