7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Venice and Florence and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of Italy on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bologna, Padua, Venice, and Florence. 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 3 nights in Bologna, 1 night in Venice, and 2 nights in Florence. 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 San Marco and Rialto Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ponte Vecchio, learn more about the unique Piazzale Michelangelo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Padua, Venice, and Florence, 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
- Bologna - Arrival day
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- Tombs of the glossators of Bologna
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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 2 nights 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 Tombs Of The Glossators Of Bologna, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bologna. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ristorante Ciacco, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ristorante Ballarini is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sfoglia Rina. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bologna tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Freud E Squisito provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Osteria Del Sole offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Bologna
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Drive 1 km, 20 min
- Two Towers
- International Museum and Library of Music
- Piazza Santo Stefano
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bologna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bologna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today’s agenda in Bologna includes a monument, a museum, and a public square. Two Towers is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to International Museum And Library Of Music, a frequently visited museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Piazza Santo Stefano, a history-steeped public square, also available for your discovery today.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bologna by reserving a table at Ahimè. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional country cooking menu. For a different taste experience, head to I Portici, recognized for its delicious creative and contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Trattoria di Via Serra, a local favorite known for its delightful emilian cuisine in Bologna. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning emilian foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lime Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Macondo - Cocktail Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Onda Marina By Night is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Say good night to Bologna and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 3
- Bologna
- Venice
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Drive 158 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Prato della Valle
- The Basilica of St Anthony
- Piazza della Frutta
- Piazza dei Signori, Padua
- Scrovegni Chapel
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Padua. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Venice, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Bologna. Your adventure starts at Prato Della Valle, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is The Basilica Of St. Anthony. This notable church is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bologna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Piazza Della Frutta. This history-steeped public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Piazza Dei Signori, Padua is also worth visiting, along with Scrovegni Chapel. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Venice. 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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Local in Venice by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Local delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Wistèria, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and venetian specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Quadri, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Al Parlamento, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Caffe Rosso provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Adagio 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!
Day 4
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Rialto Bridge
- Teatro La Fenice
- Piazza San Marco
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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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 Venice. In the evening, you’ll end up in Florence, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the globally renowned Rialto Bridge, an enchanting historical landmark in Venice. Next, go to Teatro La Fenice.
After visiting Rialto Bridge and Teatro La Fenice, have a stroll along Venice's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Piazza San Marco. This romantic public square offers a unique experience. Doge's Palace is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Bridge Of Sighs, one of the most symbolic places to visit in Venice.
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.
Start your culinary exploration in Florence by securing a reservation at Enoteca Pinchiorri. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Santa Elisabetta, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean 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 Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, a top local spot known for its tantalizing italian contemporary and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Manifattura after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Il Vinile is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Italy!
Day 5
- Florence
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Drive 1 km, 25 min
- Ponte Vecchio
- Uffizi Gallery
- piazza della Signoria
- Piazza della Repubblica
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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Day 5 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.
Today's adventure in Florence promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ponte Vecchio. This history-steeped historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Uffizi Gallery, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Piazza Della Signoria, one of the city’s most spectacular attractions, known for its culturally significant features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Piazza Della Repubblica. This history-steeped public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, an extraordinary church, and take a stroll around the area.
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 Florence, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria Da Burde, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa Toscana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar 50 Rosso offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bitter Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Archea Brewery is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
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
- Bologna
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Drive 112 km, 2 hours 24 min
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- David
- Central Market
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Florence, 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 Bologna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Piazzale Michelangelo, a spectacular observation deck, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Galleria Dell'accademia, a photogenic art gallery, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Florence. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the well-known David. If you’re looking for more, Central Market is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bologna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Va Mo Là, a top-rated dining spot in Bologna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Trattoria dal Biassanot, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bologna.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Aurum, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Senza Nome is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Caffè Ristretto is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Head back to your accommodation in Bologna and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 7
- Bologna - Departure day
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- Piazza Maggiore
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Day 7 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 Piazza Maggiore. This extraordinary public square 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, Galleria Cavour. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy. 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!
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