Cheap 7-Day Italy Road Trip from Rome to Florence, L'aquila, and Naples and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Rome, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Rome and begin your adventure in Italy.

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

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Italy, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Rome that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

We recommend a local favorite like Tonnarello. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 62,881 customers.

Ristorante Pancrazio dal 1922 is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Rome. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,946 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Rome you might want to check out is Cantina e Cucina. Cantina e Cucina is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,907 reviews.

Visit RoYaL Art Cafè Roma, an excellent place to enjoy a couple of drinks. This bar is one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,972 customers.

Ai Tre Scalini serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Rome. Customers have rated Ai Tre Scalini an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,950 reviews.

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

Day 2 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Italy. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Rome!

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

Savor the culinary delights of Rome, 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.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is 433. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,341 customers.

Roma Sparita is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,073 customers.

Ristorante Amedeo has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,798 reviews.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at DEROMA - Farine Romane and try some of its cocktails and snacks. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,432 customers.

Hotel Hassler Roma is another great place to hang out and unwind. This bar offers various drinks at affordable prices and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 895 customers.

If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit VinAllegro, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,167 customers.

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

Day 3 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 exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Rome and Florence.

Drop by the renowned Trevi Fountain. This popular sculpture has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 343,494 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Piazza di Spagna. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 113,658 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Spanish Steps. This monumental staircase has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 57,211 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is piazza del Popolo. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,807 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Villa Borghese. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 69,749 travelers, this urban zone of rome is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Rome.

Florence’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rome behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 4 min. Florence welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Florence 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.

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.

Eat at Ristorante Paoli. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 6,031 reviews.

You can also check out Osteria Vecchio Cancello. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,589 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Ristorante Oliviero 1962. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,046 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Manifattura, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. Manifattura is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Caffe Concerto Paszkowski. Around 4,000 customers have rated their experience at Caffe Concerto Paszkowski an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Ristorante Buca Mario also belongs to the list of the best bars in the Florence, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,879 bar-goers.

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

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is piazza della Signoria. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 76,359 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,099 reviews.

Piazzale Michelangelo is another outstanding experience in Florence. Around 77,744 travelers have rated this square an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to L'aquila and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. L'aquila beckons with new experiences!

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

Savor the culinary delights of L'aquila, 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.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is Arrosticini Divini. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,676 customers.

L'Unico Posto is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 640 customers.

Antologie Ristorante has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 140 reviews.

If you're in the mood for an after-dinner drink, Via Verdi Irish Pub Restaurant is our number one recommendation. Around 442 customers have rated this bar 4.4 out of 5 stars.

La Locanda del Puledro Impennato also has a great drinks menu. This bar is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 803 reviews.

Monthy's Irish Pub is another popular place to spend the evening in L'aquila. This bar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 399 customers.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of L'aquila!

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Naples, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Naples, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Amalfi, Pompei, and Naples.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Amalfi, 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 L'aquila to Amalfi may take around 3 hours 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set your GPS to Pompei and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pompei beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Archaeological Park of Pompeii. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,465 reviews.

Next up is Teatro Grande. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,226 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pompei and set your GPS to Naples. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Naples, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Naples has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Naples is La Locanda Gesù Vecchio. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 899 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Naples, OAK Napoli Wine And Craft Beer is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 764 diners.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a day, pop into L'antiquario. This bar is considered one of the best in Naples and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 700 customers.

You may also want to check out The Penny Black. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. The Penny Black is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,754 customers.

Alternatively, head out to L'Oca Nera Irish Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,766 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Naples, Vatican City, and Rome. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Rome.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Rome 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.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Italy, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Rome that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,637 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Maccheroni, so you'll want to drop by this place. Maccheroni serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,633 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Rome is RomAntica. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,462 customers.

Locals recommend going for a drink at Ristorante Tema. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 939 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 655 customers.

Sant' Eustachio Caffè also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 9,555 customers.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Italy! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Rome!

Your budget road trip vacation in Italy is about to end. Day 7 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Rome.

On your last day in Italy, take time to indulge in shopping at Rome’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Italy. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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

For example, Coso Ristorante has a menu of appetizing food and refreshing beverages and is rated at an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,275 customers.

If you feel like eating something else, Bono Bottega Nostrana - Piazza Di Spagna is another restaurant worth trying out. This restaurant serves a variety of value-for-money savory dishes and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 877 customers.

You’ll then say farewell to Rome. 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!