Cheap 12-Day Italy Road Trip from Trieste traveling west to Venice, Verona, Florence, and Ferrara

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Umberto Saba Statue. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Trieste, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 270 visitors.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Caffè Tommaseo, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Al Barattolo offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Caffè San Marco is the perfect spot for you!

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Bar X, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Antico Caffè Torinese, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Urbanis, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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 is another proof that cheap holidays in Italy can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Trieste, and Miramare / Miramar. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Venice, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

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.

Civico Museo Del Castello Di San Giusto is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This castle is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,982 reviews. Up to 53,625 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Trieste special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Piazza Unità D'italia. This square has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 46,036 visitors.

Set your GPS to Miramare / Miramar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 20 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 one of your first sightseeing stops in Miramare / Miramar. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,372 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This giardino all'italiana attracts 79,218 visitors every year.

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.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Al Parlamento stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Adagio offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Il Mercante is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Piazza San Marco. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 visitors.

Next, make your way to St Mark's Campanile. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,884 reviews.

While in Venice, we also recommend a visit to St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,439 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Doge's Palace. This attraction gets around 318,104 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 travelers, this palace is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Venice.

Make your way to Bridge Of Sighs, perhaps the most famous footbridge in Venice. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,223 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.

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Cantina Do Spade, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Trattoria Al Gazzettino, 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 Trattoria Bar Pontini, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

The Irish Pub Venezia is an excellent example of a great bar in Venice offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Dolce Vita Venezia, another of locals’ go-to bars in Venice. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Venice, Devils Forest Pub is for you.

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Venice. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Verona, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rialto Bridge. This extraordinary stone bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 141,666 visitors.

Next, make your way to Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,745 reviews.

While in Venice, we also recommend a visit to Teatro La Fenice. This opera house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,677 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This attraction gets around 92,922 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,128 travelers, this art museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Venice.

Make your way to Santa Maria Della Salute, perhaps the most famous votive church in Venice. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,681 reviews.

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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Archivio, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Segreteria Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Duchi Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 5 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Italy, you’ll go deep into Verona 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 Verona — 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Castelvecchio Bridge. This popular arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,156 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Castelvecchio Museum. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,854 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Ponte Pietra. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,284 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Piazza Delle Erbe. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,777 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Verona Arena. This opera house gets around 195,540 annual visitors. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 123,818 travelers, this opera house is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Verona.

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.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Re Teodorico, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. La Piazzetta Osteria Enoteca is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Terrazza Bar Al Ponte.

Cappa Café offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Valeggio sul Mincio, and Mantua. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Florence, where you'll stay for 4 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Valeggio sul Mincio. This car ride takes around 46 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Parco Giardino Sigurtà. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,387 visitors.

After soaking in Valeggio sul Mincio’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mantua. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Mantua, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Ducale Palace. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,926 visitors.

Piazza Delle Erbe is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,023 travelers.

Mantua is also the home of Te Palace. Around 12,602 people have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Florence offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Florence. Archea Brewery is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Florence, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary. You have 3 nights left in Florence. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Brunelleschi's Dome. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,199 visitors.

Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,318 travelers. Up to 1,287,658 people visit Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo every year.

Florence is also the home of Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. Around 76,359 people have rated this church an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Pitti Palace, which hosts up to 198,270 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 23,445 reviews, a visit to this art museum is a great idea.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Florence, 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 Trattoria Da Burde, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Ristorante Buca Mario is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Eataly Firenze, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Day 8 means another chance to make the best memories in Florence. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Florence and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 2 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza Della Signoria. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors.

Next, make your way to Palazzo Vecchio. This top attraction is a palazzo with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,049 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Uffizi Gallery. Hosting 2,011,219 visitors every year, Uffizi Gallery is one of the most popular places to visit in Florence. This national museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Ponte Vecchio. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at The Boboli Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 25,341 travelers.

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.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Tijuana, 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 Djària - American Bar - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Ristorante Buca Niccolini promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

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.

Make Parco Delle Cascine one of your first sightseeing stops in Florence. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,875 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Piazzale Michelangelo 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 77,744 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,544 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Galleria Dell'accademia and find out why 1,719,645 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular national museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 34,429 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is David. This statue enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,476 local and international travelers.

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

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.

Cibrèo Caffè offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Ristorante Le Volte Firenze. Or, try Ristorante Romantico il Paiolo, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Ferrara, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Ferrara, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Florence, and Bologna.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Strozzi Palace Mantua. This palazzo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,058 visitors.

Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi) is another popular attraction you could visit today. This archives has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 23,075 visitors.

Central Market is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 43,100 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Florence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bologna. Your travel time is around 1 hour 29 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Two Towers. This much-appreciated tower is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,975 reviews.

Next up is Piazza Maggiore. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 visitors.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Osteria La Compagnia, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Farina del mio sacco is another must-visit dining spot.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Gallery, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Retrobottega Travagli offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Encio's Tiki Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Castello Estense. This castle typically receives around 51,526 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,340 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Padua. This car ride takes around 1 hour 1 min.

Drop by the renowned Prato Della Valle. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 47,576 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is The Basilica Of St. Anthony. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 38,852 visitors, this church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,510 reviews.

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

Discover the heart of Trieste through its culinary scene, starting with Osteria Marise. 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 Caffè degli Specchi, where time-honored recipes are served.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, "life" New Bar Torinese Snc is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. White Cafe is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday 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.

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.

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. 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!