One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bologna traveling south to Florence and Rome
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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, 2 nights in Florence, and 3 nights in Rome. 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. Trevi Fountain and Colosseum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Pantheon, learn more about the unique Piazza Navona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Peter's Basilica.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bologna, Florence, Siena, Rome, Marino, and Orvieto, 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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- Piazza Maggiore
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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Bologna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bologna 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.
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 Piazza Maggiore, 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 Bologna. 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 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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Al Bricco D'oro, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Freud E Squisito, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Osteria Del Sole likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Bologna
- Florence
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Drive 118 km, 2 hours 19 min
- piazzale Michelangelo
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- piazza della Signoria
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Florence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s itinerary in Bologna covers several incredible sights, including an observation deck, a church, an art gallery, a historical landmark, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Piazzale Michelangelo. This astonishing observation deck is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, a must-see church 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 astonishing art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ponte Vecchio, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore and Piazza Della Signoria. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Florence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Di Poneta Novoli, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Caffe San Firenze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Manifattura, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Il Vinile provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 3
- Florence
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Drive 156 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Pubblico Palace
- Tower of Mangia
- piazza del Campo
- Siena Cathedral
- Fontebranda
- Fortezza Medicea
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On day 3 of your road trip in Italy, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Florence for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Siena to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Florence, including a palace, a monument, a public square, a church, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Pubblico Palace. This curiosity-inducing palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tower Of Mangia located in Florence for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Piazza Del Campo. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Siena Cathedral. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this church. Next up is Fontebranda, a highly recommended historical landmark. For a change of pace, head to Fortezza Medicea (siena). As one of the most beloved attractions in Florence, this monument is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Florence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ditta Artigianale, an iconic dining spot in Florence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Trattoria Da Burde, a popular restaurant in Florence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Casa Toscana, a hidden gem nestled in Florence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar 50 Rosso after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bitter Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Archea Brewery also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 4
- Florence
- Rome
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Drive 279 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Colosseum
- Roman Forum
- Trevi Fountain
- Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rome. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rome, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Florence is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an archeological site, a monument, and a public square. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the wondrous Colosseum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Roman Forum, a breathtaking archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Trevi Fountain, one of the city’s most iconic spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the iconic Pantheon. When you're finished at the monument, Piazza Navona awaits your visit. This public square is a majestic 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 Rome. Rome 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 Rome. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Bottega Roma, a top-rated dining spot in Rome. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pasta In Corso, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Trattoria Vecchia Roma. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rome.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Almalu Trastevere offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Rome. Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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.
Day 5
- Rome
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Drive 15 km, 58 min
- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
- St Peter's Basilica
- piazza del Popolo
- Trastevere
- Via del Corso
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rome, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Trastevere is a fantastic place you can explore today in Vatican City. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Vatican City-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Via del Corso, a street offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.
Today's adventure in Rome promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Vatican Museums.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Piazza Del Popolo. This noteworthy public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rome.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rome. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at RomAntica, a highly-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're eager to try something different, consider Coso Ristorante, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at DEROMA - Farine Romane. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Sant' Eustachio Caffè, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Yellowsquare Rome, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Caffè Portofino provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Rome and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 6
- Rome
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Drive 59 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Castel Sant'Angelo
- Piazza di Spagna
- Spanish Steps
- Villa Borghese
- Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
- Fountain of the Moors
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rome, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Rome and Marino. You still have 1 night left in Rome.
Get ready for an exciting day in Rome. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a public square, a park, a church, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Castel Sant'angelo. This is an astonishing castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Piazza Di Spagna, an iconic public square in Rome.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Spanish Steps. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Villa Borghese, another of the city’s famous attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Archbasilica Of St. John Lateran, a culturally significant place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Fountain Of The Moors to your itinerary. This increasingly popular monument offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Rome.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rome and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rome. 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 Hotel de Russie, a top-rated dining destination in Rome. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Taverna Italiana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Parrot Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rome this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Apartment Bar Roma stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Hotel Hassler Roma offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 7
- Rome
- Bologna
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Drive 392 km, 5 hours 2 min
- Well of St Patrick
- Orvieto Cathedral
- Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
- Orvieto subterranea
- Torre del Moro Orvieto
- Pozzo della Cava
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Orvieto, 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.
Rome is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Well Of St. Patrick, a locally renowned monument that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Orvieto Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its inviting appeal. Continue your exploration at Museo Dell'opera Del Duomo. This museum is one of the village’s most often recommended spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rome at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Orvieto Underground. After exploring the cave system, head to the underrated Torre Del Moro Orvieto. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Pozzo Della Cava, a place of photogenic interest in Rome.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bononia Cafè, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Via Con Me? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bologna.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 8
- Bologna - Departure day
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- Two Towers
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Day 8 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 Two Towers. This captivating monument 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.
Dine in style at Va Mo Là, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Trattoria dal Biassanot boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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