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

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 Serra San Quirico, San Vittore, and Senigallia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bologna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Ancona includes a nature reserve, a cave system, a castle, a public square and much more! Parco Naturale Regionale Gola Della Rossa E Di Frasassi is must-visit nature reserve and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Frasassi Caves, a popular cave system, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rocca Roveresca, a picture-perfect castle, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible country cooking menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, I Portici is one of the best restaurants for creative and contemporary cuisine in Bologna. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Trattoria di Via Serra. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for emilian cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Al Bricco D'oro. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Freud E Squisito offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Osteria Del Sole, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bologna and Verona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Padua, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bologna. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Two Towers is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most popular places to visit in Bologna. Next, head to Piazza Maggiore, a top-rated public square, known for its history-steeped 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 Castelvecchio Museum. This history-steeped museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Castelvecchio Bridge and Verona Arena. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Veganda, a highly-rated dining destination in Padua. If you're eager to try something different, consider Osteria Ai Scarponi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bamboo Cafe (Mma Silvestrin Snc Di Matteo & C). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Padua this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Il Gottino - Wine Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brutal offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Al Buscaglione is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Padua and Rimini, 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 Ancona. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the notable Piazza Dei Signori, Padua, a history-steeped public square in Padua. Next, go to Prato Della Valle.

After visiting Piazza Dei Signori, Padua and Prato Della Valle, have a stroll along Padua's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Arch Of Augustus. This heritage-rich monument offers a unique experience.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ancona. 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 Ancona by reserving a table at Sot'Ajarchi. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood and from the marches cuisine. Looking for something different? Bontà delle Marche offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ancona.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Alla Tazza D'oro, a prime location for a drink.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.