One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bolzano traveling west to Verona and Bergamo
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Explore the best of Italy on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bolzano, Verona, Desenzano Del Garda, Sirmione, Garda, Brescia, Bergamo, and Merano. This road trip itinerary in Italy seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Italy takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bolzano, 3 nights in Verona, and 2 nights in Bergamo. 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 Bolzano, 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. Verona Arena and Scaliger Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Castle Of Brescia, learn more about the unique Gardens Of Trauttmansdorff Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Archaeological Site Of Grotte Di Catullo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bolzano, Verona, Desenzano Del Garda, Sirmione, Garda, Brescia, Bergamo, and Merano, 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
- Bolzano - Bozen - Arrival day
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- Waltherplatz
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Say hello to Bolzano! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bolzano for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Bolzano 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 Waltherplatz, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bolzano. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Bolzano, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Anita, a top-rated dining destination in Bolzano. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Stadt Hotel Città, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Danny. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bolzano this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Café Gruber, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Franzbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar La Nuova Grotta Del Corso ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Bolzano - Bozen
- Verona
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Drive 157 km, 2 hours 29 min
- South Tyrol Archeological Museum
- Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
- Castelvecchio Bridge
- Castelvecchio Museum
- Porta Borsari
- Verona Arena
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bolzano and Verona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Verona, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bolzano, including a museum, a church, a monument, a historical landmark, a stadium and much more! Start your day at South Tyrol Museum Of Archaeology. This respected museum is an underrated place to see in Bolzano. Then, wander over to Basilica Di San Zeno Maggiore. If history-steeped sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Castelvecchio Bridge. This romantic monument is a favorite among visitors.
Bolzano offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Castelvecchio Museum is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the heritage-rich Porta Borsari. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved historical landmark. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Bolzano's top attractions with a visit to Verona Arena.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Verona. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Verona's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Griglia, a top-rated dining spot in Verona. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vecio Macello, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Via Fama Cafè | Verona. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Verona.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Archivio. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to La Segreteria Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Grande Giove Cocktail Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
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 3
- Verona
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Drive 94 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Castel San Pietro
- Ponte Pietra
- Verona Cathedral
- piazza dei Signori
- piazza delle Erbe
- Castello di Desenzano del Garda
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On day 3 of your road trip in Italy, you’ll start and end your day in Verona, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Verona for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Verona and Desenzano Del Garda to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Castel San Pietro. This frequently visited castle is an enchanting place to see in Verona. Continue your discovery at Ponte Pietra, a grand historical landmark with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Verona, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Verona Cathedral. This underrated church offers a grand encounter with Verona. Next, make your way to Piazza Dei Signori to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Piazza Delle Erbe, a locally renowned public square that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Castello Di Desenzano Del Garda, a frequently visited castle 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 Verona.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Verona.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Verona. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria I Masenini, an iconic dining spot in Verona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Osteria da Ugo, a popular restaurant in Verona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Locanda 4 Cuochi, a hidden gem nestled in Verona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Duchi Café, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cambridge Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Rubicone Caffe likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 4
- Verona
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Drive 121 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Archaeological site of Grotte di Catullo
- Parrocchia di Santa Maria Maggiore
- Castello di Sirmione
- Rocca di Garda
- Historic Centre
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Verona, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Sirmione and Garda. You still have 1 night left in Verona.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Verona on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Archaeological Site Of Grotte Di Catullo is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic archeological site before continuing your journey. Parrocchia Di Santa Maria Maggiore is your next stop. This underrated church is one of the best-rated sights in Verona.
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 Scaliger Castle. This grand castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rocca Di Garda and Historic Centre.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Verona and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Verona's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Re Teodorico, a top-rated dining spot in Verona. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Piazzetta Osteria Enoteca, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Santa Felicita Ristorante. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Verona.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cappa Café, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Vecia Veroneta, a bar that offers unique local touches.
Say good night to Verona and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 5
- Verona
- Bergamo
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Drive 124 km, 2 hours 12 min
- Piazza della Vittoria
- Piazza della Loggia
- Capitolium o Tempio Capitolino
- Santa Giulia Museum
- Castle of Brescia
- Monument To Partisan
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On day 5 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 Brescia and Bergamo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bergamo, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Verona. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Piazza Della Vittoria is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Verona. Next, head to Piazza Della Loggia, an intriguing public square, known for its enchanting features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Capitolium O Tempio Capitolino. This picture-perfect archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Museo Di Santa Giulia and Castle Of Brescia. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Monument To Partisan, a photogenic monument in Verona.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bergamo. Bergamo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bergamo. 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 Osteria Mille Storie & Sapori, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ristorante Roof Garden? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Concrete Cocktailbar-comfort food & wine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bergamo.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Savoy, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Via Paglia Coffee offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bergamo. Bar Haiti is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Head back to your accommodation in Bergamo and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 6
- Bergamo
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Drive 5 km, 59 min
- Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta
- Bergamo Cathedral
- Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
- Mura Veneziane
- Porta San Giacomo
- Accademia Carrara Museum
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bergamo. You’ll stay in Bergamo for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Bergamo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring public square before continuing your journey. Bergamo Cathedral is your next stop. This increasingly popular church is one of the best-rated sights in Bergamo.
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 Santa Maria Maggiore. This grand church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Fortified City Of Bergamo and Porta San Giacomo.
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 Bergamo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Valtellinese, a top-rated dining destination in Bergamo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Barrier, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Scagna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bergamo this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Tassino Cafè. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Flora offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.
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 7
- Bergamo
- Bolzano - Bozen
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Drive 293 km, 3 hours 31 min
- The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle
- Trauttmansdorff Castle
- Terme Merano
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Merano, 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 Bolzano. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming town of Bergamo. Your adventure starts at Gardens Of Trauttmansdorff Castle, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Trauttmansdorff Castle. This often recommended castle is known for its noteworthy appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bergamo's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Terme Merano. This romantic spa offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bolzano, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bolzano's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Alumix Cafè Ristorante Pizzeria, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Castel Flavon beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Trattoria Filo d'Olio. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bolzano tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Tiffany Bolzano, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Corte - Bar & Bistro is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Hollywood ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Say good night to Bolzano and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 8
- Bolzano - Bozen - Departure day
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- Franciscan Monastery
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Day 8 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bolzano 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, we recommend visiting Franciscan Monastery, a stunning monastery before you head out.
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 Bolzano.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Rastbichler, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Black Sheep Drink Differently? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bolzano. 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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