Cheap 12-Day Italy Road Trip from Trieste traveling south to Venice, Milan, Pisa, Arezzo, Rome, 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.

Take the opportunity to see Umberto Saba Statue. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 270 visitors.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Caffè Tommaseo, 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 Al Barattolo - 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 Caffè San Marco, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Trieste, Bar X. Antico Caffè Torinese is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Urbanis, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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 Venice, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Venice, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Trieste, and Miramare / Miramar.

Kick off the day at Canale Ponterosso Trieste, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This canal is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,584 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Piazza Della Borsa. Piazza Della Borsa is a square with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,409 reviews.

Piazza Unità D'italia is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 46,036 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Molo Audace. This landmark is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,849 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Trieste, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Miramare / Miramar may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Miramare / Miramar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Miramare Castle. This giardino all'italiana typically receives around 79,218 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,372 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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Al Parlamento is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Adagio, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Il Mercante. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Venice, and Verona. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Milan, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Rialto Bridge. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 141,666 visitors.

When you’re finished at Rialto Bridge, head to Piazza San Marco. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 152,982 reviews.

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Venice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Verona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Verona Arena. This extraordinary opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 123,818 visitors. Each year, around 195,540 people visit this site to learn more about it.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Nottingham Forest. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Armani/bamboo Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Mag Cafe provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 4 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Milan, 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 Milan, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Make Duomo Di Milano Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews. More than 341,609 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 91,394 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this commercial gallery every year.

La Scala is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,219 visitors.

When you’re finished at La Scala, the perfect next stop is Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This library is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 68,714 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Parco Sempione. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 72,914 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.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Nero 9, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Ristorante la Brisa is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to UNAHOTELS Cusani Milano, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Bar Frida is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit The Friends Pub Milano, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Italy, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Milan, and Genoa. You'll stay in Pisa for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Chiesa Di Santa Maria Presso San Satiro. This much-appreciated church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,826 reviews.

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

Take the opportunity to see Aquarium Of Genoa. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 62,259 visitors and gets around 1,200,000 visits every year.

Via Garibaldi is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,399 travelers.

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

Ristorante Capodimonte Pisa offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Baribaldi Pisa. Or, try Restaurant -Pizzeria Il Mio Capriccio, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Jeffer Cocktails & Friends, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Parisien Wine Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Las Volta Cocktailbar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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 touring 2 wonderful destinations — Pisa, and Siena. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Arezzo, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Knights' Square. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,051 visitors.

Leaning Tower Of Pisa is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This bell tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 116,882 travelers. Up to 3,200,000 people visit Leaning Tower Of Pisa every year.

Pisa is also the home of Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. Around 104,550 people have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pisa and set your GPS to Siena. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 50 min. Upon reaching Siena, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Siena Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This domus is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 21,656 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Piazza Del Campo. Piazza Del Campo is a square with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 64,175 reviews.

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

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

Il Covo dei Briganti 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, La Clandestina offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Liquid Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Vatican City. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Rome, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Vatican City’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arezzo behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 32 min. Vatican City welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Vatican Museums. This art museum gets 1,612,530 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 133,310 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Saint Peter's Square. This square has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,954 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Sistine Chapel. This chapel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 52,083 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit St. Peter's Basilica. This major basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 131,043 visitors. Visiting St. Peter's Basilica means you'll be one of 11,000,000 people who do so every year.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sant' Eustachio Caffè for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Caffè Portofino is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 8 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Italy, you’ll go deep into Rome 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 Rome — 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Colosseum. This roman amphitheatre typically receives around 7,400,000 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 328,821 reviews.

Continue your journey at Roman Forum. This square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 114,450 travelers from near and far.

Rome is also the home of Pantheon. This roman temple has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 189,682 visitors. Each year, around 30,000,000 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Piazza Navona. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 158,771 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Castel Sant'angelo. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 72,431 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this museum. Approximately 918,591 people visit this attraction every year.

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.

Savor the culinary delights of Rome, 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 DEROMA - Farine Romane, 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 La Taverna Italiana - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Centro promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Rome, The Apartment Bar Roma. Alternatively, visit Hotel Hassler Roma, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Rome.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Altare Della Patria. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 49,843 visitors. Altare Della Patria welcomes around 1,683,070 visitors every year.

Trevi Fountain is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sculpture has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 343,494 visitors.

Piazza Di Spagna is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 113,658 visitors.

Piazza Del Popolo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 89,807 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Villa Borghese. This urban zone of rome has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 69,749 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Manifattura, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Archea Brewery likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 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.

Drop by the renowned Piazza Della Signoria. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 76,359 visitors, this church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,099 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Uffizi Gallery, drawing over 2,011,219 yearly visitors. This national museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,794 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 travelers, this square is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Florence.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Freud E Squisito, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Osteria Del Sole is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Macondo - Cocktail Bar 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!

On day 11 of your cheap holiday travels in Italy, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Bologna, and Padua. You'll stay in Trieste for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Piazza Maggiore, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,523 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Two Towers. This tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 travelers.

After soaking in Bologna’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Padua. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive in Padua, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make The Basilica Of St. Anthony your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 38,852 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Prato Della Valle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 47,576 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Trieste, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Osteria Marise, 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 Caffè degli Specchi - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, "life" New Bar Torinese Snc is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, White Cafe also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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!