Cheap 5-Day Italy Road Trip from Ancona traveling west to Rimini and Bologna

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

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lazzaretto of Ancona. This extraordinary building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,023 visitors.

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

Playa Solero 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, Zucchero a Velò offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Ristorante Il Giardino, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Ancona, Posa bar. Bar four roses 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 Amarillo Beer Bar Ancona, 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 Rimini, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Rimini, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, Senigallia, and Loreto.

After soaking in Loreto’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Serra San Quirico. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Serra San Quirico, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,515 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in San Vittore. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Frasassi Caves is a great place to start. This show cave is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 20,728 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to San Vittore and set your GPS to Senigallia. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Senigallia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Rocca Roveresca. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,207 visitors.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Rimini, 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 Bar Lento, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Ristorante Lo Zodiaco Rimini is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Amarina, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Caffè Il Borgo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Primo Bacio città Lounge Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Hobo's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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 Rimini and Ravenna. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bologna, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Ravenna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rimini behind. This drive usually takes around 43 min. Ravenna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Arch of Augustus. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,375 visitors.

When you’re finished at Arch of Augustus, head to Piazza Cavour. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,447 reviews.

After soaking in Rimini’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ravenna. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Ravenna, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mirabilandia. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Ravenna, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 43,418 visitors.

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

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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Freud e Squisito, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Osteria del Sole is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Macondo - Cocktail Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Pesaro, Bologna, and Gradara. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Ancona, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pesaro. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,733 visitors.

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 Gradara may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Gradara, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Piazza Maggiore. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Two Towers. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 visitors, this tower deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Piazza Santo Stefano. This square has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

Gradara’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bologna behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. Gradara welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Gradara Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,114 reviews.

Ancona 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 Ancona, 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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Amarcord, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Bontà delle Marche is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Donegal Irish Pub.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Alla Tazza D'Oro, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Ancona.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Ancona’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy. Keep the spirit of your trip to Italy alive with these special souvenirs.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Ancona, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Vino E Cucina Miscia, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Mixer Bar features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, La Cantineta is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Ancona. 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!