Cheap One-Week Italy Road Trip from Bologna to Venice, Arezzo, Rome, and 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.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Bologna offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.

Visit the popular Sfoglia Rina. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,531 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Italy is Celtic Druid Irish Pub. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,968 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Trattoria da Me. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,763 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

One great example is Va Mo Là. This bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices and has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,876 customers.

Ca' Pelletti - Altabella is another popular bar in Bologna. If you ask the 2,464 customers who have rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars, Ca' Pelletti - Altabella is the perfect place to hang out for a drink or two.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bologna and Venice. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Venice.

Make Fountain of Neptune, Bologna one of your first sightseeing stops in Bologna. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,952 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Piazza Maggiore is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Two Towers. This tower has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,975 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Piazza Santo Stefano. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 7,617 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Ducati Museum. This industry museum enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,028 local and international travelers. Approximately 7,600 people visit this attraction every year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Venice. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Venice 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.

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, Venice is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Ristorante La Piazza, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,892 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Farini, so you'll want to drop by this place. Farini serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,851 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Venice is Trattoria Bar Pontini. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,176 customers.

If you're looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Adagio, claiming it's one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 621 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Il Mercante. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 666 customers.

Cantina Do Spade is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,120 customers.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Italy. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a 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 — Venice and Arezzo.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rialto Bridge. Previous visitors have rated this stone bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews.

Piazza San Marco is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 152,982 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is St Mark's Basilica. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,439 reviews.

Doge's Palace is another outstanding experience in Venice. Around 24,775 travelers have rated this palace an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 318,104 visitors annually.

Arezzo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Venice behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 30 min. Arezzo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Arezzo, 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 Il Covo dei Briganti. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

Trattoria Il Saraceno 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,759 customers.

Antica Fonte 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 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,306 reviews.

La Clandestina is one of the best bars in Arezzo and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 277 customers.

You may also want to check out Emilio, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. Emilio is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 263 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is La Nuova Tagliatella. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 275 customers.

A road trip vacation in Venice can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Italy!

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

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Rome, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Tonnarello is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 62,881 customers.

Ristorante Pancrazio dal 1922 is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,946 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Cantina e Cucina, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,907 reviews.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Rome, RoYaL Art Cafè Roma. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,972 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend Ai Tre Scalini. This bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,950 customers.

Centro is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,488 customers.

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

Day 5’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rome, proving that cheap holidays in Italy can be extraordinary.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

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 spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

You could check out 433, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,341 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

Roma Sparita is another excellent choice for cheap holiday-goers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and comforting foods and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at Ristorante Amedeo. This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. Ristorante Amedeo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,798 customer 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.

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

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Florence, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Florence, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Rome and Florence.

Kick off the day at Altare della Patria, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 1,683,070 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 49,843 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Trevi Fountain. Trevi Fountain is a sculpture with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 343,494 reviews.

Piazza di Spagna is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 113,658 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit piazza del Popolo. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 89,807 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Villa Borghese, a famous urban zone of rome in Rome. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 69,749 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Florence. This car ride takes around 3 hours 4 min.

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.

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.

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.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Florence, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Florence is Ristorante Paoli. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 6,031 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Florence, Osteria Vecchio Cancello is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,589 diners.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the city, go to Manifattura. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Caffe Concerto Paszkowski. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,000 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Ristorante Buca Mario. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,879 customers.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Florence and Bologna. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bologna.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to piazza della Signoria. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Florence, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 visitors.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Ponte Vecchio. Visitors have rated this deck arch bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,099 reviews.

Uffizi Gallery, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 2,011,219 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a national museum rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,794 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic piazzale Michelangelo, perhaps the most famous square in Florence. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 77,744 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Florence, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bologna. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Donatello. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,700 customers.

Another dining option is Trattoria dal Biassanot. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. Trattoria dal Biassanot has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,616 reviews.

Make sure to stop by Trattoria di Via Serra for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 1,547 customers have rated the irresistible Trattoria di Via Serra an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After dinner, visit BrewDog Bar Bologna and experience the nightlife in the city of Bologna. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,504 customers.

You can also hang out at Corner Bar. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 934 customers.

Locals recommend Macondo - Cocktail Bar, so definitely check it out too. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 808 bar-goers.

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

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 Bologna.

Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Bologna’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.

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

For example, Trattoria del Tempo Buono has a menu of appetizing food and refreshing beverages and is rated at an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,531 customers.

If you feel like eating something else, Naama Cafè is another restaurant worth trying out. This restaurant serves a variety of value-for-money savory dishes and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,538 customers.

Another restaurant popular among cheap holiday-goers is Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,633 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy unique flavors that will remind you of Italy and your fun memories in Bologna.

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!