One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling east to Venice, Florence, Rome, and Perugia

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bologna, including a church, a monument, a public square, a palace and much more! Start your day with a visit to Bologna Cathedral. This beloved church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Two Towers, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bologna 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 Maggiore, a spectacular public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna and Palazzo Re Enzo.

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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Venice by reserving a table at Local. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Wistèria, recognized for its delicious contemporary and venetian dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Quadri, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Venice. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Al Parlamento. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Caffe Rosso offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Adagio, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Venice, 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 Florence. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Venice is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, an opera house, a public square, a palace, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the iconic Rialto Bridge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Teatro La Fenice, a respected opera house that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Piazza San Marco, one of the city’s most iconic spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Doge's Palace. When you're finished at the palace, Bridge Of Sighs awaits your visit. This monument is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional italian contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Santa Elisabetta, known for its delicious creative and mediterranean cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Florence is Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious italian contemporary and international menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Manifattura after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Il Vinile also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Florence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rome, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Florence today. One of the most famous attractions included on the itinerary is Piazza Della Signoria. This romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Ponte Vecchio and learn what makes this visually striking historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the spectacular Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. After exploring the church, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. This top-rated observation deck is a highlight in Florence. As your day continues, stop by Tower Of San Niccolò, known for its history-steeped features.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at La Pergola, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Il Pagliaccio is one of the best restaurants for creative and innovative cuisine in Rome. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Enoteca La Torre. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for mediterranean and creative cuisine in the city.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!

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

Today’s agenda in Rome includes an archeological site, a monument, a public square, a castle and much more! Colosseum is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Roman Forum, a globally renowned archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Pantheon, a culturally significant monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Rome. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the iconic Piazza Navona. If you’re looking for more, Castel Sant'angelo is also an extraordinary attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sant' Eustachio Caffè after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Yellowsquare Rome, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Caffè Portofino also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Rome and Vatican City. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Perugia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Rome is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Trevi Fountain, an iconic monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Piazza Di Spagna, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Piazza Del Popolo. This public square is one of the city’s most spectacular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rome at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Saint Peter's Square. After exploring the square, head to the globally renowned St. Peter's Basilica.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Perugia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Settimo Sigillo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Caffè Baglioni? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar Pellas as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Perugia.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Tommi Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Valentina, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Caffe Dal Perugino. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

On day 7 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 Ravenna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Perugia covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Fontanella Piazza Del Popolo. This curiosity-inducing public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Basilica Of San Vitale, a must-see church 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 Mausoleum Of Galla Placidia. This worthwhile monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to National Museum Of Ravenna, where you can take in instagrammable features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bologna by reserving a table at Ahimè. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of country cooking cuisine. For a different taste, head over to I Portici, renowned for its delectable creative and contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Trattoria di Via Serra, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite emilian menu. With a Bib Gourmand 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 Bologna.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lime Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Macondo - Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Onda Marina By Night provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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