Cheap 9-Day Italy Road Trip from Milan traveling south to Venice, Arezzo, Rome, Florence, and Pisa

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

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

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, Milan 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.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Galleria Restaurant. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,024 customers.

Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano is another local-favorite restaurant in Milan. Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,550 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Vento di Sardegna is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Milan. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 of 5 stars from around 1,063 customers.

Mag Cafe is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,270 customers.

Nottingham Forest is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. Nottingham Forest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,686 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Milan.

You might also want to cap the night off at The Friends Pub Milano, a fascinating bar that 1,689 customers have rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

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

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

Kick off the day at Duomo di Milano Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 341,609 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This art museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a commercial gallery with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 91,394 reviews.

La Scala is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,219 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This library is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 68,714 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Parco Sempione, a famous park in Milan. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 72,914 travelers.

After soaking in Milan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Venice. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 55 min. When you arrive in Venice, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

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.

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

One musty-try restaurant is Ristorante La Piazza. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,892 customers.

Farini is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,851 reviews. Farini is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Trattoria Bar Pontini. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,176 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

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.

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 — Venice and Arezzo.

Journey into the unknown at Rialto Bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable stone bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 141,666 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Piazza San Marco is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 152,982 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Venice is St Mark's Basilica. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Venice offers an experience you will remember.

Doge's Palace is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Venice. This palace promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 24,775 reviews. Each year, approximately 318,104 people travel to visit Doge's Palace.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Venice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arezzo. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Arezzo should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Arezzo, try some of our top recommendations.

We recommend a local favorite like Il Covo dei Briganti. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

Trattoria Il Saraceno is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Arezzo. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,759 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Arezzo you might want to check out is Antica Fonte. Antica Fonte 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 1,306 reviews.

An excellent example is La Clandestina, which has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 277 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Emilio. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 263 customers.

Locals also enjoy La Nuova Tagliatella, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 275 customers, an after-dinner drink at La Nuova Tagliatella is the perfect way to end this day.

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

While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Rome has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Rome on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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 Rome offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Rome is Tonnarello. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 62,881 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Rome, Ristorante Pancrazio dal 1922 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 2,946 diners.

RoYaL Art Cafè Roma is one of the best bars in Rome and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,972 customers.

You may also want to check out Ai Tre Scalini, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. Ai Tre Scalini is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,950 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Centro. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,488 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!

Day 5 means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Italy, Rome. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Rome!

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.

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.

Visit the popular 433. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,341 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Italy is Roma Sparita. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 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 Ristorante Amedeo. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,798 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into the top-rated DEROMA - Farine Romane. This bar is considered one of the best in Rome and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,432 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Hotel Hassler Roma, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 895 customers. Alternatively, go to VinAllegro. This is one of the most frequently recommended bars in Rome and boasts an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,167 reviews.

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 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Rome and Florence. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Florence.

Make Altare della Patria your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this architectural structure an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 49,843 reviews. More than 1,683,070 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Trevi Fountain. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 343,494 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sculpture every year.

Piazza di Spagna is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 113,658 visitors.

When you’re finished at Piazza di Spagna, the perfect next stop is piazza del Popolo. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 89,807 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Villa Borghese. This urban zone of rome is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 69,749 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rome, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Florence may take around 3 hours 4 min. Upon your arrival in Florence, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

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.

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.

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.

After dinner, visit Manifattura, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Florence. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Caffe Concerto Paszkowski. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,000 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend Ristorante Buca Mario. This bar, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,879 customers, is one of the best bars in the city of Florence.

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

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

Make piazza della Signoria one of your first sightseeing stops in Florence. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 66,956 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,099 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Uffizi Gallery and find out why 2,011,219 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular national museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 61,794 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is piazzale Michelangelo. This square enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 local and international travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Florence and set your GPS to Pisa. 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 1 hour 13 min. Upon reaching Pisa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

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, Pisa 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.

Osteria I Santi is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,094 customers.

Filter Coffee Lab 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 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,414 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Ristorante alle Bandierine, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,163 reviews.

Make your way to Bar Mocambo. This bar promises a great atmosphere for your celebrations and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 359 customers.

Or, why not continue your evening at Skyline American Bar? This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 510 guests.

Another bar where you can have a great time tonight is Sud. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 784 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 8 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 3 wonderful destinations — Pisa, Genoa, and Milan.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Leaning Tower of Pisa. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 116,882 visitors. Leaning Tower of Pisa welcomes around 3,200,000 visitors every year.

Pisa Cathedral is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cathedral has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,361 visitors.

Piazza del Duomo, Pisa is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 104,550 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Genoa, 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 Pisa to Genoa may take around 1 hour 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Spiaggia Pubblica di Priaruggia. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,161 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Genoa, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Milan. Your travel time is around 1 hour 58 min.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Milan, 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.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Primè. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,184 customers.

Contraste is another local-favorite restaurant in Milan. Contraste serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 823 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Nero 9 is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Pisa. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 of 5 stars from around 573 customers.

Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano is one of the best bars you can visit in Milan tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 954 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like BhangraBar. This bar has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 4,036 customers.

Alternatively, try Camparino in Galleria. Camparino in Galleria is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the city. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,473 customers.

A road trip vacation in Pisa 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 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Milan.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Milan’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Milan, consider a top-rated restaurant like Bice Restaurant. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 579 customers.

Ribot Restaurant is an excellent alternative if you feel like eating something else. This restaurant serves a variety of savory and budget-friendly dishes and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,991 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is L'immagine Bistrot Ristorante. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,020 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Italy and your fun memories in Milan.

You’ll then say farewell to Milan. 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!