4-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Venice traveling south to Bologna
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 4-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 2 nights in Venice and 1 night in Bologna. 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 Venice, 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 Piazza Maggiore, learn more about the unique Two Towers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Castello Estense.
As you hit the open road and drive through Venice, Bologna, and Ferrara, 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
- Venice - Arrival day
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- Teatro La Fenice
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Welcome to Venice, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Venice's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Venice 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 Teatro La Fenice, 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 Venice. 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 Venice, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Bauer Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Osteria Le Guglie beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Corner Pub. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Venice tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Al Parlamento, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Caffe Rosso is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Adagio ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Venice
- Bologna
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Piazza San Marco
- St Mark's Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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On day 2 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 Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Venice. Begin your sightseeing with Piazza San Marco. This iconic public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to St Mark's Basilica, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Venice, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Doge's Palace. This well-known palace is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Bridge Of Sighs, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bologna, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Discover the culinary delights of Bologna by securing a reservation at Ahimè. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of country cooking cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try I Portici, renowned for its delicious creative and contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Trattoria di Via Serra, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering emilian menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Al Bricco D'oro, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Freud E Squisito is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Osteria Del Sole provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 3
- Bologna
- Venice
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Piazza Maggiore
- Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
- Este Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bologna and Ferrara. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Piazza Maggiore. This astonishing public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Two Towers, one of the most well-known places to see in Bologna. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Piazza Santo Stefano. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this public square offers. Then, head to Castello Estense, a top-rated castle that adds another dimension to your day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Venice. Venice 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 Venice's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Local delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Wistèria, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and venetian specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Quadri, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Il Mercante, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Irish Pub Venezia offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Venice. Ai Stagneri is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 4
- Venice - Departure day
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- Rialto Bridge
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Day 4 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Venice 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, begin at Rialto Bridge. This wondrous historical landmark is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Italy and go on a shopping spree in Venice’s shopping center, the lively Calle Larga XXII Marzo. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Italy. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Venice.
You’ll then say farewell to Venice. 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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