6-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Venice traveling west to Florence and Bologna
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Venice, 2 nights in Florence, and 1 night in Bologna. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Italy. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Venice, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Italy on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Italy. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Venice, Florence, Pisa, Bologna, and Padua, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Italy. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Italy.
Throughout your road trip in Italy, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Italy.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Venice - Arrival day
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- Teatro La Fenice
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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Venice and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Venice for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Venice is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Teatro La Fenice or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Venice. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to book a table at Bauer Hotel, a popular restaurant in Venice. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Venice at L'Osteria Le Guglie, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Corner Pub. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Venice tonight.
Keep the evening going at Al Parlamento, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Caffe Rosso, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Adagio, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Piazza San Marco
- St Mark's Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Venice. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Start by visiting Piazza San Marco, a prime spot to begin your journey. This symbolic public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is St Mark's Basilica, another must-visit landmark and captivating church renowned for its inviting features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Venice by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Doge's Palace. This history-steeped palace is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Bridge Of Sighs also adds charm to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Florence, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Florence by reserving a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Santa Elisabetta, renowned for its delectable creative and mediterranean dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Florence.
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. Il Vinile likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.
Day 3
- Florence
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 5 min
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- piazza della Signoria
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Florence for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Florence. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Piazzale Michelangelo is the perfect place to start. This observation deck is one of the most top-rated places to visit in Florence. Next, head to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, an interesting church, known for its photogenic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Piazza Della Signoria. This enchanting public square offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Uffizi Gallery adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Ponte Vecchio, a visually striking historical landmark in Florence.
Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria Da Burde, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Casa Toscana. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar 50 Rosso, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bitter Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Archea Brewery also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Florence
- Pisa
- Bologna
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Drive 262 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Central Market
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Ponte Vecchio
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence and Pisa, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bologna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Florence allows for both. Start by heading to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This astonishing church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Central Market, a picture-perfect food market, promising a delightful encounter.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pisa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a globally renowned monument known for its picture-perfect features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a timeless public square that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Bologna, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Start your culinary exploration in Bologna by securing a reservation at Ahimè. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of country cooking cuisine. For another dining delight, visit I Portici, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Trattoria di Via Serra, a top local spot known for its tantalizing emilian menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Continue your lively evening at Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Freud E Squisito is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Osteria Del Sole ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 5
- Bologna
- Padua
- Venice
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Piazza Maggiore
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
- The Basilica of St Anthony
- Prato della Valle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bologna and Padua. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with a charming, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a grand, and a sacred in Bologna. Begin your sightseeing with Piazza Maggiore. This extraordinary public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Two Towers, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bologna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Piazza Santo Stefano. This worthwhile public square is a traveler-favorite.
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 28 min. When you arrive in Padua, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make your way to The Basilica Of St. Anthony, a notable church that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Prato Della Valle, a noteworthy public square that stands out in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Venice. Venice offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Venice's best restaurants.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Local delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Wistèria, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and venetian specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Quadri, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Il Mercante, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Irish Pub Venezia is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Ai Stagneri provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 6
- Venice - Departure day
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- Rialto Bridge
- Piazza San Marco
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Day 6 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Venice before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Venice’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.
Start your day at Rialto Bridge. This visually striking historical landmark is a timeless place to see in Venice.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Venice.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bistrot de Venise, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Venice. 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!
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