4-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling north to Padua
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Italy on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bologna 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 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 Bologna, 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 Maggiore and Prato Della Valle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable The Basilica Of St. Anthony, learn more about the unique Two Towers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Dei Signori, Padua.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Bologna
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Bologna - Arrival day
- More
- La Piccola Venezia
- More
Welcome to Bologna, 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 Bologna's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bologna 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 La Piccola Venezia, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bologna. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Bologna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Ristorante Ciacco, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ristorante Ballarini beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sfoglia Rina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bologna tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Al Bricco D'oro. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Freud E Squisito, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Osteria Del Sole provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Bologna
- Padua
- More
Drive 119 km, 1 hour 41 min
- Piazza Maggiore
- Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
- Bologna Cathedral
- Two Towers
- Piazza Santo Stefano
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Bologna, 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.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bologna. Begin your sightseeing with Piazza Maggiore. This famous public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bologna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bologna Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Two Towers, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Piazza Santo Stefano is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Padua. Padua 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 Padua. 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.
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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Il Gottino - Wine Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brutal, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Al Buscaglione provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!
Day 3
- Padua
- Bologna
- More
Drive 119 km, 2 hours 18 min
- Piazza dei Signori, Padua
- Piazza della Frutta
- Scrovegni Chapel
- The Basilica of St Anthony
- Prato della Valle
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Padua. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bologna, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Padua promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Piazza Dei Signori, Padua. This awe-inspiring public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Piazza Della Frutta, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Scrovegni Chapel, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of The Basilica Of St. Anthony. This culturally significant church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Prato Della Valle, a well-known public square, and take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bologna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bologna's best restaurants.
Have a memorable dining experience in Bologna by booking a table at Ahimè, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional country cooking menu. For a different culinary experience in Bologna, I Portici shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and contemporary 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, Trattoria di Via Serra is known as a top local spot for its delicious emilian cuisine in Bologna. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Lime Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Macondo - Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Onda Marina By Night, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 4
- Bologna - Departure day
- More
- Tombs of the glossators of Bologna
- More
Day 4 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bologna 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 Tombs Of The Glossators Of Bologna. This intriguing monument is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bologna's best shopping area, Via d'Azeglio. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bologna.
You’ll then say farewell to Bologna. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Italy
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
