9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pescara to Rome, Florence, Milan, and Bologna

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Pescara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rome. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Pescara covers several incredible sights, including a church and a museum. Start your adventure at Parrocchia Spirito Santo. This often recommended church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Gabriele D'annunzio's Birthplace Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Pescara Cathedral. This worthwhile church offers an enriching experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rome. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rome. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Rome by reserving a table at La Pergola. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional mediterranean and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Il Pagliaccio, recognized for its delicious creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Enoteca La Torre, a local favorite known for its delightful mediterranean and creative cuisine in Rome. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning mediterranean and creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, known for its inviting atmosphere. Almalu Trastevere is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rome, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Vatican City and Rome. You still have 1 night left in Rome.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Rome, including a castle, a public square, and a monument. Start your day at Castel Sant'angelo. This awe-inspiring castle is a top-rated place to see in Rome. Then, wander over to Piazza Navona. If history-steeped sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Pantheon. This culturally significant monument is a favorite among visitors.

Rome offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Trevi Fountain is a globally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rome.

As you explore more of Rome, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at RomAntica, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Coso Ristorante is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at DEROMA - Farine Romane. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rome tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sant' Eustachio Caffè. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Yellowsquare Rome offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Caffè Portofino, another top-rated bar in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Rome and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

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 Rome. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rome, including an archeological site and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Roman Forum. This globally renowned archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Spanish Steps, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rome on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Piazza Di Spagna, one of the city’s most timeless public square. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Colosseum and Piazza Del Popolo.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Florence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Il Vinile is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Florence is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, a historic, a grand, a detailed, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed! Start at Piazzale Michelangelo, a widely recognized observation deck that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Uffizi Gallery, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Ponte Vecchio. This historical landmark is one of the city’s most iconic spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Florence at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Piazza Della Signoria. After exploring the public square, head to the spectacular Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. This church will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Trattoria Da Burde is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Casa Toscana. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Florence tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar 50 Rosso, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bitter Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Archea Brewery offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence and Pisa, 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 Milan. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Florence is home to plenty of attractions that offer a visually striking and much more! Start at David, a locally renowned statue that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Central Market, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Florence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pisa may take around 1 hour 18 min. Upon your arrival in Pisa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, an iconic monument in Pisa. Explore its masterful features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa. This world-famous public square is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Milan. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Milan by reserving a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Seta by Antonio Guida, renowned for its delectable international and contemporary dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Milan.

Keep the evening going at Nottingham Forest, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Armani/bamboo Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mag Cafe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Milan and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Milan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bologna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Milan includes a church, a shopping mall, an opera house, a castle, a park and much more! Duomo Di Milano Museum is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, an astonishing shopping mall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to La Scala, a history-steeped opera house, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Milan. If you’re looking for more, Sforzesco Castle Art Library is also a spectacular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Parco Sempione, an impressive gem to see in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. 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 Bologna. 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 an extraordinary dining experience at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible country cooking menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, I Portici is one of the best restaurants for creative and contemporary cuisine in Bologna. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Trattoria di Via Serra. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for emilian cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Freud E Squisito, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Osteria Del Sole provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Say good night to Bologna and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!