Cheap One-Week Italy Road Trip from Trieste traveling west to Venice, Florence, Milan, and Verona

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

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

Make Molo Audace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this landmark an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,849 reviews.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Trieste, 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.

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

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Trieste, Bar X. Alternatively, visit Antico Caffè Torinese, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Urbanis, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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 is another proof that cheap holidays in Italy can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Trieste, and Miramare / Miramar. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Venice, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Roman Theatre Of Trieste, a remarkable archaeological site where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,576 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Piazza Della Borsa. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,409 travelers.

Piazza Unità D'italia is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 46,036 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 Cattedrale Di San Giusto Martire. This well-loved church boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,288 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Trieste, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Miramare / Miramar. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Miramare Castle. This popular giardino all'italiana has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,372 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 79,218 travelers every year.

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.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Al Parlamento, known for its lively atmosphere. Adagio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Il Mercante offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Venice!

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Venice. 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 2 nights.

Kick off the day at Rialto Bridge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Teatro La Fenice. Teatro La Fenice is an opera house with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,677 reviews.

Piazza San Marco is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 152,982 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Doge's Palace. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors. Visiting Doge's Palace means you'll be one of 318,104 people who do so every year.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Bridge Of Sighs, a famous footbridge in Venice. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,223 travelers.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Florence should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Florence, try some of our top recommendations.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Manifattura, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Archea Brewery provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 4 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Italy. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Florence and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Make Piazzale Michelangelo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 77,744 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Uffizi Gallery. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this national museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 2,011,219 annual visitors.

Ponte Vecchio is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 visitors.

When you’re finished at Ponte Vecchio, the perfect next stop is Piazza Della Signoria. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Galleria Dell'accademia. This national museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,429 reviews. Galleria Dell'accademia hosts around 1,719,645 visitors every year.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Florence. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Florence offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Italy worth remembering for a lifetime.

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 of exploring, unwind at the popular Trattoria Da Burde, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Ristorante Buca Mario is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Eataly Firenze.

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 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 Milan, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 visitors.

Central Market is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 43,100 travelers.

Set your GPS to Bologna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bologna beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Piazza Maggiore, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 64,523 reviews.

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

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Nottingham Forest, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Armani/bamboo Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mag Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Duomo Di Milano Museum. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews. Each year, 341,609 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii. This commercial gallery has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 91,394 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is La Scala. This opera house has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,219 reviews.

Sforzesco Castle Art Library is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This library has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,714 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Parco Sempione. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 72,914 reviews.

Verona 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.

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 Verona that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Archivio after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to La Segreteria Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Duchi Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Italy. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Italy!

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Trieste, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Trieste, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Verona, and Padua.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Castelvecchio Museum. This art museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Verona, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,854 visitors. Around 35,031 people visit this attraction every year.

Verona Arena is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 123,818 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 195,540 people visit this opera house every year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Padua. This car ride takes around 1 hour 17 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Prato Della Valle, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 47,576 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at The Basilica Of St. Anthony. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,852 travelers.

While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Trieste has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Trieste 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, Trieste 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 of exploring, unwind at the popular Osteria Marise, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Caffè degli Specchi is another great hotspot for culinary gems.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, "life" New Bar Torinese Snc offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook White Cafe, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Trieste’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 Trieste is the remarkable Giants' Stairway. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 955 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Trieste, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Chimera di Bacco, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Sbecolez Trieste features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Ristorante Menarosti is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Trieste. 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!