9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Genoa to Florence and Parma
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Italy as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Genoa, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Pisa, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Bologna, Parma, Modena, and Milan.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Genoa, 3 nights in Florence, and 1 night in Parma. 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 Genoa, 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 Ponte Vecchio are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Leaning Tower Of Pisa, learn more about the unique Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii.
As you hit the open road and drive through Genoa, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Pisa, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Bologna, Parma, Modena, and Milan, 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!
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Day 1
- Genoa - Arrival day
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- piazza De Ferrari
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Welcome to Genoa, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Genoa's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Genoa 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 Piazza De Ferrari, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Genoa. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Genoa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at 7 Sensi cucina decontaminata, an iconic dining spot in Genoa. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Alla Lunga Ristorante, a popular restaurant in Genoa. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Grand Hotel Savoia, a hidden gem nestled in Genoa. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Scurreria Beer & Bagel, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Lepre is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Pisacane Iii also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Genoa
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 9 min
- porto antico
- Aquarium of Genoa
- Palazzo Grimaldi della Meridiana
- Via Garibaldi
- Palazzo Podestà
- Lighthouse of Genoa
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Genoa. You’ll stay in Genoa for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Genoa, including a public square, an aquarium, a palace, a street, a lighthouse and much more! Start your day at Porto Antico. This visually striking public square is a locally renowned place to see in Genoa. Then, wander over to Aquarium Of Genoa. If eye-catching sites excite you, this aquarium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Palazzo Grimaldi Della Meridiana. This respected palace is a favorite among visitors.
Genoa offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Via Garibaldi is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the street, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Palazzo Podestà. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing palace. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Genoa's top attractions with a visit to Lighthouse Of Genoa.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Genoa's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Zeffirino, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Trattoria Vegia Zena is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Trattoria delle Grazie. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Genoa tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 3
- Genoa
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Drive 250 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Riomaggiore
- Castle of Riomaggiore
- Manarola Overlook Viewpoint
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Genoa, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Riomaggiore and Manarola. You still have 1 night left in Genoa.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Genoa, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Riomaggiore, an underrated point of interest in the village. Then, head to Castle Of Riomaggiore and soak in the ambiance of this standout castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Genoa, and when you are ready for more, go to Manarola Overlook Viewpoint. This is one of the village’s most beloved serene spots of interest.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Genoa and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Genoa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Osteria Sant'Ilario, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Cialtroneria beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Manhattan Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Genoa tonight.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 4
- Genoa
- Florence
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Angelo Caduto
- Pisa Cathedral
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Battistero di San Giovanni
- Campo santo
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pisa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Start your adventure at Leaning Tower Of Pisa. This iconic monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Angelo Caduto located in Genoa for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Pisa Cathedral. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this public square. Next up is Battistero Di San Giovanni, a highly recommended church. For a change of pace, head to Campo Santo. As one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in Genoa, this cemetery is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Di Poneta Novoli, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Caffe San Firenze. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Manifattura stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Il Vinile is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 5
- Florence
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Drive 2 km, 36 min
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Palazzo Vecchio
- piazza della Signoria
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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Day 5 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Florence. You have 2 nights left in Florence. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This captivating church is a culturally significant place to see in Florence. Continue your discovery at Uffizi Gallery, a romantic art gallery with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Florence, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Ponte Vecchio. This globally renowned historical landmark offers an enchanting encounter with Florence. Next, make your way to Palazzo Vecchio to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Piazza Della Signoria, an impressive public square that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, an astonishing church in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Florence.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria Da Burde, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Casa Toscana. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Florence.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar 50 Rosso, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bitter Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Archea Brewery provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 6
- Florence
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Drive 181 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Tower of Mangia
- piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- Porta San Giovanni
- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
- Parco della Rocca
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Italy with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Florence for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Siena and San Gimignano.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Florence, including a monument, a public square, a church, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Tower Of Mangia. This frequently visited monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Piazza Del Campo located in Florence for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Siena Cathedral. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Porta San Giovanni. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this monument. Next up is Piazza Del Duomo, a highly recommended public square. For a change of pace, head to Parco Della Rocca. As one of the most beloved attractions in Florence, this park is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Florence.
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.
Dine in style at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Agricola Toscana boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Eataly Firenze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Florence.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Gosh* after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Quelo Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 7
- Florence
- Parma
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Bologna Cathedral
- Piazza Maggiore
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
- Parma Cathedral
- Teatro Regio
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Bologna and Parma, 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 Parma. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the increasingly popular Bologna Cathedral, a stunning church in Florence. Next, go to Piazza Maggiore.
After visiting Bologna Cathedral and Piazza Maggiore, have a stroll along Florence's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Two Towers. This breathtaking monument offers a unique experience. Piazza Santo Stefano is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Parma Cathedral, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Florence. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Teatro Regio.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Parma. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Parma, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Bar Bistrò Pub L'alchemist, an iconic dining spot in Parma. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tempi Moderni - Fabbrica del gusto 1957, a popular restaurant in Parma. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Petit Café, a hidden gem nestled in Parma. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Gianni, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Peter Pan Wine Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Gazebo Di Nottingham -cocktail Bar-. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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 8
- Parma
- Genoa
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Drive 385 km, 5 hours 14 min
- Modena Cathedral
- Duomo di Milano
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- Castello Sforzesco
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Modena and Milan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Genoa, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Parma is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a shopping mall, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Duomo Di Modena and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Duomo Di Milano Museum, a visually striking church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, one of the city’s most extraordinary spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the astonishing Sforzesco Castle Art Library.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Genoa, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Genoa. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Vivarelli, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trattoria Ugo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss TAZZE PAZZE Specialty Coffee. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Genoa.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 9
- Genoa - Departure day
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- Chiesa di San Giorgio
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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 Genoa before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Chiesa Di San Giorgio. This intriguing church is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Genoa.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Il Marin, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Genoa. 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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