Cheap 5-Day Italy Road Trip from Verona traveling east to Padua and Florence

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

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

Kick off the day at Verona Arena, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 195,540 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 123,818 reviews.

Savor the culinary delights of Verona, 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.

Discover the heart of Verona through its culinary scene, starting with La Griglia. 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 Osteria da Ugo, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Locanda 4 Cuochi, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Archivio offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Verona, check out La Segreteria Café. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Duchi Café.

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 Padua, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Padua, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Verona.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Castelvecchio Bridge, a remarkable arch bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,156 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Castelvecchio Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,854 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 35,031 people visit it every year.

Piazza delle Erbe is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,777 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 Verona Cathedral. This well-loved cathedral boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 6,866 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Ponte Pietra awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a deck arch bridge, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,284 previous visitors.

Padua 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.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Osteria Ai Scarponi, 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 Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C) - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Osteria l'Anfora promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Padua. 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 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Piazza dei Signori, Padua. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,510 reviews.

Scrovegni Chapel is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 11,849 reviews. The attraction welcomes 9,387 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is The Basilica of St. Anthony. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 38,852 reviews.

Prato della Valle is another outstanding experience in Padua. Around 47,576 travelers have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The attraction gets an estimated 9,387 visitors every year.

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.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Ristorante Oliviero 1962, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Caffe San Firenze is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Ditta Artigianale.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Manifattura, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out SE·STO on Arno Rooftop Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Archea Brewery provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Italy, you’ll tour 1: Florence. You'll stay in Verona for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make piazza della Signoria your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 76,359 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church every year.

Central Market is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 43,100 visitors.

When you’re finished at Central Market, the perfect next stop is Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,099 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to piazzale Michelangelo. This square is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 reviews.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Re Teodorico, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, La Piazzetta Osteria Enoteca is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Terrazza Bar Al Ponte, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cappa Café, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Italy. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a 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 Verona.

As you approach the end of your journey in Italy, take a moment for some retail therapy in Verona’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Italy, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Italy with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Verona is the remarkable Porta Borsari. This city gate and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,387 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Verona, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Greppia, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Antica Bottega del Vino features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Ristorante Nastro Azzurro is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Verona. 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!