Cheap 5-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna to Florence

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

Bologna is a popular cheap holiday destination in Italy with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Italy, Bologna 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 Arco del Meloncello. This arch is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,755 reviews.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Sfoglia Rina, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Va Mo Là offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Trattoria dal Biassanot is the perfect spot for you!

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Bar Freud e Squisito and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Osteria del Sole is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Macondo - Cocktail Bar, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Bologna. 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Florence, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bologna to Florence may take around 1 hour 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Florence, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Bologna Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,852 visitors.

Next, make your way to Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,952 reviews.

While in Bologna, we also recommend a visit to Piazza Maggiore. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,523 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Two Towers. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 travelers, this tower is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bologna.

Make your way to Piazza Santo Stefano, perhaps the most famous square in Bologna. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews.

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

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Ristorante Oliviero 1962, 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 Caffe San Firenze - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Ditta Artigianale promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Keep the evening going at Manifattura, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Archea Brewery, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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 Siena! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Siena and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to piazzale Michelangelo. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 visitors.

Uffizi Gallery is another popular attraction you could visit today. This national museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,794 visitors. Uffizi Gallery attracts up to 2,011,219 visitors every year.

Ponte Vecchio is also highly recommended by travelers. This deck arch bridge has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 visitors.

Piazza della Signoria is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Your discovery of Siena does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Siena 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Florence, 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.

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!

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Florence and Pisa. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bologna, where you'll stay for 1 night.

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 Pisa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 18 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Florence and set your GPS to Pisa. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Pisa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Leaning Tower of Pisa. This extraordinary bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 116,882 visitors. Each year, around 3,200,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Piazza del Duomo, Pisa. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 104,550 visitors.

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.

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 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, Victoria Station offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Trattoria da Me, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

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

Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Bologna’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Italy, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Italy home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Bologna, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Cantina Bentivoglio features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Ristorante San Pietro is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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!