9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Florence traveling west to Pisa, Turin, Milan, and Padua
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Florence, 1 night in Pisa, 1 night in Turin, 2 nights in Milan, and 1 night in Padua. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Italy. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Florence, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Italy on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Italy. Duomo Di Milano Museum and Verona Arena are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Florence, Siena, Pisa, Genoa, Turin, Milan, Peschiera del Garda, Valeggio sul Mincio, Verona, Padua, and Bologna, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Italy. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Italy.
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 package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Florence - arrival day
- Florence - Arrival day
- More
- Central Market
- More
Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Florence and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Florence for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Florence 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 Central Market or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Florence. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Florence. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Di Poneta Novoli? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Caffe San Firenze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Florence.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Manifattura, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Il Vinile is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2 – Florence
- Florence
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- piazza della Signoria
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- The Boboli Gardens
- More
Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Florence for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Prepare for a day full of an instagrammable, a historically significant, a profound, a majestic, a romantic, an enchanting, and a detailed. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This locally renowned church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Piazza Della Signoria, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Uffizi Gallery, one of the most impressive places to see in Florence. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Ponte Vecchio. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this historical landmark offers. Finally, take the path to the notable The Boboli Gardens, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in Florence by securing a reservation at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local spot known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar 50 Rosso, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bitter Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Archea Brewery likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 3 – Florence, Siena, and Pisa
- Florence
- Siena
- Pisa
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- Ponte Vecchio
- More
Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence and Siena, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Pisa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A blend of a romantic, an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a profound, a majestic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a noteworthy await you in Florence on today’s itinerary. First up is the impressive church, Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Galleria Dell'accademia. A visit to this art gallery is an enriching experience for all.
Set your GPS to Siena and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Siena beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Piazza Del Campo. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Siena Cathedral. This locally renowned church is a traveler-favorite in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pisa. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pisa. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Anima di Grano Pizzeria Napoletana Pisa Italy, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try il Mercante? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Ghiotteria as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pisa.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Jeffer Cocktails & Friends, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Parisien Wine Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Las Volta Cocktailbar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 4 – Pisa, Genoa, and Turin
- Pisa
- Genoa
- Turin
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Drive 342 km, 4 hours 27 min
- Knights' Square
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- piazza De Ferrari
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On day 4 of your road trip in Italy, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Pisa and Genoa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Turin, where you will stay for 1 night.
Pisa is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square and a monument. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Knights' Square. Just a short distance away is Leaning Tower Of Pisa, an UNESCO world heritage-listed monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, one of the city’s most world-famous spots that you shouldn’t miss.
Genoa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pisa behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min. Genoa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Make your way to Piazza De Ferrari, a captivating public square that draws attention for its grand features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Turin. Turin offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Turin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Vintage 1997, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional italian and classic menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Unforgettable, known for its delicious innovative and italian contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Turin is Piano 35, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious italian contemporary and piedmontese menu.
Continue your lively evening at Oinos Vini - Wine Bar - Caffetteria, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Piper Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tclub Street Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.
Day 5 – Turin and Milan
- Turin
- Milan
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Drive 151 km, 2 hours 35 min
- Egyptian Museum
- Mole Antonelliana
- Borgo medievale (Turin)
- Parco del Valentino
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Turin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Milan, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Prepare for a day full of a picture-perfect, a historically significant, an enchanting, a majestic, a charming, a scenic, and a noteworthy. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Egyptian Museum. This captivating museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mole Antonelliana, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Borgo Medievale (turin), one of the most locally renowned places to see in Turin. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Parco Del Valentino. Wander around and soak in the serene atmosphere this park offers.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Milan, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Milan's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Milan by securing a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Seta by Antonio Guida, famous for its scrumptious international and contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite italian contemporary and modern cuisine in Milan. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for italian contemporary and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Nottingham Forest, known for its inviting atmosphere. Armani/bamboo Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mag Cafe provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 6 – Milan
- Milan
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Drive 3 km, 51 min
- Duomo di Milano
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- La Scala
- Castello Sforzesco
- Sempione Park
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Milan. You’ll stay in Milan for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Milan, featuring a charming, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a historic, a sacred, a culturally significant, a noteworthy, and an idyllic. Start at Duomo Di Milano Museum, a timeless church in the city. Then, head to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking shopping mall.
There are many interesting places to see in Milan and when you are ready for more, go to La Scala. This is one of the city’s most popular spots. After exploring the opera house, visit the impressive Sforzesco Castle Art Library. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the spectacular Parco Sempione, a spectacular park in the city.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Milan's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Dessert Bar Milano, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel Milan is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ristorante Qui Si Mangia. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Milan tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Frida offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Milan. The Friends Pub Milano is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 7 – Milan, Peschiera del Garda, Valeggio sul Mincio, Verona, and Padua
- Milan
- Peschiera del Garda
- Valeggio sul Mincio
- Verona
- Padua
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Drive 267 km, 4 hours 27 min
- Porta Brescia
- Parco Giardino Sigurtà
- Verona Arena
- piazza delle Erbe
- Ponte Pietra
- Duomo di Milano
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Peschiera del Garda, Valeggio sul Mincio, and Verona. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Padua, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
After soaking in Milan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Peschiera del Garda. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 45 min. When you arrive in Peschiera del Garda, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make your way to Porta Brescia, a locally appreciated historical landmark that draws attention for its breathtaking features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Peschiera del Garda and set your GPS to Valeggio sul Mincio. 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 27 min. Upon reaching Valeggio sul Mincio, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Spend your afternoon discovering Parco Giardino Sigurtà, a notable botanical garden known for its eye-catching features.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Verona. This car ride takes around 50 min.
Make your way to Verona Arena, a globally renowned stadium that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Piazza Delle Erbe, a visually striking public square that stands out in the town. Next, visit Ponte Pietra, a well-known historical landmark that offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Padua. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Padua, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Don’t miss out on dining at Veganda, a top-rated dining destination in Padua. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Osteria Ai Scarponi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Padua this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Il Gottino - Wine Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brutal is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Al Buscaglione is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 8 – Padua, Bologna, and Florence
- Padua
- Bologna
- Florence
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Drive 242 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Piazza dei Signori, Padua
- The Basilica of St Anthony
- Prato della Valle
- Two Towers
- Piazza Maggiore
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Padua and Bologna. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a symbolic, a sacred, and a detailed. Whether you decide to explore Padua on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Piazza Dei Signori, Padua is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant public square before continuing your journey. The Basilica Of St. Anthony is your next stop. This captivating church is one of the best-rated sights in Padua.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Prato Della Valle. This history-steeped public square is a sight to behold.
After soaking in Padua’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bologna. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive in Bologna, it's time to take a break from the road.
Two Towers is a well-known monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Piazza Maggiore, an enchanting public square that’s well-regarded in the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Buca Mario, an iconic dining spot in Florence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Agricola Toscana, a popular restaurant in Florence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Eataly Firenze, a hidden gem nestled in Florence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Gosh* after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Quelo Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Florence and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 9 – Florence - departure day
- Florence - Departure day
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- piazzale Michelangelo
- Ponte Vecchio
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Day 9 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Florence before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Florence's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy.
Start your adventure at Piazzale Michelangelo. This spectacular observation deck is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Florence.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Djària - American Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Florence. 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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