9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Venice traveling west to Verona, Florence, and Ferrara
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Description
Explore the best of Italy on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Venice, Lido, Verona, Valeggio sul Mincio, Mantua, Florence, Bologna, Ferrara, and Padua. 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 Venice, 2 nights in Verona, 3 nights in Florence, and 1 night in Ferrara. 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 Verona Arena, learn more about the unique Ponte Vecchio, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazzale Michelangelo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Venice, Lido, Verona, Valeggio sul Mincio, Mantua, Florence, Bologna, Ferrara, and Padua, 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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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Venice and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Venice for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bauer Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Osteria Le Guglie offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Corner Pub is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Venice.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Al Parlamento, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Caffe Rosso is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Adagio is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Venice
- Verona
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Drive 125 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Piazza San Marco
- Giardini della Biennale
- Bridge of Sighs
- Doge's Palace
- St Mark's Basilica
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Venice and Lido. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Verona. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Venice is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a park, a monument, a palace, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the wondrous Piazza San Marco and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Giardini Della Biennale, a visually striking park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Bridge Of Sighs, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Doge's Palace. When you're finished at the palace, St Mark's Basilica awaits your visit. This church is an inviting highlight on today's itinerary.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Verona. Verona offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Verona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Start your culinary exploration in Verona by securing a reservation at Osteria Mondo d'Oro. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of italian and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Casa Perbellini 12 Apostoli, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Il Desco, a top local spot known for its tantalizing italian contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Archivio, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Segreteria Café offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Grande Giove Cocktail Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 3
- Verona
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Drive 4 km, 55 min
- Ponte Pietra
- piazza delle Erbe
- Verona Arena
- Castelvecchio Museum
- Castelvecchio Bridge
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Verona. You’ll stay in Verona for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Verona. Begin your sightseeing with Ponte Pietra. This captivating historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Piazza Delle Erbe, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Verona, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Verona Arena. This wondrous stadium is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Castelvecchio Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Castelvecchio Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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.
As you explore more of Verona, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria I Masenini, an iconic dining spot in Verona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Osteria da Ugo, a popular restaurant in Verona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Locanda 4 Cuochi, a hidden gem nestled in Verona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Duchi Café, known for its lively atmosphere. Cambridge Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Rubicone Caffe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.
Day 4
- Verona
- Florence
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Drive 268 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Parco Giardino Sigurtà
- Ducale Palace
- Piazza delle Erbe
- Te Palace
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On day 4 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 Valeggio sul Mincio and Mantua. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Parco Giardino Sigurtà. This popular botanical garden is an idyllic place to see in Verona. Continue your discovery at Ducale Palace, a visually striking palace with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Verona, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Piazza Delle Erbe. This worthwhile public square offers a standout encounter with Verona. Next, make your way to Te Palace to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Verona.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Florence, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Florence by booking a table at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Manifattura offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Il Vinile is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 5
- Florence
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Drive 2 km, 27 min
- Piazza della Repubblica
- Ponte Vecchio
- Uffizi Gallery
- piazza della Signoria
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Florence has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Florence by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Florence. Your adventure starts at Piazza Della Repubblica, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ponte Vecchio. This wondrous historical landmark is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Florence's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Uffizi Gallery. This romantic art gallery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Piazza Della Signoria is also worth visiting, along with Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Florence. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Ditta Artigianale, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Trattoria Da Burde offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Casa Toscana is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Florence.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar 50 Rosso, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bitter Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Archea Brewery likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 6
- Florence
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 15 min
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
- Central Market
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- David
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Day 6 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Florence. You have 1 night left in Florence. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Begin your adventure at Piazzale Michelangelo. This is an impressive observation deck you should not miss. Another must-see is Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi), a locally renowned church in Florence.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Central Market. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Galleria Dell'accademia, another of the city’s well-known attractions.
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 Florence's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Agricola Toscana boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Eataly Firenze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Florence.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Gosh*, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Quelo Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 7
- Florence
- Ferrara
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Drive 157 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Palazzo Pitti
- The Boboli Gardens
- Two Towers
- Piazza Maggiore
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Florence and Bologna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ferrara, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Florence allows for both. Start by heading to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This captivating church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Pitti Palace, a visually striking palace, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to The Boboli Gardens, a notable botanical garden. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Two Towers. Round off your day at Piazza Maggiore, another gem in Florence with enchanting features to discover.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ferrara. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Ferrara's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Ferrara by booking a table at Ca' d'Frara, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional emilian menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Osteria Il Frantoio, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Gallery. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Retrobottega Travagli offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Encio's Tiki Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 8
- Ferrara
- Venice
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Drive 115 km, 2 hours 13 min
- Este Castle
- Prato della Valle
- The Basilica of St Anthony
- Scrovegni Chapel
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ferrara and Padua. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Venice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Ferrara. Begin your sightseeing with Castello Estense. This captivating castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Prato Della Valle, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Ferrara, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to The Basilica Of St. Anthony. This locally renowned church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Scrovegni Chapel, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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.
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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Venice by booking a table at Local, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Venice, Wistèria shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary and venetian cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Quadri is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Venice. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Il Mercante, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Irish Pub Venezia offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Ai Stagneri provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 9
- Venice - Departure day
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- Rialto Bridge
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Day 9 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 world-famous historical landmark is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Venice.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Osteria Alla Staffa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bistrot de Venise is another top choice with a popular menu.
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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