One-Week Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste traveling south to Venice, Florence, Lucca, and San Gimignano
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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 3 nights in Trieste, 1 night in Venice, 1 night in Florence, 1 night in Lucca, and 1 night in San Gimignano. 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 Trieste, 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 Leaning Tower Of Pisa, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.
As you hit the open road and drive through Trieste, Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki, Miramare / Miramar, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, Riomaggiore, and Manarola, 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
- Triest - Arrival day
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- Giants' Stairway
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Say hello to Trieste! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Trieste for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Trieste 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 Giants' Stairway, 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 Trieste. 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 Trieste, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Murphy's Meeting Point, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Caffè Tommaseo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Al Barattolo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Trieste tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Bar G, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar X is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Antico Caffè Torinese ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Italy!
Day 2
- Triest
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Drive 37 km, 1 hour 29 min
- Grotta Gigante
- canale ponterosso trieste
- Piazza della Borsa
- Unity of Italy Square
- Museo Revoltella
- Miramare Castle
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Borgo Grotta Gigante / Briščiki. You’ll stay in Trieste for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views in Trieste. Begin your sightseeing with Grotta Gigante. This increasingly popular cave is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Canale Ponterosso Trieste, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Trieste, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Piazza Della Borsa. This up-and-coming public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Piazza Unità D'italia, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Revoltella Museum is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Miramare Castle and uncover why it's recognized as one of the village's most interesting attractions.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Trieste's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Rustiko, an iconic dining spot in Trieste. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Caffè San Marco, a popular restaurant in Trieste. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Osteria Marise, a hidden gem nestled in Trieste. 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 Mast after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Urbanis, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!
Day 3
- Triest
- Venice
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Bridge of Sighs
- Doge's Palace
- St Mark's Basilica
- Piazza San Marco
- Grand Canal
- Rialto Bridge
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Venice. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Venice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Trieste is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Bridge Of Sighs, a notable monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Doge's Palace, enchanting visitors with its symbolic appeal. Continue your exploration at St Mark's Basilica. This church is one of the city’s most interesting spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Trieste 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 San Marco. After exploring the public square, head to the often recommended Grand Canal. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Rialto Bridge, a place of history-steeped interest in Trieste.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Venice. 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 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bauer Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Osteria Le Guglie offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Corner Pub is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Venice.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Al Parlamento, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Caffe Rosso is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Adagio provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Italy!
Day 4
- Venice
- Florence
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Piazza della Repubblica
- piazza della Signoria
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Dive into day 4 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 Florence. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Venice. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an art gallery, a church, a historical landmark, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Galleria Dell'accademia. This is an interesting art gallery you should not miss. Another must-see is Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence, a locally renowned church in Venice.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Uffizi Gallery. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Ponte Vecchio, another of the city’s world-famous attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Piazza Della Repubblica, an enchanting place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Piazza Della Signoria to your itinerary. This widely recognized public square offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Venice.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Florence. Florence 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 Florence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Di Poneta Novoli is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Caffe San Firenze. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Florence tonight.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 5
- Florence
- Lucca
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Drive 107 km, 2 hours 12 min
- Pisa Cathedral
- Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Guinigi Tower
- San Michele in Foro
- Walls of Lucca
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Pisa and Lucca. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucca. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the worthwhile Pisa Cathedral, a symbolic church in Florence. Next, go to Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa.
After visiting Pisa Cathedral and Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, have a stroll along Florence's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Leaning Tower Of Pisa. This UNESCO world heritage-listed monument offers a unique experience. Guinigi Tower is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to San Michele In Foro, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Florence. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Mura Di Lucca.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucca, 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 Lucca. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gli Orti di Via Elisa, an iconic dining spot in Lucca. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bar Caffè Ristretto, a popular restaurant in Lucca. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ristorante Schiaffino, a hidden gem nestled in Lucca. 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 Lebowski - Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Blend, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Franklin'33 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!
Day 6
- Lucca
- San Gimignano
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Siena Cathedral
- piazza del Campo
- Tower of Mangia
- Pubblico Palace
- Porta San Giovanni
- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
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On day 6 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 Siena and San Gimignano. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Gimignano, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Lucca promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Siena Cathedral. This enchanting church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Piazza Del Campo, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Tower Of Mangia, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its respected features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Pubblico Palace. This culturally significant palace is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Porta San Giovanni, a locally appreciated monument, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Piazza Del Duomo before you head back to your hotel.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Gimignano. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of San Gimignano's best restaurants.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!
Day 7
- San Gimignano
- Triest
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Drive 707 km, 8 hours 50 min
- Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore
- Chiesa di San Lorenzo
- Manarola Overlook Viewpoint
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Riomaggiore and Manarola. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trieste, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Church Of San Giovanni Battista Of Riomaggiore. This up-and-coming church is a historic place to see in San Gimignano. Continue your discovery at Chiesa Di San Lorenzo, a historic church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around San Gimignano, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Manarola Overlook Viewpoint. This intriguing observation deck offers a romantic encounter with San Gimignano. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in San Gimignano.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Trieste. Trieste 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 Trieste, 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 Caffè degli Specchi, a top-rated dining destination in Trieste. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chimera di Bacco. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Trieste this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. "life" New Bar Torinese Snc is an excellent place to start. You could also check out White Cafe, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Café James Joyce. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.
Day 8
- Triest - Departure day
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- Umberto Saba Statue
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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 Trieste before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Trieste's best shopping area, Il Giulia Shopping Center. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy.
Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Trieste.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Sbecolez Trieste, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Trieste. 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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