9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Naples traveling west to L'aquila and Rome

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Naples. You’ll stay in Naples for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Naples, including a museum, a cave system, and a church. Start your day with a visit to Museo E Real Bosco Di Capodimonte. This captivating museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Naples National Archaeological Museum, which may be one of the most respected places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Naples 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 Napoli Sotterranea Percorso Ufficiale, a notable cave system in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cattedrale Di Santa Maria Assunta.

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 Naples, 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 an extraordinary dining experience at Veritas, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible campanian and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Il Comandante is one of the best restaurants for creative and mediterranean cuisine in Naples. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at ARIA. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for contemporary and modern cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Archivio Storico - Cocktail Bar & Wonderfood, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Archeobar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Babette Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Naples for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Naples. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Castel Sant'elmo is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most captivating places to visit in Naples. Next, head to Chiesa Del Gesù Nuovo, a locally renowned church, known for its culturally significant 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 Complesso Monumentale Di Santa Chiara. This picture-perfect monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Cappella Sansevero. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Naples's bustling shopping hub, Via dei Mille. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Via dei Mille offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Naples's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Opera Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Naples. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria San Ferdinando, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Anonymous Trattoria Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Naples this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Gran Caffè Cimmino, known for its inviting atmosphere. Flanagan's Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Napoli provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Naples and Caserta. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in L'aquila, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Naples on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palazzo Zevallos Stigliano is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout art gallery before continuing your journey. Castel Nuovo is your next stop. This well-known castle is one of the best-rated sights in Naples.

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 Palace Of Caserta. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Giardini Reali - Parco Reggia Di Caserta.

At the end of the day, you will drive to L'aquila, 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 L'aquila's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in L'aquila by booking a table at FØRMA contemporary restaurant, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary and creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of DECA, a popular restaurant in L'aquila. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Art Cafè L'aquila, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a 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.

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 L'aquila. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rome, where you will stay for 3 nights.

L'aquila is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a park, and a monument. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Basilica Of San Bernardino and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Castle Park, an instagrammable park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Luminous Fountain, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rome. Rome offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Rome by reserving a table at La Pergola. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Il Pagliaccio, renowned for its delectable creative and innovative 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 Enoteca La Torre, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-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 Rome.

Continue your lively evening at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Almalu Trastevere is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rome, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rome, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Vatican Museums, a world-famous art museum in the city.

After exploring the chapel, visit the astonishing Castel Sant'angelo.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rome and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at RomAntica, a top-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Coso Ristorante, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at DEROMA - Farine Romane. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Sant' Eustachio Caffè. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Yellowsquare Rome, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Caffè Portofino provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Rome, including an archeological site, a monument, and a public square. Start your adventure at Colosseum. This wondrous archeological site is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Roman Forum located in Rome for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Altare Della Patria. Its remarkable features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Pantheon. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this monument. Next up is Piazza Navona, a highly recommended public square.

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 Rome. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel de Russie, a highly-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Taverna Italiana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Parrot Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Apartment Bar Roma, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Hotel Hassler Roma, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rome. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Naples, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Rome, including a monument, a public square, and a park. Start your adventure at Trevi Fountain. This globally renowned monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Piazza Di Spagna located in Rome for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Spanish Steps. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Piazza Del Popolo. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this public square. Next up is Villa Borghese, a highly recommended park.

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

As you explore more of Naples, 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 delicious meal at Piazza Sannazaro, a highly-rated dining destination in Naples. If you're eager to try something different, consider Osteria Il Gobbetto, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Castel Nuovo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Naples this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Parthenope Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gran Caffè Mexico. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Novecento Wine Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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