9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rome traveling south to Naples

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rome has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in Rome by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rome, including a public square and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Piazza Navona. This globally renowned public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Pantheon, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rome 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 Trevi Fountain, a timeless monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Piazza Di Spagna and Spanish Steps.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Rome by booking a table at La Pergola. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Il Pagliaccio, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Enoteca La Torre, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing mediterranean and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Sant' Eustachio Caffè, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Yellowsquare Rome provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Caffè Portofino offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rome. You’ll stay in Rome for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the widely recognized Villa Borghese, a serene park in Rome. Next, go to Piazza Del Popolo.

After visiting Villa Borghese and Piazza Del Popolo, have a stroll along Rome's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Castel Sant'angelo. This visually striking castle offers a unique experience. Roman Forum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Colosseum, one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Rome.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hotel de Russie, a top-rated dining spot in Rome. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Taverna Italiana, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Parrot Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rome.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Apartment Bar Roma, known for its lively atmosphere. Hotel Hassler Roma is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rome, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Vatican City. You still have 2 nights left in Rome.

Make sure to visit Trastevere, a popular neighborhood in Vatican City. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Monti today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Begin your sightseeing with St. Peter's Basilica. This iconic major basilica is one of the top attractions in the city.

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

As you explore more of Rome, 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.

Dine in style at Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Centro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ristorante Tema. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rome.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rome, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rome, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Terracina Cathedral, a locally appreciated church in the town. Then, head to Antico Complesso Monumentale Del Foro Emiliano and soak in the ambiance of this respected archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Rome, and when you are ready for more, go to Lungomare Di Terracina. This is one of the town’s most beloved romantic spots of interest.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rome.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Va. Do. , an iconic dining spot in Rome. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Giulia Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Rome. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Archeologia, a hidden gem nestled in Rome. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 6 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 Pompei. In the evening, you’ll end up in Naples, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Archaeological Park Of Pompeii, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site is sure to impress. Next on your list is Basilica, another must-visit landmark and often recommended archeological site renowned for its symbolic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Rome by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Teatro Grande. This instagrammable archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Rome experience. We also recommend visiting Amphitheatre Of Pompeii, an interesting archeological site.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Naples. Naples 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 Naples. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Naples by booking a table at Veritas. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of campanian and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Il Comandante, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover ARIA, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the evening going at Happening Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Shanti Art Musik Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gran Caffè Gambrinus, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Naples, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Amalfi Coast. This top-rated coast is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cappella Sansevero, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Naples National Archaeological Museum, one of the most notable places to see in Naples. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Castel Sant'elmo. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this castle offers.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo, a popular restaurant in Naples. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Naples at Mercure Napoli Centro Angioino, 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 La Lazzara Trattoria e Pizzeria. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Naples tonight.

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

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