5-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Ancona traveling north to Bologna and Padua

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Explore the best of Italy on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Ancona, Serra San Quirico, Senigallia, Bologna, Verona, Padua, and Rimini. 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 Ancona, 1 night in Bologna, and 1 night in Padua. 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 Ancona, 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 Piazza Maggiore are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Prato Della Valle, learn more about the unique Two Towers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Frasassi Caves.

As you hit the open road and drive through Ancona, Serra San Quirico, Senigallia, Bologna, Verona, Padua, and Rimini, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Lazzaretto of Ancona
Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di FrasassiFrasassi CavesRocca RoverescaPiazza Garibaldi
Two TowersPiazza MaggioreCastelvecchio MuseumCastelvecchio BridgeVerona Arena
Piazza dei Signori, PaduaPrato della ValleArco di Augusto
Piazza del Plebiscito

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Ancona - Arrival day
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  • Lazzaretto of Ancona
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Say hello to Ancona! 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 Ancona for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Ancona 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 Lazzaretto Of Ancona, 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 Ancona. 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 Ancona, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Posa Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Four Roses provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Amarillo Beer Bar Ancona offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Italy!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Ancona
  • Bologna
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Drive 325 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • Parco Naturale Regionale Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi
  • Frasassi Caves
  • Rocca Roveresca
  • Piazza Garibaldi
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, and Senigallia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bologna, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Ancona’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Parco Naturale Regionale Gola Della Rossa E Di Frasassi. This peaceful nature reserve is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Frasassi Caves, a must-visit cave system in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Rocca Roveresca, a curiosity-inducing castle. For a change of scene, check out Piazza Garibaldi, 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 Bologna. Bologna 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 Bologna's best restaurants.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Al Bricco D'oro is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Freud E Squisito, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Osteria Del Sole. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bologna
  • Padua
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Drive 229 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Castelvecchio Museum
  • Castelvecchio Bridge
  • Verona Arena
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Bologna and Verona, 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 Padua. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Two Towers. This notable monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Piazza Maggiore, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Castelvecchio Museum, one of the most notable places to see in Bologna. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Castelvecchio Bridge. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Verona Arena, a top-rated stadium that adds another dimension to your day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Padua, 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 Padua, 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 Veganda, a popular restaurant in Padua. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Padua at Osteria Ai Scarponi, 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 Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C). It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Padua tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Il Gottino - Wine Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brutal, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Al Buscaglione provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Padua
  • Ancona
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Drive 347 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Piazza dei Signori, Padua
  • Prato della Valle
  • Arco di Augusto
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Padua and Rimini. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ancona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Padua. Your adventure starts at Piazza Dei Signori, Padua, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Prato Della Valle. This captivating public square is known for its enchanting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Padua's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Arch Of Augustus. This standout monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ancona. 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 Ancona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Sot'Ajarchi, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood and from the marches menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bontà delle Marche is another top choice with a popular menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Alla Tazza D'oro. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Ancona - Departure day
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  • Piazza del Plebiscito
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Day 5 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Ancona 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 Piazza Del Plebiscito. This often recommended public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Ancona’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 Ancona.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pizzeria Pulcinella, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Donegal Irish Pub is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Ancona. 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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