4-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling west to Milan

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Photo of panoramic view of Bologna,Italy.
Photo of Channel river in Bologna Italy.
Photo of Fontana di Nettuno or Neptune fountain on Piazza Maggiore square at the morning dusk designed by Tommaso Laureti (1565).
Photo of Bologna main square aerial view from Asinelli tower.
Photo of ancient sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, old church on the hill.
Photo of quirky castle in the Emilian Apennines, Bologna, Italy.
Photo of Basilica of SantApolinare in Classe.
Photo of View of Basilica di San Petronio on sunrise.
Photo of Sunset view of a small lake located in a park in the center of Bologna, Italy.
Bologna, Italy. View of Basilica di San Petronio on sunrise
Palazzo Re Enzo. Splendid cityscape of Bologna, Italy.
photo of view of Bologna, Italy.
Milan Cathedral, Duomo di Milano, and Piazza Duomo square in the Milan city center, Italy
Photo of Arch of Peace, or Arco della Pace, city gate in the centre of the Old Town of Milan in the sunny day, Lombardia, Italy.
Photo of Milan, Italy. Bridge across the Naviglio Grande canal at the sunrise Milano, Lombardy.
Photo of Milano, Italy. Church Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, famous for hosting Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece "The Last Supper".
Photo of Sforza Castle or Castello Sforzesco aerial panoramic view. Sforza Castle is located in Milan city in northern Italy.
Photo of tourist girl holds hat in Sempione Square, Milan, Italy.
Photo of Milan Cathedral, Duomo di Milano, Italy, one of the largest churches in the world on sunrise.
Photo of Darsena artificial reservoir is located near Porta Ticinese in Milan in Lombardy region of northern Italy.
Photo of tourist woman with arms raised in Milan Cathedral Square, Italy.
Photo of the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore is a roman catholic church in Milan city in Lombardy region of northern Italy.
Photo of town of Menaggio on lake Como, Milan, Italy.
Photo of Stazione Milano Centrale is the main railway station of the Milan city in Lombardy region of northern Italy.
photo of view of Duomo square and Milan Cathedral at sunrise, Italy.
photo of view of View of the Peace Arch with yellow tram in Milan, Italy
photo of  view of Milan Piazza Del Duomo at Sunrise, Italy.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 4-day road trip through Italy. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Milan. 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. Duomo Di Milano Museum and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Parco Sempione, learn more about the unique Sforzesco Castle Art Library, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Maggiore.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna and Milan, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Days
Destination
Attractions
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Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Tombs of the glossators of Bologna
Piazza MaggiorePalazzo Re EnzoFountain of Neptune, BolognaTwo TowersPiazza Santo Stefano
Duomo di MilanoGalleria Vittorio Emanuele IICastello SforzescoSempione Park
Portici di Bologna

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Day 1

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 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 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.

Dine in style at Ristorante Ciacco, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ristorante Ballarini boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sfoglia Rina. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bologna.

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!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bologna
  • Milan
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Drive 222 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Palazzo Re Enzo
  • Fountain of Neptune, Bologna
  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Santo Stefano
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On day 2 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 Bologna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Milan, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Bologna covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a palace, and a monument. Start your adventure at Piazza Maggiore. This top-rated public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Palazzo Re Enzo, 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 Fountain Of Neptune, Bologna. This beloved monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Two Towers, where you can take in culturally significant features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Piazza Santo Stefano. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Milan by securing a reservation at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Seta by Antonio Guida, renowned for its delicious international and contemporary dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering italian contemporary and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Nottingham Forest, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Armani/bamboo Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mag Cafe provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Milan
  • Bologna
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 3 min

  • Duomo di Milano
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • Castello Sforzesco
  • Sempione Park
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Milan. 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 agenda in Milan includes a church, a shopping mall, a castle, a park and much more! Duomo Di Milano Museum is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii, a famous shopping mall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sforzesco Castle Art Library, a breathtaking castle, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bologna by securing a table at Ahimè. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional country cooking menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit I Portici, famous for its scrumptious creative and contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Trattoria di Via Serra, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite emilian cuisine in Bologna. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for emilian cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Lime Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Onda Marina By Night is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bologna - Departure day
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  • Portici di Bologna
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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 Portici Di Bologna. This increasingly popular street is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Bologna’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Galleria Cavour. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.

Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bologna.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trattoria dal Biassanot, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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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