One-Week Relaxed Italy Road Trip from Pisa to Bologna

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Italy begins when you reach Pisa, where you’ll stay for a total of 3 nights.

Pisa is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Knights' Square. Around 9,051 visitors have rated this fascinating square and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Pisa offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is Osteria I Santi. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,094 customers.

Filter Coffee Lab serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Pisa has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,414 reviews.

Osteria Marina Il Peschereccio is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,687 customers, Osteria Marina Il Peschereccio is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Pisa looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Bar Mocambo, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 359 reviews.

Skyline American Bar offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Pisa. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 510 customers.

Locals like unwinding at La Vecchia Cascina. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,606 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Italy! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Italy!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Italy, you'll explore the best attractions in Pisa at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Pisa, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Palazzo Blu. This incredible art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,244 travelers, and is visited by 37,457 people every year.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Italy by seeing another popular site in Pisa, the wonderful Leaning Tower of Pisa. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,244 travelers and gets around 37,457 annual visits.

You can then move on to the incredible Piazza del Duomo, Pisa. This square has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 104,550 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Pisa Cathedral. This cathedral is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,361 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Parco Regionale Migliarino, San Rossore, Massaciuccoli. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 9,632 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Italy. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Pisa itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Italy extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Pisa. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Ristorante alle Bandierine. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,163 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Ristorante Capodimonte Pisa, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Ristorante Capodimonte Pisa is rated 4.4 stars out of 5 by 1,236 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Restaurant -Pizzeria Il Mio Capriccio. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,225 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Pisa and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Ristorante La Terrazza. This vibrant bar is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,572 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Seaside Cafè. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,197 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Sud. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Sud has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 784 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Italy, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Italy gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Lucca. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bologna, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful St Martin Cathedral is waiting for you. This church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,163 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Piazza Napoleone. This unique square is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,756 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Guinigi Tower. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,656 visitors, this tour is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. This popular square and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,190 people.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Lucca has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Italy. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Bologna. In Bologna, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Italy.

After a long day of driving and exploring along your relaxed road trip route, sitting down for a well-cooked restaurant meal in Scarperia is an excellent idea.

A popular restaurant we recommend you try is Sfoglia Rina, one of the best restaurants in Scarperia. With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,531 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Sfoglia Rina.

Locals also recommend Trattoria da Me as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Trattoria da Me as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,763 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Donatello. Donatello is another of the most popular places to eat in Scarperia. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,700 customers.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Celtic Druid Irish Pub. Celtic Druid Irish Pub is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,968 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Va Mo Là. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,876 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Ca' Pelletti - Altabella. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Ca' Pelletti - Altabella is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,464 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Italy!

Day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Italy serves as your introduction to Bologna. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Italy and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Bologna, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,413 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 4-star The Sydney Hotel. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,927 guests, The Sydney Hotel is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Hotel Maggiore Bologna offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Hotel Maggiore Bologna is a top-rated budget hotel in Bologna with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,777 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Bologna. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bologna, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Villa Ghigi. This park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Bologna. The fascinating Villa Ghigi has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,035 travelers.

Bologna is also home to the captivating Basilica of San Domenico, a local church and another popular attraction in the city. About 3,380 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary Porta Castiglione is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Italy. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,086 travelers, Porta Castiglione proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible Arco del Meloncello. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing arch and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,755 reviews.

When you’re in the mood to experience something amazing, we recommend you visit the fantastic Ducati Museum. Every year, travelers of more than 7,600 in count gather around this fascinating industry museum and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features. Around 4,028 visitors have rated the famous Ducati Museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Bologna, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Italy.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Italy. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Bologna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Bologna is Trattoria dal Biassanot. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,616 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Trattoria di Via Serra for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Bologna. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,547 customers.

Another alternative is Trattoria del Tempo Buono. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,531 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bologna. At Cantina Bentivoglio, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,094 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at BrewDog Bar Bologna, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,504 reviews.

Corner Bar is also one of the best places in Bologna where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 934 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Italy!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Italy, you'll explore the best attractions in Bologna at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Bologna, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Palazzo Pallavicini. This incredible museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,173 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Italy by seeing another popular site in Bologna, the wonderful Bologna Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,173 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Piazza Maggiore. This square has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Palazzo Re Enzo. This amazing site is a wonderful palazzo with more than 2,072 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Italy. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Bologna itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Italy extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Bologna. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Naama Cafè. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,538 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa is rated 4.4 stars out of 5 by 1,633 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Ristorante I Portici. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,677 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Bologna and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Macondo - Cocktail Bar. This vibrant bar is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 808 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 582 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Wiener Haus. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Wiener Haus has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 4,370 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Italy, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 6 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Italy gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Bologna and visit more of its attractions.

Bologna has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Italy. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 1 night more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Porta Maggiore, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Porta Maggiore has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,462 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Piazza Santo Stefano. This city feature got an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from its 7,617 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Bologna is the notable Two Towers. The popular Two Towers is a highlight of many travel packages in Bologna. As a matter of fact, this remarkable tower has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 25,975 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Bologna, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous La Piccola Venezia. Take your time exploring this wonderful top-tier point of interest and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.2 stars out of 5 from 1,491 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to the outstanding Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna. It’s one of the most visited places in Bologna as around 15,573 people visit this spot every year. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,400 travelers, a trip to the spectacular Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is something to look forward to in Bologna.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Bologna by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Bologna.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bologna, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

La Bottega di Franco is one of the top restaurants in the city. This Bologna-based food place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,223 guests.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, L'Arcimboldo is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the city. L'Arcimboldo proved an excellent choice for around 1,070 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Bologna, Victoria Station. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.2 over 5 stars given by 3,968 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is Osteria del Sole. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.6 over 5 stars by 1,643 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, Bar Senza Nome may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 1,552 customers have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Bologna and end day 6 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Italy on a great note!

Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Italy gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of La Spezia. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Pisa, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Parco XXV Aprile is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,394 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Castello San Giorgio. This unique castle is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,452 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Giardini Pubblici. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,364 visitors, this park is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Technical Naval Museum of Spezia. This popular museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,561 people.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else La Spezia has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Italy. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Pisa. In Pisa, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Italy.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,214 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Bagno Italia Ristorante.

Locals also recommend Kiste' - La Pizza Artigianale. It's the second restaurant coming from the tower. As one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Kiste' - La Pizza Artigianale. It's the second restaurant coming from the tower. As well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,204 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Osteria In Domo. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,272 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Gusto Giusto Pisa. Gusto Giusto Pisa is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 660 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Ristorante Enoteca Il Toscano. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 1,121 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to La Taverna Del Grillo. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. La Taverna Del Grillo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 905 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Italy!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Italy is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Pisa.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Pisa once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Italy on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

“Tuttomondo” (Keith Haring) is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Pisa. This top sight is a popular top-tier point of interest, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,937 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Pisa or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at Teste & Lische. Dining at Teste & Lische is one of the best food experiences you can have in Pisa. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,268 customers.

Another top recommendation in Pisa is Il Peperoncino. If you go to Il Peperoncino, you can expect delicious food, a nice ambiance, and great service. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 961 customers.

Alternatively, you could also go to a place like Osteria dei Cavalieri. If you haven’t yet, a trip to Osteria dei Cavalieri is your opportunity to have a lovely meal before leaving the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,007 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Pisa and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Italy is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.