Cheap One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona to Pescara, Rome, and Florence
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Kickstart an unforgettable journey with this 8-day cheap road trip in Italy, tailored for travelers on a budget. Explore Ancona, Serra San Quirico, Loreto, Pescara, Rome, Florence, Pisa, and Bologna, where every turn is a new discovery.
Explore Italy for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Italy travel package promises an exhilarating 8-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.
Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 2 nights in Ancona, 1 night in Pescara, 2 nights in Rome, and 2 nights in Florence. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Italy and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Italy at the lowest price!
On arrival in Ancona, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Italy. Italy offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!
During your cheap holiday in Italy, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.
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 affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 8-day vacation in Italy. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 7 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Italy with CDW insurance.
You can customize your Italy travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Italy and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Italy's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!
Booking this cheap holiday package in Italy offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.
So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Italy with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Italy fill up fast, so book your adventure today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Ancona - arrival day
- Ancona - Arrival day
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- Lazzaretto of Ancona
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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.
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.
Ancona 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 Lazzaretto Of Ancona or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Ancona offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.
Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Playa Solero, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Zucchero a Velò - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Ristorante Il Giardino, where fantastic food and friendly service await!
Visit Posa Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Bar Four Roses serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Ancona. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Amarillo Beer Bar Ancona.
Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Italy!
Day 2 – Ancona, Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, Loreto, and Pescara
- Ancona
- Serra San Quirico
- Pescara
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Drive 284 km, 4 hours
- Arch of Trajan
- Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi
- Frasassi Caves
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Day 2 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Ancona, Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, and Loreto. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Pescara, where you'll stay for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Ancona allows for both. Start by heading to Arch Of Trajan. This frequently visited monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ancona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Serra San Quirico. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Make your way to Parco Naturale Regionale Gola Della Rossa E Di Frasassi, a worthwhile nature reserve that draws attention for its instagrammable features.
After soaking in Serra San Quirico’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: San Vittore. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in San Vittore, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Frasassi Caves and explore the eye-catching features.
While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Pescara has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Pescara on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.
Make the most of your budget vacation in Italy by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Pescara that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Posa Caffè Pescara, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Mixer offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pescara. Temple Bar Irish Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Italy!
Day 3 – Pescara, Vatican City, and Rome
- Pescara
- Rome
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Drive 226 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Vatican Museums
- Saint Peter's Square
- Sistine Chapel
- St Peter's Basilica
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On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in Italy, you’ll tour 1 destination: Vatican City. You'll stay in Rome for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pescara, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Vatican City! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vatican City may take around 2 hours 23 min. Upon your arrival in Vatican City, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Next, make your way to Saint Peter's Square, another highlight in the city. Nearby, you will also find St. Peter's Basilica. This wondrous major basilica is a top place to see in the area.
You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Rome. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Rome, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.
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. Rome has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Almalu Trastevere, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio 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!
Day 4 – Rome
- Rome
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Drive 7 km, 1 hour 10 min
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Piazza Navona
- Pantheon
- Roman Forum
- Colosseum
- Trevi Fountain
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Day 4 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rome, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Rome, with 1 night to stay in the area.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rome today. One of the most extraordinary attractions included on the itinerary is Castel Sant'angelo. This visually striking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza Navona and learn what makes this enchanting public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the iconic Pantheon. After exploring the monument, head to Roman Forum. This wondrous archeological site is a highlight in Rome. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the globally renowned Colosseum. Enjoy exploring this incredible archeological site at your own pace.
Make your vacation in Italy more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Italy and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.
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, Rome 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 RomAntica, 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 Coso Ristorante - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, DEROMA - Farine Romane promises to deliver a feast for the senses.
If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Sant' Eustachio Caffè, considered one of the best bars in Rome. You can also enjoy drinks at Yellowsquare Rome, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Caffè Portofino, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Rome.
Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Italy!
Day 5 – Rome and Florence
- Rome
- Florence
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Drive 280 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Altare della Patria
- Trevi Fountain
- Piazza di Spagna
- piazza del Popolo
- Villa Borghese
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Day 5 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 touring 1 wonderful destinations — Rome. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Florence, where you'll be spending 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with a gorgeous, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a majestic, a remarkable, a charming, and a scenic in Rome. Begin your sightseeing with Altare Della Patria. This locally renowned monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Piazza Di Spagna, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Rome, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Piazza Del Popolo. This spectacular public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Villa Borghese, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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.
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.
Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Manifattura after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Il Vinile also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Florence!
Day 6 – Florence and Pisa
- Florence
- Pisa
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Drive 180 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Central Market
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Ponte Vecchio
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On day 6 of your affordable vacation in Italy, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Italy, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.
Get ready for a day filled with an instagrammable, a charming, an awe-inspiring, a heritage-rich, a sacred, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed in the charming city of Florence. Your adventure starts at Central Market, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This impressive church is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Florence's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. This romantic observation deck offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ponte Vecchio is also worth visiting.
Pisa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Florence behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. Pisa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, a wondrous public square known for its stunning features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, a timeless monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.
Indulge in the culinary wonders of Florence, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.
After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Ditta Artigianale, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Trattoria Da Burde is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Casa Toscana, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.
Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Bar 50 Rosso and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Bitter Bar 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 Archea Brewery, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.
Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Florence!
Day 7 – Florence, Bologna, and Ancona
- Florence
- Bologna
- Ancona
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Drive 336 km, 4 hours 2 min
- piazza della Signoria
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Piazza Maggiore
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On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Florence and Bologna. 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.
Today’s route brings a charming, an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a grand, and a noteworthy. The first attraction of today is Piazza Della Signoria. This extraordinary public square is a visually striking place to see in Florence. Continue your discovery at Uffizi Gallery, a historic art gallery with stories to tell.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bologna, 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 Florence to Bologna may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bologna, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Begin your journey at Piazza Maggiore and explore the majestic features.
While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Ancona has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Ancona on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Amarcord, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Bontà delle Marche - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Alla Tazza D'oro is an excellent place to start.
A road trip vacation in Florence can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Italy!
Day 8 – Ancona - departure day
- Ancona - Departure day
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- Piazza del Plebiscito
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Your budget road trip vacation in Italy is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Ancona.
Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Ancona’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Italy.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Ancona is the remarkable Piazza Del Plebiscito. This public square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,631 visitors.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Ancona.
If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Ancona, consider a top-rated restaurant like Pizzeria Pulcinella, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Donegal Irish Pub is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Vino E Cucina Miscia, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Ancona.
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!
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