9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bolzano traveling south to Venice and Florence
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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 Bolzano, 2 nights in Venice, and 3 nights in Florence. 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. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Verona Arena, learn more about the unique Ponte Vecchio, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Leaning Tower Of Pisa.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bolzano, St. Magdalena - Santa Maddalena, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Siena, Pisa, Verona, and Sirmione, 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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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Bolzano and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bolzano 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.
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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bolzano. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bolzano, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Anita, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Stadt Hotel Città beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Danny. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bolzano tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Gruber. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Franzbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar La Nuova Grotta Del Corso provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Bolzano - Bozen
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Alpe di Siusi | Mont Sëuc
- Chiesa di Santa Maddalena
- South Tyrol Archeological Museum
- Passeggiata del Guncina
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bolzano, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Bolzano is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a plateau, a church, a museum, a hiking area and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Alpe Di Siusi | Mont Sëuc and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Chiesa Di Santa Maddalena, a visually striking church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to South Tyrol Museum Of Archaeology, one of the hamlet’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Passeggiata Del Guncina.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bolzano.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bolzano. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Alumix Cafè Ristorante Pizzeria, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Castel Flavon offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Trattoria Filo d'Olio is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bolzano.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tiffany Bolzano, known for its lively atmosphere. Corte - Bar & Bistro is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Hollywood offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 3
- Bolzano - Bozen
- Venice
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Bridge of Sighs
- Doge's Palace
- St Mark's Basilica
- Piazza San Marco
- Teatro La Fenice
- Rialto Bridge
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On day 3 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 Venice. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bolzano, including a monument, a palace, a church, a public square, an opera house, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day at Bridge Of Sighs. This culturally significant monument is a captivating place to see in Bolzano. Then, wander over to Doge's Palace. If visually striking sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find St Mark's Basilica. This UNESCO world heritage-designated church 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, Piazza San Marco is a wondrous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Teatro La Fenice. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular opera house. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Bolzano's top attractions with a visit to Rialto Bridge.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Venice, 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 Venice. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bauer Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Osteria Le Guglie offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Corner Pub is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Venice.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Al Parlamento stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Caffe Rosso offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Adagio is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Venice
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Drive 5 km, 46 min
- Grand Canal
- Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
- Santa Maria della Salute
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection
- Cannaregio
- Santa Croce
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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Venice has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Venice by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Cannaregio, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Venice. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Santa Croce, a neighborhood offering a different perspective on Venice.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Venice, including a street, a church, and an art gallery. Start your day with a visit to Grand Canal. This curiosity-inducing street is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Venice 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 Santa Maria Della Salute, an often recommended church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
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 explore more of Venice, 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 dining experience at Generator Venice, a popular restaurant in Venice. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Venice at Nevodi, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Ristorante La Piazza. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Venice tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Il Mercante, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Irish Pub Venezia provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Ai Stagneri offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 5
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Bologna Cathedral
- Piazza Maggiore
- Ponte Vecchio
- Uffizi Gallery
- Palazzo Vecchio
- piazza della Signoria
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bologna and Florence. 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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Venice on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bologna Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect church before continuing your journey. Piazza Maggiore is your next stop. This astonishing public square is one of the best-rated sights in Venice.
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 Ponte Vecchio. This awe-inspiring historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio. If time allows, end your day with Piazza Della Signoria, a culturally significant public square that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Di Poneta Novoli offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Caffe San Firenze. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Florence.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Manifattura offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Il Vinile is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 6
- Florence
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Drive 5 km, 1 hour 19 min
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Opera del Duomo Museum
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Oltrarno
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
A visit to Oltrarno in Florence is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Florence allows for both. Start by heading to Piazzale Michelangelo. This spectacular observation deck provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, a photogenic church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo, an increasingly popular museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Galleria Dell'accademia. Round off your day at Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, another gem in Florence with history-steeped features to discover.
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.
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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar 50 Rosso, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bitter Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Archea Brewery, another top-rated place in the area.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 7
- Florence
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Drive 317 km, 4 hours 42 min
- piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Siena and Pisa. You still have 1 night left in Florence.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Florence, including a public square, a church, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Piazza Del Campo. This impressive public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Siena Cathedral, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Florence 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 Leaning Tower Of Pisa, an iconic monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Florence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top-rated dining spot in Florence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Agricola Toscana, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Eataly Firenze. 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 Gosh*, known for its inviting atmosphere. Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Quelo Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 8
- Florence
- Bolzano - Bozen
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Drive 436 km, 5 hours 32 min
- Verona Arena
- Fontana di Piazza Bra
- Castello di Sirmione
- Beach brema Sirmione
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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 - Verona and Sirmione. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bolzano. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Florence today. One of the most timeless attractions included on the itinerary is Verona Arena. This visually striking stadium will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Fontana Di Piazza Bra and learn what makes this history-steeped public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the spectacular Scaliger Castle. After exploring the castle, head to Beach Brema Sirmione. This worthwhile beach is a highlight in Florence.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bolzano. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Bolzano, 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.
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. Consider reserving a table at L'osteria as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bolzano.
Continue your lively evening at Bar Zona, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grifoncino is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Galvani ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 9
- Bolzano - Bozen - Departure day
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- Franciscan Monastery
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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 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, an instagrammable monastery before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Bolzano’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bolzano.
Dine in style at Temple Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fink Gasthaus. Boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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