9-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna to Venice and Florence and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Bologna. You have 1 night left in Bologna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s agenda in Bologna includes a museum, a monument, and a public square. Ducati Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Arco Del Meloncello, an up-and-coming monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Piazza Santo Stefano, a visually striking 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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Ahimè, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional country cooking menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, I Portici, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bologna is Trattoria di Via Serra, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious emilian menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lime Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Macondo - Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Ferrara and Padua. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Venice. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bologna is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Castello Estense, a captivating castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Prato Della Valle, enchanting visitors with its noteworthy appeal. Continue your exploration at The Basilica Of St. Anthony. This church is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bologna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Piazza Della Frutta. After exploring the public square, head to the well-known Piazza Dei Signori, Padua.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Wistèria is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and venetian cuisine in Venice. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Quadri. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Al Parlamento, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Caffe Rosso is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Adagio ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Venice and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Venice has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Venice by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Venice, including a historical landmark, a public square, a church, a palace, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Rialto Bridge. This globally renowned historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Piazza San Marco located in Venice for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of St Mark's Basilica. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Doge's Palace. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this palace. Next up is Bridge Of Sighs, a highly recommended monument.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Generator Venice, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nevodi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante La Piazza. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Il Mercante after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Irish Pub Venezia for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Ai Stagneri is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Venice. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Florence, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Today’s agenda in Venice includes a palace, an opera house, an art gallery, a church and much more! Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo is must-visit palace and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Teatro La Fenice, a notable opera house, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Peggy Guggenheim Collection, a romantic art gallery, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Florence. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Begin 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Manifattura, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Il Vinile also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Florence for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s itinerary in Florence covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a palace, an art gallery, a historical landmark, an observation deck and much more! Start your adventure at Piazza Della Signoria. This extraordinary public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Palazzo Vecchio, a must-see palace in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Uffizi Gallery. This widely recognized art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ponte Vecchio, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Savor the flavors at Ditta Artigianale, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Trattoria Da Burde beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Casa Toscana. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Florence tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar 50 Rosso, known for its lively atmosphere. Bitter Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Archea Brewery offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Florence. You’ll stay in Florence for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Parco Delle Cascine. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is David, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Galleria Dell'accademia, one of the most interesting places to see in Florence. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Central Market. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this food market offers. Then, head to Basilica Di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (fi), a top-rated church that adds another dimension to your day.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Buca Mario, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Agricola Toscana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Eataly Firenze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gosh*, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Quelo Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Italy and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 8 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Florence, including a church, a palace, and a botanical garden. Start your day with a visit to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This notable church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore, which may be one of the most majestic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Florence 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 Pitti Palace, an interesting palace in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for The Boboli Gardens.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Va Mo Là, a top-rated dining destination in Bologna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria dal Biassanot, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bologna this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Aurum, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Senza Nome is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Caffè Ristretto 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.