7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste to Venice and Florence

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photo of view of View from flying drone of quay of Trieste city, Italy.
Trieste lighthouse Phare de la Victoire and cityscape panoramic aerial view, Friuli Venezia Giulia region of Italy.
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste to Venice and Florence
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste to Venice and Florence
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste to Venice and Florence
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste to Venice and Florence
7-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Trieste to Venice and Florence
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Explore the best of Italy on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Trieste, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, and Bologna.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Italy. You will spend 2 nights in Trieste, 1 night in Venice, and 3 nights in Florence. 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 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Trieste, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, and Bologna, 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, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Italy fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Italy today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Triest - Arrival day
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  • Unity of Italy Square
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Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Trieste and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Trieste, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Piazza Unità D'italia. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Trieste. Make yourself at home and unwind 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 Trieste, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Murphy's Meeting Point, a popular restaurant in Trieste. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Trieste at Caffè Tommaseo, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Al Barattolo. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Trieste tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar G. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar X, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Antico Caffè Torinese provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Italy!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Triest
  • Venice
  • More

Drive 162 km, 2 hours 23 min

  • Grand Canal
  • Rialto Bridge
  • Bridge of Sighs
  • Doge's Palace
  • St Mark's Basilica
  • Piazza San Marco
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in Italy, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Venice are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Venice. This car ride takes around 1 hour 52 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Grand Canal, a worthwhile street that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Rialto Bridge and admire its romantic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Bridge Of Sighs, a popular monument beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Doge's Palace, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find St Mark's Basilica, an enchanting place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Venice, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Venice is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Venice.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bauer Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Osteria Le Guglie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Corner Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Al Parlamento, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Caffe Rosso, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Adagio provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Italy.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Venice
  • Florence
  • More

Drive 263 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • piazzale Michelangelo
  • Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Piazza della Repubblica
  • piazza della Signoria
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Florence. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Florence, where will spend 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Venice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Florence. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 54 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Piazzale Michelangelo. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Basilica Of Santa Croce In Florence. This well-known church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Uffizi Gallery. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art gallery. Next, take your journey to Ponte Vecchio, a wondrous historical landmark. Conclude your sightseeing at Piazza Della Repubblica, known for its enchanting features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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 Florence, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Florence tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Manifattura, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Se·sto On Arno Rooftop Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Il Vinile likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Florence and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Italy.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Florence
  • Pisa
  • Lucca
  • More

Drive 196 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
  • Guinigi Tower
  • Walls of Lucca
  • More

On day 4 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 still have 2 nights to spend in Florence, there’s no need to rush. Experience Pisa and Lucca to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

When you’ve had your share of Florence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pisa. Your travel time is around 1 hour 16 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Pisa is Piazza Del Duomo, Pisa, an iconic public square that draws attention for its symbolic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Leaning Tower Of Pisa, an UNESCO world heritage-designated monument that stands out in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lucca. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Piazza Dell'anfiteatro and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Guinigi Tower, another highlight in Lucca. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Mura Di Lucca, a grand historical landmark.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Florence and your accommodation.

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 Ditta Artigianale, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Trattoria Da Burde is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Casa Toscana. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Florence tonight.

Keep the evening going at Bar 50 Rosso, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bitter Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Archea Brewery, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Italy!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Florence
  • Siena
  • San Gimignano
  • More

Drive 181 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Tower of Mangia
  • piazza del Campo
  • Siena Cathedral
  • Porta San Giovanni
  • SanGimignano1300
  • Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Florence, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Siena and San Gimignano.

Siena is brimming with adventures.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Florence and set your GPS to Siena. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Upon reaching Siena, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tower Of Mangia. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Piazza Del Campo. This famous public square is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Siena Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

San Gimignano’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Siena behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. San Gimignano welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Porta San Giovanni is an often recommended monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Sangimignano1300, an eye-catching museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Piazza Del Duomo, a romantic public square.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Florence.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Florence's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Buca Mario, a highly-rated dining destination in Florence. If you're eager to try something different, consider Agricola Toscana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Eataly Firenze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Florence this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gosh*. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Antico Caffè Del Moro - Art Bar Firenze offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Quelo Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Florence
  • Bologna
  • Triest
  • More

Drive 414 km, 5 hours 3 min

  • Two Towers
  • Piazza Santo Stefano
  • Portici di Bologna
  • Piazza Maggiore
  • Bologna Cathedral
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Italy includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Bologna. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trieste, where you'll spend 1 night.

Bologna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Florence behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min. Bologna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Two Towers, a captivating monument known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Piazza Santo Stefano, a curiosity-inducing public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Portici Di Bologna and uncover the details of this UNESCO world heritage-listed street. Make sure to also explore Piazza Maggiore, an impressive public square. For your last stop, consider Bologna Cathedral, a breathtaking church that many travelers find worth the detour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Trieste. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mast stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Urbanis offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Coktail Bar Trieste | La Preferita is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Triest - Departure day
  • More
  • Roman Theatre of Trieste
  • More

Day 7 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Roman Theatre Of Trieste. This locally appreciated archeological site is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Trieste’s popular marketplace, Il Giulia Shopping Center. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Dine in style at Caffè degli Specchi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Osteria Istriano Of Giobi And Oxa boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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