Cheap 10-Day Italy Road Trip from Bologna traveling south to Milan, Genoa, Pisa, Arezzo, Rome, and Florence

Your exciting road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Bologna, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Bologna and begin your adventure in Italy.

Bologna is a popular cheap holiday destination in Italy with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Italy, Bologna is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Bologna offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.

Visit the popular Sfoglia Rina. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,531 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Italy is Celtic Druid Irish Pub. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,968 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Trattoria da Me. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,763 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Va Mo Là and try some of its cocktails and snacks. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,876 customers.

Ca' Pelletti - Altabella is another great place to hang out and unwind. This bar offers various drinks at affordable prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,464 customers.

If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Cantina Bentivoglio, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,094 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Italy!

Day 2 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bologna and Milan. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Milan.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bologna Cathedral is a great place to start with. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Fountain of Neptune, Bologna. This fountain has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,952 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Piazza Maggiore. The square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 64,523 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Two Towers. This tower is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 reviews.

Piazza Santo Stefano is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this square, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,617 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Milan, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bologna to Milan may take around 2 hours 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Milan offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Italy. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Milan offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Italy.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Galleria Restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,024 customers.

Another dining option is Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,550 reviews.

Make sure to stop by Vento di Sardegna for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 1,063 customers have rated the irresistible Vento di Sardegna an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Mag Cafe is one of the best bars you can visit in Milan tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,270 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Nottingham Forest. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,686 customers.

Alternatively, try The Friends Pub Milano. The Friends Pub Milano is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the city. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,689 customers.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Milan!

Day 3 of your road trip across Italy is another proof that cheap holidays in Italy can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Milan and Genoa.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Duomo di Milano Museum. Over 341,609 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This commercial gallery is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 91,394 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is La Scala. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,219 reviews.

Sforzesco Castle Art Library is another outstanding experience in Milan. Around 68,714 travelers have rated this library an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Parco Sempione is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 72,914 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Milan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Genoa. This drive usually takes around 2 hours. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Genoa. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Genoa, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Genoa, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

You could check out Le Rune, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,218 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

Vivarelli is another excellent choice for cheap holiday-goers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and comforting foods and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 902 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at Osteria di Vico Palla. This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. Osteria di Vico Palla has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,057 customer reviews.

If you’re up for getting a drink after dinner, Scurreria Beer & Bagel is a great place to go. Around 1,480 customers have rated this popular bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Soho has an atmosphere and drink selection that guests especially enjoy. Soho has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,307 reviews and is considered one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is Rustichello Restaurant. If this is where the night will take you, you’re in for a fun time in Genoa. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 861 customers.

A road trip vacation in Milan can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Italy!

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Pisa, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Pisa, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Genoa, Corniglia, and Pisa.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at piazza De Ferrari, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,312 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Aquarium of Genoa. This public aquarium has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 62,259 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 1,200,000 people visit it every year.

Porto antico is another must-visit attraction. This renowned port offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,414 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Genoa, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Corniglia may take around 1 hour 42 min. Upon your arrival in Corniglia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cinque Terre National Park is a great place to start with. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,526 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pisa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Corniglia to Pisa may take around 1 hour 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Pisa has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Pisa on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Pisa, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Visit the popular Osteria I Santi. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,094 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Italy is Filter Coffee Lab. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,414 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Ristorante alle Bandierine. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,163 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Bar Mocambo, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 359 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Skyline American Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 510 customers.

Sud is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 784 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Italy!

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Italy, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Pisa, Siena, and Arezzo. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Arezzo.

Start your day with a visit to Knights' Square. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,051 visitors.

Next, make your way to Leaning Tower of Pisa. This top attraction is a bell tower with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 116,882 visitors. Leaning Tower of Pisa welcomes 3,200,000 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Piazza del Duomo, Pisa. This square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 104,550 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Siena. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Siena Cathedral. This domus is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 21,656 visitors.

Piazza del Campo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 64,175 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Siena, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arezzo may take around 1 hour 4 min. Upon your arrival in Arezzo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Arezzo offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Italy. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Arezzo should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Arezzo, try some of our top recommendations.

We recommend a local favorite like Il Covo dei Briganti. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

Trattoria Il Saraceno is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Arezzo. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,759 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Arezzo you might want to check out is Antica Fonte. Antica Fonte is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,306 reviews.

One of travelers' and locals' favorite bars in the city is La Clandestina. This claim is supported by 277 customers who have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to another popular place like Emilio. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 263 customers.

The options in Arezzo don’t end there. You could also spend some time at the excellent La Nuova Tagliatella. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 275 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Italy!

Day 6 of your road trip across Italy offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Vatican City and Rome. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Rome.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Rome. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Rome, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Rome, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Tonnarello, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 62,881 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Ristorante Pancrazio dal 1922, so you'll want to drop by this place. Ristorante Pancrazio dal 1922 serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,946 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Rome is Cantina e Cucina. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,907 customers.

RoYaL Art Cafè Roma is a great bar to relax after a busy day. About 3,972 customers have given this spot an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, making it one of the most popular bars in the area.

Another bar in Rome we recommend is Ai Tre Scalini, an excellent place to meet new friends. This bar offers customers plenty of snack and drink options and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,950 customers.

Centro is also one of the best places to go to unwind and chat with locals. Over 1,488 bar-goers have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Italy with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Italy!

Day 7 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Italy. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Rome!

Italy is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Italy, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Italy. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Italy that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

Savor the culinary delights of Rome, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try 433, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,341 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Roma Sparita, so you'll want to drop by this place. Roma Sparita serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Rome is Ristorante Amedeo. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,798 customers.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at DEROMA - Farine Romane and try some of its cocktails and snacks. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,432 customers.

Hotel Hassler Roma is another great place to hang out and unwind. This bar offers various drinks at affordable prices and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 895 customers.

If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit VinAllegro, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,167 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Italy!

Day 8 of your road trip across Italy is another proof that cheap holidays in Italy can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Rome and Florence.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Altare della Patria. This architectural structure is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Rome, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 49,843 visitors. Around 1,683,070 people visit this attraction every year.

Trevi Fountain is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 343,494 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Piazza di Spagna. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 113,658 reviews.

Piazza del Popolo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a square rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 89,807 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Villa Borghese, perhaps the most famous urban zone of rome in Rome. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 69,749 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Rome, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Florence. Your travel time is around 3 hours 4 min.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

While exploring Italy is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Florence has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Florence on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Italy, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Florence that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Ristorante Paoli. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 6,031 customers.

Osteria Vecchio Cancello is another local-favorite restaurant in Florence. Osteria Vecchio Cancello serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,589 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Ristorante Oliviero 1962 is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Rome. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 of 5 stars from around 1,046 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Florence. Manifattura is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 509 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out Caffe Concerto Paszkowski. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,000 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Ristorante Buca Mario. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,879 customers.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Italy. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Italy!

Day 9 of your self-drive vacation in Italy will take you to the city of Bologna, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Bologna, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Italy, including Florence and Bologna.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to piazza della Signoria. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 66,956 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76,359 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Ponte Vecchio. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,099 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Uffizi Gallery. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,794 visitors. Visiting Uffizi Gallery means you'll be one of 2,011,219 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to piazzale Michelangelo. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 77,744 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bologna and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bologna beckons with new experiences!

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

Bologna offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Italy. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Bologna has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Donatello is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,700 customers.

Trattoria dal Biassanot is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,616 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Trattoria di Via Serra, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,547 reviews.

After dinner, stop by one of the best bars in Bologna. BrewDog Bar Bologna often offers travelers and locals alike a great time. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,504 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at Corner Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 934 customers.

Macondo - Cocktail Bar is another top-rated bar in the city. This place enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 808 customers.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Italy!

Your budget road trip vacation in Italy is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bologna.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bologna’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy.

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

For example, Trattoria del Tempo Buono has a menu of appetizing food and refreshing beverages and is rated at an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,531 customers.

If you feel like eating something else, Naama Cafè is another restaurant worth trying out. This restaurant serves a variety of value-for-money savory dishes and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,538 customers.

Another restaurant popular among cheap holiday-goers is Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,633 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy unique flavors that will remind you of Italy and your fun memories in Bologna.

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!