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15 Incredible Italy Road Trip Itineraries (with Driving Tips)

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: June 20, 2024

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A road trip through Italy is the trip of a lifetime. We have enjoyed numerous Italian road trips and never tire of exploring one of Europe’s most charismatic and exciting countries by car.

Italy offers glorious road trip possibilities with beautiful historic cities, stunning countryside, majestic lakes and mountain regions, and quaint coastal towns and islands. And, of course, such varied regional cultures and cuisines to explore.

Whether it’s an extended road trip from north to south or one region of Italy, we’ve rounded up some fabulous itineraries for each area – from a few days to four weeks to help you plan the perfect Italian road trip.

Table of Contents

Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Italy

• Always take photos when you pick up your rental and when returning it. Some agencies may try to accuse you of damaging the vehicle after you have returned it.
• Read your rental contract, and be aware of the excess fees and type of insurance.
• If possible, rent a small car . Streets can be narrow in small towns, and parking garages in cities and larger towns can be very tight.
• Collecting your rental car from an airport is always less stressful than in a city.
• Download the Parclick App to pre-reserve parking all over Italy (and Europe). It can save you up to 50% on parking fees . Select the garage that suits you, book for the required days, and show your reservation (or use the license plate recognition) on arrival. You can come and go from the garage as much as you like during your booked time. We have used it all over Europe and saved ourselves so much stress and money when parking in cities and larger towns.
• Be careful not to drive into any restricted zones in historical centers . They are called ZTL zones (Limited Traffic Zones) and are monitored with cameras. You can check for the zones online before arriving in a city. Unauthorized vehicles will automatically be issued hefty fines.
• When it comes to speed limits in Italy, while many people don’t seem to respect them, you can get hefty fines if caught on camera, and there are a lot of speed cameras in Italy.
• The same goes for parking. It can be difficult to work out where you can or can’t park sometimes but never risk it – In Italy; you will either get a huge fine or worse – they just tow you away. Always look for the ticket machine or park in a paid garage.

Find the Best Car Rental Deals for Italy

When we travel, we always use Discover Cars for car rental as they aggregate the best local deals, have no hidden fees, and offer free cancellation.

Tip:  Always check if you have car rental insurance included on your travel insurance or with your credit card company before paying any additional to the rental car company. 

Search for the Best Car Rental Deals in Italy .

16 Fabulous Italian Road Trip Ideas

Northern italy to southern italy-south tyrol to bari.

• Recommended Duration : 3-4 Weeks
• Distance : Over 1400 Kilometres
• Destinations : South Tyrol – Venice – Bologna – Brisighella – San Marino – Perugia – Sorrento – Amalfi Coast – Naples – Capri – Pompeii – Ischia – Matera – Bari

For the ultimate Italy road trip, head from north to south. This Italian road trip itinerary starts at the border with Austria, visiting South Tyrol and ending in Bari in the south, where it is possible to head over to Croatia if you choose.

Covering over 1400 kilometers and traveling through many regions of Italy, you need to allow 3-4 weeks for the optimal experience.

The best time of year is spring – May/June and autumn – September/October for great weather without the summer crowds. However, this itinerary is great at any time – winter is especially good in South Tyrol for skiers.

Suggested Itinerary

• Start in South Tyrol for stunning mountain scenery and a mixture of Austrian and Italian culture. The German-speaking towns add a very different feel to this slice of Italy. Hike Lago do Baies to see the best of this area.
• Next, head to Venice for the quintessential Italian bucket list experience. Take a gondola ride, walk over the Rialto Bridge, and experience the unique ambiance of Venice. We have a fabulous Venice itinerary if you can allow at least a few days in the magical city.
• On your way south, stop in at Bologna . Bologna is renowned for its fantastic food, so indulge in the region’s typical dishes while exploring the atmospheric Old Town.
• Brisighella is the perfect rural stop to enjoy the Italian countryside. This gorgeous town has the must-visit Rocco Manfrediana fortress.
• Pop out of Italy for a moment with a stop on your way south at San Marino . One of the world’s ten smallest countries at 61 sq km, this tiny republic is the world’s oldest surviving sovereign state with glorious views and a beautifully preserved medieval walled town.
• Soak in the history of Perugia. The center is gorgeous, with interesting museums and many historic churches.
• Next up is Rome . There is so much to do in Rome (we have a great 3-Day Rome Itinerary to help you plan your stay). From the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City , Rome is a highlight on any Italian itinerary. If you need a budget-friendly Rome itinerary, there are many great things to do in Rome for free .
• It’s now time for southern Italy with a week in the Sorrento/Amalfi coast area – one of the most romantic places in Italy for couples . Make a day trip to Naples and Capri , explore the towns of the Amalfi coast by sea, and head to Pompeii and Ischia . There is so much to do in this region, so spend as much time as you can spare. For those that like walking and hiking, see our Amalfi Coast hiking guide .
• Finish up with a final stop at Matera before getting to Bari . Matera is famous for its cave dwellings which have been inhabited for 9,000 years. It’s amazing to walk around.

Recommended by Sharon Gourlay – Dive Into Germany

Northern Italy Road Trip Itineraries

Road trip through piedmont italy.

• Recommended Duration : 7-10 days
• Distance : 290 Kilometres
• Destinations : Turin – Bra – Barolo – Alba – Asti – Biella – The Sanctuary of Oropa

The  Piedmont region of Italy  is situated in northwest Italy, bordering France and Switzerland. Backdropped by the majestic Swiss Alps, its rolling hills and vineyards eventually give way south to the Ligurian sea.

Piedmont has everything a traveler could want, from welcoming small towns, unique cuisine, and amazing wine, the most famous of which is Barolo, the King of wine.

Highlights of the Trip:

• Turin, the Imperial capital of Piedmont
• Bra – Birthplace of the Slow Food movement
• Barolo – Taste Barolo wine and local cuisine
• Alba – Home of the rare white truffle
• Asti – Much more than Spumante wine
• Biella – Famous wool town supplying the fashion capital of Milan
• The Sanctuary of Oropa
• Start your 290 km road trip in Turin , a large but walkable city with dozens of Savoy Royal Palaces to tour, loads of historical attractions, decadent chocolate, and the outstanding Egyptian Museum.
• Drive 74 km south of Turin to Monforte d’Alba , a hilltop town with many enotecas, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s a perfect base to explore the surrounding wine towns of Bra, Barolo, and Alba .
• Spend a day in Asti drinking the sweet Moscato wines for which the town is named, then head north to Biella , 125 km north of Asti.
• Biella is known for producing wool and exquisite cashmere, surrounded by rambling rivers and mountain scenery. Be sure and visit the Sanctuary of Oropa , one of the many sacred mountains in the region.
• Sixty kilometers north of Biella on the eastern shore of Lake Orta is the quaint medieval village of Orta San Giulio and a great place to end your road trip. Tour the Sacre Monte of Orta and Isola San Giulio just offshore. You can stay at the centrally located Hotel Rocco San Giulio and walk anywhere in town.

Travel to Piedmont in late Spring through Fall to avoid wintery road conditions.

Recommended by Lori Sorrentino – Travlinmad

Northern Italy’s lakes

• Recommended Duration : 10 days or more
• Distance : 700 Kilometres. Circular route starting and finishing in Milan.
• Destinations : Milan – Lake Garda – Lake Como -Lake Maggiore – Cannobio – Lake Orta

An easy circular route from Milan’s airport,  a road trip through northern Italy’s lakes  is a must-try bucket list experience. You’ll cover approximately 700 km in one week, though extending the itinerary to 10 days or more is easy.

• The first four days must be dedicated to Lake Garda , the largest lake in Italy. Boasting enchanting coastal towns and beautiful natural scenery, you’ll want to stay forever.

Focus each day on another part of the lake – visit the unique Lemon orchard of Limonaia del Castèl in Limone sul Garda, take a morning stroll around the turquoise Lake Tenno, roam the colorful Malcesine, enjoy wine tasting near Bardolino, climb the Scaligero Castle in Sirmione.

• Continue to the luxurious Lake Como for one day. Visit the picturesque towns of Varenna and Bellagio and the stunning Gardens of Villa Melzi.
• Next, spend a day on the lovely Lake Maggiore . Base yourself in the city of Stresa , and opt for a boat tour to the nearby Borromean Islands, one of the most beautiful islands in Italy . See the picture-perfect centuries-old villas and gardens still owned by the noble Borromeo family.
• Have a relaxed last day with a visit to the serene town of Cannobio and a final cup of coffee in the medieval Orta San Giulio on Lake Orta before returning the car to Milan.

Late spring or early fall are the ideal times for this road trip in terms of weather and crowds. Also, many attractions in the area are only open from April to October.

Recommended by Or – My Path in the World 

Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, and Piedmont. Bologna to Milan and Turin

• Recommended Duration : 7 -14 days
• Distance : 370 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Bologna – Modena – Parma – Milan – Turin

This fantastic road trip through historic Northern Italy is perfect if you want to taste some of the best ingredients and dishes produced in the country.

The entire distance of this Italian road trip itinerary is only 371 Kilometers, which means you will have plenty of time for small side adventures if you spread it out over two weeks. You could, of course, stay to the major stops and complete it comfortably in a week.

One thing is certain; there is no way you will finish this road trip hungry. You will wish you had just a bit more time to try just one more dish.

• The trip starts in Emilia Romagna, where you will make stops in Bologna, Modena, and Parma for a whirlwind culinary tour of the region. 

Some must-experience stops include learning how Parmigiano Reggiano is made in Parma and tasting 100-year-old Balsamic in Modena . 

Bologna is a highlight of the road trip, with historic sites like the Piazza Maggiore, its Renaissance buildings, the city’s incredible food scene, and charming cafes.

• From Emilia Romagna, head northwest toward the Lombardy region for a stop in Milan , the world’s fashion capital and home to the famous Risotto Milanese. 
• The road trip then continues to the city of Turin in the heart of the Piedmont region . You will want to take some time to go truffle hunting or take a day to taste some Barolo or Barbaresco.

The best time for a road trip through these regions is during truffle season in the late fall – you will experience fewer crowds and accommodation, and car rental prices are lower. It is also a great time of year for food festivals after the harvest season.

Recommended by Gabriel – Chef Travel Guide

Pisa to Genoa

• Recommended Duration : 2-7 days
• Distance : 330 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Pisa – La Spezia – Cinque Terre – Portofino – Genoa

One of Italy’s best coastal road trips is from Pisa to Genoa. This road trip starts in Pisa in the region of Tuscany, tracing the Ligurian Coast to the capital of Liguria, Genoa.

It is possible to complete this road trip in two days, with an overnight stop in one of the Cinque Terre Villages.

However, this itinerary would be lovely spread over a week, allowing for at least one night at each destination between Pisa and Genoa. We have a fantastic two-night Cinque Terre itinerary to help you plan extra time in the famous five villages.

• See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and climb to the top
• Visit the Technical Naval Museum in La Spezia
• Enjoy the viewpoints and  Instagrammable places in Cinque Terre .
• Go to Castello Brown in Portofino
• Taste focaccia in Genoa
• On the first day, you’ll discover Pisa and the remarkable monuments in the so-called “Square of Miracles, including the iconic leaning tower.
• Head to La Spezia , the second largest city in Liguria and the gateway to the famous Five Villages. The pretty coastal city of La Spezia is also home to a major Italian naval base and the Technical Naval Museum.
• Head north to Cinque Terre to stay in one of the five villages for a night or two. Make sure you try tasty bruschetta at Nessun Dorma in Manarola and catch the sunset from one of the villages.
• Visit one of the prettiest fishing towns on the Italian Riviera, where the colorful village clusters around a small harbor. Since the late 19th century, Portofino has attracted European aristocracy and the celebrity jet set to its pristine shores, high-end restaurants, and glitzy boutiques. You never know who you might see in Portofino.
• You can spend an evening (or two) in Portofino or head directly to the final destination, the capital of Liguria, Genoa .

This road trip is best in the shoulder seasons to avoid summer traffic and crowds. However, if you plan to take advantage of the stunning coastal beaches, try for early or late summer. Avoid August if possible.

Recommended by: Dymphe Mensink – Dymabroad

Sanremo to Cinque Terre

• Recommended Duration : 3-5 days
• Distance : 260 Kilometres.

Embark on a memorable Italian road trip from Sanremo to Cinque Terre. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Italian Riviera as you drive along the Mediterranean Sea. This road trip itinerary can be completed in as little as 2-3 days or stretched over a week.

• Sanremo is a charming and animated town right next to the French border. It’s a perfect starting point for an Italian road trip after exploring the south of France . You will find good restaurants and bars to get a first taste of the culinary talent and kindness of the locals.
• Drive along the Ligurian Coast from Sanremo for two hours until you reach Genoa , the capital of Liguria. Spend the afternoon visiting the Royal Palace Museum, Piazza De Ferrari, or Cattedrale di San Lorenzo.
• For the second day of your road trip, head to the marvelous Portofino, less than one hour from Genoa. You will be mesmerized by the colorful waterfront houses that line the harbor of the beautiful coastal town.
• You can spend the rest of the day (or overnight) in Portofino or head to the world-famous cliff-side fishing villages of Cinque Terre . 
• You should spend at least two days in Cinque Terre to see it all. Explore each colorful village, from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore, making unforgettable holiday memories while savoring some of Italy’s best seafood dishes. 

Recommended by: Soline Le Page – On the Road Diary

Central Italy Road Trip Itineraries

Rome to pisa along the tyrrhenian coast.

• Distance : 350 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Rome – Cerveteri – Santa Severa Beach – The Tarot Garden – Argentario Peninsula – Elba Island – Pisa

A road trip along the Tyrrhenian Coast from Rome to Pisa is especially pleasant in summer. Traveling between the cities along the ancient consular road Aurelia allows you to discover beautiful beaches and small villages off the beaten path.

• Start in Rome, where the city’s historic center is dense with things to see. Aside from the main attractions – the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, there are wonderful piazzas, such as Piazza Navona and Piazza del Popolo, to explore.
• From Rome, head to Cerveteri . One of Rome’s most popular day trips , it is home to a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site, the Etruscan Necropolis of Cerveteri—a fascinating city of the dead with thousands of tombs carved into the rock.
• Santa Severa Beach is the most beautiful beach near Rome. The beach is home to a well-preserved medieval castle and is washed by a clear sea.
• The Tarot Garden is a contemporary art park a few kilometers from the town of Capalbio . The park is home to 22 fascinating sculptures representing the tarot’s major arcana. The creator is French-American contemporary artist Niki De Saint-Phalle .
• Visit the peculiar Argentario Peninsula linked to the mainland by three narrow strips of land. The perimeter of the Argentario peninsula hides small bays bathed by crystal-clear sea, accessible by fairly steep walking paths. Cala Gesso is the most picturesque of these bays.
• Visit the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, Elba Island . Take one of the regular ferries from the port of Piombino to explore the island’s unique and glorious beaches, such as Fetovaia Beach, and discover Elba’s rich history and the legacy of its most famous resident, Napolean Bonaparte.
• Finish in Pisa . The small city full of artistic treasures can be toured in a day. Its heart is the Piazza del Duomo, which houses the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery.

Tip: Pay attention to the speed limits along Aurelia road, as there are many speed cameras.

Recommended by Lisa –  Travel Connect Experience

Siena Region of Tuscany

• Recommended Duration : 2-3 days
• Distance : 70 Kilometres. Siena and Florence are the possible start and finishing points.
• Destinations : Montalcino – Pienza – Montepulciano – Cortona

One of the quintessential Italian experiences is a Tuscany road trip. The  Tuscan region of Siena  borders the province of Florence in the north, the province of Arezzo to the northeast, Umbria and Lazio to the south, and Pisa to the west. 

You can complete this road trip as a loop, starting and finishing in Siena. Or as this region is one of the most popular and accessible day trips from Florence , you could start or finish in Florence.

• You can start from either Siena or Florence.
• First, head for the tiny hilltop village of Montalcino , famous for its delicious Brunello wine. Visit the wine-tasting room in the fortress of Montalcino, where you can sample most of the local producers in one place. 
• Next, head to Pienza , the hilltop UNESCO-designated town, arriving through the sublime landscape of cypress trees and gently rolling hills. On the way, stop at Cipressi di San Quirico d’Orcia, a scenic viewpoint. Pienza, known for its Pecorino cheese, is a well-preserved Renaissance town that has remained untouched since the 15th century. Linger over a long meal at La Terrazza del Choistro or Osteria Sette di Vino. 
• Visit the pretty village of Montepulciano . Sip on some of the village’s finest wine in one of the cozy wine-tasting cellars dotted throughout the town.
• The last stop is Cortona , the town made famous by the book  Under the Tuscan Sun  by Francis Mayes and the subsequent movie. The town’s buildings span the 11th to 15 centuries.  Grab a gelato from the delicious Gelateria Snoopy and lose yourself in Cortona’s endless winding alleyways and epic views of the Tuscan countryside. 
• Return to either Siena or Florence.

For a relaxing road trip to this part of Tuscany, plan for 2 to 3 days and enjoy a lovely stay at  Siena House , a charming boutique B&B or explore some of Tuscany’s best wine hotels in the region.

Recommended by Renee – Dream Plan Experience 

Tuscany-Round Trip from Florence

• Recommended Duration : 7 days
• Distance : 471 Kilometres. Starting and finishing in Florence
• Destinations : Florence – Lucca – Pisa- Siena – Cortona – Arezzo – Val d’Orcia – Chianti

A road trip through one of Italy’s most famous regions, starting and finishing in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, Florence.

Spring, summer, and fall are particularly beautiful in Tuscany. The hills will be green in the spring, and poppies will bloom in the countryside. In the summer, sunflower fields are a draw, and the golden, bare rolling hills look stunning after the autumn harvest. 

From a weather perspective, spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures, with fewer crowds than in the summer. 

Highlights of a  road trip through Tuscany  include:

• Charming hilltop towns that offer historical landmarks, local cuisine and culture, and charming ambiance.
• See the world-famous art in Florence.
• Wine tasting at some of the renowned wine-growing areas in the region, including Chianti and the Val d’Orcia.
• The opportunity to photograph one of the most picturesque regions in Italy, with its rolling hills, stately cypress rows, and picturesque farmhouses.
• Taste the region’s cuisine with its pasta, cheeses, meats, and the famous  ribollita  soup.
• Driving in a loop, you’ll start and end this Tuscany road trip in Florence. You can find our guide on what to do in Florence here .
• Head west of Florence to the city of Lucca , famous for its well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling the cobbled maze of the historic city center.
• On to Pisa , a small city best known for its leaning tower in the Piazza del Duomo. The so-called “Square of Miracles” is a treasure trove of remarkable landmarks, including the cathedral, baptistery, and the  camposanto (cemetery).
• Make your way south toward the stunning medieval city of Siena to explore the city’s 17 historic districts that extend outward from the unique fan-shaped central square, Piazza del Campo. Visit Palazzo Pubblico, the Gothic town hall, and the 14th-century Torre del Mangia for sweeping views of the city.
• Continue on to the Val d’ Orcia region for stunning landscapes and local wine – Plan some tastings in Montepulciano and Montalcino in the Val d’Orcia, where you can also taste the local pecorino.
• Head east to visit Cortona . The walled hilltop town, one of Tuscany’s prettiest towns, is famous for its beautiful medieval center and the Etruscan museum.
• Continue on to Arezzo in the east, an elegant city with an easy-going atmosphere often bypassed by tourists . Yet, the beautiful city is rich with monuments, parks, archaeological remains, churches, and historic squares.
• Make your last stop in the famed wine region of Chianti just south of Florence before heading back to the city.

If you have more time, you can add many small picturesque towns along the route to your itinerary.

Make sure you book at least one stay at an agriturismo. They capture the region’s essence and allow you to appreciate the countryside.

Recommended by Dhara – It’s Not About the Miles

Chianti Region Tuscany

• Distance : 100-150 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Montefioralle – Monteriggioni – San Gimignano – Radda in Chianti

One of Italy’s finest short road trips is a 2-3 day drive around the Chianti region of Tuscany. Chianti is situated between the tourist hotbed of Florence and the stunning medieval city of Siena .

A road trip between the two cities through Chianti only covers about 100-150 km, but there are so many beautiful places to see along the way that you won’t want to cover more ground. 

A region of rolling hills covered in vineyards and stone masonry villas, Chianti is what many people think of when they imagine Tuscany.

Chianti is mostly known for its wine. The region produces some of the finest wines in the world, especially the local specialty Chianti Classico . Vineyards are scattered throughout the region, mixed in with fairy-tale Tuscan villages and ancient castles.

Plan your road trip to avoid the motorways. While driving the winding back roads, be sure to include the following towns and villages in your itinerary:

• Montefioralle
• Monteriggioni
• San Gimignano
• Radda in Chianti

Most importantly, stop by some of Italy’s best wineries. Just be sure there is a sober driver in the group, as the local wineries can be generous with the pours.

Some of the top picks for Chianti region wineries are:

• Castello di Verrazzano
• Pogglio Amorelli
• Azienda Agricola Campocorto
• Fattoria di Montemaggio

Be sure to contact the wineries before visiting to arrange tours or tastings. Most of the more popular wineries require reservations. For a true Tuscan experience, spend the night at a castle vineyard like Castello Vicchiomaggio . 

A road trip through Chianti will leave you longing for more time in the Tuscan hills.

Recommended by: Chris Heckmann – Around the World with Me

Val d’Orcia Tuscany

• Recommended Duration : 4-7 days
• Distance : 350 Kilometres Starting in Florence or Siena.
• Destinations : Florence or Siena – Pienza – Montepulciano – Monticchiello – Bagni San Filippo thermal baths

The charming  Val d’Orcia in Italy  is a true jewel of Tuscany and a fantastic Italian road trip destination.

Most start their tour in Florence (approximately 1.5 hrs from Val d’Orcia), but you can also start or finish in Sienna (approximately 1.20 hrs from Val d’Orcia). You can plan around 350 kilometers for the entire route and 4-7 days.

On a road trip through Val d’Orcia, you will discover Tuscany you only know from movies. Endless hilly landscapes, breathtaking viewpoints along the panoramic roads, and the typical cypress avenues conjure up a picture-perfect ambiance. 

The stunning landscape dotted with small medieval villages and Renaissance towns is considered so unique it was given UNESCO World Heritage status in 2014.

• Explore the numerous small, charming Renaissance villages, where you can stroll through medieval alleys and discover Tuscany from its most beautiful side.
• Pienza is considered the cradle of the Renaissance. Make sure you try the local pecorino di Pienza cheese.
• The medieval walled town of San Quirico d’Orcia is considered one of the prettiest villages in Tuscany.
• Montepulciano . The stunning medieval hilltop town is a paradise for wine lovers. Make sure to try the delicious local red Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
• Montalcino is another beautiful town for wine lovers. The town’s vineyards produce some of Italy’s most famous and delicious wines, Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino.
• The beautiful village of Monticchiello, with its famous winding road, becomes an open-air theatre in summer with performances by the local inhabitants.
• For the onward journey, it is best to choose the Strada Provinciale 146 between Pienza and San Quirico , considered one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in the region with its numerous viewpoints.
• visit the Bagni San Filippo thermal baths – beautiful natural hot springs in a peaceful forest setting. The water is loaded with calcium, giving the water a milky blue/white color like milk, and leaves white calcium deposits on the rocks, creating a stunning setting to bathe in.

You will find lots of lovely agrotourism accommodations to stay overnight, which will add to the Tuscan experience. A road trip through Val d’Orcia is a wonderful mix of landscape, culture, and wine, which should not be missed on any trip to Tuscany.

Recommended by Martina – PlacesofJuma

Southern Italy Road Trip Itineraries

Puglia road trip.

• Distance : 580 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Bari – Manopoli and Polignano a Mare – Alberobello – Locorotondo – Ostuni – Lecce

A Puglia road trip is the best way to explore one of Italy’s most charming regions. The ideal time for this road trip is around seven days in spring, early summer, or early autumn.

Visiting Puglia, you can fly into one of two airports, Bari or Brindisi (in the South). Both airports have car rental options to begin your 580 km road trip around Puglia’s best sights.

Suggested Itinerary for Puglia

• It’s worthwhile beginning your Puglia road trip in the historic city of Bari , Puglia’s capital. Bari has beautiful architectural sights, including the Basilica San Nicolo and Bari Cathedral.
• From Bari, head to Manopoli and Polignano a Mare , where you will find the region’s best beaches.
• Head inland to see the famous trulli houses of Alberobello . The white cone-shaped houses of Alberobello are a recognized Unesco World Heritage Site.
• Locorotondo , a picture-perfect town (often missed by tourists), is a real treat. Visit during holidays such as Easter and Christmas when the locals adorn the town in traditional decor.
• The white city of Ostuni is a maze of white-washed buildings, sitting below a hill-topped citadel with ancient fortified walls.
• Before heading back to Bari, if your Puglia road trip itinerary allows, stop at Lecce , known as the ‘Florence of the South,’ with exquisite baroque architecture, including the Piazza del Duomo.
• It’s also worth stopping in Gallipoli : an old fishing village with a stunning port backed by ancient walls and pretty beaches.

Recommended by: Jasmine – The Life of a Social Butterfly

Calabria in the Toe of Italy’s Boot

• Recommended Duration : 7-9 days
• Distance : 153 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Costa degli Dei and Costa Viola – Pizzo – Zambrone – Marinella – Michelino – Tropea – Costa Viola – Bagnara Calabra

Often overlooked by visitors to Italy, Calabria is a fabulous region in Italy’s south. If the idea of visiting picturesque villages perched in the Pennine mountains, the glowing sun, and relaxing at the beach sounds like your type of road trip, Calabria is perfect.

If you find yourself in cities such as  Venice  or Rome, you can take an internal flight to Lamezia Terme Airport. Your road trip will start from here and ends in Scilla.

Taking between seven and nine days, you can drive 153 kilometers down the Costa degli Dei and Costa Viola.

• First, stop in Pizzo , where you can taste the delicious Tartufo (a gelato based dessert).
• Visit the beaches in Zambrone, Marinella, and Michelino, then the last stop along the Coast of the Gods, Tropea. The tourist town of Tropea is worth visiting for its lovely old city set on high cliffs overlooking the sea. Don’t miss trying the typical Calabrian pasta dish, Fileja alla Tropeana, when in Tropea.
• Continue towards the Costa Viola with Bagnara Calabra, known for its long stretch of sandy beach and Scilla.
• In Scilla , you can spend some time snorkeling in some of Italy’s most crystal clear waters and visit Chianalea , the charming fishing village. Make sure you try a swordfish sandwich in Scilla.

The best time of year to be in Calabria is in June or July, right before it gets too busy in August.

This Calabria road trip is an alternative way to explore the Tyrrhenian coast and includes popular places and lesser-known villages.

Recommended by: Maddalena Visentin – Venice Travel Tips

• Recommended Duration : 2 weeks
• Distance : 600 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Cagliari – Villasimius- Cala Goloritze – Gorrupu – Orgosolo – Cala Luna – Cala Brandinchi – Olbia – La Maddalena – Alghero – Bosa

A Mediterranean island road trip through Sardinia offers some of the world’s finest beaches, picturesque hikes, breathtaking natural beauty, and charming towns. 

A trip to Sardinia is an incredible Italian road trip experience.

A suggested 600 km, two-week itinerary would be to start in the capital city of Cagliari and end in Bosa. The best stops are Villasimius, Cala Goloritze, Gorrupu, Orgosolo, Cala Luna, Cala Brandinchi, Olbia, La Maddalena, and Alghero. 

• Once you have explored the capital Cagliari , drive along the coast to Villasimius , where you can enjoy the famous Sardinian beaches.
• Another must-see spot is Cala Goloritze , where a hike leads to one of the island’s most spectacular beaches with crystal-clear water.
• Gorropu , an impressive canyon, is a reminder that Sardinia has more to offer than just beaches. Inland villages such as Orgosolo , known for its street art and political graffiti, also provide a glimpse into the “real Sardinia.” 
• Another highlight includes the stunning La Maddalena Island . While there, visit Caprera Island, Cala Coticcio, the Garibaldi Museum, and Cala Napoletana.
• Finally, back on the mainland, visit the charming city of Alghero, Neptune’s Grotto, and the colorful town of Bosa. 

The best time for a road trip around Sardinia to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder weather is the shoulder season from May to June and September to October. It is still warm enough to go to the beach, but there are fewer crowds to battle – Sardinia is extremely busy in the summer months. See here for more tips on visiting Sardinia .

Recommended by: Rachel – Average Lives

Western Sicily

• Recommended Duration : 10-12 days
• Distance : 580 Kilometres. Starting and finishing in Palermo
• Destinations : Palermo – San Vito Lo Capo – Trapani – Marsala – Caltabellotta – Agrigento – Enna – the Parco delle Madonie.

Sicily is the ideal setting for an Italian road trip. This efficient itinerary starts and ends in Palermo and makes a tidy loop around the western part of the island.

We also have a 10 day Sicily road trip looping the entire island.

Covering both the coast and the lush interior, stops include San Vito Lo Capo, Trapani, Marsala, Caltabellotta, Agrigento, Enna, and the Parco delle Madonie.

This road trip covers a distance of approximately 580 km and requires a minimum of 10-12 days to complete.

The best time of year to explore this part of Italy is early autumn when temperatures are pleasant, the summer crowds have dissipated, and harvest festivities sweep through the vineyards.

• Embarking on a street food tour of Palermo
• Swimming and snorkeling at San Vito Lo Capo
• Exploring the salt flats near Trapani
• Shopping for traditional Sicilian souvenirs at the carpet ateliers in Erice
• Doing a fortified wine tasting in Marsala
• Getting lost in the ancient streets of Caltabellotta
• Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valley of the Temples
• Touring the incredible Cathedral of Enna
• Hiking in the Madonie Regional Natural Park
• After a few days in Sicily’s biggest city, pick up your car and depart Palermo . Follow the coastal road to San Vito Lo Capo, where gorgeous white-sand beaches and ultramarine waters await.
• Continue along the coast to Trapani , the ‘City of Salt and Sail’, to explore the crystal pans before continuing to Marsala , a picturesque city of honey-colored stone known for its fortified wines. For a unique experience, tour the cellars at Cantine Florio.
• Detour inland to spend a night in the tiny village of Caltabellotta before making your way down to Agrigento , the departure point for exploring one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites, the Valley of the Temples.
• Turning inland, make a quick stop in medieval Enna before spending a few nights on the fringe of Madonie Regional Natural Park , where you can enjoy the area’s hiking trails before returning to Palermo.

Recommended by Emily – Wander-Lush

Italy is such an incredible country to explore leisurely by road. With so many incredible and diverse experiences, it’s hard to choose just one Italy road trip itinerary.

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como and the culture, art and beauty of Florence and Rome, to the epic views along the Amalfi Coast and traditional Italian towns of Puglia, this Italy road trip has it all!

Road tripping past vineyards, dramatic coastlines and historic cities sounds like a pretty perfect holiday doesn’t it? When it comes to European holidays, Italy is always one of my top recommendations. I love the views, the buzz, the people. And don’t get me started on the food – I mean, delicious Italian cuisine for brekky, lunch and dinner? That’s enough of a reason to visit in itself! 

Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, food or fashion, a trip to Italy will no doubt appeal. Spend leisurely days floating beneath the Rialto Bridge in Venice on a gondola, window shopping in Milan’s boutiques, standing where gladiators once fought in the Roman Colosseum or staying in a traditional Trulli house in Puglia.

And the best part about an Italy road trip? The freedom! You don’t have to stick to the obvious routes. While I’ve created an Italy itinerary on the maps below, I’d encourage veering off course from time to time. That’s when you’ll find the hidden gems, the towns the tourists don’t know about, and no doubt some delicious Italian food too.

It’s also worth remembering that some of the interior parts of the country are as pretty as the coasts, with vineyards, sunflower fields and gorgeous hilltop towns. Going on a road trip means you’re pretty much guaranteed to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

So, rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided it into a northern Italy road trip and a southern Italy road trip. That way you can just pick one and break the country up into manageable chunks. Got a while? Join the two up and continue down the coast from Rome to Milan.

Click through to take a look at each itinerary, and figure out which one is right for you…

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itinerary

From driving along the Amalfi Coast and enjoying traditional pasta in Puglia, to enjoying lake views in northern Italy and the incredible canals of Venice, it's time to plan the ultimate Italy road trip! 

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip!

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

I hope you’ve enjoyed checking out my Italy road trip itineraries! Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are…

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later… 

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

I am obsessed with Italy! I really want to visit Milan and Lake Como so I think that will be my next trip! xoxo Jess

Hey Jess – that’s a great route to take and super easy! I’ve just got back from Trentino which is also stunning!

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6 beautiful road trips in Italy: drive the country's best routes

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Explore the best of Italy with these scenic road trips Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

The drive along Italy 's Amalfi Coast, preferably in a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider, is the stuff of travel legend.

And it's just one of dozens of epic road trip routes in this fascinating, richly layered country. Don't be put off by stories of impatient local drivers – the countryside here was made for exploring by road (and stopping every few hundred yards to take another photo).

With an extensive network of well-maintained roads that weave between snow-capped peaks, trace plunging coastlines, and meander through rolling farmland and vineyards to scenic lakes and historic towns, pretty much every journey in Italy is a scenic odyssey, but some road trips stand out as being particularly memorable.

To set the scene, we've chosen six classic road trips ranging from gentle Tuscan jaunts to hair-raising mountain adventures. Some are a little challenging, but they all make for unforgettable experiences! Here are the best road trip routes in Italy.

1. The Amalfi Coast

Best classic Italian coastal road trip Salerno–Sorrento; approx 75km/46 miles, 1 day

Experience Italy's most spectacular coastal scenery on this white-knuckle drive along the Amalfi Coast . From Salerno , the main southern gateway to the coast, strike west to Vietri sul Mare , a small town famous for its ceramics and the start point of the coastal road proper. From here, the driving becomes more challenging as the road narrows, the curves become tighter, and the views become ever more dramatic.

After about 20km (12 miles), you'll arrive in Amalfi , the coast's main hub. Stop here to look around the landmark Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and then head up to Ravello in the hills above. Pause for lunch here, perhaps at the Ristorante Pizzeria Vittoria , and enjoy heady panoramas from the town's lush gardens.

Next, push on to Positano , a chic, near-vertical town where colorful, steeply-stacked houses cascade down the precipitous hillsides. Beyond Positano, the route leads inland, up and across the hilly interior to Sorrento , a lively tourist hot spot overlooked by the dark, brooding bulk of Mount Vesuvius.

Planning tip:  It's a popular drive, so try to come out of season to avoid the traffic. With another day to spare, you can continue north to Naples via the ruins of Pompeii .

2. The Tuscan tour

Best road trip for art and architecture  Florence–Orvieto; approx 210km/130 miles , 2–3 days

Taking in two of Italy's great medieval cities, the wine treasures of Chianti  and swathes of classic Tuscan scenery, this two-day route leads from Florence to Orvieto in the neighboring region of Umbria . Whet your appetite for the road ahead by feasting on fine art and Renaissance architecture in Florence before striking south to Chianti wine country.

Stop for a tasting at the Enoteca Falorni in Greve and to sample the region's celebrated bistecca (steak) at L'Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano. From here, follow the backroads to Siena , a stunning medieval city centered on an awe-inspiring Duomo and a 12th-century square, the famous Piazza del Campo . Recommended overnight options here include the Pensione Palazzo Ravizza .

In the morning, head to Montalcino to stock up on Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy's most revered red wines. A short drive to the east, the Val d'Orcia provides quintessential Tuscan landscapes with its billowing green hills, cypress trees and hilltop towns. Lunch in Pienza, then continue through Montepulciano to Orvieto, a striking hilltop town famous for its remarkable Gothic Duomo .

Planning tip:  While you could easily do this route in two days, consider adding an extra overnight stop to explore the region in more depth.

3. Southeastern Sicily 

Best road trip for exploring Sicily's charming towns Catania–Ragusa; approx 165km/103 miles , 2 days

Hunt UNESCO-listed baroque treasures on this two-day tour of Sicily 's rugged southeast. Start by investigating Catania's grandiose historic center and brilliant fish market. After a seafood lunch, hit the road and make for Syracuse where you can trawl through ancient Greco-Roman ruins at the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis and stroll elegant baroque streets in the Ortygia district. Overnight at the stylish Hotel Gutkowski .

On day two, continue to Noto , home to what is arguably Sicily's most beautiful street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which is dotted with churches and charming cafes. Once you've digested this masterpiece of urban design, turn inland to Modica , a bustling town wedged into a deep canyon. Stock up on the town's famous chocolates before pushing on through the rocky hinterland to Ragusa and the handsome historic center known as Ragusa Ibla.

Planning tip:  To round the trip off on a high note, book ahead and treat yourself to dinner at the Ristorante Duomo , one of Sicily's top restaurants with meals prepared by chef Ciccio Sultano.

4. The Great Dolomites Road

Best road trip for stunning mountain vistas Bolzano–Cortina d'Ampezzo; approx 125km/78 miles; 2 days

The Grande Strada della Dolomiti provides some of Italy's most exhilarating driving. Running from Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo, it boasts superb scenery as it snakes past craggy, saw-tooth peaks and over lofty mountain passes in the Dolomites.

From Bolzano , head eastwards toward Ponte Nova, where you'll get your first sight of the Dolomite's mighty granite peaks. Continue to Val di Fassa, a magnificent valley framed by forested slopes and gigantic rock summits, and up to the 2,239m (7,345 ft) Passo Pordoi. The descent from here is slow going, but you'll be rewarded with stunning views as you corkscrew down to La Villa in the spectacularly sited Val Badia.

From here, you could push directly on to Cortina d'Ampezzo , the chic resort that marks the end of the road, but for a more relaxed trip, stop for the night at the Dolomit B&B and take some scenic detours around La Villa on day two.

Planning tip:  This is serious country for outdoor activities with superb winter skiing and wonderful summer hiking .

5. The southern shore of Lake Como 

Best springtime road trip Como–Bergamo; approx 112km/70 miles; 1 day

Surrounded by Alpine peaks and wooded hills, Lake Como (Lago di Como) is the most picturesque of Italy's northern lakes. This leisurely one-day drive takes in elegant art nouveau villas and lush waterfront gardens along the lake's southern shoreline.

The obvious starting point is the town of Como itself. Once you've explored the charming historic center and the nearby Villa Olmo , take the swooping road up to Bellagio . Stop at this charming lakeside village to explore the grounds of neoclassical Villa Melzi d'Eril and have lunch at Terrazza Barchetta .

Suitably refreshed, leave your car and jump on a ferry to Tremezzo, home of the 17th-century Villa Carlotta and its spectacular gardens. Back in Bellagio, pick up your wheels and strike southeast, following the scenic lakeside road down to Lecco and on to historic Bergamo , where you can rest up in style at the Hotel Piazza Vecchia .

Planning tip: Time your visit for April and May when the area is awash with spring color.

6. Highlights of Abruzzo

Best road trip for unspoiled landscapes Rome–Sulmona; approx 240km/150 miles, one day

Just over an hour's drive east of Rome , the little-known region of Abruzzo is a world apart from the big city, with wild, empty valleys and unspoiled mountain landscapes. From the capital take the A24 autostrada to Fonte Cerreto, from where it's a twisting climb up to Campo Imperatore, a highland plain overlooked by the Apennines' highest peak, Corno Grande (2,912m/9,553ft).

Continue on to Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a remote, semi-abandoned village high in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga. If you're traveling during the weekend you can lunch at the Locanda Sotto gli Archi ; otherwise, pick up picnic supplies in the village.

In the afternoon, push on to Sulmona, a graceful town set in the shadow of the Morrone massif. Famous for its delicacy confetti (sugar-coated almonds), Sulmona makes a good base for exploring the region's rugged southern reaches, offering good accommodation at the Legacy Casa Residencia and filling food at local restaurants such as Il Vecchio Muro .

Planning tip:  We strongly recommend spending a day or more in Sulmona, exploring the surrounding hills by car or on foot away from the tourist crowds.

This article was first published May 28, 2019 and updated Nov 16, 2023.

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Best Italian Road Trips: 16 Super Dreamy Routes

Italian road trips are the best. Whether you love strolling through cities, towns, and villages or exploring the country’s natural scenery, Italy is a fantastic road trip destination and it never disappoints.

The views will always be dreamy, the culture will always be fascinating, and the food will always be delicious.

With so much beauty in this country, it can be difficult to decide which area to choose for your scenic drive, so here’s a roundup of the best road trips in Italy that will hopefully help you make this almost impossible decision.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Best Italian Road Trips on the Mainland

Southern italy.

By Nicole from Adventures of Nicole

Route:  Circular starting in Naples.

Days:  15 days (13-17 days is comfortable).

In a perfect mixture of off-the-beaten-path and well-trodden classics, this Southern Italy road trip takes in the most-loved stops in the regions of Campania , Basilicata , Puglia , and Calabria , as well as their hidden gems .

Starting from the capital of Campania,  Naples , take a day or so to explore the historical sites that the city has to offer.

Some of the best things to do in Naples include exploring the historic center, grabbing some arancini, pizza fritta (fried pizza), and sfogliatelle, and heading to Gino Sorbillo’s pizzeria for one of his famed pizzas.

After your whirlwind visit to Naples, head south and spend 2- 4 days on the Amalfi Coast .

Explore the gorgeous towns of Positano , Amalfi , Atrani , and Ravello that seem impossibly clung to the side of the mountainous coast that appears to tumble into the sea.

Continuing south from the Amalfi Coast, you’ll enter the little-visited region of Basilicata and on to two of the most beautiful places in all of Italy – Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa . These side-by-side towns are built right into the Lucian Dolomites.

From Castelmezzano, you’ll journey deeper into Basilicata and visit  Matera .

Once the ‘shame of Italy,’ the troglodytic city has risen from the ashes to become a European Capital of Culture and a UNESCO site. Among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, don’t miss the fascinating caves of the Sassi di Matera.

Heading into  Puglia , you’ll visit the bizarre conical-roofed Trulli of Alberobello, the gorgeous caves of Grotta dell’Poesia, and the thermal baths of Santa Cesarea Terme before heading back into Basilicata to explore the nature of  Pollino National Park  en route to Calabria.

In  Calabria , you’ll laze on the beautiful beaches in and around  Tropea  and explore the untamed beaches and cave of Grotto dell’Arcomagno.

Head back north to  Maratea , your jumping-off point to the little-known cousin of Amalfi – the  Cilento Coast , where you’ll wrap up your epic road trip before turning your car back in up in Naples. Plan your own  Southern Italy road trip here .

By Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

Route:  From Ortisei to Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Days:  4-5.

If you want to discover one of the most stunning areas in Northern Italy, you have to plan a  road trip to the Dolomites  for your next vacation!

It’s best to explore the Dolomites by car, so you can either bring your own if you live nearby or rent a car at the airport when you arrive in Italy.

Although there are no international airports in the area, bigger airports such as Venice, Bergamo, or Milan are only a few hours away from the Dolomites. This makes it easy to visit the region, even if you are coming from overseas.

The Dolomites cover more than 140,000 hectares in several regions, so you can spend several weeks exploring the area without getting bored, but if you only have a shorter amount of time, 4-5 days are enough to discover the highlights.

Since the best places to visit in the Dolomites are quite far from each other, it’s best to choose two bases for your road trip from where you can explore the nearby area with less driving.

In the first part of your road trip to Italy’s Dolomites, stay in  Ortisei , which is a cute little town located in  Val Gardena (in South Tyrol).

From there, you can visit the famous  Alpe di Siusi ,  Lago di Carezza , the Seceda ridgeline, and the picturesque church of Santa Maddalena in  Val di Funes .

Cortina d’Ampezzo  is one of the most popular places to stay, and it will be the perfect base for the second half of your Dolomites road trip as you can easily reach the Insta-famous  Lago di Braies  or the iconic three peaks at  Tre Cime di Lavaredo  from there.

It’s best to stay at least 2 nights at each place to have time to properly explore their surroundings!

By Marek from Indie Traveller

Route:  Circular starting in Bari.

Days:  7.

Puglia is a highly underrated region of Italy that’s just made for a road trip.

It’s filled with ancient history, cute coastal towns, and great regional culinary delights, though without the crowds often found on the tourist trail elsewhere in Italy.

Start in the port city of  Bari , then drive a circle around the Puglia peninsula (recognizable as the ‘heel of Italy’s boot’). The ancient city of  Lecce , often billed as a kind of mini-Florence but without the crowds, is a must-stop along the way.

The true delights, though, are the small towns with white-plastered houses along the coast, such as  Monopoli  and  Otranto , many of them boasting old Venetian fortresses and some of the best beaches in Puglia .

Looping back to Bari, be sure to stop by  Alberobello . It’s a town known for its ‘Trulli’ – small conical buildings that were once used as farmhouses, but these days often function as souvenir shops or little holiday homes.

Staying in a Trullo is a unique experience you can’t have anywhere else.

Puglia is a wonderful region to explore by car, but do take care when driving; the Italians around here are known to be quite reckless drivers at times! Be sure to check out these  tips for a road trip in Puglia .

Read more about Puglia:

• Best places to stay in Bari
• Things to do in Bari
• Day trips from Bari
• Puglia itinerary without a car
• Hidden gems in Puglia
• Is Bari worth visiting
• Visiting Puglia in March

Northern Italy: Lakes Garda, Como, Maggiore, and Orta

Route:  Circular starting in Milan.

Northern Italy’s lakes are an ideal European road trip destination from Milan (especially if you want to spend fall or spring in Europe ).

From colorful coastal towns to relaxing beaches to natural landscapes, this area offers an interesting mix of things to do and see.

This one-week  Italian lakes road trip  can easily be extended to 10 or even 14 days if you want to visit a few more places or spend some time resting by the lakes.

Rent your car at Milan’s airport and head to  Lake Garda , the largest in the country. Dedicate at least 3-4 days to this lake and explore towns like Limone , Sirmione , Malcesine , Bardolino , and Borghetto sul Mincio .

Don’t miss the mesmerizing turquoise Lake Tenno , situated only a few miles away from Garda’s northern coast.

Continue to  Lake Como , which is mostly known for its luxurious lakeside villas. Towns like Varenna and Bellagio are its crowning glory, but there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in the area.

The third lake,  Lake Maggiore , is the one that often gets overlooked, yet visiting it is one of the best things to do in northern Italy .

Base yourself in  Stresa , and visit places like the nearby Borromean Islands  (easily accessible by ferry or boat) and the lesser-known Cannobio .

Before heading back to Milan, be sure to stop at the charming  Orta San Giulio  on  Lake Orta .

Rome to Florence

By Tiffany from A Girl and Her Passport

Route:  Rome to Florence.

Days:  5.

Traveling from Rome to Florence is probably one of the best driving routes in Italy. This road trip takes you through the gorgeous countryside of Umbria and Tuscany .

A  road trip from Rome to Florence  is very short if you want to make no stops along the way, but where is the fun in that? You can make the trip in as little as two days or make it a longer trip of up to five days. 

Most people will rent a car at the Rome airport, so if you want to see the city first, you should do this before renting a car.

You can plan a short itinerary of just 24 hours in Rome , but the Italian capital has so much to offer, that it would be best to spend at least 4 days in Rome .

Once you leave the city, head to the  Parco di Monstri – this outdoor sculpture garden is unlike any art you might have seen, and it has a slightly creepy history.

In Umbria, there are several cute towns to visit that have fascinating histories. Amelia , supposedly the oldest Umbrian town, has 11-foot-thick walls and winding alleyways to explore.

Assisi is the hometown of St. Francis and has many stunning churches to visit. The view from the Rocca Maggiore castle is one of the best in Italy.

Tuscany brings its own beautiful villages, including Siena and Cortona , from ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ fame.

Be sure to watch where you park in these towns as the parking can be restricted to residents only. Usually, there is a public car park on the outskirts of town.

Most of all, take time to enjoy the scenery of this stunning road trip from Rome to Florence.

You can also check out this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary !

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Route:  Circular starting in Florence.

One of the best scenic drives in Italy is a trip through Tuscany.

With this  7-day Tuscany road trip itinerary , you can cover the best places to visit in the region, enjoy the art and architecture, take great photos, and relish fabulous food and wine along the way.

Begin your trip with 1 or 2 days in  Florence , the region’s capital and the cradle of the Renaissance.

In Florence, climb to the top of the Duomo for fabulous views, wander the streets of the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and take in the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. Don’t forget to gorge on gelato!

From Florence, head southeast, to the lesser-visited but very beautiful towns of Arezzo and Cortona . With beautiful architecture and lively main squares, these small towns will charm you.

Your next stop is  Siena , possibly Italy’s most famous hill town. Its Duomo is magnificent, as well as its Piazza del Campo, one of the largest squares in Europe and one of the prettiest piazzas in Italy .

From Siena, move on to the scenic  Val d’Orcia , where you can stop at old historic abbeys, small picturesque hill towns, and even one of the best hot springs in Tuscany .

Do make time to sample the local pici pasta and famous local wines, and visit some vineyards as well!

On the western side of your loop around Tuscany, you will visit  San Gimignano , with its famous medieval towers, and  Lucca , famous for its medieval city walls (though you’ll find plenty of other things to do in Lucca ).

You can also stop in  Pisa , to see the famous Leaning Tower, before you head back to Florence.

Bologna Apennines

By Lori from Travelinmad

Route:  Circular starting in Bologna.

Days:  2-3.

If you’ve visited the over-touristy cities in Italy like Venice, Florence, and Rome and are seeking somewhere without crowds, base yourself in Bologna, rent a car, and  road trip the Bologna Apennines .

The small towns, scenic wilderness areas, and incredible historic sites are all within a one-hour drive from Bologna.

The Bologna Apennines are south of the city and easily accessible. Use a GPS to explore winding roads with overviews around nearly every bend.

One of the best things to experience is the incredible local food. The small hamlets all have one or two great places to eat.

On a weekend drive a pleasant 28 miles from Bologna, is the mysterious Rocchetta Mattei , a 19th-century fortress with a fascinating past and wild architecture. You’ll need a reservation, but that’s easy to do at the tourism office in Bologna.

Along the same road is the 13th-century sparsely habited village of Borgo La Scola . It’s quiet and interesting… and you might even get to chat with one of the few residents.

You’ll find the town of Tolé fascinating with its incredible murals and artworks lining the narrow lanes. And don’t miss the town of Vignola and its amazing castle, the Rocca di Vignola. The entrance is free, and if you’d like a tour in English, you’ll need a reservation.

If you’re looking for offbeat Italy road trip routes, the Bologna Apennines are definitely slow travel at its best.

Northern Italy: Veneto and Trentino Regions

By Emily from London City Calling

Route:  Circular starting in Verona.

Days:  10.

Starting and finishing in Verona, this 10-day northern Italy road trip itinerary will let you see the best of the diverse regions of Veneto and Trentino , with their many historic cities, beautiful lakes, and dramatic mountainous scenery.

Start your trip in the romantic city of Verona , known for its connection with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, followed by a couple of days in the neighboring Lake Garda , famous for its turquoise waters and quaint lakeside towns.

A leisurely few days in the sunny Veneto region is a perfect place to start your Italian road trip route.

From the south of Lake Garda, drive to the lake’s northern shore where you’ll enter Trentino, one of Italy’s most northerly provinces.

Here you can spend a few days nestled within the dramatic scenery of the  Dolomites , either in the charming city of  Trento  or out hiking, kayaking, and caving your way around the region’s beautiful nature.

Next, head back down to the Veneto region and spend your last couple of days exploring  Venice , Italy’s famous floating city, and  Treviso , home of the tiramisu.

Venice can be difficult to visit on a road trip given that cars can’t enter the island, however, you can either leave your car in Treviso and get the 30-minute train to Venice island or park at one of Venice’s designated car parks and jump on a boat into the historic center.

Finally, head back to Verona, just an hour’s drive away from Venice, to end your trip where you started it.

By Val from My Italian Diaries

Route:  From Ancona to Ascoli Piceno.

Le Marche is a beautiful region in central Italy , stretching along the Adriatic coast.

Its fabulous landscapes in all shades of green and yellow rival those of neighboring Tuscany, while its historic hamlets and glitzy beach towns are a joy to explore.

There’s a lot you can include on your  Le Marche itinerary , but with five days at your disposal, you can cover quite a few highlights.

Start in Ancona , the region’s capital, with a lively harbor, interesting museums (including one specially designed for visually impaired people), and a splendid hilltop cathedral.

The next day, head to Mount Conero National Park , where you’ll find pristine beaches immersed in natural beauty and enchanting little towns like Sirolo and Numana .

On day 3, visit Loreto , home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy – the Holy House of the Virgin Mary.

Then, reach the beautiful hilltop town of Recanati, where everything speaks of his most famous resident, Giacomo Leopardi, one of Italy’s greatest poets.

Spend the next day in Fermo , another fabulous hilltop town where highlights include Roman cisterns, amazing churches, and a fascinating piazza lined with historic palaces.

While you’re there, don’t miss the gorgeous hamlet of Torre di Palme , known as the “balcony of the Adriatic”, and the magical old town of Grottammare Alta , a bit further south.

Finally, reach Ascoli Piceno to admire its stunning Piazza del Popolo, lined with medieval buildings and historic establishments, and feast on  olive all’ascolana , the region’s delicious stuffed fried olives that were born here.

By Nancy from Nancy Goes to Italy

Route:  Based in Termoli.

Days:  3.

Molise is the second smallest region of Italy. Its western half is part of the Apennine Mountains and a national park. This  Molise road trip  concentrates (over 3 days) on the eastern shelf near the Adriatic.

The base is the seaside town of Termoli, with its old town and beautiful beaches, popular with Romans.

On day 1, visit Agnone, home to the oldest bell foundry in the world, founded in 1339 and continuously operating ever since. 

On day 2, head to Bagnoli del Trigno, a town built in and around a rock. It has an attractive big square, easy parking, pretty trees, painted houses, a piazza with benches and scalloped cobblestones, and a bar named Bizzarro.

Next, visit Pietrabbondante, a town with an ancient amphitheater built by the Samnites around 400 BC. It takes about 40 minutes to get there from Bagnoli del Trigno, even though it’s only 20 miles away. In Molise, the terrain is rough and the roads are small and twisty.

On your last day, head to the village called Acquaviva Collecroce, also named Kruć. It’s small and easily walkable but very hilly. It was founded by people from the Dalmatian coast (what is now Croatia) who are said to speak Italian and Serbo-Croatian.

Northwest Italy: Lombardy, Liguria, and Piedmont

Route:  Circular from Milan.

Days:  7-8.

Looking for more ideas for your Italian self-drive holidays? Another way to see northern Italy with a car is by exploring its northwestern regions, including Lombardy , Liguria, and Piedmont .

After spending a day in Milan , it’s time to hit the road and head to the city of Pavia to marvel at the Visconti Castle, the Cathedral of Pavia, and its beautiful streets.

Continue to Genoa for a couple of days. You can visit the Royal Palace Museum, admire the San Lorenzo Cathedral, stroll along the UNESCO-listed Via Garibaldi and its famous palatial buildings, and enjoy dozens of other landmarks, museums, and activities.

You could also visit the villages of the Cinque Terre, though you might find it easier to reach the area by train (from Genoa).

Spend some time in the charming small city of Asti , and head to Turin for about two days during which you should visit the Egyptian Museum, Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama, Villa della Regina, and Borgo Medievale.

Before going back to Milan, make a final stop in the small city of Biella and the nearby Burcina Park and Sanctuary of Oropa , the largest and most important sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the Alps.

• Non touristy things to do in Milan
• Day trips from Milan in winter
• Things to do in Milan when it rains
• Things to do in Milan in December
• 4 days in Milan
• Milan or Turin
• Hidden gems in northern Italy
• Best places to visit in northern Italy in October

Northwest Italy: Turin and Aosta Valley

Route:  Circular from Turin.

To combine history and culture with the most picture-perfect natural landscapes, spend a couple of days in Turin and then head to the dreamy Aosta Valley to enjoy the most amazing northwest Italy road trip .

The capital of Piedmont will reward you with UNESCO-listed royal residences of the House of Savoy, fascinating museums for all ages, amazing hearty food and chocolates, and so much more.

Then rent your car in the city center and head to the visit-worthy Aosta Valley (alternatively, rent your car at Turin’s airport, travel through Aosta Valley, and end your trip with 2 days in Turin).

Base yourself in the center of the region and explore a different area each day. On your way from Turin, you can already visit the awe-inspiring Fort of Bard .

In the remaining days, enjoy the magical Mont Blanc views offered by the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car and the quaint towns of Pre Saint Didier and Courmayeur , head into the scenic Gran Paradiso National Park , visit the Roman landmarks of Aosta (the city), and unwind at Brusson Lake.

Don’t forget to try regional delicacies cooked with locally produced fontina cheese, including fondue, risotto, and polenta.

• Where to stay in Aosta Valley
• Places to visit in Aosta Valley
• Is Turin worth visiting?
• 3-day Turin itinerary
• Things to do in Turin
• Best area to stay in Turin
• Chocolate in Turin
• Cafes in Turin
• Turin travel tips
• Winter in Turin
• Hidden gems in Turin

Southern Italy + Sicily

By Talek from Travels with Talek

Route:  Naples to Palermo.

My  road trip in Southern Italy  was one of the coolest I’ve ever taken. We started off in Naples and headed south to Sicily ending in the beautiful capital city of Palermo.

All told the trip took 10 days, but it is the type of journey that you could extend to whatever you want depending on your interests.

In  Naples , the best thing to do is to eat pizza and visit the Archeological Museum.

On to  Matera , a land of mysterious caves where people live and work underground. Further south we crossed into Sicily via car ferry, quite the experience navigating the narrow aisles on a ship with a car!

The island of Sicily is magical. Taormina , one of the first cities you reach when you cross the strait, is a medieval treasure.

Agrigento has the Valley of the Temples and the excavated Roman palace, Villa Romana del Casale, with its perfectly preserved collection of mosaics dating from Roman times.

One of the most impressive sights is the cathedral at Monreal , but the absolute gem of Sicily is its capital,  Palermo .

Wandering the city’s narrow streets and food markets (which are a great way to eat and experience Sicily on a budget ) and visiting the fascinating architectural mishmash of its cathedral and Norman palace was an unforgettable experience.

Best Italy Road Trips: Scenic Island Routes

By Marvin from Part Time Passenger

Route:  Circular starting in Olbia.

Days:  5-10.

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea , is an excellent road trip destination – for various reasons. If you think you’ve seen a fair share of beautiful Italy, this  Sardinia road trip  will elevate your Dolce Vita to the next level.

The local Sards will not only welcome you with open arms, but will fix you up with some of the best Italian food around, including baked goat cheese, homemade ravioli tossed in sage butter, and fresh seafood. 

From the impeccable beaches of the  Costa Smeralda  in the north to the surf spots in  Oristano , across the central mountains, to the sandy bays of the  Costa Rei , Sardinia is an incredibly diverse destination.

With constantly changing scenery, it’ll be hard to be bored. And the best part: the main routes are easy to navigate and dotted with an abundance of stop-over opportunities.

While you could technically drive from north to south in 3-4 hours, you should at least (!) arrange for 5 days on the island.

Olbia , located in the northeastern tip of Sardinia and served by various airlines, is a good starting point. From here, work your way around the coastline. 

Venturing offshore to  La Maddalena  islands, watching the sunset in beautiful  Castelsardo,  or catching that perfect wave in  Capo Mannu ,  are just some of the things that will keep you busy here.

Lovers of all things history and culture will enjoy roaming the colorful alleys of the former Spanish enclave  Alghero  or the many piazzas of  Cagliari , the island’s busy capital. Sardinia simply has it all.

Western Sicily

By Katja from Places and Notes

Route:  Circular starting in Trapani.

Days:  7-10.

On this awesome  Western Sicily road trip , you will visit some of the island’s best historical sites, sandy beaches, cute villages with traditional wine cellars, vibrant cities, salt pans dotted with windmills, lush countryside, and much more.

Start your adventure in  Trapani , spend the first day getting to know the laid-back Sicilian way of life, and take a trip to the medieval village of  Erice  the day after.

Continue towards  San Vito lo Capo , a wonderful white sandy beach bay with a mountain backdrop, perfect for a relaxing day at the seaside.

On the way to Palermo, you can stop by at  Segesta  archaeological site and  Monreale  monastery.

Palermo  is Sicily’s largest, loudest, and most chaotic city, but it sure is worth spending a day or two visiting all the sites and indulging in Sicilian cuisine.

While heading south towards Agrigento and its impressive Valley of the Temples, make sure you visit Corleone , a smaller town famous for its connection with some of the most powerful families of the mafia.

Unwind in  San Leone  at the beach and explore another one of Sicily’s best spots,  Scala dei Turchi  white cliff.

The last part of this trip before returning to Trapani takes you to  Marsala , a charming wine area and a natural reserve with salt evaporation ponds, which are especially lovely at sunset.

This trip can begin in either Trapani or Palermo since there are international airports in both cities and is doable in seven days, but can be extended to ten.

Eastern Sicily

By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Route:  Circular starting in Catania.

Days:  10 or more.

One of the best drives in Italy, this exploration of Eastern Sicily takes in a wide variety of sights. Flying into  Catania , it is worth spending a day learning about this beautiful Baroque city and its relationship with nearby  Mount Etna .

From Catania, it is an easy drive south to  Syracuse  where highlights include the stunning Piazza del Duomo and the Ancient Greek and Roman remains at the Archaeological Park.

If you’re taking a  road trip in Sicily with kids , be sure to watch a show at the traditional puppet theatre.

From Syracuse, it is a short drive to the Val di Noto region of Sicily, home to some appealing cities including  Modica  and  Ragusa , both perfect for foodies.

Heading inland from the Val di Noto, you reach  Caltagirone  with its impressive terracotta staircase.

Not far from there is the highest regional capital of Sicily, hilltop  Enna  with far-reaching views across the countryside towards Mount Etna.

The final leg of this road trip through Italy’s biggest island passes the smoldering volcano before reaching the pretty clifftop town of  Taormina .

Here, you will find a perfectly positioned Greek-Roman amphitheater with views looking out towards the sea and Mount Etna. There’s a cable car down to the pebbly beach and enough restaurants and cafes to fill a lifetime of holidays.

Some Tips for Planning an Italian Road Trip

• As you can see in the suggested routes in this post, you should focus on a relatively small area instead of trying to see the entire country in 7 to 10 days (or even 2 weeks), which is impossible.
• In some instances, parking is limited and the roads are narrow, so renting a smaller car would be better. It’s not always the case – in Aosta Valley, for example, this wasn’t a problem.
• Parking is never free, so always have spare change, and be prepared for many toll roads (for these, you can also pay by card in most cases but not always).
• Driving inside big Italian cities is not fun, so rent and return the car at the airport if possible.
• Browse the best car rental deals on Rentalcars.com !

Related Travel Guides

Did you like these Italian routes? You might also like:

• Best quotes about Italy
• Books set in Tuscany
• Romantic novels set in Italy
• Gifts for Italy lovers (which you can totally buy for yourself)
• Winter in Italy
• Northern Italy in winter

Did you like these bucket list Italy road trip ideas? Check out:

• Best road trips in Portugal
• A road trip from Lisbon to Porto
• Northern Portugal road trip
• Beautiful road trips in Spain
• Southern Spain road trip
• Northern Spain road trip
• 4 days in Crete
• 3 days in Malta
• Spring destinations in Europe

Have you found the best Italian road trip ideas for you? Tell me in the comments which one is your favorite and pin this post for later

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

14 thoughts on “Best Italian Road Trips: 16 Super Dreamy Routes”

Thanks for the recommendations. I am planning a road trip to Italy for the summer and your info just made if 10 times easier to plan. Appreciate it!

That’s the goal, so that’s great to know! Thank you, Nadia!

I did a road trip in Puglia, Basilicata and the Amalfi Coast! It was really nice! I passed by many places you mentioned 🙂

That sounds lovely 🙂 Italy is so dreamy!

Great list of road trips you’ve put together! I would love to do all of these so I’m saving this post for later reference.

Thank you so much! A bucket list can never be too big 🙂

I’m loving these road trip ideas! I’m wishing I could teleport myself to Europe now and start the adventure. Ahh well, I will definitely keep these ideas in mind for the future! Those Italian Lakes are calling my name…

Oh, teleporting myself to other places is my dream superpower 😛 You’ll love the Italian lakes – their colorful towns are right up your alley 🙂

What a beautiful country! I’ve travelled through Tuscany and the Veneto but definitely need to explore the Northern Lakes and Sicily. We usually cope with driving in the country (although the smaller roads do have those anxiety inducing ditches on either side) then chicken out and go for a park and ride when we get close to the bog cities.

Your fabulous photos make me want to go back again soon!

I agree some regions in Italy are not so fun to drive, but I’ll take my chances 🙂 Happy you like this post!

Thanks for the feature! I wish I could be in Italy right now 🙁

Me too! Thanks for writing about your amazing Italian road trip 🙂

Thank you for the feature! This is an awesome list of Italy road trips and I can’t wait to explore some of these routes. Especially the Sicily road trips make me crave more Italian adventures!

Thanks for participating! I think it turned out awesome 🙂

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

15 Most Beautiful Road Trip in Italy Routes (with Distances)

Planning a road trip in Italy but not sure where to go? Here I share 15 most beautiful road trip in Italy routes that you can pick from . Duration, driving distance, the best time to go, what to see on the way, and where to stay as well as car rental in Italy tips are also included.

It is not a secret that everyone falls for Italy , making it one of the most visited destinations in Europe . The boot-shaped country is a perfect place to embark on a road trip. Beautiful from head to toe, Italy will seduce you with untamed landscapes, fairy-tale small towns , azure coastlines, architectural wonders, and, of course, food impossible to resist.

I have visited Italy countless times and my love for this country only grows stronger. In my experience, the best way to explore Italy is by going on a road trip . Once you hire a car in Italy , you will be able to travel at your own pace and explore beyond the famous destinations (such as Rome, Florence, or Venice).

Hence, in this post, I share not only classic routes ( Amalfi Coast or Tuscany road trip) but also less-known places in Italy to visit in a rental car .  From the stunning coastlines of Sicily to the misty mountain peaks of the Dolomites, to storybook medieval small towns and colorful coastal villages, pick the Italian road trip affair your heart longs for the most.

Disclosure :  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission at no extra cost for you if you make a purchase by clicking a link. It helps to keep my blog growing and filling up with detailed honest travel advice for you. 

Renting a car for a road trip in Italy

The first step before embarking on a road trip in Italy is renting a reliable and easy-to-drive car. I personally use the DiscoverCars search aggregator to find the best deal for car rental in Italy.

DiscoverCars offers car hire across international car rental companies at very competitive rates compared to many other car search sites online. You can filter vehicles by size, price, transmission type, etc.

A small deposit is always required to reserve a car. However, 48 hours free cancelation policy applies for the majority of the bookings. If you have to cancel, the deposit will be returned as a credit which you can use for your future booking. You can check the full terms & conditions HERE .

Look for the best rates for your rental car in Italy at Discovercars.

Documents you will need for hiring a car in Italy

• Valid driving license.
• International Driving Permit (IDP) if your driving license is not from the European Union or the UK. It also must be translated into English if it is not in English. Note that IDP is a supporting document and must be accompanied by an original driving license. More info here about IDP for US-Americans.
• A credit card in the driver’s name with enough balance to block a security deposit (it will be returned upon returning the rental car).

Quick tips for renting a car in Italy and driving rules

• The most convenient and often cheapest places to pick up your rental car from are the largest international airports. Whether you land in Rome, Naples, Venice, Palermo, or any other bigger airport, that is where you are likely to get the best deals.
• Most of the rental cars in Italy are in manual transmission and are cheaper than automatic ones. If you only drive the latter, filter automatic cars before booking. If the cost difference is not huge, automatic cars are much easier to use, and I would recommend going for automatic mode.
• Choose the smallest car possible that will fit all passengers and the luggage. Roads in Italian villages are narrow, and so are the parking spaces. Thus, having a small vehicle is a big advantage and will make driving in Italy much easier.
• Be aware of ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) zones- those are historic town areas where driving is only allowed for residents. There are cameras that catch violators and fines are quite steep (I personally got one and had to pay 200 EUR in fines for entering (unknowingly) a ZTL in Orvieto). The fine came a year later after my trip (this is pretty normal in Italy).
• Pick up and return the car to the same place. That being said, the majority of the suggested Italy road trip routes in this post are designed as a loop. Returning the car to a different location will add transfer costs which often double the total rental price.
• Some of the roads on the suggested road trips in Italy have tolls, however, they are not that costly (except the Dolomites), as in, for example, Portugal , or Greece . Make sure to always have some cash for tolls in case cards are not accepted.
• If you are traveling off-season in Italy (talking November, December, January, February, and March), DiscoverCars offers some dirt cheap deals for as low as 5-7 euros per day for a one-week car rental!
• If you are planning your Italy road trip in popular months like June, July, and August, make sure to reserve a car several months ahead to get the best rates.

What is driving in Italy like?

Don’t get intimidated by horror stories about driving in Italy – it is much easier than many people like to paint it. Yes, cities like Naples , Rome, or Palermo are hectic, but routes in this post are focusing on the countryside and coastal roads which are much quieter than city streets.   

Even driving in Sicily is pretty smooth once you are out of the busy towns of Palermo or Catania.

• Tips for driving in Italy for the first time.
• Driving in Sicily stress-free .
• Renting a car in Naples and driving in South Italy.

The only route suggested in this post that I consider challenging is Amalfi Coast because of narrow windy roads and lots of traffic during the high season and peak hours. If you are a novice driver, you might find mountain roads in Northern Italy a bit of a task as well. Nonetheless, go slowly and enjoy the romantic scenery of Italy with your loved one.

15 Best Road Trip in Italy routes: from North to South

1. along the tyrrhenian sea- naples to calabria road trip.

• Route: Naples -Rivello- Maratea- Grotta dell’Arcomagno -Pizzo- Tropea – Scilla – Naples .
• Distance and driving time: 980 KM, 12.5 HRS.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Naples International Airport .
• How many days? 10-12 days.
• Where to stay: suggested base towns are Naples , Maratea , Tropea , and Scilla .
• Highlights: authentic off-the-beaten-path Italy, romantic coastal villages, white sand beaches with impossibly blue waters, nature escape, vibrant city of Naples, and the best pizza in the world.
• Best time to go: the end of April, May-June, or September for great weather and fewer people.

This road trip in Italy takes you from Naples in Campania, through the coastal side of Basilicata, all the way south to the tip of the boot in the Calabria region.

Start your South Italy road trip in, at first glance, not so romantic rough around the edges and chaotic Naples. Yet, the charms of Naples lie in its rigid personality. Give it a day or two, and your heart will eventually melt like mozzarella cheese on the best Naples pizza. This culturally rich town is well worth exploring before you and your loved one embark on a road trip south to wonderfully authentic and often overlooked Calabria, Italy .

ALSO READ: 17 Must-Know Tips for Renting a Car in Naples and Driving in South Italy

This less-known road trip in Italy route further follows the coastal road along the Tyrrhenian Sea with stops at several small quaint coastal villages. The route offers stops at wonderful wild beaches like Capo Vaticano and the spectacular cove of Grotta dell’Arcomagno.

The first stop on the Tyrrhenian coast is the colorful hilltop village of Maratea known as the Pearl of Tyrrhenian. It is the only town in the Basilicata region that has access to the coast.  Impossible to miss is a giant marble statue of Christ situated at the highest point overlooking the village. Maratea is relatively unknown to foreign visitors and seems to stay suspended in time. It is worth a night or two to relax at its rocky beaches, or get active hiking the surrounding hills.

Just a short drive from Maratea, Rivello is a byzantine town scenically set on the verdant hills, and worth the visit for the views alone.

Venturing south you are bound to swim in some of the most beautiful azure waters in the region. A unique Tropea is the Pearl of Calabria . It not only offers some of the best beaches in the area but it will also awe you with the view of pastel-colored houses “growing” off the cliffs.

ALSO READ: The best things to do in Tropea, Italy

Meanwhile, Scilla , the southernmost and most charming fishing village on this road trip, is known for its velvety coast and the houses built on the shores of the sea. Its historic district of Chianella is a treat to wander around and experience Italy as authentic as it gets.

ALSO READ: A Guide to Visiting Scilla & Chianalea- the most beautiful seaside towns in Calabria, Italy.

Don’t miss a brief stop in Pizzo- another nice coastal town close to Tropea. Make sure to try tartufo – an ice cream with chocolate filling- it is a local specialty not to be missed.

Travel Tip: for this road trip, I recommend picking up your Italy rental car once you are ready to leave Naples, as driving in this city and parking situation is a nightmare. The airport car rentals are conveniently located just 15 minutes away by public bus from central Garibaldi station.

ALSO READ: How to spend 1 day in Naples: an easy Naples itinerary .

2. Matera to Castelmezzano – hidden gems of Basilicata road trip

• Route: Matera-Pisticci-Rotondella-Craco-Castelmezzano-Pietrapertosa-Matera.
• Distance and driving time: 305 KM, 5 HRS.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Bari or Naples .
• How many days? 4-5 days.
• Where to stay: base towns Matera and Castelmezzano or Pietrapertosa .
• Highlights: cave towns, ghost towns, incredibly beautiful mountain villages, hiking Dolomiti Lucane mountains, off-the-beaten-path Italy.
• Best time to go: April-June, September-November.

One of the most beautiful road trips on this list winds through the often-overlooked Basilicata region. The only famous stop here is the cave town of Matera (thanks to social media).

To embark on this road trip in central-south Italy you will have to pick up your rental car either in Naples or Bari international airports- both are located almost the same distance from the start of the route. If you arrive from Bari, then start this road trip route from Matera. If you are arriving from Naples, then start in Castelmezzano.

This Basilicata road trip focuses on unique mountain towns and experiencing the local south Italian countryside lifestyle.

First on the list is the impressive brown-hued cave town of Matera, with Sassi di Matera being the main attraction and a UNESCO heritage site. Your best bet is to use Matera as a base and do a day trip to picture-perfect Pisticci and the nearby ghost town of Craco. You can also visit Rotondella- a weirdly shaped hilltop town that reminds me of Gangi in Sicily. All 3 towns can be visited in a long full day trip from Matera.

Following is the best part of this road trip- the otherworldly Castelmezzano and its twin town Pietrapertosa . Located in the Dolomiti Lucane mountains, these towns are like nothing you have seen before (refer to the images above). Stay in either of them for a couple of nights, explore the tiny streets, admire panoramic views, go hiking, and take a romantic zip line ride connecting two mountain towns (two people can fly together).

Read more about visiting Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa in my travel guide .

3. From Sorrento to Salerno – Amalfi Coast road trip in Italy

• Route: Salerno-Vietri Sul Mare-Erchie-Atrani-Rovelo-Amalfi-Fiordo di Furore-Positano-Sorrento.
• Distance and driving time: 57 KM, 2 HRS 7MIN.
• Where to stay: base towns Salerno , Atrani , alternative Agerola (located higher in the hills), Sorrento .
• Highlights: beaches, beautiful coastal towns, hiking, and boat rides.
• Best time to go: April, May, mid-September-October, for perfect weather and fewer crowds, winter (off-season) with a minimum number of tourists.

The Amalfi Coast road trip will take you to some of the most captivating and romantic places in Italy. Although it is a famous romantic destination in Italy, “La Dolce Vita” of the Amalfi Coast is undeniable. The landscapes are of unparalleled beauty with movie-like scenery at every turn. 

Be warned though that Amalfi Coast drive via a narrow windy road sandwiched between the cliffs and the sea is not for the faint-hearted. However, it is Italy’s most iconic road trip worth taking at least once in a lifetime.

The distance from Salerno in the east to Sorrento in the west of Amalfi Coast looks deceivingly short- just below 60 kilometers. Hence, it is a slow yet very scenic drive ( ideal for a romantic ride in a vintage convertible car ).

Start your romantic Amalfi Coast road trip at the easternmost Salerno which serves as a great base for one night before embarking early to nearby Vietri Sul Mare , known for colorful ceramics, and one of the less touristy towns on this list.

Moving forward drive to Amalfi , the coast’s main hub. On the way, there are a few small lesser-known coastal villages like Cetara and Erchie you may want to stop by.

Pick your next accommodation in a more picturesque and much less touristy, Atrani town (just 10 minute’s walk from Amalfi town). Atrani is a good base for a couple of nights to explore close by mountain town of Ravello, visit Fiordo di Furore, or go on a hike to the Sentiero degli Dei (The Path of Gods) trail.

The next is Positano -the star and the postcard child of Amalfi Coast. The view of sherbet-colored cliffside homes is what attracts an unbearable number of tourists. That being said, Positano is best to be observed from the boat (also you get a better view of it) or admired from the top of the hill while hiking.

The final stop is Sorrento – the town of sirens and unbeatable sunsets. Sorrento is a lively resort town with a beautiful old town. It is also a great jump-off point for visiting the famous island of Capri (although I would recommend going to a less touristy candy-colored Procida instead).

Travel tip: Amalfi Coast together with Venice is possibly THE MOST popular romantic destination in Italy on this road trip list and both barely see an off-season time. To enjoy this beautiful romantic place in Italy with fewer crowds, choose to come in April or October. The weather will be pleasant for swimming and hiking. If you do not care about suntanning, you might even consider coming in March or November.

Accommodation tip: Amalfi is extremely pricey. Booking in advance is necessary. For cheaper alternatives in Amalfi Cost, you can pick Agerola – a village situated in the hills. It is located midway on the Amalfi coast and it takes less than 20 minutes to drive down. Also, the trailhead of The Path of Gods- one of the best things to do in Amalfi- will be within walking distance.

Don’t miss the boat: one of the most romantic things on this road trip is, ironically, to park your car and take a boat ride along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast.

• Related article: 2 Day Amalfi Coast itinerary .

4. Palermo to Trapani- west coast of Sicily road trip

• Route: Palermo-Cefalù-Castellammare del Golfo-Lo-Zingaro Nature Reserve-Erice-Trapani with Favignana Islands
• Distance and driving time: 355 KM, 5 HRS 30 MIN.
• Pick up your rental car in Sicily at Palermo or Trapani International airports.
• How many days? 8-10 days.
• Where to stay: base towns Palermo , Cefalù , Castellammare del Golfo , Trapani .
• Highlights: unspoiled beaches, street food, hiking coastal trails, medieval hilltop towns, coastal villages, islands, and Sicilian culture.
• Best time to go: mid-April to May, and September to mid-October.

Sicily is one of the most charming and unique places in Italy to visit on a road trip. Although many myths surround driving in Sicily , I found road-tripping around the island one of the most rewarding experiences.

On this Sicily road trip , you will explore the West coast of the island. It has the best beaches with the most spectacular scenery (I have been all around Sicily , thus I can confirm it to be true).

Start your visit in charismatic Palermo , the capital of Sicily, famous for unbeatable street food (don’t miss arancini and cannoli), chaotic and colorful Ballaro market, spectacular cathedrals, and pallazi . Just like in Naples, you do not need a car to explore Palermo, which is very walkable (base yourself in the city center).

Start your road trip after spending at least 2 nights in Palermo. Before heading west side, pay a visit to Cefalù , located on the east coast of Palermo.  Cefalù is a historic port town and postcard child of Sicily. For less touristy beach towns on the way to Cefalù or back, stop in Aspra , and Santa Flavia .

Continuing further, the best is yet to come. Book a place to stay in Castellammare del Golfo – a local beautiful harbor town. From here you can easily drive to Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve – an unmissable piece of paradise in Sicily. Pull out your hiking shoes, sunscreen, and through a towel in your backpack. In Lo Zingaro you will have a wonderful day in the wilderness hiking along one of the most beautiful coasts and stopping at pretty pebbly coves along the way.

The final base of this road trip is Trapani – the west port town in Sicily. From here you can visit the medieval fairy-tale-like hilltop town of Erice and take a day trip to Favignana island . Monte Cofano Natural Reserve and a lively San Vito Lo Capo located northeast of Trapani make a great day trip from Trapani as well.

• Read my detailed guide to hiking Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve in Sicily .
• Check how to get to Favignana island and the best things to do .
• Extend your trip and find more places to visit in Sicily with my 2-week Sicily Road Trip Itinerary.

5. Sicily southeast- exploring baroque gems and conquering volcano

• Route: Catania-Syracuse-Ortygia-Noto-Modica-Ragusa- Caltagirone-Piazza Armerina-Mount Etna-Taormina-Catania.
• Distance and driving time: 346 KM, 5 HRS 30 MIN.
• Pick up your rental car in Sicily at Catania International Airport .
• Duration: 7-10 days.
• Where to stay: base towns Catania , Siracuse , Noto , Ragusa , Piazza Armerina .
• Highlights: culture, street food, baroque architecture, hiking volcano, charming mountain towns.
• Best time to go: April, May, late September, or October.

If architectural wonders are your cup of tea, the East of Sicily is abundant in Baroque masterpieces. Start your journey in Catania, the second largest town in Sicily. The city of lava is rival to Palermo for its renowned street food. Meanwhile, the morning fish market is not so romantic but one of the best local experiences in town, especially for street photography.

Just as in Palermo, driving in Catania is not the best idea, thus if you are planning to visit the city, it is better to pick up your rental car a day or two later once you are ready to hit the road.

Driving southeast of Catania, your next stop is Syracuse with adjacent Ortigia (Ortygia) island- a gem of Sicily. The architecture in Ortigia is exemplary and dates back to Greek times. Surrounded by the sparkling Ionian sea, Ortigia is one of the most romantic places in Sicily.

Meanwhile, some of the most culturally rich experiences await moving inland to explore Baroque wanders in Val di Noto- a complex of UNESCO-protected towns. Unmissable are Noto and Ragusa, the latter being my absolute favorite of all of the towns on this East Sicily road trip list. You can base yourself in Ragusa for 2-3 nights and visit Noto and Modica as day trips.

Heading up North, stop in Caltagirone -the town of ceramics, famous for its colorful- tiled staircase. Meanwhile, Piazza Armerina is a pretty mountain town, known for Villa Romana del Casale holding some of the best preserved and largest collections of Roman mosaics in the World.

If you are adventurous souls, then the mighty volcano of Etna will be the highlight of this trip. Visiting one usually requires joining a tour . Navigating Europe’s most active volcano independently is only recommended to expert hikers.

If you don’t mind touristy places, I must mention Taormina – the most famous hilltop town and resort in Sicily. We skipped it because it is very touristy (think Positano on Amalfi Coast). We prioritize places off-the-beaten path. Yet, Taormina is considered as one of the most beautiful must-visit places in East Sicily.

• Read my complete guide to visiting Ragusa in Sicily .
• Check my post about the most beautiful places to visit in Sicily .
• Extend your trip and find more places to visit in Sicily in my 2-week Sicily Road Trip Itinerary.

6. Puglia (Apulia)- the heel of the boot

• Route: Bari-Poligano a Mare- Monopoli-Ostuni- Martina Franca-Locorotondo-Alberobello-Parco Nationale del Gargano-Vieste-Bari
• Distance and driving time: 557 KM, 8 HRS.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Bari International Airport .
• How many days? 7-10 days.
• Where to stay: base towns Monopoli , Ostuni , Martina Franca for budget option close to Alberobello , Vieste .
• Highlights: beaches, charming white-washed villages, local food, Trulli stone houses, and south Italy culture.
• Best time to go: mid-April to June, and September to mid-October.

On this road trip in Italy , you will explore the heel of the boot- the Puglia region and a slice of less-known but very romantic Gargano Peninsula . Chalky houses and crystal-clear Adriatic Sea water, olive trees, delicious local food, and characteristic houses of trulli are some of the gems you will find in this rustic corner of South Italy.

Pick up your car in Bari , the biggest town in Puglia, and drive along the coast to your base in Monopoli – an atmospheric medieval harbor town by the Adriatic Sea. Settle down for a couple of knights to explore the coastal area. One of the early mornings, go to Poligano a Mare – a scenic seaside town set on limestone cliffs.

Poligano a Mare is one of the two most famous destinations on this road trip. That being said, the most touristy. You might recognize Poligano a Mare from the picture of the busy pebble beach framed by the Ponte Borbonico di Lama Monachile bridge.

The next stop is the unmissable white city of Ostuni surrounded by a sea of olive groves. This picturesque town is planned like a labyrinth, making finding your way around a fun thing to do and also worth spending a night in. Driving up north into Valle d’Itria , you can choose Martina Franca as a base from where you can explore Alberobello – a town famous for cone-shaped trulli houses.

Tip: that insta-famous Alberobello is tiny and you better come very early to visit without the crowds.

Do not miss Locorotondo -one of the prettiest towns on this Italy road trip and in Valle d’Itria. As the name implies it is a crazy planning of white-washed houses stuck together in a circular manner. You can see it from the areal perspective.

At this point, if you have more time for your romantic road trip in Italy, I suggest heading to the less-known Apulia region , situated north of Puglia. Often overlooked by an ordinary visitor but mind-blowingly beautiful Gargano National Park offers an array of things to do. Base yourself in the scenic and romantic fishing town of Vieste . From here you can visit the Pizzomunno limestone monolith and the broad Spiaggia di San Lorenzo beach -some of the most impressive and definitive natural landmarks in the Apulia region.

• Related article: The most beautiful coastal towns in Puglia.
• Related article: Driving in Puglia, Italy: essential tips.
• Related article: 2 weeks in Puglia itinerary

7. Road trip around Lake Garda

• Route: Sirmione-Malcesine & Mount Baldo-Riva del Garda-Tenno&Lake Tenno-Limone sul Garda-Gargnano-Salo-Sirmione.
• Distance and driving time: 150 KM, 3 HRS 20 MIN.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Milan , Bergamo , or Verona international airports.
• How many days? 5-7 days.
• Where to stay: suggested base towns Malcesine , Limone sul Garda , and Salò .
• Highlights: beautiful lake towns, incredible mountainous scenery, water activities, culture, relaxation, cycling, and boat rides.
• Best time to go: April-May, September-October.

Italy’s largest Lake Garda is a perfect place for a romantic road trip in Northern Italy. Straddling Veneto, Trentino, and Lombardy regions, Lake Garda will offer you an unforgettable drive along the scenic lakeside and through the rock-carved tunnels with plenty of stops in manicured waterfront towns. Visiting Lake Garda is also a more price-friendly but no less beautiful alternative to the fancier counterpart Lake Como. In a way, Lake Garda’s scenery reminds me of Boka Bay in Montenegro .

You can pick up your rental car at any of the bigger airports, depending on where you are landing in Italy. Milan and Bergamo’s airports are great for cheaper car rental deals, meanwhile, the closest place to Lake Garda is Verona International airport, but car rent there is more expensive.

On your route around Lake Garda, you will visit Sirmione – a classic and the most touristic stop on this itinerary. Jumping into the boat and seeing the town from the water perspective is a great idea.

Moving east-north of the lake, a great base for a couple of days is the picturesque town of Malcesine . Built at a higher elevation, this pretty town is characterized by a maze of medieval alleyways and is different from the rest of the towns on this list. The most prominent landmarks are the castle of Malcesine and Mount Baldo. To visit the mountain Baldo, you can either get active and hike or take a cable car to the top.

Riva del Garda – an unofficial capital of Lake Garda is a very popular water sports destination. The favorable windy weather conditions make it a perfect spot for windsurfing. The panoramic views of the hilly landscape are no less fantastic.

Once on the northern side of Lake Garda, why not take a side trip to nearby Lake Tenno? It is an off-the-beaten-path detour with the reward of beautiful lake scenery.

Limone sul Garda or simply Limone is a town proud of its lemon produce and is possibly one of the most scenic waterfront villages on Lake Garda . You can either choose to stay a night there or visit on a boat trip from Malcesine.

Circumventing further around Lake Garda, you will come across a smaller and less touristy but absolutely charming  Gargnano lakeside town.

Finish off your loop around Lake Garda in Salò- one of the bigger towns known for incredibly delicious cuisine. Salò is more peaceful and less touristy than a well-known Sirimone, therefore might be a great base for a night or two on the southern banks of Lake Garda.

Travel tip: windy 2 lanes only road around Lake Garda might get congested during peak times and summer. Allow yourself plenty of time to travel slowly and consider having several bases during your trip instead of trying to visit all the towns as day trips.

8. Italian Riviera- Portofino to La Spezia- one of the most romantic road trips in Italy

• Route: Genoa-Camogli-Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino-Cinque Terre—La Spezia-Portovenere-Lerici.
• Distance and driving time: 165 KM, 3 HRS 40 MIN.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Genoa .
• Where to stay: base town Genoa , Camogli or Santa Margherita Ligure , La Spezia .
• Highlights: colorful coastal towns of Liguria, sailing, hiking between Italian riviera villages, history, culture, and beaches.
• Best time to go: mid-April, May, September, or October.

One of the most romantic destinations in Italy, rivaling the famous Amalfi Coast is Italian Riviera located in the Liguria region. For the Italian Riviera road trip, you will pick up your rental car in Genoa , and drive down south along the Ligurian Sea coast. I suggest a couple of base towns to explore the region – Camogli, Rapollo, or Santa Margherita Ligure on the north side of the Riviera and La Spezia on the south side.

On this itinerary, the rich and famous playground of Portofino and the magnificent 5 coastal villages of Cinque Terre do not need an introduction. Those are the most touristy places in the Liguria region. Nonetheless, they are so pretty it is hard to ignore their charms. That’s why they top the most romantic places in Italy charts. Nonetheless, you will also have an opportunity to visit less-known yet very picturesque places on the Ligurian coast.

Start your trip in the multi-layered port town of Genoa. Untouched by mass tourism this a unique historical town to explore in a day or two if you have time. Otherwise, pick up your rental car and head south to Camogli – a beautiful pastel-colored seaside town.

A close by Santa Margherita Ligure is an enchanted waterfront town where you can spot lots of “trompe l‘oeil” (a highly realistic optical illusion of three-dimensional space and objects on a two-dimensional surface).

Tip: to visit a nearby luxurious Portofino take a long 1-hour walk along the stunning coast. Cars are not allowed to enter the center of Portofino, there is no train, and buses are always packed. If you do not want to return the same way, you can take a ferry back from Portofino to Margherita Ligure.

The next stop on your romantic road trip in Italy will be in La Spezia – a base jump-off town to visit Cinque Terre towns (  Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso) . It is not wise to try driving between 5 famous villages as parking is very limited. Thus, leave your car in La Spezia and take regional trains to those towns.

The most rewarding way to experience the beauty of Cinque Terre is to go hiking a well-marked trail between villages. Dedicate a full day with stops in each of the seaside towns. If you get tired, you can always jump on the train in any of the towns.

Close to La Spezia, another charming port town is Portovenere with its imposing castle. It makes a great half-day trip. If you want to get an even more off-the-beaten-path in Liguria, head to Lerici . Due to its beautiful bay, Lerici is also called a Poets Gulf and is a beloved place by painters.

9. Tuscany loop – Florence to Siena

• Route: Florence- San Gimignano-Siena- Val d’Orcia-Montepulciano- Radda in Chianti- Panzano in Chianti- Florence.
• Distance and driving time: 312 KM, 6 HRS.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Florence International Airport or Rome Fiumicino Airport .
• How many days? 6-8 days.
• Where to stay: base towns Florence , Siena , Montepulciano , and Panzano in Chianti .
• Highlights: Tuscany landscapes of rolling hills, vineyards, cypress grooves, medieval towns, Renaissance art, and local food & culture.

The cinematic Tuscany region is characterized by green rolling hills, cypress trees perfectly lining the dusty roads, mysterious medieval towns , and the beating heart of Renaissance – Florence . What can be more romantic than picking up a convertible and setting off on a road trip through the Tuscan countryside?

Tuscany is compact and easy to navigate, which makes it one of the most popular road trips in Central Italy.

Start your romantic vacation in Florence – the birthplace of Renaissance art. Spend a day or two soaking up all the magnificent artistic things. Then pick up your rental car (you won’t need it while in Florence), and head south to the medieval town of San Gimignano .

Famous for its well-preserved medieval tower houses, and thus referred to as a City of Fine Towers, and even “a Manhattan of the Middle Ages”, San Gimignano will take you back in time. The town view from the road with dozens of towers peaking is also impressive, especially at sunset and dusk. Although it gets quite busy during the day, San Gimignano streets are empty at dusk and are the quietest at dawn, making them perfect times to explore.

Only an hour away from San Gimignano, you will be wandering the maze of steep medieval streets and admiring one of the most beautiful plazas in Tuscany in the town of Siena .

As you may have noticed, I didn’t include Pisa in this itinerary, which I believe is heavily overrated. I still remember my Italian friends telling me about Siena and how it is much more exciting to visit than the Leaning Tower of Pisa . I consider Siena one of the most beautiful towns in all of Italy I have ever visited.

Heading south of Siena you will be driving through Val d’Orcia- the most iconic valley offering romantic scenery of Tuscany . Spend a night in Montepulciano – a stunning medieval town perched atop the hill. Finish off your road trip by heading back north following the roads winding through picturesque Val in Chianti valley all the way to Florence. Two stops along this way are Radda in Chianti are Panzzano in Chianti medieval towns. You can also detour to one of the local wineries for a wine-tasting experience in the area.

Tip: when you set your Google Maps departing from Florence, make sure to choose “avoid highways” so that navigation takes you through the beautiful countryside instead.

• Related article: Renting a car in Tuscany.
• Most beautiful medieval towns in Tuscany

10. Umbria road trip- the green heart of Italy

• Route: Perugia-Gubbio-Assisi&Spello-Bevagna & Montefalco-Todi-Orvieto-Civita di Bagno Regio.
• Distance and driving time: 220 KM, 4 HRS.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Rome Fiumicino International Airport .
• How many days? 7-9 days.
• Where to stay: base towns Perugia , Assisi , Todi , Orvieto .
• Highlights: authentic Umbria region for Italy off-the-beaten path, medieval towns, green rolling hills, charming historical buildings, Renaissance architecture, local food, and culture.
• Best time to go: April, May, September, or October.

This itinerary in Italy follows the roads of Umbria . The green heart of Italy, and one of the most untouched regions, is often overlooked in favor of the more famous Tuscany. Being less visited, but just as beautiful and romantic as Tuscany, Umbria is a perfect region in Italy to experience the local lifestyle without crowds of tourists.

Pick your rental car in Rome Fiumicino Airport and head to Perugia – the capital of Umbria. Note that roads in Umbria are less well maintained than in Tuscany, thus the drive between towns can be slower at times.

Capital Perugia is a wonderful ancient city situated on a hill and characterizes by many steep staircases.

Gubbio is a trapped-in-time stone town that appears to be carved into the mountain. Spend a day in Gubbio and then continue your road trip to Assisi – a UNESCO-protected mountain town and possibly the most famous one in this itinerary.

Just 15 minutes away from Assisi, Spello is a charming village characterized by pink limestone buildings, terracotta rooftops, and flowers at every doorstep and balcony. Spello has been selected as one of the most beautiful Italian villages ( Borghi piu Belli del’Italia ).

Next on the list are Bevagna and Montefanco medieval towns which can be visited in one day. Montefanco is a walled city also called the balcony of Umbria due to its position high atop the hill and boasting splendid vistas over the Clitumnus Valley.

Continuing southwest of Umbria, the pretty town of Todi can serve as a great midway stop and a base for one night.

The best stops on this Umbria itinerary are left for the last- Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio . If you have less time to spare in Umbria, those towns should be at the top of the list. Orvieto is known for its breathtaking and one of the most beautiful in the world gothic cathedral. The first Etruscan town in Italy, Orvieto is over 3000 old. It is a marvelous place to wander around and admire its flower-filled ancient streets and noble palazzi.

Base yourself in Orvieto or around in the countryside not far from the town.

As a day trip from Orvieto, visit the mysterious and fascinating town of Civita di Bagnoregio, known as “a dying town”. Sitting atop steep tufa rock in a vast canyon, Civita seems to be suspended in the air. The town is accessible through a pedestrian bridge rising steeply to connect to the city walls.

Tip: be mindful of ZTL zones when in Orvieto, I entered the old town as I was not aware of the ZTL many years ago, and I did get a 200 euro fine (after one year of my trip).

11. Madonie mountains Sicily

• Route: Cefalù-Castelbuono- Gangi-Sperlinga-Agira-Gagliano Castelferrato-Petralia Soprana &Petralia Sottana.
• Distance and driving time: 200 KM, 4 HRS 40 MIN.
• Pick up your rental car in Sicily at Palermo International airport or Catania .
• Recommended number of days: 5 days.
• Where to stay: Cefalù , Gangi , Agira .
• Highlights: medieval Madonie mountain villages, hiking, nature, relaxation, local food and traditional Sicilian culture, authentic Sicily, charming seaside town of Cefalù.
• Best time to go: April, May, June, September, or October.

If remote mountains are a definition of romance to you, then the hinterlands of Sicily is where you should go on a road trip next. Madonie mountains in Sicily offer a secluded, authentic, and romantic escape into nature and back in time. A number of medieval Madonie mountain villages suspended in time make it for a perfect road trip. Hikes are also there if you crave to stretch your legs from the drive.

Pick up your rental car in Palermo, and before heading to the hinterlands, stop in Cefalù . Cefalù, mentioned in the West Coast Sicily itinerary, is one of the most well-known scenic old harbor towns in Sicily and is well worth a stop. It might get quite touristy though but you can’t blame it- it is just so romantic and a one-of-a-kind seaside town in Sicily .

The remaining of this road trip is focused on visiting authentic Madonie mountain villages. I recommend Gangi town as a base. Gangi is one of the most mysterious mountain towns in Sicily , famed for the 1 euro houses. It is scenically perched on a cone-shaped hill with numerous 2-story stone houses glued to each other like in a lego game. From Gangi, you can take a day trip to the sister towns of Petralia Soprana and Petralia Sottana . Next day, drive to Sperlinga – a cave town that is a very different and unique ages-old settlement.

The furthest town on this list is my discovery I am proud of- Gagliano Castelferrato , a town glued to the rock. It is a reminiscing of Castelmezzano in the Basilicata region , Italy.

You can also choose to stay in Agira , which is just 6 kilometers away from Gagliano Castelferatto. Agira is the mythological hometown town of tyrant Agyris. It is a lovely hilltop town with lots of tiny streets to wander around. Don’t miss trying Agirian cassatele – a pastry filled with chocolate and almond mix.

• Read my complete guide to visiting Gangi mountain town in Sicily .
• Get more inspiration in my post about 17 most beautiful mountain towns in Sicily .
• Extend your trip around Sicily with my suggested 2 weeks road trip in Sicily itinerary .

12. From Venice to Verona- the most romantic cities in Italy

• Route: Venice- Vicenza-Padua-Verona.
• Distance and driving time: 150 KM, 2 HRS 15 MIN.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Venice or Verona International Airport.
• Where to stay: base towns Venice , Verona .
• Highlights: romance, Veneto region in North Italy, gondola rides, incredible architecture, food, and culture.
• Best time to go: February, March-May, October.

I could not complete this romantic road trip in Italy list without adding a ride to the two most romantic towns in Italy- Venice and Verona.

Venice does not need an introduction- it is a masterpiece of romantic towns and a place like no other on the planet. It was the town I visited first on my very first trip to Italy and it was love at first sight, no questions asked.

Nowadays Venice is extremely touristy, yet still worth visiting at the right time. To me visiting in February was the best time- all crowds were gone, the town was sinking in fog, and the atmosphere incredibly mysterious and romantic. Moreover, visiting Venice during Valentine’s Day might be a perfect plan. Make sure to add colorful Burano and Murano islands to your Venice itinerary.

Note: you cannot drive inside Venice’s old town. Thus, if you are starting and ending your road trip in Venice, I recommend picking up your car either later or dropping it off early.

Before heading to Verona- the hometown of Romeo and Julieta, make a stop in Padua and Vicenza towns. Vicenza is known for its 16th-century elegant buildings and dramatic mountainous backdrops. Meanwhile, Padua is an old student town with many architectural monuments to explore.

Finish your road trip to Verona- the city of love in Italy. The famous Romeo and Julieta balcony is overrated, but the town of Verona is beautiful. Head to Giardino Giusti for a romantic picnic and sweeping views over the city (especially during sunset).

If you have more time than 4 or 5 days in Italy, you can look up for Lake Garda road trip (described above in this post) to extend your itinerary in Italy.

13. Northern Sardinia – the most romantic island road trip

• Route: Alghero-Porto Conte National Park—Stintino-Castelsardo-Costa Paradiso-Capo Testa-Maddalena Islands- Sassari-Alghero.
• Distance and driving time: 400 KM, 7 HRS.
• Pick up your rental car in Sardinia at Alghero International Airport , or Olbia International Airport.
• Where to stay: base towns Alghero , Stintino , Castelsardo , La Maddalena .
• Highlights: Secluded beaches, coastal hikes, colorful small towns, historic sites, island life, and local food.

Sardinia is the most romantic Mediterranean island in Italy. Surrounded by turquoise waters and paradisical beaches, the road trip around Sardinia is perfect for a romantic summer vacation in Italy. If you love countless untouched beaches, then Sardinia is your destination.

Although Sardinia appears pretty small at first glance, moving around the island is slow. Thus, this itinerary in Sardinia covers only the Northern side of the island. Start your journey either in Alghero or Olbia- both towns have international airports and are perfect locations to rent a car at.

I have been to Alghero twice and I recommend spending there a couple of nights enjoying the atmospheric coastal historical town vibes. City beach is there as well, but don’t rush to lay your towel just yet. The best awaits once you start driving North.

Porto Conte National Park is famed to be one of the most beautiful places on the island, thus you may want to spare a couple of nights in that area. The nearby fishing village of Stintino can serve as a base for a night or two.

Continuing up North of Sardinia, Castelsardo is a pretty small seaside town characterized by colorful houses cascading down the hill with the medieval castle of Doria overlooking the town. Recommended Castelsardo as a stopover before continuing beach hopping further up north.

Unmissable are Isola Rossa (pink rock beach), Costa Paradiso (paradise coast), and Capo Testa.

On this route, make sure to catch a boat to La Maddalena island. The ferry departs from the Palau harbor and can ship your rental car as well.

On the way back from Palau to Alghero, you can cut through the land with a brief stop in Sassasi, and visit the town’s handsome historic center.

Tip: make sure to book accommodation early if you are traveling during the summer season. Note that wild camping is not legal (according to my Italian friend who still does it regularly but packs up the tent early morning in order not to get caught).

14. Bologna to San Marino road trip

• Route: Bologna-Ferrara-Ravenna-San Marino-Dozza-Bologna.
• Distance and driving time: 345 KM, 5 HRS.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Bologna International Airport .
• How many days? 5 days.
• Where to stay: Bologna , Ferrara , Ravenna .
• Highlights: gems of Emilia Romagna region, Renaissance art, and architecture, mosaics, castles, a country within a country.

This brief road trip over the Emilia-Romana region in Italy includes 3 fantastic cities and a country within a country (yes, you read it right).

Start off your journey in Bologna , the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, a town of crooked towers and a university city. Bologna is filled with impressive sights, live and likable, and also less busy than Florence. Quite underrated, making Bologna keep its authenticity intact and streets less touristy. Thus, Bologna makes a great destination for a romantic city getaway.

You can also base yourself in Bologna and complete this itinerary by day tripping to other destinations on this route. Although, if you prefer not to drive back and forth, accommodation in Ferrara and Ravenna is available. I would suggest not staying in San Marino- a day trip from Ravenna or Bologna is a better idea.

On this route, Ferrara is one of the culturally most important Renaissance cities in Italy. At its golden age, Ferrara used to be a cradle for some greatest artists and writers.

Meanwhile, Ravenna is called the world’s capital of Mosaics. The fairly compact town is filled with architectural wonders and UNESCO-protected mosaic treasures dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries A.D. Ravenna is also a resting place for Italy’s greatest poet and philosopher Dante Alighieri.

Continuing to your final destination on this itinerary- San Marino . With a petite old town majestically enthroned on the top of Monte Titano, San Marino is a microstate surrounded by Italy. No surprise the beautifully unique San Marino is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Also, the oldest republic in the World, San Marino is a unique place to visit in Europe. A word of warning though, the old town of San Marino is heavily catered to tourists. Thus, the charm of this micro republic lies in the vistas opening up from the castle’s defense walls and three towers.

There are two ways to get to San Marino- drive up towards the old town and park in parking P9. Or park in the Municipality of Borgo Maggiore in P11 parking. Then take a funicular up to the old town.

Tip: there are no borders separating San Marino and Italy, but if you are a stamp collector, for 5 euros you can get your passport stamped validating your visit to San Marino.

15. Dolomites road trip

• Route: Bolzano- Lago di Carezza – Cortina d’Ampezzo -hiking Tre Cime di Lvadero – Lago di Braies-Paso Gardena -Ortisei- Hiking Seceda-Alpe di Siuzi & Val di Fune-Bolzano.-
• Distance and driving time: 300 KM, 7 HRS 30 MIN.
• Pick up your rental car in Italy at Bolzano , Venice , or Milan International Airport.
• How many days? 7 days.
• Where to stay: base towns Bolzano , Ortisei and Cortina d’Ampezzo .
• Highlights: Italian Alps, the best mountain scenery in Italy, nature, hiking, mountain lakes.
• Best time to go: mid-June-mid-October (except July and August).

Last but not least is the most epic road trip in Northeastern Italy winding through the Dolomites. The drive from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo via Granade Strada della Dolomiti is one of the most exhilarating and absolutely breathtaking . It will take you 3 hours in total between the two towns. On the way make sure to pay a stop at Lago di Carezza nestled in Val d’Ega Valley. Also referred to as a “rainbow” lake, in reality, an emerald green lake is one of the most beautiful in the Dolomites.

Cortina d’Ampezza is your base town for hiking iconic Tre Cime di Lavadero . An unmissable 10 kilometers loop of medium difficulty is a must on any Dolomites itinerary.

While in Cortina d’Ampezzo, you may want to include a half-day trip to the most intsagrammable lake in Italy- Lago di Braies . The famous lake is very touristy though and if you want to enjoy it in peace and quiet, go very early for sunrise. Renting a wooden boat to paddle around the lake is a nice activity in Lago di Braies.

The next stop is the alpine town Ortisei/St. Ulrich . Before reaching it, you will drive through Paso Gardena – another scenic high pass in the Dolomites of the South Tyrol. Make sure to put Gardena Pass on your google maps to follow the correct route.

Ortisei serves as a popular jump-off town to gorgeous Alpe di Siusi (or Val di Siusi) and Val di Fune with its famous little churches (Santa Maddalena and St. John in Ranui) as well Sucede ridge hike . Dedicate two to three days- one for the hike and one or two to visit both valleys.

Note: The most famous valley in the Dolomites is Alpe di Siusi. It is forbidden to drive through the valley unless you are staying in a hotel. To get to Alpe di Siusi, you can take a cable car which operates daily from 8:30 AM to 6 PM (also subject to the season). Alternatively park in Compatsch and hike for an hour to the famous viewpoint of the valley.

Before your road trip to the Dolomites , depending on where you land, you have options to pick up your rental car in Italy either at Venice International Airport, Milan International Airport, or Bolzano town.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and got inspired to rent a car in Italy and go on a romantic road trip around this passionate, beautiful, and unforgettable country in Europe! If you have any questions regarding the routes or car rental in Italy, please do not hesitate to comment below and I will get back to you.

More blog posts on my Italy travel guide

• Browse all my blog posts about Italy HERE .
• Planning a trip to Calabria, Italy? Check my super handy  Travel Tips for Visiting Calabria, Italy .
• Thinking of extending your journey to Sicily? Plan an amazing trip with my   2-week Sicily road trip Itinerary .
• Get some inspiration for Sicily and check out  15 of the most beautiful small coastal towns in fishing villages in Sicily .
• Love mountains more? Get inspired or pick to visit some or all of  17 charming mountain towns in Sicily .
• Best of Naples in one day: An easy 1-day in Naples itinerary + map .
• Thinking of renting a car in Naples? Use my Must-Know Tips for Renting a Car in Naples and Driving in Southern Italy .
• Travelling to Calabria? Check my Travel Guide to Scilla and Chianalea – the most seaside beautiful villages in South Italy.
• Guide to Arco Magno Beach in San Nicola Arcella, Calabria.

Italy Travel Essentials & Useful Links

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

• HIRE A CAR : The best way to explore Italy is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Sicily from your location.
• ACCOMMODATION: find your perfect stay in Italy on Booking.com .
• VISA: apply for a Schengen visa easily at iVisa . Use OneWayFly to reserve dummy flight tickets/hotels if required for your visa application.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider. For the cheapest travel insurance on the market check SafetyWing .
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe for reasonable rates.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours in Italy on  GetYourGuide .
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book a private transfer to any location in Italy with GetTransfer .
• FLIGHT GOT CANCELLED OR DELAYED? You may receive compensation of up to 600 EUR. Consult and get support from AirHelp or Skycop .
• Learn Italian: take a fun interactive online course Rocket Italian , which will help you quickly learn spoken and written Italian. Study at your own pace either on a desktop or using a mobile app, lifetime access, and a free trial available upon signing up.

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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Italy Road Trip Itinerary: The Perfect Driving Trip To Italy

December 3, 2023 //  by  Follow Me Away //   6 Comments

If you are searching for the ultimate Italy road trip itinerary, you have come to the right place!

Planning a road trip in Italy should be fun and exciting, not stressful! To help, I have put together this detailed article to show you exactly how to plan your vacation and where to go! 

I have visited Italy multiple times over the years so this itinerary includes some of Italy’s most famous sites as well as some lesser-known suggestions that may not be recommended by others.

I want you to see the b est things to do in Italy on your road trip and that includes seeing the highlights as well as some mountain towns and seaside villages.

Planning your trip to Italy last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Italy in advance to ensure availability! Here are my top picks for your trip!

Tickets you MUST book in advance:

• Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel (A MUST in advance)
• Colosseum Entry Tickets (Another MUST! Book online in advance!)
• Michelangelo’s David Tickets (Often sells out in Florence)
• Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Tickets (Buy online to save time!)
• Doge’s Palace Entry Ticket (Very busy, can sell out)
• Milan Cathedral And Rooftop Tickets (Sells out and a must-see!)

Top picks for places to stay in Italy:

• Rome: Hotel Relais Dei Papi (Amazing Vatican location)
• Florence: Relais Pizza Signoria (City center location)
• Venice: Hotel Carlton Grand Canal (Grand Canal views!)
• Dolomites: Parkhotel Laurin (Central location with pool!)
• Cinque Terre: Affittacamere Casa Dane’ (Affordable location)
• Milan: Collini Rooms (Just 10 min from Milan airport!)

This guide is not created for a specific time frame. That is for you to modify based on the amount of time you can spend road tripping in Italy.

You may only have 5 days or you may have 2 weeks in Italy. Choose the stops you want to see and modify the ones you don’t have time for.

Either way, I am confident you are going to love planning your perfect Italy road trip.!

Don’t forget to check out our detailed road trip packing list so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

Keep reading for my road trip guide to Italy!

Italy Road Trip Itinerary Map

If you are a visual person, don’t worry! I have included my Italy by car itinerary in a map version below.

You can see exactly where you will be going during your trip! Feel free to bookmark or screenshot during your planning stages!

All places recommended on this Italy example itinerary are very easy to find by simply plugging the name into your GPS! You can even download the maps offline if you use Google Maps!

Stop 1: Begin Your Italy Road Trip In Rome

I highly recommend you start your road trip itinerary in Rome. Rome is the center of Italy and there are affordable flights that fly in and out of the city every day.

Budget airlines like Norwegian Air and local European domestic airlines such as Ryanair also frequently fly into Rome.

Depending on your interest, I recommend spending either 2 days in Rome or 4 days in Rome and then doing some Rome day trips .

Parking In Rome

Finding parking in Rome is very difficult. It is impossible to find parking in the historic center so don’t even bother!

Free parking is a bit hard to locate as well so ensure you have budgeted money for parking as well as tolls.

There is parking near Roma Termini station where you can park and take public transportation around the city. If you are staying at a hotel, ask your hotel if they have on-site parking or recommend where to park.

Things To Do In Rome

Explore the coliseum.

The Coliseum is one of the most memorable things to do in Rome! You have read about the Coliseum in school or books and now it is your time to step back in history.

If you visit during the warmer months, make sure to drink plenty of water. I highly recommend booking your tickets online because the lines can be crazy! 

Book Here: Rome: Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum Guided Tour

Visit The Vatican

Make sure to visit Vatican City! It is incredibly impressive and well worth the visit. It is still one of my favorite things I have seen in the entire world!

There are two main things to do in the Vatican: Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. If you only have time to do one, I recommend visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica. 

The Vatican Museums are where you will find lots of art and history as well as the famous Sistine Chapel.

You are going to want to  buy tickets in advance !

Book Here: Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket

Throw A Coin In the Fontana di Trevi

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks! Stop here and throw a coin into the fountain. This means that one day you will return to Rome!

If you are looking to visit the Fontana di Trevi without other tourists, go early in the morning or late at night!

Climb The Spanish Steps

You have probably seen the Spanish Steps in a movie or two! They are another famous landmark in Rome you should see during your car trip in Italy. There are 135 steps so bring your walking shoes!

Take A Cooking Class

For many people, taking a cooking class in Rome is the highlight of their first time to Italy itinerary!

You can work with a traditional Italian cook to learn how to create some fantastic Roman-Italian dishes! This is also a great thing to do if you are visiting Rome in winter .

Book Here: Rome: 3-in-1 Fettuccine, Ravioli and Tiramisu Cooking Class

Where To Stay In Rome

I have an entire guide about where to stay in Rome! This breaks down my favorite neighborhoods in the city so you can choose where to stay based on your wants and needs.

Near Vatican: Relais Piazza Signoria . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Roma Central Guest House . Check Rates: Booking.com

Upscale: The Westin Excelsior Rome . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: See Rolling Hills In Val d’Orcia

Val d’Orcia is a region of Tuscany that is the most beautiful and famous! It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where you will see the stunning rolling green hills that you see in Tuscany photos.

This is one of the best Italy road trip ideas because the entire point of visiting Val d’Orcia is to drive around and see the cute villages and fantastic sites.

You must visit this area during a Tuscany road trip !

Parking in Val d’Orcia

Luckily, parking in Val d’Orcia is easy to come by since the villages are smaller and less crowded than Rome.

Some towns may charge for parking so ensure you look into that before you leave your vehicle. 

Things To Do In Val d’Orcia

Val d’orcia drive.

The circular Val d’Orcia drive is the highlight of any road trip across Italy. You can complete it in a day although you may want to come back for more.

The scenic road runs through the small villages of San Quirico d’Orcia to Rocca d’Orcia and Castiglione d’Orcia south to Vivo d’Orcia and Campiglia d’Orcia. Simply put these towns in your GPS for easy navigation. 

Le Crete Senesi Drive

The Le Crete Senesi drive has a different feeling than the above option. Here you will see houses on top of hills and olives galore. It is unique and very popular route in Italy.

You will drive on the SS438 to Asciano and the SP451 to Monte Oliveto Maggiore. If you are planning your honeymoon in Tuscany , this is one of the best road trips in Italy! 

Soak In Hot Springs

This region of Tuscany is filled with many incredible hot springs that you won’t want to miss. Many people don’t even know that Italy is home to hot springs!

Check out the best hot springs in Tuscany so you can soak during your new favorite road trip! Even if a hot spring is out of the Val d’Orcia proper, you can still take a slight detour to visit.

I promise it is worth it! 

Where To Stay In Val d’Orcia

I have put together a full guide on where to stay in Tuscany to help you better choose which area and type of accommodation you are interested in!

I also have a list of the best Tuscany villas which are honestly way more affordable than you may think! 

15th Century Convent: Relais Il Chiostro Di Pienza . Check Rates: Booking.com

Local Feel: Pacifico . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 3: Explore Florence

Florence is the cradle of civilization and one of the best stops on your Italy road trip itinerary. It is less busy than Rome and allows for a more local feel while still having plenty to see and do.

If you want to explore Florence in more detail, you can check out our one-day in Florence itinerary for more detailed information.

When visiting Florence, make sure to stop for gelato as there are many famous shops!

You can also take a day trip from Florence , like to Pisa, if you have extra time.

Parking In Florence

It is very difficult to find free parking in Florence! The closest parking to the city center is Piazzale Michelangelo but if you are visiting in summer, it is often used for events and isn’t a parking lot at all.

The best way to park in Florence is to stay at a downtown hotel that will authorize you to park and drive in the city center.

Driving in the ZTL-zone is authorized to permit holders only and this specific zone is controlled by video cameras so you must follow the law.

If you stay in a hotel in the ZTL, ask your hotel to register the license plate number of your car. This is the easiest way to park in Florence. 

Things To Do In Florence

Visit the duomo.

When visiting Florence, it is hard to miss the stunning Duomo. This Catholic Church soars over Florence and is the centerpiece of the whole town.

There is a dress code for entering the Duomo and ladies and men must cover their knees and shoulders. Complete silence is necessary when visiting the Duomo in Florence .

Book Here: Florence: Duomo Cathedral Guided Tour

Walk Across The Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is a picture-perfect bridge in Florence. Spend some time watching the sunset with a cone of gelato.

Make sure to bring your camera! It is one of the top things to do in Florence and shouldn’t be missed!

See David At Galleria dell’Accademia

Looking to see Michaelangelo’s greatest works? Check out the Galleria dell’Accademia! If you want to visit the famous David statue, this is the place to see him with your own eyes!

The Galleria dell’Accademia gets very busy so if you don’t want to waste time, book a timed entrance ticket before you arrive or book a guided tour.

Book Here: Florence: Timed Entrance Ticket For Michaelangelo

Explore Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens is a 16th-century garden overlooking the city of Florence! They are up a steep hill so if you are walking, come prepared with some sturdy shoes!

Boboli Gardens cover quite a large expanse and are full of Italian sculptures, beautiful plants, and flowers.

Book Here: Boboli Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

Where To Stay In Florence

Florence is much smaller than Rome so if you are staying in the city center there really are no bad places to stay!

I also have a guide to where to stay in Florence . Consider staying in one of the cute boutique hotels in Florence !

Hotels in Florence range from affordable to luxury options. You can get a nice hotel in the city center for a very reasonable price. This is why Florence is one of my favorite places to stay in Italy!

Affordable: Hotel Bavaria. Check Rates: Booking.com  

Mid-Range: Globus Urban Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Upscale: Hotel Garibaldi Blu . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Visit Venice

Venice is iconic, but there is no driving in Venice! However, I am still including it on this road trip through Italy itinerary.

Here is a post on exactly how to get from Florence to Venice which explains all the transport options! 

If you show up to Venice thinking you just get to drive around at will, you will be in for a rude awakening. Venice is a short drive away from Florence and is a necessary addition to any Italy trip.

Read my one-day in Venice itinerary if you are looking for more detailed information. 

Looking to spend a little longer? I also have a 2-day itinerary for Venice you can utilize! 

Parking in Venice

There are tons of parking lots at the entrance of Venice. They cost roughly $30 to $35 USD per day. Once you park your car, you will then take public boat transport to your hotel or accommodation.

If you want to visit Venice there is no way to get around the parking fee. Just make sure to know this going in!

Things To Do In Venice

Explore piazza san marco.

Piazza San Marco, also known as Saint Mark’s Square, is the most popular square in Venice. This iconic square was built in the 12th century and the centerpiece is Saint Mark’s Basilica which you can also tour.

Book Here: Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica Fast-Track Entry and Audio Guide

The Campanile di San Marco is the bell tower that stands tall over Saint Mark’s Square. You have seen it in many photos, and a replica is even at Walt Disney World!

Climb the Campanile di San Marco for one of the best views in all of Venice! This is a wonderful spot for photography.

Book Here: Classical Venice: 1.5-Hour Walking Tour

Go On A Gondola Ride

What trip to Venice is complete without going on a gondola ride? This is one of the most popular things to do in Venice ! I highly recommend splurging on this!

These are some of the best tours of Italy, providing a unique view of Venice that you wouldn’t get walking the streets or from other boat tours! The Venetian Canals are a world of their own!

Book Here: Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Live Commentary

Marvel At Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace is an ornate Gothic place right on the canals of Venice! It is a museum and showroom and one of the most impressive palaces you will see during your trip!

If you are visiting Venice in winter , indoor experiences such as this one are perfect to keep you warm and dry.

Doge’s Palace holds lacework, paintings, sculptures, and more. It is a real treat for architecture lovers!

Book Here: Venice: Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket

Take A Tour Of The Venetian Islands

Another great way to see Venice is to get out of the canals and explore the Venetian lagoon! You will visit the small towns of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, depending on what tour you take.

The best way to see these islands and the lagoon is to take a guided tour. You will also learn lots of great information about Venice!

Book Here: Venice: Burano, Torcello & Murano Boat Tour w/Glassblowing

Walk Over The Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge in Venice is the most iconic bridge you will see! While walking across this 16th-century, stone footbridge is an experience, it is even better to stand back and marvel at its beauty from afar!

If you are a photographer , the Rialto Bridge in Venice will be a real treat when visiting Italy!

Where To Stay In Venice

When staying in Venice, I highly recommend staying in the city center!

Please don’t forget to check out my VERY detailed guide on exactly where to stay in Venice, Italy! This includes beautiful boutique hotels in Venice .

I recommend staying near Saint Mark’s Basilica or the Rialto Bridge. No matter where you decide to stay, you are in Venice and that is something to celebrate!

City Center: Hotel Casanova . Check Rates: Booking.com

4-Star: Royal San Marco Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 5: Explore The Dolomites

The Dolomites aren’t that far away from Venice! After you walk around on foot or by boat for a few days, you will be ready to continue your Italy road trip north.

This is truly the most breathtaking scenery in the world and you will not be disappointed! The Dolomites span a large region in Northern Italy. I recommend trying to see as much as possible.

Make Bolzano your base if you want to be within an hour of all the action, but don’t be afraid to stay in more remote villages for a local feel. 

The Dolomites is one of the best road trip destinations. If there is one part of Italy not to skip, this is truly it. You will not be disappointed!

Keep in mind that the best part about visiting the Dolomites is simply getting in your car and driving around and exploring the stunning nature. 

I have a full Northern Italy itinerary if you are interested in exploring this region in more detail.

This is the bet spot for traveling off the beaten path in Italy!

Parking in the Dolomites

Luckily, finding parking in the Dolomites region of Italy is quite easy. This is more of a countryside feel and there aren’t as many crazy restrictions as there are in Florence or Rome.

It is easy to get around and there are wide stretches of the open road. As always, make sure to pay attention to local signs and laws in the event you are in a “locals only” parking zone.

If you are staying in a hotel or local homestay, finding parking should be easy.

Things To See In The Dolomites

See the blue water at lago di braies.

Lago di Braies is a stunningly blue, alpine lake located in the Dolomites. It is one of the prettiest lakes in Italy and shouldn’t be missed!

The drive there is lovely and it should top the list of things to see on a Italy road trip.

It is very popular on Instagram and with photographers, but it is famous for a reason.

Hike The Seceda Ridgeline

The Seceda ridgeline is easily one of the prettiest views in the Dolomites. The best part? You can take a cable car up to the view so you don’t have to walk!

Simply park your car at the cable car station and then ride up. Then you can walk or hike along the ridge of the mountain for as long as you want.

If you are visiting in winter or spring, the cable cars will not be open and the only option is hiking up from the town. 

Photograph San Giovanni in Ranui

San Giovanni in Ranui is one of the most photogenic churches in Italy. It is located in Santa Maddelena, which happens to be one of the prettiest towns in Italy .

The Seceda Ridgeline actually forms the background for the tiny church which makes for an iconic shot.

Even if you aren’t a photographer, I highly recommend stopping at San Giovanni in Ranui during your Italy road trip as the views are quite impressive. 

Pretend You Are Royalty At Castel Roncolo

Castel Roncolo is an impressive castle fortress located just a bit outside of Bolzano!

If you love castles and mountain scenes, make sure this stop goes on your Italy itinerary! The castle is a sight to behold and the mountain vistas don’t disappoint.

It is located right outside of Bolzano and is an easy drive during a Northern Italy road trip.

Where To Stay In The Dolomites

I recommend staying in the city center of Bolzano.

Affordable: Residence Fink. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Gardenhotel Premstaller . Check Rates: Booking.com

Upscale: Parkhotel Laurin. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 6: Hit The Coast In Cinque Terre

The drive from the Dolomites to Cinque Terre is about 4 hours and is the longest drive on this Italy road trip itinerary. This region of Italy is a great alternative to the Amalfi Coast.

The drive to Cinque Terre is filled with tons of fantastic things to see and do. If you want to make stops along the way, stop along Lake Garda, Parma, and Verona. They are some of the best cities and places in Italy to see. 

Cinque Terre is kind of a difficult place to visit on a coastal road trip because parking is very hard to come across.

I recommend staying out of the Cinque Terre proper in La Spezia or in Montessero Al Mare which is a more easily accessible Cinque Terre village.

Parking In Cinque Terre

Parking is difficult to find in Cinque Terre. In some villages, you are not allowed to drive at all and you must park about 1-2 km outside of the city and take a shuttle in.

For me, this isn’t worth the time and struggle as I like to have the car nearby.

If you are like me, you will want to consider staying in La Spezia where parking is free or very cheap. Then you can take the train to Cinque Terre.

From La Spezia train station to the first Cinque Terre village, it is less than a 5-minute train ride.

Things To Do In Cinque Terre

Hike the monterosso footpath.

The Monterosso footpath connects the towns of Monterosso and Vernazza, providing stunning views of the towns!

This hike is a bit challenging as you are going up the coastal cliffs. Budget at least one to two hours to complete it.

The views are worth the effort, but bring plenty of water, especially if you visit during the summer! This is the perfect hike during your Italy road trip. 

Visit Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre

This National Park is one of the smallest in Italy at only 15 square miles but one of the most popular and most beautiful!

Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre is one of the most heavily inhabited national parks in Italy and it is easy to see why!

A one-day pass costs only a few euros per person. Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Relax On The Cinque Terre Beaches

During your time in Cinque Terre, ditch your car and head to the beach! Check out the best Cinque Terre beaches and relax.

They are all easily accessible via train and walking. Some beaches are sandy and some are rocky. They are all awesome and unique. It will be nice to relax after a long Italy road trip driving around the country. 

Take A Boat Tour Of Cinque Terre 

If you are short on time during your Italy itinerary, consider taking a boat tour of the Cinque Terre villages.

A boat tour will allow you to see all of the towns with ease and speed. You won’t feel like you missed a thing!

A boat tour is an easy and affordable way to add Cinque Terre to Italian driving tours because you can see everything by water!

Book Here: From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Speedboat Tour

Where To Stay In Cinque Terre

Choosing where to stay in Cinque Terre can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! There are plenty of choices of accommodations.

Beach Location:  Locanda Il Maestrale.  Check Rates:  Booking.com

Affordable: Locanda Ca Da Iride . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Mid-Range: Arbanella . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Upscale:  The First – Manarola 5 Terre.  Check rates:  Booking.com

Stop 7: End Your Italy Road Trip In Milan

When you leave Cinque Terre, drive to Milan to end your Italy road trip.

I have driven in Milan a few times and it is quite hectic during rush hour. Try to plan your arrival out of these busy times. As usual, if you stay away from the city center, finding parking is easier.

Milan is a very affordable place to rent your car and fly in or out. If you don’t want to do a one-way rental, then enjoy your time in Milan and drive the four hours back to Rome to drop off your car and fly out.

Milan is a very underrated Italian city. It is a great way to cap off your wonderful Italy vacation. Don’t forget to check out our one day in Milan itinerary . 

Parking In Milan

Parking for non-residents in Milan can be quite expensive when trying to park near the city center.

There are public parking lots in downtown Milan priced at around $3 to $5 an hour. The further you go out of the city center the more affordable the rates get.

Driving in Milan isn’t that difficult, but you must understand it is a large city with a lot of people. It is a good place to end Italy road trip routes!

Things To Do In Milan

Visit the milan cathedral.

The Milan Cathedral is an architectural wonder and a breathtaking masterpiece!

It is so much bigger in real life than it looks in photos. Interestingly, it took nearly six centuries to complete. Construction began in 1386 and finished in 1965!

Book Here: Milan Cathedral And Rooftop Ticket

Shop At Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy’s oldest shopping mall and a hallmark thing to do in Milan!

It is housed in a 19th-century, glass-covered arcade and is quite the site to behold! If you haven’t had time to do much shopping during your Italy road trip, now is the time to take advantage.

Even if you don’t want to shop, you must stop by to see the glass-covered passageways. 

Explore Milan By Bus

If you are short on time, a hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a perfect way to quickly see the city! Even if you aren’t into doing super touristy things, you will still enjoy this bus tour.

It will provide insider information about some of the most famous sites, and you can easily be able to get off the bus should you want to explore more! This is perfect if you only have one day to tour Milan.

Book Here: Milan: 24, 48, or 72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket

Eat Dinner In The Navigli District

This picturesque district is named after the Navigli Canal and is famed for its authentic Milanese cuisine.

This is a wonderful part of Milan to cap off a wonderful Italy vacation because the food is just splendid.

After you are done eating, make sure to walk around and enjoy the shops too. There can never be enough shopping in Italy, right? 

Where To Stay In Milan

Milan is one of the larger cities in Italy and it pays to know where to stay! This is why we put together this detailed post on where to stay in Milan to help you choose.

There are plenty of great boutique hotels in Milan too!

Mid-Range: Sheraton Milan Airport Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Affordable: First Hotel Malpensa. Check Rates: Booking.com

Tips for Renting A Car In Italy

Before setting off on the best road trip in Italy, the first order of business is renting a car!

I rent from Auto Europe and have had good luck. The site allows you to compare rates across a variety of popular car rental websites including Hertz, Europcar, Alamo, Enterprise, and more.

You can see different prices without skipping around through a bunch of different websites.

Also, check out my detailed guide on renting a car in Italy before you book. 

A Note About One-Way Car Rentals

For the sake of this itinerary, you will rent a one-way car in Italy. There is usually an added fee because you aren’t dropping the car off at the same location you got it from.

The added fee will usually be around $50 to $100 depending on how long you will be staying in Italy.

If you really do not want to pay the added fee or want to fly round trip, that is okay too.

This driving itinerary for Italy begins in Rome and ends in Milan. Instead of flying in and out from separate cities, you can fly round trip from either.

Simply drive back to where you started. From Rome to Milan the drive is only around 4 hours so it really is not bad!

Where To Rent a Car

In Italy, I recommend renting your car from the airport whenever possible. This will be the cheapest and best way to complete your Italy road trip on a budget.

This is why I like Auto Europe because it allows you to compare prices based on location across many companies.

If you rent at the airport you can pick up your car and begin immediately. Otherwise, you will have to navigate into the center of town and the rentals are usually more expensive! 

Driving In Italy

Most car rentals are manual transmission, and they are the cheapest. If you do NOT drive a manual car, now is not the time to learn.

Also, do not choose a large SUV! Italy travel by car means narrow streets, and it is essential to pick a compact car.

When driving, you drive on the right side of the road and the steering wheel is on the left side of the car.

There are many toll roads in Italy so make sure to budget extra money to pay for tolls. Tolls range from a few euros to up to 20 euros apiece depending on the place.

Keep in mind that driving in Italian cities can become quite hectic and congested. I HIGHLY recommend travel insurance, especially if you have never driven in Italy.

Do NOT Forgo Car Insurance

You don’t HAVE to get car insurance during your Italy road trip, but I HIGHLY recommend it!

The streets in Italy are very narrow and the traffic is bad. One ding or dent can set you back hundreds of dollars.

I recommend putting the car rental on a travel credit card with insurance. Please keep in mind that many credit cards do NOT cover car insurance in Italy.

I suggest the Chase Sapphire Reserve when renting a car. As long as you put your Italy car rental on a Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you will be covered for collision and theft up to $75,000.

All you must do is put the car on your Chase Sapphire Reserve and decline car rental coverage offered through the agency. 

You can also purchase car insurance through the rental company. There is often more than one option so be sure to compare coverage and cost.

I hope you enjoyed this Italian road trip itinerary. Feel free to modify based on your time and interests.

Driving through Italy is easy and the trip of a lifetime! My itinerary does not cover Southern Italy, so you will have to come back!

If you could choose only a few places to visit, I recommend driving through Tuscany and the Dolomites for sure. The views shouldn’t be missed!

Whether you visit Italy for the first time or the hundredth, there is more to see!

Please let me know if you have any questions about planning a road trip in Italy! I am more than happy to help in the comments! 

Reader Interactions

April 15, 2022 at 4:50 pm

Hi!! My fiance and I are looking to do a 2 week road trip like this at the end of Oct, beginning of Nov, for our honeymoon. Did you use a travel agent or were y’all able to do this all yourself? Also what would you recommend as a decent budget for this kind of endeavor? We are pretty pretty savvy with traveling on a budget but we also want to keep it realistic.

Thank you for your incredibly helpful article!!!! 🙂

April 16, 2022 at 2:33 pm

Hello Jenna!! Yay!!!! I do not use travel agents, I plan it all myself and I actually have a 2 week italy itinerary here if you want! https://www.followmeaway.com/2-weeks-in-italy/

I also have suggested a budget broken down as well 😀 https://www.followmeaway.com/trip-to-italy-cost/

I hope you have an amazing time! I think you can plan it all yourself especially in lower season which is when you will be!

August 18, 2022 at 10:06 am

Hey there! Do you feel like this road trip would work at the end of May- weather wise? Just thinking of the northern areas. Also, how many days total would we need? Is 4 adults doable in a small car w/ luggage or would we need 2 cars? Thanks in advance!! Love your website and all the info.!

August 19, 2022 at 1:21 pm

Hello!!!!! For the Northern Areas, a lot of the ski lifts will be closed due to snow. That doesn’t mean you still can’t go and explore, I’ve done northern Italy in April and it was still fine. Make sure that the lift for places such as Seceda is open, it may not be until Mid June! Check the cubic area of the back/trunk of the car and get a larger SUV. but not in a small car with luggage, no, probably barely in a larger car. If its anything more than 3 people, I have to get another car typically =/ Enjoy!

August 26, 2022 at 4:47 pm

Thank you! Currently breaking this itinerary down and trying to get a simple list of how many days in each location to make this a 10 day road trip. Do you have list by chance? This website is very helpful!! There will be 4 of us so I guess we need an SUV but is that feasible with the roads there?

August 28, 2022 at 3:33 pm

Hello Melissa!! Yes! We have a 10 days in italy itinerary that can also be driven too! just take a look and see what you think! https://www.followmeaway.com/10-days-in-italy-itinerary/

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Bucketlist Italy Road Trip: Best Hiking, Wine, & Culture (with Map)

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

An Italy road trip is one of those bucket list items that begs for a few weeks of vacation, and a certain level of “ I do what I want! ” attitude. I mean, it is a renowned tourist destination for good reason – the old-school architecture, world-famous art, food that will have you asking for thirds, and history that’s weaved its way into all our cultures – all of it is unlike anything else in the world.

Having traveled up and down Italy several times over the past couple of years, through all seasons, and in all the transportation modes, I can tell you that the best way to experience Italy is via road trip, at your own pace , sometime in the summer or fall enjoying the dolce vita without stressing about planning or a checklist of must-do tourist attractions.

This article is aimed at providing guidance on how to plan a 1-week to 4-week road trip through Italy and includes:

• The how-to of transportation & logistics
• Flexible road trip routes depending on the vibe you’re going for and the time you have
• Best local stops along the way that are must-see in Italy
• Lessons learned about the Italian way of doing things

Table of Contents

Italy Road Trip: 1 – 4 Week Route Options

These road trip routes focus on central and northern Italy and take into account a few options depending on how much time you have . Below that, I’ve outlined my 4-Week road trip in detail, and have given notes and tips on how to adjust if you need to be flexible, what to do and see, and how much time is really needed in each spot.

Here are the road trip route options based on how many weeks you have, so you can get an idea before jumping into more detail.

Italy Road Trip 1 Week

Venice – Verona – The Dolomites – Venice

• Distance: 200 miles (320 km)
• Length of Trip: 5 – 7 days
• 4 days hiking the Dolomites
• 2 days in Venice with gondola rides
• 1 day, a quick visit to Verona, the home of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet

Italy Road Trip 2 Weeks

Milan – Lake Como – Lake Garda – The Dolomites – Venice – Milan ⭐️ Most Bang for your Buck Road Trip ⭐️

• Distance: 500 miles (800 km)
• Length of Trip: 12 – 14 days
• 2 days exploring Milan
• 3 days on Lake Como
• 2 Days on Lake Garda
• 5 days hiking the Dolomites

ALSO CONSIDER : Two weeks in Italy can also be spent in authentic South Italy . It is just as beautiful and ideal for early summer or a late fall trip when the tourists have left and the sun has calmed down a bit. This road trip is about discovering Naples and Sicily!

Italy Road Trip 3 Weeks

Milan – Portofino – Cinque Terre – Pisa – Florence – Venice – The Dolomites – Lake Garda – Lake Como – Milan

• Distance: 900 miles (1,500 km)
• Length of Trip: 18 – 21 days
• 4 days in Portofino & Cinque Terre
• 2 days around Florence and Pisa
• 2 days on Lake Garda
• 3 Days on Lake Como

Italy Road Trip 4 Weeks

Milan – Portofino – Cinque Terre – Pisa – Castiglione della Pescaia – Orbetello – Saturnia – Montepulciano – Siena – San Giminiano – Florence – Venice – The Dolomites – Lake Garda – Lake Como – Milan

Distance: at this point, it doesn’t matter! 😄

Length of Trip: 28 – 31 days

Highlights: Italian Riviera, Tuscany, The Dolomites, Hidden Gem Towns

• 5 days in Portofino & Cinque Terre
• 4 days exploring hidden gem towns (Castiglione, Orbetello, Saturnia)
• 2 days around Montepulciano & Siena
• 4 days around Florence (day trips to Pisa & San Giminiano)
• 2 days in Venice for gondola rides

Full 4-Week Itinerary

If you had one month at your disposal, here are the things to see and do based on my own travels and advice from local Italians , aka my friends. I’ve included favorite spots and little hidden gems to peek into while on the way.

I started my road trip in Milan because it’s a great airport hub and offers relatively cheap prices for renting a car. I recommend spending a couple of days exploring Miland and settling into the time zone differences if you’re flying from abroad.

Plus, there is no shortage of things to do in Milan – from historical landmarks to world-renowned museums, the city is insane. Here are just a few of my favorites:

• The Duomo: One of the most iconic buildings in Milan, the Duomo is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The Gothic cathedral is one of the largest churches in the world, and its intricate design is truly a sight to behold. Inside, the Duomo is equally impressive, with vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows that tell stories of faith and Italian history.
• The Last Supper: Another must-see for anyone visiting Milan is Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” The painting is housed in the refectory of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, and it is considered one of the greatest works of art ever created.
• The Pinacoteca di Brera: For those interested in art, a visit to the Pinacoteca di Brera is a must. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Italian paintings in the world, and it includes works by some of the most famous artists in history, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio.

Of course, because you’re in Milan, you have to do some shopping – either window shopping or for real. The city’s upscale boutiques and department stores offer everything from designer labels to high-street fashion. I had to really control myself on this one!

I headed south to the coast to start the road trip after Milan. Situated on the Italian Riviera, Portofino is first on the list. It is a picturesque fishing village that has long been a popular destination for tourists. With its brightly-colored houses, winding streets, and scenic harbor, Portofino is super charming and perfect to get you into that Italian spirit.

In addition to taking in the atmosphere of the village, there are a bunch of little trails to walk on and churches to peek into. Spend a couple of days here dining at the village restaurants or picnicking on the beach – this is a seafood lovers’ paradise.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a breathtakingly beautiful section of the Italian Riviera. Comprised of five medieval fishing villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – Cinque Terre is a popular tourist destination for good reason, with each village offering its own unique charm!

PRO TIP: You’ll want to park your car outside of the 5 towns for this one and only take a light bag with you to your lodging – trust me on this one!

Here are some of the top things to do and see in Cinque Terre:

• Hiking: The villages of Cinque Terre are connected by a network of hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the coastline. Visitors can hike from one village to the next, or take a more challenging hike up to one of the nearby hills for an even better vantage point.
• Swimming: The Mediterranean Sea is just steps away from each of the villages, making Cinque Terre a great place to take a dip. There are plenty of spots to relax on little beaches or enjoy exploring the rocky coastline.
• Wine Tasting: Cinque Terre is home to some of Italy’s best vineyards. Tour a local winery or enjoy a glass of wine with lunch or dinner – either way, you’re sure to appreciate the region’s signature wines.

And we enter the Tuscany Region of the road trip! We all know you’re here for the iconic photos, so let’s make this a quick but meaningful stop in Pisa, as there is much more to see in Tuscany.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most distinctive buildings in the world, and it’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy – luckily it’s on the way to our next destination! I recommend taking a long lunch stop here as you’re coming from Cinque Terre and heading down the coast to Castiglione Della Pescaia.

That said, if you stay the night, there’s more to Pisa than just its famous tower. The city is also home to a number of other historic landmarks, including the Cathedral of Pisa and the Baptistery, which is quite beautiful. Whether you’re interested in history or simply want to enjoy some of Italy’s most beautiful scenery, Pisa is definitely worth a short visit.

Castiglione Della Pescaia & Orbetello

If you’re looking for beautiful seaside towns to explore in Tuscany, Castiglione Della Pescaia and Orbetello are these hidden gems that no tourist knows about.

Castiglione Della Pescaia is an idyllic little town located on a picturesque stretch of coastline. It’s easy to spend hours strolling along the seafront or relaxing on the beach in both of these towns. That said, there are also plenty of other things to see and do in Castiglione Della Pescaia. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• Visit the Duomo di Massa Marittima: a beautiful cathedral built in the 13th century that has an impressive façade decorated with marble statues.
• Check out the Museo Archeologico e Storico: Housed in a former Franciscan convent, it has an extensive collection of artifacts from the Etruscan and Roman periods.
• Take a boat trip to Isola d’Elba: Located just off the coast of Castiglione Della Pescaia, this island is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the town for a while. You can reach the island by taking a boat from the port.

Orbetello is the other beautiful little town in Italy I think you should adventure to, just further down the coast. Think picturesque streets lined with medieval buildings and lazy boat rides out to the Island of Giglio. There are also several museums and art galleries to enjoy, as well as plenty of opportunities for wine and dine adventures.

These couple of days are for the slow rollers, the non-tourist in you. These towns are where Italians go to relax and take it in, and so it’s an opportunity to be among locals!

While most people flock to Italy for its stunning Mediterranean coastline (and let’s be clear, that’s totally ok!), there is another side to this country that is well worth exploring.

In the heart of Tuscany lies the town of Saturnia, known for its natural hot springs. You can find a number of therapeutic pools to soak in, as well as hiking trails that wind through the surrounding hills, and that is why I’m a fan! It’s off the beaten path and offers a little bit of something extra!

Here are just a few of the many highlights:

• The famous thermal waters of Saturnia are naturally heated waters said to have healing properties. You have to go to at least one of the several public baths and spas throughout the city.
• The Roman Ruins of Saturnia are some of the best preserved in all of Italy, dating back over 2,000 years.
• The Cascate del Mulin o is one of Saturnia’s most popular attractions, a stunning waterfall fed by natural hot springs, it is a popular spot for swimming.
• The Palazzo Vecchio is a 14th-century palace that now houses a museum dedicated to the history of Saturnia.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a small town in the heart of Tuscany that is best known for its Tuscan wine and stunning Renaissance architecture. The town’s cobbled streets and medieval alleyways are lined with quaint shops and atmospheric cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring.

One of the highlights of any visit to Montepulciano is a tour of one of the town’s many wineries, where you can learn about the production process of the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and sample some of the local goodies.

Siena is a beautiful medieval city in Tuscany, similar to the pictures above of Montepulciano. The historic center of Siena is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you know they know how to preserve their history!

Known for its old-school architecture, delicious food, art, museums, and all of the little things that make the Tuscan region special, Siena is yet another little gem on this road trip that is special and low-key.

San Giminiano

San Giminiano is a beautiful hill town in the Tuscan region of Italy and is the last of the little towns on this road trip. It is best known for its medieval towers, which rise up above the town’s red tile roofs.

Visiting San Giminiano is easy as can be because it’s all about exploring the narrow streets lined with traditional shops and restaurants and enjoying the countryside. This little stop on the road trip comes highly recommended by quite a few Italians who visit Tuscany every year, so it’s become part of my recommendations as well!

Last but not least in the Tuscan countryside is the beautiful city of Florence. The original gangster of the Rennaisance. The home of painters and sculptors like Michelangelo and Rafael. It will have a distinct tourist vibe to it compared to some of the past few days on this road trip, but it’s not quite a big city yet.

I love Florence for many reasons.

• The Duomo is the iconic cathedral that towers over the city.
• The Uffizi Gallery is a must, home to some of the world’s most famous paintings, the gallery offers an immersive experience into Florentine art from the Renaissance period.
• Strolls through Boboli Gardens and the narrow streets of Florence.
• Enjoying a meal at one of the many cafes or Michelin-rated restaurants. Ah! La Dolce Vita!

One of the most beautiful and interesting cities in the world, Venice is a must-see for any traveler. Built on a network of canals, it is home to a myriad of fascinating sights and attractions.

• Take a gondola ride: A ride in a gondola is the quintessential Venice experience. While it can be pricey, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this activity on a budget. Many gondolas offer discount rates for early morning or late night rides, and there are also several companies that offer group discounts.
• Visit St. Mark’s Basilica: One of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-see for any traveler. Located in St. Mark’s Square, this ornate cathedral is free to enter, and its impressive interior is well worth a visit.
• Walk around Cannaregio: Cannaregio is one of the busiest and most vibrant neighborhoods in Venice. From its lively markets to its colorful street art, there is plenty to see and do in this area. And best of all, it’s relatively cheap to explore compared to other areas of the city.
• Take a day trip to Murano: Murano is a small island located just off the coast of Venice. Known for its glassmaking tradition, Murano is home to several factories and studios where visitors can watch glassblowers at work. A day trip here makes for a great addition to any Venice itinerary.

On your way out of Venice, heading to the Dolomites, there is a little (not so little actually) town called Verona. If this rings a bell, it’s your high school education slapping you over the head.

Verona is renowned for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet and has many ties to the author. Highlights include:

• 1st-century AD Arena, a Roman amphitheater
• 13th-century Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), with a balcony overlooking an archway
• Verona Cathedral, housing 14th-century frescoes
• Castelvecchio Museum, in a restored 14th-century castle
• Piazza delle Erbe, a central market square
• Lamberti Tower, with an 84m-high climbable lookout

The Dolomites

The highlight of the second half of this road trip for me was The Dolomites. Overall I recommend spending about 5 – 7 days in the Dolomites. I visited a few times with friends before, and each time, I spent quite a few hours  planning the best route so I could maximize time  in one location, minimize driving a huge amount in one day, and also see all of the beautiful spots we had on our highlights list.

My highlights list for things to do and see in the Dolomites:

• Adolf Munkel Hike  
• Cadini di Misurina Ridge Hike  
• Tre Cime de Lavaredo Hike
• Seceda Ridgeline Hike  
• Via Ferrata Tridentina (not for first-timers)
• Paraglide in the Dolomites

📍Where to Stay

I recommend a few towns to get lodging in, each close to certain iconic trails and hikes. If it’s your first time heading into the Dolomites, check out  some of my favorite hikes above, and decide what town speaks to you.

A few hours drive away from the Dolomites is Lake Garda, where we rest our weary feet.

We picked  Cola Beach  to post up and enjoy the sun. This is AFTER the  insane breakfast at Hotel Limone  which I cannot say enough good things about! Literally, they have a chef preparing a fresh meat and cheese board fresh and custom just for you.

Happy hour drinks and a light dinner were at  Scaloni 20  both nights because this is an absolute gem, and they have a killer Espresso Martini which both of us are absolute suckers for!

From Lake Garda, we headed to Lake Como. The drive was a couple of hours, and  the most difficult portion of the drive  was the one-car-at-a-time-only streets around the lake to get to our lodging.

Bellagio and Varenna are two of the most beautiful towns and are famous for it.  I say this, but the reality of it is that all of the small hidden towns around Lake Como are incredibly charming.

PRO TIP:  If you only have a couple of days like us,  I recommend doing this  Villa Balbianello and Lake Como Walking and Boating Full-Day Tour  and hit all of the highlights – including explanations of where George Clooney’s mansion is, how many celebrities truly live around Lake Como, and if Leonardo DiCaprio is in town or not.

A few lessons we learned in Lake Como about transportation:

• The lake is very large and  it’s worth staying close to the main ports  (Bellagio, Varenna, Como).
• It’s very important to  plan out your ferry routes and transfer times for the day  because the fast ferries only run to certain ports at certain times (and can take 2 hours to get from the town of Como to Bellagio).
• All  ferries are crowded, queues are long  for tickets, and lines take forever at some ports due to lack of organization. This is very on brand for Italy sometimes – love it or hate it, it’s the way it is!
• It’s  worth renting a private boat if you’re wanting to get around quickly  and without the stress of planning ferry logistics. Or just use your car!

And that’s it. From here, you’re off to Milan to complete your month-long journey, return your car, and head home much richer in memories than you started!

Italy Road Trip Map

Milan – Portofino – Cinque Terre – Pisa – Castiglione della Pescaia – Orbetello – Saturnia – Montepulciano – Siena – San Giminiano – Florence – Venice – Verona – The Dolomites – Lake Garda – Lake Como – Milan

Driving Through Italy

Here are answers to the questions I had when I was planning my road trip through Italy about logistics and transportation.

Renting a Car in Italy

You will need the following 3 things to rent a car in Italy:

• A Drivers License
• An International Driver’s Permit

You can get an International Drivers Permit (IDP) from AAA or the State Department ( form here ) .  You do not need to have a AAA membership to go through this application process.

The IDP is valid for 1 year and must be carried with your driver’s license when you’re driving. Be sure to bring 2 passport-style photos with you when you apply for the IDP, your US driver’s license, and a method of payment to cover the application fee (cash or credit is fine).

This is what I use to get the cheapest rental ➡️ Discover Cars ⬅️

Should I rent a car or use public transport?

Good question, especially as Italy is super well connected by trains. While trains are a convenient and cheap way to travel, they are constantly delayed ( sometimes by hours ) in Italy and can be a pain in the butt logistically – this is the reality.

My advice is to rent a car if you’re going to be traveling around for a week or more , exploring lakes and mountains, little small towns and fisherman villages. And especially if you’re doing any one of the road trips I outlined above.

The only time I don’t recommend a car is when you’re just sticking to one big city, like Milan or Rome, as it can be a nightmare to navigate traffic and parking in these megacities.

Can foreigners drive in Italy?

Absolutely they can! Just make sure you have the right documentation and read up on the common mistakes people make when renting a car in Italy. And then go for it!

How easy is it to drive around Italy?

In my opinion, driving in Italy is the toughest of all other European countries. A few observations I’ve made after multiple road trips in Italy:

• Only Italians see an invisible 3rd lane in the middle of the road , which is mostly used for general meandering in a passive-aggressive way, and/or to scare rule-abiding westerners out of their respective left or right lanes.
• Italians love to honk … to say hello to their besties on the road, to intimidate you from your lane, to express road rage, and sometimes I think just for fun. Basically, honking is a big part of Italian driving culture, so don’t take it personally when people are consistently leaning on their horns. When in Italy, it’s ideal to use all the means of communication with other cars!
• Watch for the cows, sheep, ducks, and occasional humans crossing the road in the middle of high-speed traffic. Life is like it’s a game of Frogger when driving in Italy.

Tips for Taking an Italian Road Trip

There are quite a few things to consider when planning your Italian road trip. Here is my advice on when, how, and how much.

Is Italy good for a road trip?

YES! Italy is a popular tourist destination for a reason – it has it all! Historic ruins, beautiful scenery, picturesque villages, and hiking-friendly mountains! So whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a family vacation, Italy is the ideal place to hit the open road while keeping on a budget.

The country has good roads, the food is familiar and delicious, the people are friendly and speak English most of the time, and it’s one of the cheaper countries in Europe to vacation in.

And of course, as you can see from the itinerary, there’s no shortage of things to see and do and memories to create.

How do I plan an Italian road trip?

When planning an Italy road trip, it is important to consider the best route to take, what stops to make along the way, and how to budget for your trip. The 1-week to 4-week road trip options outlined in this post will be a good starting point , but just in case, here’s the process to think through.

✅ STEP 1 Decide which route you want to take based on the amount of time you have. There are a number of scenic drives throughout the country, so it is worth doing some research to find the one that best suits your interests.

✅ STEP 2 Once you have chosen your route, you can start to plan for specific stops along the way . Italy is home to countless historic cities and villages, like Milan and Val di Funes. When deciding which stops to make, it is important to consider how much time you have available and what type of experience you want to have (ie. the activities you are interested in and how long you want to spend in a car/in transport).

✅ STEP 3 Finally, it is important to budget for your Italy road trip . Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on the region and time of year you are traveling. By doing some research in advance and booking accordingly, you can ensure that your Italy road trip is both pleasant and affordable.

What is the best month to travel to Italy?

This road trip is best done in late summer or early fall, anything during the months of July, August, or September. The weather is warm, the lakes are cool and refreshing, all the mountain huts and restaurants are open in the Dolomites, and the sun is out all the time!

Note that August is the most touristed month in Italy because all the kids are off on vacation. This means August will also be the most expensive month as it is peak travel season for Europeans .

How much does a road trip around Italy cost?

It really depends on your activities and travel style but it does not have to break the bank, especially since a lot of things are outdoor activities like hiking & lake sports.

During the peak summer season, these were the average costs for me:

Car Rental : €60-100 per day Lodging : €80-120 per night Food   & Drink : €60 a day per person ( and here’s some advice on how not to be an a*hole tourist when tipping )

What is the best way to see Italy?

There’s no wrong way to see Italy, but some ways are definitely better than others. A road trip is the best way to see all that the country has to offer, from the vibrant cities to the picturesque countryside.

You’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace and take detours whenever you please. Plus, you’ll get a taste of the real Italy away from the tourist traps. Rent a car and hit the open road – it’s the best way to see Italy!

Final Thoughts: Why A Road Trip in Italy Is A Must!

Italy is a country with something for everyone – stunning coastlines, rolling hills, dramatic mountains, picturesque villages, and cities brimming with culture and history. Here are just a few reasons why a road trip to Italy should be on your bucket list.

• Italy has some of the most scenic drives in the world. From the Amalfi Coast to the Tuscan countryside, there are endless opportunities to explore beautiful landscapes.
• Italian culture is friendly, easygoing, and welcoming. Traveling in Italy is like being welcomed into an old friend’s house just as they are preparing for a meal, and they’re so glad you’re joining them!
• An Italy road trip gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and create your own itinerary. While it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of city life, a road trip allows you to slow down and really appreciate the present.

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

7 Phenomenal Italy Road Trip Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)

There’s a lot to love about taking an Italy road trip, from admiring beautiful countryside views along the open road during the day to stopping at whatever hilltop village or seaside vista looks lovely, to spending evenings in small countryside inns or perhaps even a Tuscan farmhouse.

This guide will show you where to find the best road trips in Italy to help make those dreams a reality, while also providing plenty of practical advice along the way.

It’s no secret that Italy is one of our absolute favorite countries to explore, nor that we have taken more road trips in Italy than in any other country that isn’t our own–but at the same time, we fully believe that most popular, first-time-in-Italy itineraries are not best experienced as a road trip.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

While traveling in Italy is absolutely amazing, most of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations–Rome, Florence, Venice, Cinque Terre, and Milan, just to name a few–are not well suited to an Italy road trip. 

On the contrary, if you ask us, a rental car is more of a liability than an asset in every single one of those destinations!

But that being said, there are some truly phenomenal road trips in Italy that are easily among the best in the world.

If you’re looking to plan an Italy road trip, here’s what–and where–we recommend.

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Is a Road Trip in Italy Right for You?

Renting a car for your road trip, the best italy road trip destinations, italy road trip tips.

Italy is home to some fantastic road trips, but whether or not a road trip is right for you depends a lot on both your personal travel style and what your dream trip to Italy looks like.

If you decide a road trip isn’t right for you, we highly recommend checking out some of our more classic Italy itineraries instead– this 2 week itinerary is a great introduction to the country, and this one week guide is packed full of Italy trip ideas!

An Italy road trip might be the right choice for you if…

… you’re hoping to focus on small towns and countryside destinations..

As I mentioned above, Italy’s biggest cities, while absolutely fantastic places to visit, are not well-suited for road trips.

If your dream Italy trip looks something like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Cinque Terre, you’re bound to have an amazing time–and you definitely shouldn’t experience it as a road trip.

This 2 week itinerary will get you started on your planning, though!

… you’re not intimidated by driving in a foreign country.

While driving in Italy is far from impossible, it does have an intimidating reputation for a reason: if you’re not a regular driver and/or are not confident behind the wheel, you may want to reconsider driving in Italy, or at the very least, be very careful to choose an easier road trip destination.

… you want to maintain maximum flexibility.

Want to duck into roadside cafes, randomly detour to check out a small town you spotted on the map, and wake up each morning unsure of what adventures it will hold?

If so, an Italy road trip might be the right vacation for you! 

… you’re willing to trade a few logistical challenges for a chance to get off the beaten path.

From finding the right parking spot to keeping an eye out for toll booths to getting lost along the way, taking a road trip in Italy definitely comes with its own set of challenges–but if that sounds like a worthy trade for an open-ended adventure and a chance to see a side of Italy that most of its visitors don’t, then it’s absolutely worth it.

For most people, of course, taking an Italy road trip will require renting a car.

We’ll cover some tips and tricks for renting a car later in this blog post, but here’s the short version: we recommend renting a small car in Italy through Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

We’ve rented a car in Italy more times than we can count, and we’ve used a different rental car company almost every time: the variations in prices depending on time of year, availability, and rental inclusions will vary dramatically, and you’ll want to make sure you arrange for the best combination of price and inclusions before arriving to start your road trip in Italy.

Check rates & book your rental car with  Discover Cars  today!

The Italy road trips outlined here aren’t just destinations that are doable as road trips–they’re destinations ideally experienced as one!

The freedom of the open road, beauty of the countryside, and delights of traveling Italy independently are all easily felt on these sublime Italy road trips.

Arguably the most classic Italy road trip of them all, the idyllic Tuscan countryside lives up to expectations!

From the beautiful hilltop villages to the seemingly endless rows of grapevines and olive trees, from the delights of Tuscan hot springs to the majestic beauty of Brunelleschi’s Dome erupting from the center of Florence’s skyline, the reality of Tuscany definitely lives up to the legend.

Consider starting your road trip from Florence (though you won’t need to pick up your rental car until you’re ready to leave the region’s capital), and visiting charming Lucca , stunning Siena, and famous Pisa along the way.

Of course, since half the fun of a road trip is going where the trains can’t easily reach, you’ll want to mix in even smaller towns as well– Volterra , Cortona, Montepulciano , and San Gimignano are all excellent options.

Be sure to visit the famous Val d’Orcia for those classic Tuscan views, and if you’ve ever wanted to stay in an Italian villa or at a vineyard, a Tuscany road trip is definitely an excellent opportunity to do so!

You can check out our full guide to taking a Tuscany road trip here .

Suggested Road Trip Length

A roughly 10-day road trip, plus a couple of days spent in Florence at the beginning and/or end of the trip, will provide an excellent overview of Tuscany while still leaving plenty of stones left unturned that will have you already dreaming of your next trip back by the time you say goodbye.

However, Tuscany is also well-suited for a mini road trip, so if you only have 3 days or so to spare, you can still get a delightful taste of Italy by car!

The Amalfi Coast

Despite being a mere 43 miles long, the dramatically curving road along the Amalfi Coast just may be the most famous–and challenging–Italy road trip of them all!

There’s no denying that the views of the Amalfi Coast along the drive are absolutely sublime and deserve their status as one of the most picturesque places on the planet.

From the shimmering sea visible far beyond the opulent villas of Ravello to the colorful houses climbing improbably up the cliff in Positano, the Amalfi Coast is positively packed with beauty at every turn.

Road tripping the Amalfi Coast has distinct advantages over a more traditional visit, including a chance to escape the crowds, discover offbeat vistas and coves, explore lesser-visited villages, and find (comparatively) inexpensive lodging by staying outside of the most popular towns.

On the flip side, though, the driving is intense: an Amalfi Coast road trip will take you along a very narrow road, perched on a very steep cliff, and demand that you repeatedly navigate around gigantic tour buses that have very little patience with cars clogging up the road–in other words, it’s quite challenging!

If you are a confident driver, there’s no reason to skip it–the Amalfi Coast truly is home to one of the most scenic road trips in Italy–but if you aren’t comfortable behind the wheel, it may be best to pick a different road trip (or simply visit the Amalfi Coast without driving, which is very doable!).

While you can easily drive the Amalfi Coast itself in less than a day, we recommend spending roughly 3-5 days in the area. 

You won’t necessarily want (or need) to change accommodation each day, but you can take incredible day trips via car each day along the Amalfi Coast.

If you’d like, you could also add on a (long) day trip to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and/or Mount Vesuvius by car as well!

The Great Dolomites Road

The Great Dolomites Road–in Italian, the Grande Strada della Dolomiti–runs from Bolzano in South Tyrol to Cortina d’Ampezzo in Veneto, offering positively jaw-dropping views of the Dolomites along the way.

If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind mountain vistas, sweeping valleys, epic lakes , and charming villages that leave you a bit uncertain as to whether you’re actually in Italy at all or if you accidentally wandered into Austria, then this is the Italian road trip for you.

Be sure to leave plenty of time in your road trip itinerary to stop and check out Carezza Lake and the vistas along the Passo Pordoi!

Although not technically part of the route, nearby popular stops in the Dolomites include Sella Pass and Passo Gardena, and you can easily expand your Italy road trip to include the ever-popular Seceda and Val di Funes as well.

While summer is the most popular time for a Dolomites road trip, if you’re visiting in September or October, you can enjoy not only the grape harvest but also memorable local events like Almabtrieb .

The Great Dolomites Road can easily be driven in a day, but we recommend taking your time and soaking up the views–this isn’t a region you’ll want to rush through.

For the bulk of your time in the Dolomites, you can easily base yourself in either Bolzano or Cortina d’Ampezzo (both offer excellent nearby mountain hikes and villages to explore as part of your trip to the Dolomites), but you can also choose to spend part of your time at one of the countryside hotels that exist along this Italy road trip.

The largest island in the Mediterranean has long been a source of mystery and intrigue: loomed over by the enormous Mount Etna and covered in the scattered remnants of a half-dozen empires, from the Ancient Greeks to the Byzantines to the Moors to the Normans and beyond, Sicily an intensely beautiful and historically fascinating island, and easily one of the best places for an Italy road trip!

While exploring Sicily, be sure to visit the incredible Mount Etna, take in the views from Taormina, enjoy the phenomenal beach towns (we’re partial to Cefalu, but there are plenty to choose from!), admire the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, and check out the incredibly well-preserved Greek ruins at Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples.

And, of course, I have to acknowledge that if driving in Italy has a reputation for being challenging, Sicily has a reputation for being home to the most challenging driving of all. 

Our opinion is only one among many, but I will say that after driving all over Europe and Italy both, we didn’t find the driving in Sicily to be significantly different.

We have lots of region-specific driving tips in our detailed Sicily road trip guide .

Roughly 10 days to 2 weeks in Sicily will give you a chance to hit up most of the island’s highlights, but you’ll need to move quickly!

If you have 5 days or less in Sicily, we recommend concentrating on only one portion of the island–the east coast, from Taormina to Syracuse, with a possible detour over to the Val di Noto, is a great option.

Emilia-Romagna

Emilia-Romagna is often overlooked in favor of Tuscany when it comes to planning a road trip in Italy, but Tuscany’s less-famous next-door neighbor also makes for an incredible road trip destination!

The region is the original home of many of the most beloved foods of Italian cuisine, including Parmigiano-Reggiano , tagliatelle al ragu (what’s known outside of Italy as spaghetti bolognese), mortadella (also known as bologna), and traditional (and decadent) balsamic vinegar, just to name a few!

A road trip in Emilia-Romagna will mean a chance to explore each of these cuisines in their natural settings.

In addition to the region’s capital city of Bologna , Parma and Modena should both be on your radar, as well as unique features of the region like Ravenna’s 1500-year-old mosaics and Rimini’s laid-back beaches.

Visiting Emilia-Romagna via car also provides an opportunity to visit a unique destination that’s technically not even in Italy at all!

T he stunningly beautiful country of San Marino is entirely surrounded by Italy and is easily accessible as part of a road trip in Emilia-Romagna.

A week-long road trip in Emilia-Romagna can cover a lot of what makes the region special.

If possible, we highly recommend adding a couple of days in Bologna, the capital of the region, to one end of your road trip!

The Lakes of Northern Italy

Northern Italy is positively packed with stunning Alpine lakes that are a delight to visit, and a northern Italy road trip is the perfect way to experience them!

Most lake-focused Italy road trips focus on some combination of the large and beautiful lakes of Como, Garda, and Maggiore, mixing in stops and lakeside small towns, along beautiful hiking trails, and sometimes in nearby cities like gorgeous Verona.

By visiting this part of Italy by car, you’ll be able to avoid crowds of day-trippers at hotspots like Bellagio, instead concentrating your days on harder-to-reach corners while saving the most popular places for the beautiful (and less crowded) evenings.

If you’d like to visit all three lakes, possibly mixing in lesser-known spots like Lake Iseo along the way, we recommend setting aside 7-10 days for this Italy road trip.

However, if you’d like a taste of exploring Italy’s beautiful lakes by car but only have a couple of days to spare, you could also have a fantastic trip by narrowing in on just one lake.

If you’d like to significantly extend this trip, you could head west to the beautiful (and comparatively less touristy) northwestern corner of Italy to explore Piedmont (its major city, Turin , is beautiful but off the beaten path), or even into France!

In the southeast corner of Italy–or, more colloquially, in the heel of Italy’s boot–sits the region of Puglia, a beautiful place laden with white-washed Italian beach towns , craggy cliffs, unique architecture, tasty seafood, and plenty of sunshine.

If you’d like to get off the beaten path on your Italy road trip while focusing on the sun and sea, Puglia is the perfect place to land: while it has a growing tourism scene and is popular with Europeans, Puglia is still a bit under-the-radar for those of us coming from further afield, and it feels miles apart from the crowds of, say, the Amalfi Coast.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the unique trulli houses of Alberobello (these unique cone-shaped buildings can be found throughout the region, but are most highly concentrated in this village), the stunning beach at Polignano al Mare, and the gorgeous villages of Ostuni and Otranto .

Though not technically in Puglia, as it’s located in the region of Basilicata to the west, the ancient hilltop city of Matera definitely belongs on any Puglia road trip itinerary !

You can see the biggest highlights of Puglia in under a week, but as a destination that is more about ambiance than sightseeing, you can also easily extend it–especially if you’d like to include several beach days as part of your road trip in Italy.

Consider picking a base or two and traveling from there.

Just because you’re on a road trip doesn’t mean you need to move hotels every day!

Some of our favorite road trip experiences in Italy have been renting a villa in Tuscany for a week with family and then driving throughout the region to different nearby destinations each day.

Take advantage of agriturismos and rental homes during your Italy road trip.

Part of the joy of taking a road trip in Italy is experiencing the countryside–so take advantage of it!

Agriturismos–essentially Italian farms that operate as small inn-and-restaurant combos in the countryside–are incredibly fun to experience, and there is no shortage to the number of hotels and villa rentals available.

Not only can you often find better prices than in the cities, waking up in the morning to watch the sunrise over the Italian countryside without another soul in sight is definitely a bucket-list-worthy experience.

Stick to 1-2 regions at a time.

Driving large swaths of Italy may be tempting when looking at a map, but large, sterile highways pretty much look the same wherever you go–that’s not where you’ll find the best Italy road trip experiences.

By narrowing your focus and sticking to a smaller geographic region, you’ll end spending far less time looking out the window at generic highways and far more time discovering the quiet corners that make traveling in Italy so very special.

Don’t feel like your Italy road trip has to last the length of your vacation.

Want to take a Tuscany road trip, but also to spend some time in Florence? Want to cruise the Amalfi Coast, but also spend several days in Rome? 

No worries–that’s actually an incredibly fun way to structure a trip!

Don’t fall into the trap of feeling like you need to pick up a rental car at the airport the second you land: there are rental agencies all over Italy’s cities and towns, and there’s no reason you can’t spend part of your vacation on a road trip in Italy and another part focused on its incredible cities.

Make sure you have access to a GPS for your Italy road trip.

This is absolutely imperative, in our opinion, and can make the difference between an extremely stressful road trip and a fairly laid-back one.

Whether you purchase an international cell phone plan through your carrier before leaving for Tuscany or you purchase an Italian SIM card on the ground, you’ll 100% want to make sure you have cell phone data–and therefore GPS–with you as you drive.

Buy the extra insurance–you won’t regret it.

Ultimately, this is up to you–I know some people prefer not to buy additional CDW insurance (aka the insurance that covers damages to the actual car you’re driving, as opposed to your liability to anyone else) on trips–but we buy it every. single. time. when driving in Italy and have no regrets.

I don’t want to overstate things, because driving in Italy isn’t exactly like driving in the Wild West–but let’s just say that the roads are often tiny, the buildings very close, the parking lots cramped, and the other tourists’ rental cars parked nearby are frequently scratched and dinged in a way that while not horrendously damaging, is definitely something a car rental company would love to charge you for if it happened on your watch.

The peace of mind is absolutely worth it to us–you can price it for yourself when shopping on  Discover Cars , or purchase a travel insurance policy that includes car rental insurance (but be sure to double-check the policy, because only some policies cover it).

… and note that your typical car insurance may not cover your rental car in Italy.

Be sure to double-check what coverages you have, if any, before renting a car–and make sure that they cover Italy specifically, not just Europe.

You’ll need an international driving permit to rent a car in Italy.

Technically, you always need an international driving permit to rent a car in Italy.

You can pick this up before you leave home from AAA, and it’s very easy and cheap to do–just a bit annoying, as it’s one more thing to add to your to-do list before leaving for your Italy road trip.

Now, that being said–will your rental agency always ask for it? No. Will the police always ask for it? No.

Is it worth the risk of being refused a rental car or getting a ticket over what amounts to $25 USD and a bit of hassle? Not in our opinion.

Rent the smallest car you can.

Not only is it cheaper, which is always excellent, but a smaller car is also much  easier to drive in Italy.

While the highways in Italy are pretty standard, this-could-be-anywhere highways, the small country roads, parking lots near villages, and dirt roads leading to vineyards and villas can be incredibly narrow.

However, this naturally does not stop them from being used for two-way traffic (you’ll probably end up pulling over to let someone maneuver past you at least a couple of times during your Italy road trip).

Be sure to account for how much space you’ll need for luggage, especially if you have three or more people in your group, but other than that–the smaller, the better.

Be militant about avoiding ZTL zones.

ZTL zones are restricted access zones that dot most of Italy’s historic city centers, including both world-famous cities and smaller towns.

If you drive into one, even accidentally, you’re risking a  big  ticket (and we’ve definitely had to call tiny Tuscan police stations to help some of our family members pay them off months after the fact).

Avoid them by parking on the outskirts of historical centers and by doing your research on where to park ahead of time.

You will encounter toll roads, so carry cash.

Most toll roads in Italy do take credit cards, but it’s always best to have a little cash on you–just in case.

Most cars in Italy are manuals.

Rental car agencies do tend to keep a few automatics on hand for tourists, but you’ll likely pay less and have more selection when renting a car for your Italy road trip if you can drive a manual instead!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

9 thoughts on “7 Phenomenal Italy Road Trip Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)”

Thank you for your amazing posts – wonderful details! We are headed to Italy in Sept/Oct 2023 and want to finish our trip with a 2 or 3 day driving tour of tuscany. Would you stay in one town and make day trips, say from Siena? Or move every night to a new town as we make our way back to Rome?

Ah, the perfect time of year to be in Italy. :-) You guys will have an amazing time!

I’d definitely recommend picking one town and making day trips from there. Since you’ll have a car, you may even want to consider staying at an agriturismo just outside of a town for easier parking and then driving to various towns/cities each day.

I would love to talk to you about making a special trip to my great grandfather’s hometown of Bagnaturo, and Pratola Peligna, near Sulmona in the Abruzzo region. I know it’s off the beaten path, and want to know the best way to get there. It is a trip of a lifetime.

Sounds like a wonderful trip!

We haven’t been there, but you’re definitely on the right track with taking a road trip. GPS directions are reasonably reliable in Italy, so I’d recommend renting a GPS if you don’t want to use the one on your phone.

And, while it’s definitely far off the beaten path, you’re also less than a 2 hour drive from Rome, so I’d recommend starting there unless you’re already going to be visiting somewhere else in Italy.

Hi Kate, my wife and I will be traveling to Italy in October of this year for two weeks. it is our first time and we will be spending time in Rome, then Sorrento, The Tuscany, Florence and then the Rome Airport. I will be renting a car for the Tuscany part of the trip and taking high speeds trains from Rome to Naples and then Naples to Florence what suggestions do You have for the trip?…We will be staying in B&B’s and Botique hotels and a Tuscan Villa for the two weeks….We want to see as much as possible but we also want to enjoy it as a vacation as well.

Sounds like you guys have a wonderful itinerary outlined!

From Sorrento, of course you’ll be able to reach Pompeii, Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, etc. I definitely recommend a guide at Pompeii–we didn’t use one the first time we visited and I regretted it.

I’m not sure how long you’ll be in Tuscany, but here’s our recommended road trip (it can of course be shortened and adapted): https://www.ourescapeclause.com/tuscany-road-trip-itinerary/

I have quite a few driving tips in there, too.

If you have even an afternoon to set aside for Naples itself, it’s a very memorable place. Get a pizza (L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is the most famous, and Pizzeria Brandi is another favorite of ours), a coffee and sfogliatella from Cafe Gambrinus, and enjoy the chaos.

Hope you guys have an incredible time in Italy! October is probably our favorite month to be there. :-)

Thanks so much for your help Kate….stay safe in your travels.

Kate Can you suggest any places to stay south of Rome as we road trip down to Taormina for the Bocelli concert on Sept 2 ? We land in Rome on the 27th of August and will head to cassino and the where would you suggest ? When we Taormina on the 5th we thought we would hang out in Sicily and then make our way back to Rome for sept 9 to our departure day of sept 12. We have seen Rome on a cruise 11 years ago but want to see a bit more. Any suggestions for accomodation in Rome . It is just 2 of us btw Thank you for your help Pattie

Sounds like quite the journey! I’m assuming you’re choosing this route because you’re confident drivers and want the adventure of the journey–if not, you may want to consider other options, as you don’t really need a car in either Rome or Taormina.

As far as the journey, though, you’ll be passing close to many incredible places along the way, including Naples, Pompeii, if you’re open to going out of the way, of course the Amalfi Coast. None of those are the easiest places to drive in Italy, but they’re all worth visiting!

Paestum, a lesser-known but incredible Greek ruin site, is a short detour as well.

Further south, the resort town of Tropea isn’t too far out of your way.

As far as accommodation in Rome, we have several suggestions in our itinerary posts: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/4-days-in-rome-itinerary/

Enjoy the drive!

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The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip

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Road Trip Italy Planner & Itinerary

The gorgeous country of Italy is perfect for a road trip! Compact and with all the best bits in the middle, you’ll be blown away by the landscapes, architecture, and local food in this sublime country. Take a bucket list road trip to Italy and see it for yourself!

A road trip in Italy opens up the sweeping landscapes, historic cities, and some of the most picture-perfect seaside towns in Europe, like no other way to travel does.

This visually arresting country will have you stopping regularly for Insta-worthy images, and along the way, you’ll find fantastic adventures to try like wine tastings, volcano trekking, exploring historic UNESCO sites, and the real Italian dolce vita !

In this Italy travel guide, you’ll find a list of all the top sights in Italy to visit on your road trip adventure, with Italy travel tips and information to help you plan and prepare. Come with us as we share our unmissable Italian road trip itinerary.

Is this your first time visiting Italy? Get all the information you need in our Italy Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Getting to Italy

Fly into Milan Malpensa   Airport,  a good starting point for your roadtrip in Italy. With direct international flights from North America, the Middle East, Europe, and  UK , we recommend booking through  Skyscanner  for live deals and the best prices.

Alternatively, switch up the itinerary a little and start your Italy trip in beautiful Rome, the historic capital city. There are so many things to do in Rome , we recommend allowing a couple of days for your visit before heading off on your Italian road trip!

Driving to Italy from UK

If you’re planning to drive to  Italy from the U K, then you’ll find everything you need to know, including the best, fastest, and cheapest routes, as well as driving tips, in our UK to Italy driving guide .

Are you planning to rent a car in Italy? As one of the largest rental car aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Italy . We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites as your travel around Italy, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Driving in Italy

Lots of people will tell you that renting a car in Italy is madness, that driving through Italy is dangerous and the roads are dreadful.  

It is true that some routes can be challenging to drive in Italy, and in big cities, Italian drivers see it as a badge of honor not to give way. Isn’t that the same in most big cities nowadays though?

Don’t let your fears about traveling Italy by car put you off taking Italian road trips. Take your time and be prepared for the differences in driving styles and roads from back home when you follow our driving in Italy tips .

You’ll also find helpful information regarding driving requirements in Italy, such as international driving permits, age limits, and tips about renting a car in Italy .

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Italy . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Italy Itinerary & Map

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Italy
• The Rough Guide to Italy
• DK Eyewitness Italy
• Italy Road Trip Itinerary

Milan – Portofino – Cinque Terre – Pisa – San Gimignano – Siena – Montepulciano – Rome – Spoleto – Assisi – Florence – Bologna – Venice – Lake Garda

• Distance: 1670km
• Duration: 2-4 weeks
• Drive Time: 23 hours

How to use this Italy road trip map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Make your road trip across Italy flexible…

Italy road trip 1 week.

Fly into Pisa instead, skip San Gimignano, Spoleto and Montepuciano. Head home from Pisa once you’ve seen Florence.  

Italy Road Trip 2 Weeks

Skip Pisa, Spoleto, Venice and Lake Garda…these are tough choices, but you can always come back for a second trip.

Italy Road Trip 3 Weeks

You have enough time to complete our suggested itinerary, but you will be busy! You’ll have one day in most places, and up to 36 hours in Rome and Florence.

Italy Road Trip 4 Weeks

Enjoy the time and spend longer in Rome and Florence. Maybe add Arezzo and Verona to your itinerary or check out the Amalfi coast.

Want to print this itinerary? Download and print a text only version with no ads or images. Includes space for your trip planning notes and a packing list for Italy!

Italy Road Trip Route & Destinations

Milan is the best airport to fly in and out of for your perfect Italy road trip itinerary. As one of Italy’s major cities, Milan enjoys direct international flights from all the world’s continents, it’s accessible, has great car hire options and it’s a pretty kick-a** city to visit too!

If you didn’t already know,  Milan  is a global capital of design, and the famous Italian fashion brands that call the city their home deliver sleek and simple Italian style at every turn. Milan’s creativity and design flair are not a recent phenomenon though.

The city center has been at the forefront of the arts throughout history and this can be seen in the spectacular Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’. 

If you fancy a bit of shopping in this city of designer boutiques and couture labels, then visit the spectacular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest shopping mall, and unlike any other shopping mall you’ve visited before!

Stay at the Moxy Milan Malpensa Airport , the best of Milan’s airport hotels, and get the train or bus directly into the center of Milan. It will take around 30 minutes and cost €10-15. If you’re splashing out, get a cab for around €100.

If you decide to spend a night in Milan, save money, and delay your car rental pick-up until the following day, then hit the road for the best road trip route in Italy!

RELATED POST: Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Head south to Portofino, a gentrified fishing village on the Italian Riviera coastline of the Ligurian Sea. Pastel-painted houses line the picturesque harbor, mixing effortlessly with stylish bijou stores, seafood restaurants, and cool bars.

The charming Piazzetta, a small cobbled square, overlooks the harbor of the coastal town, which is lined with super-yachts in the summer and more traditional craft in spring and autumn. 

Spend a day soaking up the atmosphere and people-watching. Grab a slice of delicious focaccia con il formaggio (focaccia with cheese) from nearby Recco and meander along the winding backstreets, whilst indulging in a bit of window shopping.  

Head to San Fruttuoso, a stretch of the Mediterranean coast which you can only get to by boat or on foot. Enjoy lunch at a cantina on one of the beautiful terraces, where we ate one of the best tomato salads we have ever experienced. 

Spend some time on the warm turquoise water in a kayak or on a paddle board; make sure to take a snorkel and mask with you too, as the water here is crystal clear.

Head back to dry land and enjoy dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants in the harbor, for a perfect end to your first full day in Italy.

• Where to Stay in Portofino

Upmarket: Splendido, A Belmond Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Piccolo Portofino – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Albergo Annabella, Santa Margherita Ligure – Booking.com | Agoda

Cinque Terre

You could easily spend a week or more in this wonderful national park, especially if you enjoy hiking, water sports, and outdoor activities.  Cinque Terre  is a group of five historic seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline and a real  bucket list destination .

Pretty and brightly colored houses cling to dramatic terraced streets, harbors are filled with traditional fishing boats bobbing on clear azure waters and trattorias serve up everything with homemade pesto (basil, olive oil, parmesan cheese, and pine nuts), the traditional sauce of the region.

The Sentiero Azzurro cliffside hiking trail links the five little towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, and Manarola. The trail offers incredible sea views and easy walking.

If you’re more of a water baby, see the Cinque Terre villages from a kayak, or take a boat trip and avoid the inevitable crowds in the towns.

Like driving the Amalfi Coast , going to Cinque Terre in a car can be challenging and you should read this  Cinque Terre guide  before you decide how to visit.

If you do decide to stay or park in Cinque Terre, head for delightful Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the Cinque Terre towns, and start your amble along the hiking route from there. Otherwise, stay in La Spezia and get the early train the next morning to make the most of your day.

• Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

Upmarket: Sesta Terra – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Ca’ D’Andrean – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: La Taverna del Metallo Rooms – Booking.com | Agoda

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Italy.

There’s  more than you think to do in Pisa , even though much of the town was sadly lost during the WW2 bombings. Head for the Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles) where you’ll find the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of Italy’s most famous landmarks, the fine Romanesque duomo, Gothic baptistery, and  camposanto  (cemetery).

This beautiful quartet of creamy-colored historic buildings sits on an open and grassy area, enabling the infamous Instagram shots of people seemingly holding up the infamous tower.

If you’re on a deadline, the best way to enjoy Pisa is to take this excellent  two hour guided tour  of these important monuments, as you pass through on your way to the next stop.

• Where to Stay in Pisa

Upmarket: Palazzo Cini – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Di Stefano – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel La Pace – Booking.com | Agoda

San Gimignano

As you approach this most archetypal of Tuscan hill villages, you’ll see its thirteen towers dominating the skyline.

Historically, this beautiful place was on the main pilgrim route from Northern Europe to Rome and the towers were built by merchants to show the world their power and wealth.   

San Gimignano is now beautifully preserved and perfect for an afternoon meandering the atmospheric narrow cobbled streets and piazzas of the historic center.

Make sure to visit the ancient Torre Grossa, the only one of the thirteen towers open to visitors.

Other must-sees are the stunning frescos in the 11th century Collegiate and the ornamental Rococo interior of Sant’ Agostino church. Otherwise, grab a gelato or a coffee and stroll to your heart’s content.

As with all Tuscan hill villages, if you’re in a motorhome or anything bigger than a car you will need to identify parking at sea level and walk up, or take public transportation – often provided by the municipality in the summer months.

When you leave San Gimignano, you’ll have time to make a quick stop to visit Monteriggioni , a fine example of a beautiful medieval walled castle and village.

RELATED POST: The Complete Guide to Touring Italy by Motorhome

• Where to Stay in San Gimignano  

Upmarket: Agriturismo Mormoraia – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Bel Soggiorno – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Relais Cappuccina – Booking.com | Agoda

Siena is gloriously Tuscan, its warm colors beckoning you into the medieval streets and towards the jewel in Siena’s crown, the famous Piazza del Campo.

The prettiest of  Tuscany’s must-see towns  is not only home to one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares but a wealth of stunning religious and civic buildings and a busy shopping area packed with interesting galleries and boutiques.

Any  visit to Siena  has to include the Piazza del Campo, an extraordinary site as you enter from Via di Citta to fully appreciate the symmetry, layout, and beauty of the square.

Lined with fine buildings that will grab your attention, don’t miss the tiny Fonte Gaia on the northern edge of the piazza, whose water is still supplied by a 500-year-old viaduct.

Take a  walking tour of Siena  and the Duomo to fully appreciate the city’s turbulent history and breathtaking architecture.

Stop for lunch at one of the many lively restaurants lining the streets around the main square and sample delicious Ribollita, a traditional Tuscan soup made with beans, vegetables, and bread, before heading off on one of the best drives in Italy.

• Where to Stay in Siena

Upmarket: Palazzetto Rosso – Art Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Athena – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Palazzo di Valli – Booking.com | Agoda

Val d’Orcia

Driving in Tuscany is one of the greatest pleasures as you road trip through Italy. As you leave Siena for Montepulciano, you’ll be motoring through some of Italy’s most iconic and stunning scenery.

Head south, setting your sat nav for the Val d’Orcia, and enjoy one of Europe’s best driving routes and Italy’s most scenic drive.

This journey will take you past small villages, vineyards, and olive groves, and you’ll pass row upon row of majestic cypress trees lining the roads and on the skyline. This is Tuscan countryside at its very best.

If you pick up the SP146 between San Quirico d’Orcia and Montepulciano, you might even spot the famous house from  the film ‘Gladiator’, some of which was shot in Tuscany .

Montepulciano

Famous for the classic, rustic wine of the same name, the gorgeous medieval town of Montepulciano is nestled into the chalky hills at the meeting point of the Val d’Orcia and the Vall di Chiana.

Surrounded by the classic Tuscan landscape of rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with cypress trees, this is your picture-perfect Tuscany road trip destination.

The old town itself is a masterpiece of cobbled streets, charming piazzas, restaurants, and gift shops which can easily draw you in for a deliciously pleasant afternoon and evening.  

Enjoy a meal of wild boar ragu, followed by local cheese and honey washed down with the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

The town is also one of the best spots in this itinerary for a  wine-tasting tour of a local vineyard , to understand the history and process of  making wine in Italy .

You cannot park within the town walls and need a permit to park in one of the numbered car parks on the outskirts, which your hotel will provide for you.

The car parks are around a ten to fifteen minute walk from the center of the town, so maybe pack a small bag for an overnight stay.

• Where to Stay in Montepulciano

Upmarket: Palazzo Carletti – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Il Rondò Boutique Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Albergo Duomo – Booking.com | Agoda

Italy Road Trip Ideas

A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Puglia Road Trip: The Best 7 Day Itinerary + Map & Tips

Tuscan Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete 2024 Guide

Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

The center of a vast empire and capital of the Christian world for centuries, Rome is full of the works of the artists and architects who gathered here to work for the Popes and their wealthy families.

This magnificent legacy has assured the eternal city’s position as one of the most important historical places in the world. Even if you just have one day, you should see the most important of Rome’s ancient architecture like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Roman Forum, and the slightly more modern historical sites like the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.

As you walk, you’ll take in a handful of light and airy piazzas, perfect for stopping and enjoying a coffee or ice cream as you people-watch.

Our Rome in one day itinerary has all the information you need to visit the city and get a real flavor of why Rome is a must-visit place in Italy.

RELATED POSTS: The Best of Rome in 36 Hours | Rome in a Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

If you have four weeks or longer for your driving tour of Italy, one of the best road trips from Rome is to head south for around three hours to the Amalfi Coast .

This stunning stretch of gravity-defying road from Sorrento to Salerno passes by the beautiful beaches of Positano, the romantic village of Ravello and authentic Vietri sul Mare, and is considered the best Italian coast road trip of them all.

The road south to the Amalfi Coast will also take you past Mount Vesuvius (one of Italy’s three live volcanoes – the others are Mount Etna on Sicily and Stromboli, its own small island in the Tyrrhenian Sea), and the magnificent Pompeii Archaeological Park.

Both Vesuvius and Pompeii can be seen in a day , meaning you could visit three major Italian attractions, adding just two extra days to your roadtrip Italy – be prepared for an early start from Rome though!

RELATED POST: Southern Italy Road Trip: Discover the Best 33 Places To Visit

Driving from Rome to Florence you’ll find Spoleto, often overlooked in favor of its famous neighbors but a true hidden gem.

Nestled in a beautiful wooded setting in Umbria, the town is famous for the Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of the Two Worlds) held in June and July annually.

Outside of this time, tourists are welcomed, but not thick on the ground like they are in next-door Assisi.

Spoleto’s independent nature has allowed it to thrive and progress as a town in its own right, rather than a tourist hot spot.

Come to Spoleto to enjoy a slow day, sipping coffee in the square, taking the travelator (an experience in itself) up to the mighty fortress of La Rocca Albornoz, which dominates the skyline, and wandering around the many beautiful churches and religious buildings in the town. 

• Where to Stay in Spoleto

Upmarket: Palazzo Leti Residenza d’Epoca – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel dei Duchi – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Vecchio Forno – Booking.com | Agoda

The birth and final resting place of St Francis of Assisi, this beautiful medieval hill town, with its geranium-filled narrow streets, charming piazzas, and panoramic views is a must-see on your Italian road trip itinerary.

Wreathed in history and religion, the magnificent Basilica di San Francesco draws pilgrims and tourists from across the globe – think of  Italian novels  like ‘The Name of the Rose’ and you’re imagining Assisi.

Clinging to the side of a craggy outcrop and visible for miles, the Basilica dominates the town and surrounding landscape.  Spend the day wandering between here and Assisi’s main square, Piazza del Comune, where the Roman columns of the Templo di Minerva still stand.

There are many other religious buildings of note, a  walking tour with a private guide  will help you understand the importance and history of each.

• Where to Stay in Assisi

Upmarket: Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Le Silve di Armenzano – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Cladan – Booking.com | Agoda

If you’re all eaten and drunk out at this stage, consider giving Bologna (the stop after Florence) a miss and heading up the east coast of Italy from Assisi, before cutting back inland to Florence.

This route takes in the best of Le Marche, a remote corner full of beautiful scenery that is sandwiched between the Apennines and the Adriatic.

The coast is home to a number of seaside resort towns with long sandy beaches and the stunning Conero Peninsula, which makes a welcome relief from the almost uninterrupted beach which dominates the coastline.

Inland are lots of beautiful and historic towns, less visited and the better for it. For a real punch of medieval architecture, check out Urbino and Ascoli Piceno, the highlights of the region.

Whilst you’re there, pop into San Marino, said to be the world’s oldest surviving republic and the fifth smallest country in the world!

Florence is a vast and graceful monument to the Renaissance, the period of cultural and artistic rebirth following the Middle Ages. Many famous artists such as Michelangelo and Botticelli contributed to Florence’s heritage, making it one of the artistic capitals of the world. 

Historic Florence is compact and walkable and could be seen in a day if you’re ruthless in your selections.

Better to spend two days here and visit the must-sees of the exceptional Duomo, the stunning Palazzo Vecchio, the sublime Uffizi Gallery, and the ancient church of Santa Croce.

Across the River Arno, via the Ponte Vecchio, lies the vast and imposing Pitti Palace and the Santa Spirito church.

Book everything in advance, whether that’s tickets, tours, or guides; this city never sheds itself of tourists, all clamoring to see the same things as you!  

RELATED POST: One Day in Florence – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

• Where to Stay in Florence

Upmarket: Hotel Spadai – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Soprarno Suites – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Perseo – Booking.com | Agoda

One of the best medieval cities in Italy and the foodie capital of Emilia-Romagna (and possibly the whole of Italy) Bologna will surprise and delight you. Follow our self-guided foodie walking tour of Bologna to sample the best food and architecture the city has to offer. 

If you have time, pop across to Modena to sample the famous Balsamic vinegar made there, and then Parma for the ham of the same name.

RELATED POST: Self-Guided Food Tour of Bologna

• Where to Stay in Bologna

Upmarket: Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: PHI Hotel Al Cappello Rosso – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Social Hub Bologna – Booking.com | Agoda

Ahh, Venice. This unique city has survived against all the odds; built on a series of mud banks, and in the tidal waters of the Adriatic, Venice regularly floods.

Despite this, little of the essential fabric and infrastructure of Venice has changed in 200 years, and more than 20 million visitors a year fall in love with the beguiling city of water.

Trying to see Venice in a day will not do it justice, and leave you feeling frustrated. If that’s all you have, either come back another time or take a  private full day trip  so you can be whisked around and see all the best bits, without getting lost.

Whenever you visit and whether you choose to see the religious and historic buildings, the famous glass island of Murano, the lace-making island of Burano, and haunting Torcello, or take a gondola along the Grand Canal, Venice will be crowded.

Park at Garage San Marco Venezia , (book well in advance) a five minute walk from the hotel. There is no free parking in or around Venice, expect to pay at least €25 per 24-hour period.

RELATED POST: One Day in Venice – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

• Where to Stay in Venice

Upmarket: Sina Centurian Palace – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Palazzo Veneziano – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Saturnia & International – Booking.com | Agoda

Lake Garda is your final stop before heading back to Milan to drop off your hire car.  Lake Garda, the most well-known and largest of the beautiful Italian lakes , borders three regions; Trentino, Lombardy, and the Veneto.

The further north along the lake you go, the more dramatic the landscapes become, as you head towards the snowcapped Alps of the South Tyrol.

There are  many beautiful towns around Lake Garda , all offering opportunities for water sports, hiking, and relaxing at the end of your epic road trip around Italy.  

Our pick is Bardolino on the east shore, a lively town with easy access to the lake and lots going on, as well as spectacular sunsets over Lake Garda to end your day.

From Bardolino, it’s a few hour’s drive to Milan Airport, perhaps via Lake Iseo, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore if you have a few extra days to explore.

• Where to Stay in Lake Garda

Upmarket: LLAC Living Nature Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Resort Casino di Caccia – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel La Terrazzina – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or get inspiration from our favorite European road trips .

Italian Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for trips to Italy.

• Search for affordable flights to Italy with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Italy with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Italy with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Italy with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

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The best road trips in Italy: five stunning routes

Italy has more than its share of legendary drives. Many of the country's most spectacular routes are well traversed, first by the Romans and then by the subsequent civilisations and peoples who followed, carving out picturesque paths that offer much more than a means of getting from A to B. While some are particularly iconic – the well-trodden Amalfi Coast Road among them – there's plenty more to discover on your next Italian adventure, including one resident Italophile's dreamy tour of Franciscan monasteries in Tuscany . So fuel up and set off, allowing time to stop off for incredible meals, new encounters, and lots of snaps along the way.

Approximate time: six hours

Start in the old, noble city of Palermo , where honey hues and crumbling stone splendour blur into a balmy labyrinth of restaurants and al-fresco wine bars. Dodge Vespas and zoom past old palazzos before heading west. Sip on cocktails at Trapani’s Scopello beach and marvel at the sandy meadows, olive groves and ancient columns of Agrigento further south. Then work your way up the east through Ragusa, Modica and Noto to Taormina , a dramatic town in the shadows of Mount Etna that’s home to an Ancient Greek amphitheatre and an annual film festival. Finally, hop on a boat to explore the sleepy Aeolian islands , where stretches of vineyards are peppered with white houses and craggy rock formations drop down into crystal-clear waters. Rosalyn Wikeley

Where to stay: Set in the Ragusan countryside a 35-minute drive from Sampieri, contemporary hotel Relais Chiaramonte offers a brief hiatus from baroque façades and frescoed ceilings.

Lausanne to Milan

Approximate time: four hours

Starting on the shores of Switzerland ’s Lake Geneva and ending in Milan’s cobblestone streets, this rugged mountain tour is a cross-country extravaganza. The drive begins zigzagging around the hairpin bends of the Alps, through forested mountain trails and across the wine region of Chexbres before reaching the sleepy, medieval villages of Italy. Stop to explore the walled town of Ricetto di Candelo for family-run restaurants and panoramic views, or spend a day among the Belle Epoque villas of Stresa and the Borromean islands on the crystalline shores of Lake Maggiore . Round off the trip in Milan’s bohemian Brera district, where sand-hued buildings turn shades of orange and red in the light of the setting sun. Sophie Knight

Where to stay: Bulgari Milano , in downtown Milan. The hotel hosts fashion bashes showcasing the latest handbag or high-jewellery watch, the driveway is always nose-to-tail with blacked-out Bentleys, and all the best shops are in sight.

Approximate time: eight hours

This road-trip route zips in a figure of eight around Franciscan monasteries, Etruscan castles and medieval hamlets across Tuscany . Zoom down narrow streets watched over by coy Renaissance torsos, stopping off at cafés and wine bars to meet the locals – old ladies waving handkerchiefs, men sipping espressos at Formica tables. Outside Florence, hunt for truffles at Tenuta Torciano Winery, find restaurants hidden down driveways lined with cypress trees and explore walled cities behind sprawling vineyards and sun-kissed olive groves. Toby Skinner

Where to stay: Villa San Michele , once a Franciscan monastery, in the Fiesole hills overlooking Florence.

Bari to Salento

Approximate time: one-and-a-half hours

Puglia ’s dry Salento region is the Italian answer to Cornwall – with its olive groves, cliff-jumping kids and unfussy cucina povera . Coastal roads run almost all the way around the heel, from the plunging limestone stacks and rocky bays of the outer east coast to the limpid tranquillity of the west coast, with white-sand beaches including the long and gloriously named Punta Prosciutto. At its core, Greek-influenced Salento is an escape – the opposite of a guided tour, it is a place of wild swims under limestone bluffs and open roads through the ochre landscape. Toby Skinner

Where to stay: Stay in the handsome town of Gagliano del Capo, where the converted 19th-century Palazzo Daniele is the smartest boutique hotel around.

Naples to Salerno

Approximate time: four-and-a-half hours

Yes, the drive from Naples ' bustling heart to the historic port city of Salerno could take just an hour on a good day – but where's the adventure in that? Set off after a final carby feast (Naples is the home of the humble pizza, after all) and stick to the coastal road, passing first through Torre del Greco before swerving past Castellammare di Stabia towards the iconic Amalfi Coast towns via Sorrento. Stop for lunch or a bargain night's stay in one of the stunning Agriturismo spots such as Agriturismo Fattoria Terranova or Agriturismo Le Grottelle , or hold tight and splash the cash on a sunset supper-with-a-view in Positano or Amalfi. As the route takes in both iconic and underrated historical sites (Pompeii is a bucket list trip for many), this drive is best tackled over the course of a few days – especially as some of Italy's most exquisite hotels line the winding road. Connor Sturges

Where to stay: Le Sirenuse houses some of the most sought-after Amalfi Coast hotel rooms, with its rooms boasting unrivalled views of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Can't justify the expense? Swing by for an Old Fashioned in Franco's Bar and admire the scenery for a fraction of the price – no reservation required.

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The best Italian road trips (With Maps)

The most inspiring Italian Road Trips to organize once in your life. Discover some of the most incredible roads to drive in Italy and get lost in the scenic landscape

Last Update: July 8, 2024

• Destination

Italy is a beautiful land, full of amazing landscapes and unique scenarios. Those are the main subject of our new blog post, regarding the best Italian road trips. We have accurately selected 7 of the best itineraries along the road of the beautiful country.

The Italian roads are not for everybody, especially for newbie drivers. It is important that you have got a fairly good experience driving if planning an Italy road trip.

Mind-blowing scenarios will open in front of you, driving inside little cute towns, treating you with delicious food and tasty drinks. This list will help you to choose your most suitable Italy road trip.

Because there are so many, and different, you have to understand if you want more a mountain scenario or a sea landscape. As Italian we have driven everywhere, exploring from north to south the land. We think it should be in your personal Italy bucket list to drive in Italy in one of those amazing itineraries.

So, here we are with the 7 best Italy Road Trips you have to plan soon.

The best road trips in Italy

Amalfi coast road trip, cinque terre.

• Sicily Coast
• The Dolomites – Lakes and Mountains
• Northern Lakes
• Tuscan countryside hills

Puglia Coastside

The best italian road trips in the south.

Perfect Itinerary for 3 to 5 days

The curves of Amalfi coast are the ideal not only for car drivers, but also for motorbikes. You will improve your skills, enjoy the panorama and also get quickly from a place to place, without bothering much for parking space

Places to visit

• Vietri sul Mare
• Valley of Temples

Also ideal for a trip in Motorbike, you will enjoy the Island landscapes, beautiful beaches, history and culture, roman and Greek ruins. Plan also to take a trip to the minor Volcanic islands.

Sicily Coast to Coast

Perfect destination for 7 to 10 Days

The most natural landscape in Italy, just facing the Greek coasts. Discover hidden gems of Puglia and paradisiac sandy beaches. Be astonished by the rich culture, architecture and heritage of this part of Italy.

• Santa Maria di Leuca
• Santa Cesarea
• Torre dell’ Orso

The best central Italy Road Trips

• Chianti Wine Region

Explore the beautiful Florence, the major art and culture city in Italy. Drive through the hills of the Chianti, with both side fulfilled of vineyard and good restaurants. End your trip visiting Siena and the well known Pisa.

Tuscan Countryside hills

Perfect destination for 2 to 3 Days

Northern Italy Road Trips

• Cortina D’Ampezzo
• Madonna di Campiglio
• Riva del Garda

Check our complete Dolomites Itinerary for a full immersion in the proper Alps landscapes in Italy. Perfect for hikers, but also ideal for peace and relax surrounded just by nature.

Top Dolomites Peaks

Perfect destination for 5 to 7 Days

Northern Lakes Itinerary

Perfect destination for 3 to 5 Days

The perfect alternative to a Dolomites Itinerary. Enjoy the calm of the lakes of Northern Italy. Visit fairytales places like Lake Garda and other minor lakes. Visit the enchanting Como or walk through the Shakespeare love story Romeo and Juliet in Verona.

• Peschiera del Garda

Picture perfect landscapes, fisherman towns, romantic scenarios. The Cinque Terre Road trip in Italy it’s the ideal for who wants to enjoy the little villages along the Mediterranean Coast.

Perfect Itinerary for 2 to 3 days

The best Italian Road Trips Itineraries

Amalfi coast road trip the popular italian road trip.

Arguably Italy’s most scenic stretch of coastline, the Amalfi Coast should be the first choice looking for an Italian Road trip . We will propose a unique trip through dramatic bluffs, pastel-coloured villages, high cliffs roads and unique fisherman towns. Starting from Naples through the E45 highway and then the SS145 crossing Vico Equense towards Sorrento. An hour drive from the main southern city of Italy. After Sorrento, your drive is toward Positano . READ > How to reach Positano from Naples

From the instagrammable Amalfi Coast scenario of Positano, you will move driving toward Amalfi. On your way, you will find picturesque villages like Praiano and the Fjord of Furore. Amalfi is not the last stop of your trip. Visit Atrani, Ravello, Maiori and Minori, Erchie, Cetara and many more, before arriving at Vietri Sul Mare and Salerno driving on the SS163 Amalfitana.

Be ready to increase your driving skills in Italy, and be amazed by the scenarios that will be opened in front of you. The Amalfi Coast is one of the best Italian Road Trips.

Where to stop in your Amalfi Coast Road Trip in Italy

There are so many places to stop by while driving on the Amalfi Coast Cliffs . We can name a few to give you some tips on how to plan a better you Southern Italian Road Trip . A unique picturesque town for food lovers is Agerola , on the hilltop of Sorrento Coast , you can try the typical mozzarella and provola. Gragnano as well on the uphill of Castellammare di Stabia, a few kilometres away is the world-known place of Pasta.

Going through the curves of Amalfi Coast you have to stop by Sorrento. Try the typical liquor from this part of Italy made by local lemon trees . The limoncello is alcoholic so sip it while staying in Sorrento overnight.

The other gems of the Amalfi Coast Road trip are the Furore Fjord, Amalfi and its stunning Cathedral, the little fisherman towns of Maiori and Minori. Visit Praiano and its gorgeous beaches , dance barefoot on the beach of Positano at the Music on the Rocks dance club .

Drive difficult: Mid-difficult – SafeDrive Trip length: 3 to 7 days Roads Conditions: Mainly one-lane highway

Top Activities:

Cinque Terre The most scenic view

Start your trip along Cinque Terre from La Spezia . But you can easily plan it from Genova too. Or even longer from Florence , along the sea coastline, touching Livorno , Porto Venere ending in Genova . Cinque Terre is a special place in Italy. Cutest pastel-coloured houses on the cliffs, will welcome you to one of the most romantic scenarios in Italy. For many Cinque Terre is too overrated, for others is absolutely stunning. Despite the two opinions, we can assure that driving along this stretch of coast is a unique thing to do in Italy.

Driving in Cinque Terre means touching base in little fisherman towns such as Vernazza, Rio Maggiore, Manarola and Monterosso. The images of the landscape of Vernazza are everywhere on social media. It has become one of the most popular instagrammable places in Italy. But other than picture-perfect locations, the Italy Road Trip of Cinque Terre will take you to amazing beaches and luxurious places. This is the case of Porto Venere and Portofino.

Where to stop in your Cinque Terre Road Trip in Italy – Main attractions

Drive difficult: Mid-Easy – Safe Drive Trip length: 3 to 5 days Roads Conditions: Mainly highway one-lane and two lanes

Sicily Coast | Beaches and good food

Continuing our storytelling about the best Italy road trips, Sicily should be a pin on your map. The Big Island in Southern Italy is awesome all year, with amazing high temperatures even in winter. The beautiful cities of Sicily know how to welcome you at the best. It is a favourite place to enjoy the holiday for food lovers. Our Italy Road trip in Sicily will take you from Palermo the capital of the Region, through Cefalù, Lipari, hiking the Mt. Ena an active volcano. You will visit the Valley of Temples and unwind on the beaches of Catania on the opposite side facing the African Coast.

The roads in Sicily are not the best, but for sure the most suggestive. If you are lucky you will also see the Volcano Etna smoking away, but not only that. Y ou will be launched back in the past when this land was a Greek colony, then passed to Romans, Arabs and many more.

If you still have time, or planning to spend a little more in Sicily. You can place your car on a ferry to one of the many awesome islands. We suggest you check out Lipari, a volcanic dreamy Island . It is really popular in summer, so expect that it could be crowded. If your plan is to come back to Palermo, a few kilometres away from the city, there is Trapani, from where you can reach Favignana with a ferry boat in less than an hour.

Where to stop in your Sicily Road Trip in Italy – Main attractions

Drive difficulty: Easy Drive – Difficult in remote villages Trip length: 10 -12 days Roads Conditions: highway one-lane with many dirt roads

The Dolomites Lakes and Mountains

Passing from the sea to the mountains landscapes, our itinerary about the best Italian Road Trips will include a journey surrounded by the magnificent Dolomites . Our route through the Mountains and lakes of Dolomites will start in Trento, the Capital city of the Region. From Trento, you can drive up some of the best ski chalets in Italy, in Cortina D’Ampezzo. The roads in Trentino are pretty good, but the difficult part of driving through the Dolomites is that you have to go up and up to different altitudes. The roads, like in the Amalfi Road Trip of the coast are just with one carriage, which makes it difficult because of the trucks going to the border with Austria and Switzerland. By the way, talking about beautiful scenarios, your Italy Road Trip of Dolomites will take you around Bormio, ideal in winter for a break from the routine. After Dimaro you can take you way back to Trento passing by Dimaro and Madonna di Campiglio . The roads are not busy, that will make it easy to drive. Your next stop will be at Riva del Garda, a fairy tale place over the Garda Lake.

This Lake is pretty huge and you can drive all around passing three different Italian Regions in one time and reaching even Verona nearby. The last trip of this journey along the Dolomites will take you to Rovereto , a city 20 minutes away from Trento, rich in history and stunning building.

You can associate this Italian Road trip with a visit to Venezia or Verona. But also, you can travel to many other Italian cities like Padova, Trieste, Treviso, or a couple of hours away Parma, Bologna, Reggio Emilia.

Where to stop in your Dolomites Italian Road Trips – Main attractions

Drive difficult: Mid-range – Difficult in winter with snow Trip length: 5 to 7 days Roads Conditions: highways one lane and high-speed highways

Northern Lakes | North Italy Road Trip

Still staying in the northern part of the country, our itinerary will take you to an Italian Road Trip of the Northern Lakes . As you have read before, there is some suggestive lake landscape to discover even in the Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary . This one instead will take a bit closer to Milan and the border with Switzerland. This route will take you through picturesque little towns, seeing snow-capped peaks and inspiring you romance watching unique sunsets on the lake . We thought that it was good to give you an overview of two lakes on this trip through Italy. From Milan is easy to reach Lake Como , strolling around the enchanting and romantic lake. Your next place to visit is then the Garda Lake, a stunning inspiring photo spot in Northern Italy. The end of this trip will be in Verona , the romantic city of Romeo and Juliet . You can also extend this stunning Italian Road Trip to Venice , for a more romantic itinerary.

Where to stop in your Northern Lakes Italy Road Trip – Main attractions

Drive difficulty: Easy Trip length: 5 to 7 days Roads Conditions: One-lane highways

Tuscan countryside hills The Chianti Region

If there is a prize for the most enjoyable road trips in Italy, the Tuscan Countryside hills tour in Italy among vineyard and wine factories, will win it. Tuscany is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Italy. But more than visiting popular cities like Pisa, Siena and Florence, the best alternative plan is to drive among the hills of the countryside discovering some Tuscany hidden gems . On your path, driving in the green meadows of Tuscany you will encounter on your way old walled villages lying on hilltops. This is the right place to enjoy a glass of wine on tour. ( Remember that you are driving ). In the beautiful flower fields, there are always pretty vineyards and wine cellars. You can start this Italy Road trip in Florence, spending a couple of days in the cultural city . We suggest you check our Itinerary of Florence in one day . You will discover how to visit the Duomo and skip the queue . But also how can I go wine tasting in the Chianti Valley? Check this amazing Tour tailored for you!

We will bet that you have always dreamed of discovering a little castle on the hilltop, watching a unique sunset surrounded by the Italian perfect landscape, sipping a glass of wine. Check this popular wine Tour!

Where to stop in your Chianti Region Road Trip in Italy – Main attractions

Drive difficulty: Easy Drive Trip length: 5 to 10 days Roads Conditions: Mainly rural road and one-lane countryside roads

Puglia Coastside Italy sea breeze

This is the most underrated Italian Road Trips in our list. It is uncommon and not really popular, but is maybe the most suggestive seascape you will see in your life. The southern part of Italy has got the best scenarios , it is true, but is also famous that is just new to tourism and promoting their attractions. We always focus on less popular hotspots in the World, and for us, Puglia is one of those hidden gems that you have to discover. The Italian Road Trip we are proposing in Puglia, will take you from Gallipoli and its amazing beaches through the turquoise blue water coast side through Santa Maria di Leuca. You will pass by a Puglia Coastside which is called “Maldive of Salento” . White sand, blue water similar to the paradise of Maldive Coral Reef.

We bet that those spots don’t say anything to you, but you will be worthless when seeing it. The other stops in the Puglia Coastside Roadtrip are Santa Cesarea, Otranto and Torre dell’ Orso.

Despite the first and the last are literally little villages but cute, it is Otranto the real gem of this trip. The awesome castle on the sea at night is one of the most romantic places in Southern Italy. The city itself is unique and unmissable. In the morning there is a typical fish market on the quay that pours towards the castle with the sea behind it.

Where to stop in your Puglia Coastline Road Trip in Italy – Main attractions

Drive difficulty: Hard Trip length: 5 to 10 days Roads Conditions: dirt roads around remote beaches and one-lane busy highways

Top tips before you start your Italy Road trip

If you are in love with Italy and you want to see more than just roaming around a cultural spot once, picking an itinerary from our list of Italian Road Trips is the best option. Doing on the road trip to Italy is a smart way to discover more of this country.

This is just one list of Road Trips in Italy, but there are much more underrated to be discovered. You will be surprised by the scenery that will open in front of you, stunning views, amazing lakes and white hat in the mountains even in summer.

However, driving in Italy isn’t always easy, and if you are not comfortable while driving is the best to rely on somebody that drives for you. The narrow streets of the ancient villages are not always easy to drive in. Also parking and finding a space could be sometimes a nightmare for everyone.

Italian when driving is not easy to talk with, despite being generous and open people. You have to be quick to learn how to deal with an Italian driver.

How to rent a car in Italy

• Checking the best price for renting a car in Italy, don’t look just at the cheapest one. We suggest you see which car suits your needs better. Driving a car along the curves of Amalfi Coast is not the same to push over the limits the vehicle on top of the Dolomite’s picks. Not only, think about parking space if you are driving along the Puglia Coastline in the peak season, where there is literally no parking space for big cars.
• We have rented cars around the world with many companies, Cent a uro is highly suggested, but also Europcar . We recommend you to check the reviews of the company. Sometimes the local offices are more efficient in a country compared to another.
• Check if you are renting directly from the car hire company or from a third-party website. It will make a huge difference in talking about Car Hire insurance. We suggest you check in advance if that insurance they are offering online (if is the third party) will cover all the costs. Sometimes they have a particular agreement that covers the costs partially on nor at all in different situations. We ended up a couple of times having 2 different insurances, one from the hiring company and another from the website .
• Don’t spend money on extra charges like GPS . The costs will be high calculated per day and you can easily use your phone. We always carry with us a USB plug to charge the phones in the car and a vent holder.
• GPS Apps off-line . In order to don’t drag down your Data plan, you can use Maps.me , which allows you to download maps and itineraries offline for any time use.
• Ask the renting company where the documents are in advance . If the local police stop you on the way, they will ask you a few papers over than just the driver licence.

How to drive in Italy, tips by Italians

• While taking a highway in Italy will not be easy for you at first, keep some spare change with you . For sure you will end up on the wrong track where it is not possible to pay by card.
• Driving along the Amalfi Coast you will see that there are not that many spots where you stop by and take a shot. When you see a spot to stop the car, do it.
• Try to rent the smallest car available if in Sicily, Amalfi Coast of Puglia , it will help you with parking space and facilitate you in manoeuvres. While doing the trip to Tuscany, Dolomites and Northern Lakes Italian Road Trips, hire a powerful car 4X4.
• Fill the tank when you can . In the centre of the cities, it is pretty impossible to find oil stations. You have to get gas outside.
• The High-speed Highways are always more expensive for gasoline compared to countryside oil stations.
• It is not true that people in Italy at the traffic lights are passing with red. Don’t be stupid.
• Don’t drive in the hot hours of the day, neither with low light.

Attractions we suggest you book in advance.

• If you are thinking about a tight Italian Road trip, we suggest you book your unique experience in advance.
• We use Get Your Guide to book all our activities while travelling. You will find tickets for all the most popular attractions. You can also get the cheapest skip-the-line tickets to get more time for you to explore.

What to pack for an Italian road trip

• Depending on when you are planning to make this Italian road trip, we suggest you pack light. You don’t want to move luggage around every day from one place to another.
• As we said before, renting a car and doing a road trip is meaning you have to drive a lot and use a GPS. Pack a phone holder and a USB charger for cars.
• Dress to impress. Also don’t leave at home sunglasses and a hat.
• Comfy shoes are the best travelling in Italy . You will walk a lot through cobblestone streets and ancient narrow passages.
• If you like hikes, plan to include hiking boots in your suitcase. In our itinerary, you can plan day hikes on the Dolomites, or the Sentiero degli Dei on the Amalfi Coast.
• Pack a swimsuit, you will see amazing landscapes and dreamy beaches. Sometimes those spots are so remote that nobody is in that. You will have all the beach for you and just the time to change the clothes for the swimsuit in your car.

The best period to go on a Road trip to Italy

Some People will say “Italy is always a good idea” , but like every other Country, there are better times to visit some places compared to others. The geographic position of Italy will tell you a lot about the weather and temperatures. The South is typically extremely hot in Summer and wets in winter , with amazing weather conditions in Autumn and Spring as the best time to visit almost all our routes.

The Puglia, Amalfi Coast and Sicily Road Trip are very attractive in Summer. The best period to enjoy the sun and the beaches of the Southern part of Italy. If you are in love with the cold and the snow, we suggest you go in winter for the Dolomites Road Trip or the Northern Lake route. Despite that, the Dolomites are amazing in Summer too, with great temperatures and chance to use their winter sports as well.

We have been travelling through Trentino in June, visiting and swimming in amazing lakes, hiking up to 2000 mt on the Dolomites with the snow on the pick. We have been rafting in the cold water of the Torrente Noce. Everything was amazing, but please remember to carry with you a light jacket at night the temperatures go down a lot.

If you like the best Italy Road Trips post, you might also like: How to spend two days in Milan Reasons why Naples is worth visiting Photos that will make you visit Trentino

Hi travellers! Welcome to Italian Trip Abroad, an award-winning travel blog that guides you to the best destinations in Italy and around the world. From secret places to well-known popular destinations through inspiring stories. We love to offer deep guides with the use of photos and videos.  Read our story and how we got here!

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We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers  living life one stamp at a time. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Italian Trip Abroad and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way . You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross Italy and get on the most insane adventures. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

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Italy Road Trip – The Best Italian Road Trip Itinerary For Your Next Holiday

Table of Contents

Best Italian Road Trip Itinerary For Your Next Holiday

During my 30,000 Km . road trip through 41 European countries , I finally arrived in the beautiful country of Italy .

Making my way through the stunning Swiss Alps and racing the famous St. Gotthard pass was definitely a great warm-up for what I was about the experience on my Italy road trip. It does not matter if you are doing the road trip Milan to Venice or the road trip Venice to Rome.

When people ask: “ What is the best way to travel through Italy? “

I say 3 words: Road trip in “Italia”!!

Have fun! 😉

Italy Road Trip – Best Road to Drive in Italy

When people ask: “How long to drive around Italy and see everything?”

My answer would be: a year!

But of course I understand that it is not possible for everybody, therefore I will show you how to enjoy the famous italian roads in just 2 weeks with my Italy road trip guide.

The road trip would start at the beautiful lake Como & Como City  whilst slowly driving to the fashion capital of the world: Milan! After that I visited the famous romantic city of Venice and did I end up in one of the smallest countries in the world, called San Marino.

Of course, I could not miss  the capital Rome and the beautiful city of Naples.

On my way up back North, I drove through Tuscany and finally ended up visiting the famous tower of Pisa.

Only in Rome and Venice did I take a metro and/or bus to get to the city center. I would park the car just outside of the city as traffic can be a nightmare in these cities. Yes indeed, driving in Italy surely is a great adventure!

Driving your car in Italy

Renting a car in italy.

Renting a car in Italy is not complicated, but you need to follow a few basic steps. First of all, it is important that your driver’s license is a valid EU license. This can either be a European drivers license or an international drivers license if you are from the America’s or Canada.

At the airport you will find all  the international car rental companies . If you arrive by plane you can start your road trip adventure from almost any large city.

Click on the city you wish to start your road trip from and get the best car rental deals and prices: 

Milan ,  Florence ,  Rome  or  Venice

Traffic rules

Driving a car in Italy can be a very interesting experience. Although the traffic rules are overall the same as in the rest of Europe, there are a few exceptions that you need to follow.

In italy almost all the mayor highways are toll roads. Therefore, you will need to pay at each crossing with either your creditcard or by cash. When you want to pay with card make sure you enter the line that states “Cartasi” or “Carte” .

Another option is paying by VIA-card. This special card can be bought at all gas stations and is magnetic card that allows you the pass each toll passage quickly. You can buy them with a 25 Euro or 50 Euro credit. Each time you make a pass, the payment will be deducted automatically from your deposit. This card is not valid on Sicili

If you do not pay your toll there is a big chance you will get a fine. This will be done by mail to the address on which the license plate is registered. It has to go through the  European Municipality Outsourcing  (EMO), therefore it can take several months before you are notified of your traffic valuation.

The fine can be paid on :   emo.nivi.it

Visiting Lake Como

Lake Como is located a few kilometer next to the Swiss border. This famous lake is 46 km long from north to south and has a surface area of 142 km2. It is the third largest lake in Italy and has been used in many Hollywood movies, like: StarWars Episode 2 – Attack of the Clones (2002) , James Bond – Casino Royale (2006) and Ocean’s Twelve (2004) with George Clooney and Brad Pitt.

They also say that George Clooney owns a villa here, but unfortunate I did not run into him! If you are interested in staying the night, make sure to check out this blog post on best places to stay in Lake Como .

It takes about a full day to drive around the whole lake, but I recommend you go early as possible.

I arrived at 10 AM and the roads were full. This is a very touristic destination, therefore keep in mind that the prices or much higher in the restaurants and café.

Best Tours at Lake Como

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments at Lake Como!

A Day in Milan

I did not know much about Milan when visiting the city. I only associated the city with being the fashion capital of the world and that all the luxury fashion chains would be present here.

Thankfully, it was that and much more. Milan is a clean and trendy city and spending a few summer days was not a problem at all.

I recommend visiting the Gothic Duomo Di Milano Cathedral and if you have time “ The Last Supper ” of Leonardo da Vinci.

Parking in Milan is an absolute nightmare. I parked my Volkswagen Beetle at Borromeo Parking and it is the perfect location as it just a 10-minute walk to the city centre. Unfortunately, I paid close to 4,50 Euro per hour, which is considered cheap in Milan!

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele

This famous indoor shopping mall is the number one tourist attraction in Milan. It is a display of stunning architecture, art and a lot of very expensive designer stores. A great place for photography and to max out your creditcard!

Nex to shopping you can also enjoy the finest cuisines and cafes and there is even a 7-star hotel.

How to get there?

Walking:  Piazza Duomo or Piazza della Scala By Taxi:  Piazza del Duomo or Piazza della Scala Metro:  M1 (red line) – M3 (yellow line), station “Duomo” Bus:  line 61 Tram:  line 1 & 2

Top 3 Best & Cheapest Tours in Milan

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Milan!

The busy streets of Venice

Venice.. the city of love.. the city of Casanova and its romantic little channels. This beautiful municipality is divided by 118 small islands and is definitely a must-see when you are doing a Italy road trip.

The downside? It gets so busy that it will be impossible for you to get even close to the city by car. But let’s be honest here, you should not explore the stunning architecture by car, but by boat of course!

Parking in Venice

Therefore, I recommend you either park you car by the Garage Communal AVM. Cost for parking are just 25 Euro for the whole day   and it is located about 5 minutes from the first ferry point: Pe. Le Roma.

Ferry Services in Venice

Buy a one-way ferry ticket from this point to San Marco Church (30 minutes) for just 12 Euro and you are good to go. This ferry will show you the most amazing buildings in Venice and is cheaper compared to the gondola tours.

Private Gondola tours

The private Gondola tours start at 80 Euro (daytime) to 100 Euro (nighttime) for 2 persons for 30-40 minutes. Just do not expect any romantic privacy, as the channels are absolutly flooded with them.

If you do want so privacy, make sure you pay some extra cash and for sure he will take you to more non-touristic route. I also recommend you make a reservation beforehand, because the prices are much more expensive when you buy a ticket on the spot. You can save up to 40% by ordering online!

Click Here to Order Your Gondola Tour Online With A Discount!

Free Walking Tour Venice

The Venice free walking tour team will walk you through the history of Venice, from its legendary foundation on several muddy islands of the lagoon to becoming the most important trading city in Europe.

I took my tour at 4.00 PM, and it is was worth every second of it. The guide was amazing and showed us all the hidden gems of the north part of the city. I highly recommend booking a free tour and afterwards you can always leave a donation if you are happy with guide and quality of the tour.

Most popular tours in Venice

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Venice!

Relaxing in Rimini

After several busy days in the big city it was time to relax in the beach-town of Rimini . I did not stay down-town as I knew it would be busy, but the beach of Rimini stretches all the way into the suburbs.

Here I found a small little family guesthouse for just 25 Euro per night (including breakfast) and free parking. It was located just 100 meter from the beach. Ah.. Just the way I like it! And my neighbour and I had something in common. Our passion for Volkswagen!

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Rimini!

One of the smallest countries in the world: San Marino

After spending several days working on my tan it was time to hit the road and visit one of the smallest countries in the world: San Marino ! This little country is located nearby Rimini and it will take you less than an hour to get there.

Castle Tours in San Marino

Three towers of san marino.

San Marino is a so-called “microstate” in the middle of Italy. It inhabits 33,562 people and has the smallest population in Europe. It receives about 2 million tourists a year, which mostly visit the popular “ Three Towers of San Marino ” on top of the mountain.

This famous attraction can be visited for free, but you do pay a small fee to get in to each tower. Parking the car is very cheap and I paid 1,50 Euro per hour.

Back in time in Rome

Rome is a whole different story when it comes to driving your car. It is absolutely true that Italians drive like crazy people, but in Rome they seem to take it to whole new level. Thankfully, I was prepared and decided to park my car at a small family owned parking business called: Garage Central Rome.

This parking location is the best I have encountered. The owner and his son are very friendly and they explained all about how we should visit Rome and what tourist traps we should avoid.

Travel by Metro in Rome

The Valle Aurelia Metro Station is a 5-minute walk from the garage park. There you can buy a one-way ticket for 3 Euro per person to the city center. Take the exit “Termini” and from there start exploring the beautiful city center. From there you can walk down the busy main-street towards the “Altar of the Fatherland”. The walk is about 25 minutes.

My route: Altare della Patria, Colosseum and the metro again to the Trevi fountain and ended the day with a visit to Vatican City.

Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland)

The ‘Altar of the Fatherland’ (Altare della Patria) is the largest national monument in Italy. This stunning piece of architecture was built for King Vittorio Emanuele II of Savoy. It received its name, because the kind was known as Gentleman King’ and the ‘Father of the Nation’ , therefore the monument dedicated to honor his time as king.

The entrance is for free, but there are some rules you need to follow. You are not allowed to sit on the big stairs or any other section and of course it is not allowed to climb on any of the moments. Common sense really, but you would be surprised how many tourists still “ignore” these rules to get that perfect selfie.

The next stop is the famous Colosseum. There is no introduction needed for this beauty and you can literally buy your tickets at any place. Just keep in mind that you buy it from a kiosk, shop or official ticket office and not from an “African Gentleman” who offers you his “special price”!

Ticket prices range from 20 Euro for groups tours to 55 Euro for small private tours. All prices are per person and a tour takes about 3 hours.

Tip: Check out this amazing blog post:  Where to eat in Rome

Trevi Fountain

The Fontana di Trevi – or Trevi Fountain in English -is a fountain in Rome, Italy. It is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and the most beautiful in the world.

A traditional legend holds that if visitors throw a coin into the fountain, they are ensured a return to Rome.

The fountain is worldwide famous but many people do not know the history and the secrets hidden behind its construction. It is time to do justice to this extraordinary masterpiece of Italian art.

What about the nightlife?

Thankfully, my colleagues at A Taste For Travel wrote a great blog post about the nightlife in Rome . Make sure to check it out!

Amazing Tours in Rome – Book Today!

(Related:  Unusual Vatican City Tours )

Eating Pizza in Naples

Naples is the second largest city of Italy and is famous for its amazing architecture. I made a short visit to the Teatro di San Carlo and even thought there was no performance I still got a sneak peek in this beautiful place. The pizza’s are amazing but there are many other delicious Italian dices that you must try! Check out this blog post on what to eat when visiting Naples !

It helps having a travel blog and one the managers was a big fan. Next stop was the  Catacombe di San Gennaro as I had my fair share of fancy buildings already in Rome.

The catacombs were built with three different types of tombs. Based on your wealth and social class you could decide in which section you would be buried.

Basically, if you were poor you would be buried at the floor tombs, whilst the middle classes were a level above that. The beautiful chambers were very the rich and important political figures.

In the evening I finally enjoyed a real pizza from Naples. It tastes really amazing, but you will have to find a good restaurant outside of the city centre.

In the centre you will notice that most restaurants are not traditional ones, but run and operated by Indian and Chinese managers. Of course, there is nothing wrong with that, but if you want a real Italian chef you need to look around a bit outside of old-town.

If you have time and want to make some extra miles, I recommend a cool Puglia road trip ! You will not regret it. 😉

Road Trip Tuscany : On the movie-set of Gladiator!

Visiting two large cities really take a lot of energy from you and it was time to enjoy the country-side of Italy. What better way to do this than a visit to the beautiful Tuscany region and stay the most luxury hotels in Italy . I wrote a separate blog post about my road trip in Tuscany as it was just too much fun.

The Tower of Pisa

My road trip in Italy had come to an end. My final stop would be at the famous leaning toward of Pisa. Thankfully, I bought my ticket beforehand as it was already so busy that I even had to wait 45 minutes in line to use the restroom!

The square itself is not very big and if you are not interested to wait for 2 hours in line, you can actually see the whole square in under an hour.

But if you are planning to go inside like I did, buy that ticket beforehand! Trust me, you do not want to wait that long outside. 🙂 I purchased the combi-ticket for the Tower & Cathedral and it was totally worth it!

It was a great sight to see and of course everybody was making their original “pushing against the tower” photo. I just kept it with at a big smile, because I was very happy I had such an amazing Italian road trip.

Final Words

After the town of Pisa, I came across Cinque Terre. I planned a hike using this amazing guide:  Hiking the Cinque Terre paths . Unfortunately, I had 3 days of very bad-weather and decided to continue my journey to Monaco, France. My Italy Road trip was an amazing experience and I highly recommend traveling through this amazing country by car!

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Italian Road Trip Planner – The Perfect Italy Itinerary

Driving through Italy is one of the best trips you can take – no matter who you go with or how old you are, there is something for everyone! That’s what makes Italy so great – well, that and the wine 😛 Use this itinerary as your Italian road trip planner for your self driving tour of Italy and you’ll have the best time guaranteed!

When we first started planning out Italy trip, we had no clue what we were doing. 

Sound familiar? But there are some things you need to know about Italy before your trip. 

The more we researched, the more we realized it would only make sense to rent a car and drive through Italy. After all, we had already driven through other countries before, and we got to see so many unique things along the way – things that taking a tour won’t let you experience. 

So we rented a car, and set out. Here’s our Italy guide & itinerary – we hope it helps you plan your own amazing Italy adventure!

This post may contain affiliate links. You can read more on our Disclaimer Page.

Italian Road Trip Planner

First stop: venice.

Our first stop was Venice. We arrived by train from Munich and stayed 2 nights, 2.5 days. We left halfway through the 3rd day and found it to be the perfect amount of time there.

Venice is beautiful and we had just the right number of days to capture all her beauty. From the canals to the architecture, Venice is a sight to see!

• Beautiful canals and back alleys that we wandered around (and got lost) in for hours
• Great seafood since it’s on the water
• Beautiful architecture like the St.Marks Basilica and the Rialto Bridge
• Super super instagramable!
• Crowded with hoards of tourists from mid-morning until after dark
• The streets  are  can be very dirty (due to so many people roaming around)
• So many things (like restaurants and shops) are overpriced and very touristy

Things to do in Venice:

• Visit St.Mark’s Basilica
• Take the vaporetto down the grand canal (cheaper and less cliche than a gondola ride)
• Eat cicchetti mid-afternoon (little snacks like tapas with wine)
• Stand in the middle of the Rialto Bridge early in the morning to watch the workboats go out
• Walk down the Bridge of Sighs

Where to Stay:

• Hotel Colombina
• Locanda De La Spada   (where we stayed)
• Hotel Ai Due Principi
• Hotel Ca’ Dogaressa

Planning a trip to Italy?

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Next up: Florence

From Venice we rented a car on our way out and drove to Florence, about 3 hours away. 

We left right before the sun started setting and got some amazing sunset views over the Tuscan landscape. 

Imaging…driving through the countryside with the Italian music blasting and the windows down. Make you want to road trip Italy yet?

• The architecture is BEAUTIFUL! (that’s the Duomo di Maria right above)
• The food is wayy more authentic (we feel) than Venice due to less tourists
• No need for a car, taxi or public transport – there are so many sights in such a small place
• Food is quite inexpensive, especially at the marketplace stalls
• Driving into Florence was crazy because of the super narrow streets and foot traffic
• Can be crowded during the day since lots of tours stop there

Things to do in Florence:

• Wake up before the sunrise and visit the Duomo di Firenze
• Stay out late (after the tours have left) and have a late dinner in front of the Duomo – soo romantic!
• Visit the Statue of David, housed in the Galleria del’Accademia (buy tickets online ahead of time to skip the long line!)
• Have lunch at the Mercato Centrale (the upstairs is more  expensive  touristy so stay downstairs towards the back of the market where you will find local kitchen stalls serving fresh handmade pasta) Also a great place to get souvenirs such as local wine, olive oil and spices. We picked up some fresh pastries for our trip on the way out of Florence.
• Visit the San Lorenzo Market for leather goods and an array of other souvenirs. Keep in mind many of the vendors will negotiate with you for the best price. We got a leather bag here to bring back the rest of our new treasures.
• B&B Le Stanze del Duomo   (where we stayed)
• Grand Hotel Adriatico 
• Palazzo Alfieri Residenza D’Epoca

We left Florence around 6 pm and headed to the Tuscan countryside!

Next stop: Tuscany

Tuscany was our favorite part of Italy by far!

Homemade wine, rows of olive trees, and sunsets that put any painting to shame. We really could live in Tuscany! 

We drove into the countryside right as the sun was setting and had this view of the vineyards

• Breathtakingly beautiful
• Very calm and serene for a peaceful getaway
• Easy to drive through
• Amazing little towns and wineries
• Not crowded with hoards of tourists
• No nightlife, fancy restaurants, or clubs

Things to do in Tuscany

• Drive into Val d’ Orcia and take photos of Podere Belvedere at sunset (photo above)
• Visit Chapel Vitaleta
• Day trip to Sienna
• Visit Montepulciano for amazing wine and vineyard tours
• Relax at your hotel and drink local wine (our main passtime 🙂
• Visit the Tuscan hot springs (officially Terme di Saturnia) They’re free, but they do get crowded during the day so try to go early. We stopped here on our way down to Rome
• Podere La Casellina  (this is where we stayed an we highly recommend it! The hosts Silvia and Michaelangelo are so amazing! To book email or call them directly)
• Agriturismo Mormoraia  (perfect location for day trips!)

We left in the morning after breakfast and headed towards Rome – stopping at Terme di Saturnia on the way 

Final destination: Rome

Rome was our last stop on our road trip and from here we flew back home.

We also took the opportunity to buy a few souvenirs – and by souvenirs I mean wine 😉

• Endless list of things to see and do at any time of day
• Best espresso we had on our whole trip
• The city is very walkable
• Insta-worthy sights on every corner
• Lots of locals live there also, giving the city a less touristy feel than other major cities
• The food is AMAZING
• The metro system is easy to understand
• Super busy and crowded (if you want to see the major attractions without people in your pics then you need to get up early – like before dawn)
• The city is dirty 
• It’s most impossible to drive in without losing your sanity – just ask Julien 🙂

Things to do in Rome

• Wake up before sunrise and go to the Trevi Fountain. Then find a cafe and get some espresso shots. Walk over to the Spanish Steps to enjoy the coffee and watch the city waking up.
• Watch the sunset at the Colosseum – be sure to get there early since many many people will be doing the same thing
• Walk the Apian Way if you have some extra time – it’s one of the first roads of the Roman Empire. Remember that saying “All roads lead to Rome” ?
• Cross the Bridge and have dinner in Trastevere.
• See the ruins at the Roman Forum
• Visit Vatican City
• Find the Aventine Keyhole which gives you a perfect view of three different nations 
• Generator Rome  (where we stayed)
• L’antica Locanda Dell’Orso   (beautiful patio area)
• Circus Maximus B&B   (near the Colosseum)

And that completes the Italian road trip planner! Have fun planning your own self driving tour of Italy with this guide – I know you’ll love it!

And don’t forget to subscribe for access to our free travel resource library! It will help you plan your Italy trip like a pro and it only takes 5 seconds!

Happy travels!

– Veronica

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Related Posts

10 Amazing Things To Do in Venice, Italy

10 Places to Visit in Florence in 1 Day – Things You Must Do in Florence

25 Basic Italian Phrases You Must Know Before You Visit

4 Responses

I’ve driven all over Italy, but never in Rome! You guys are brave. Looks like you had a wonderful time!

We did! You should definitely return to visit Rome! Its a whole other world!

Wow.. You guys go everywhere before Sunrise to avoid crowd. That’s remarkable. I was also thinking and tried same but later on decided what’s the fun if I can’t relax on trip 🙂

Thats so true! But our secret is that we wake up before sunset and then after we go back to the hotel to rest or take a nap! And then we go back out to see the city after =)

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ITALY ROAD TRIP: Two Weeks Itinerary By a Local!

In BLOG , EMILIA ROMAGNA , ITALY , ROME , TRIPS IDEAS AND TIPS , TUSCANY , USEFUL GUIDES by Clelia Mattana 1 July, 2022 104 Comments

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Are you planning on visiting Italy? Then you can’t miss this excellent two-week itinerary for your Italy Road trip, created by a local Italian! You’ll love it, I promise!

Ah, Italy… my country, my pride, my love! Being Italian is truly a privilege, so let me transfer some of my knowledge to you with some fantastic tips to have the best Italian road trip experience of your life!

Starting from  Rome , my favorite city in the world, through the famous green hills surrounding all the Tuscany and Umbria regions, not to mention the jaw-dropping view provided by the  Cinque Terre  – What more can you ask from a country? Italy is simply magnificent!

If you want a truly unique Italian experience:  Road trip is the main word! Nothing beats a road trip in Italy, trust me . I took my driving license in Rome (crazy, I know!), and from there, I discovered every region by car. Slowly, savoring the panoramic scenery that only my beautiful country can offer. Using the train is also a great option, but nothing beats driving around Italy! 

Video of this two weeks Italian Road trip itinerary!

The main cities are well connected, but I suggest you take as many detours from the highway as possible because it’s driving across the countryside that you will find the real hidden gems of Italy!

Pro Tip:  You might want to see as much as possible of Italy during your epic road trip, but in my opinion is better to pick 3-max 4 cities or villages. You don’t want to miss any reason and leave the rest as a last-minute choice. 

TWO WEEKS IN ITALY ROAD TRIP: CONTENT

Click to check the relevant chapter

• Day 1 – 2 |Rome Itinerary and Vatican City
• Day 3 | Lazio  -Roman Castles
• Day 4 | Tuscany – Montepulciano
• Day 5 | Tuscany – San Gimignano
• Day 6 |Tuscany – Pisa
• Day 7 |Tuscany – San Miniato

SECOND WEEK + BONUS TIP TO SAVE MONEY!

• Day 8 – 9 | Tuscany trip – Florence
• Day 10 | Emilia Romagna – Bologna
• Day 11 – 12| Liguria-Tour Cinque Terre
• Day 13 | Piemonte – Turin
• Day 14 – 15 |  Milan and Lake Como
• How to save money when booking your hotels!

What is The best Italian road trip itinerary for 2 weeks?

-I will give you some great recommendations on where to stay and how to save A LOT on accommodation fees later-

I’m Italian, and before leaving my beautiful country to travel indefinitely, I explored it by car, discovering every Italian region, so we can safely say that you are in good hands here!  From Rome to Milan, ending in the enchanting setting of Lake Como for a 15-day epic journey that you’ll never forget. I promise!  

In This 2 weeks Italy Road Trip Article You Will Discover:

—  the best places you should include in your trip to italy  —, —  the most interesting things to do and see in italy —, — cool tours or experiences you can book directly online —, — my recommended hotels/b&b that are perfect for your tour of italy  —, — how to use a genius (free) tool to save money on your hotel bookings — .

Without further ado, here are the breathless places you must include on your Italian road trip.

The Italian Road Trip Itinerary Map

Click to enlarge the image

An article about a road trip in Italy wouldn’t be complete without showing you the map of the itinerary with the starting point, stops on the way, and ending point of this incredible trip around Italy.

Depending on what kind of flights you find, you can obviously do it in reverse, starting from Milan, with a little detour up north to Lake Como and back.

It’s just 1 hour and 30 minutes to get to Varenna, on a lovely route as well) and then go back to Milan and start your Italian Tour heading south and departing from Rome Fiumicino airport.

Either way, you’ll see spectacular landscapes along the road, don’t forget that on a trip like this, moving from one place to another is a massive part of it, so enjoy it , drive safely and slowly and let the beauty of Italy sink in! -Map data ©2022 Google-

2 WEEKS ITALY ITINERARY DAY 1 – 2 | ROME &  VATICAN 

Ah, Rome – It always makes me wonder: Is there a way to describe this city without using clichè words? I lived in the eternal city for more than 3 years, and I love it (and hate it) to pieces 🙂 Even if Rome is the most predictable stop on this itinerary, a trip to Italy wouldn’t be complete without a stop in its Capital, right? It would be like spending 15 days in the UK and not visiting London. Well, for as much as I love London too,  Rome is … Rome! Yes, being Italian, I’m biased, but not without reason.

Is it possible to have a glimpse of the beauty of  Rome in one day ? Definitely yes! I could even see the main attractions in the center, rushing a bit of course, in just 5 hours one time! I always find the time for a quick pit stop to Rome, and every time I discover something new!

WHAT TO SEE IN ROME IN ONE DAY:

Stroll around the historic center of Rome : It is a must! Driving can be challenging or better put: you must be fearless to drive in Rome, so park up and walk or take the buses or metro. Use public transport while you’re there. Remember to stamp your bus tickets once you get on the bus or subway, especially if you take the train! (more valuable tips for your first time in Italy in a post coming soon!) 😉

Most Famous Things To Do In Rome:

• Saint Peter’s Church and Dome
• Piazza Di Spagna /Pincio Terrace
• Piazza Navona
• Fontana di Trevi
• Colosseum and Via Dei Fori Imperiali (at night is a must!)
• Lungotevere Castel Sant’Angelo (At sunrise, I did it: Best experience in Rome ever)
• Pincio Terrace (At sunset, for the best view of Rome)
• Trastevere (For dinner, obviously!)

WHAT TO SEE IN VATICAN CITY IN ONE DAY:

I took two days to explore the inner part of the city – which gave me ample time to include a day in the Vatican City. Enclaved in the town of Rome, Vatican City is officially the smallest recognized state in the whole world . Home to the Pope, the Vatican is the beautifully preserved state of the Catholic Church. It is definitely worth a visit!

Most Famous Things to do and see in Vatican City:

• Visit the Musei Vaticani.
• Take a tour of The Sistine Chapel.
• Visit the Vatican’s beautiful gardens.
• Admire the view from the top of St Peter’s Dome!

Helpful Info : As with most famous sights, just remember to buy your tickets early or online. Otherwise, be prepared for a few hours waiting around peak times (still worth it if you ask me!)

RECOMMENDED BEST HOTELS IN ROME:

RESIDENZA MONFY

I could say it’s one of the best places to stay on a road trip to Rome. Gianluca, the owner, is helpful and will give you all the info you’ll need to have the best time in Rome.

Everything is clean and well arranged, and the location (Via Veneto, in the center) is  perfect for public transport or walking around the main attractions. Most importantly, it has a parking option.  Trust me: in Rome, you WANT to have that option. Finding a parking spot is a nightmare for everyone living or visiting Rome. Click to  Check the Hotel out!

RECOMMENDED BEST TOURS IN ROME:

Beautiful Castel Sant’Angelo, another spot (among the endless landmarks in the eternal city) you can’t miss! Tips: Go there at sunrise… trust me, I did it, and it was SURREAL, to say the least!

Do you think you don’t have enough time to see it all and/or are not keen on walking all day with the risk of missing something important?  Then an organized tour is what you need to set your mind at peace . Below are the ones I recommend the most:

Hop On-Hop Off Ticket:  

Super Touristy, I know, but when you don’t have much time is so worth it! I remember hating that red bus, and I ended up loving it when I had only one day in Warsaw, and I managed to see it all (at my own pace, but they don’t miss the important spots).  Check it out!

Three Hours evening Walking tour:  

As Suggested, Rome is even more magical at sunset, so this Tour will take you to the main attractions and to the Pincio Terrace right at sunset (I love that spot, you’ll see!). Highly recommended as the guides are usually locals.  Check it out!

Other Tours in Rome:

There are a million tours I could recommend, but you can  check them out   here   or below (click for more tours on the list) and see if something strikes your attention. I  love this website, and it’s the one I use the most when I have to book my tours online . Super convenient and hassle-free. I don’t like to spend my precious time waiting to buy my tickets, especially in touristy cities like Rome!

The “Skip the lines” tickets are exceptional, and you won’t regret buying them as they will save you SO MUCH TIME!

ITALY ITINERARY DAY 3 | ROMAN CASTLES

Rome itself has many sites to see even just outside the city itself! Roman Castles (or as we call it “Castelli Romani”) are an opportunity to leave the metropolis and  immerse yourself in the natural and artistic beauty of the small medieval villages outside Rome.

WHAT TO SEE AT THE ROMAN CASTLES:

Leaving Rome, you can drive by the  ruins of the Baths of Caracalla  and onto the  Ancient Via Appia by the Church of Domine Quo Vadis . This Tour of the Roman Castles will take you along the  ‘Road of the Lakes’  through one of the hilly areas of volcanic origin that characterize the outskirts of Rome, the Colli Albani, with its many growing villages.  

Most Famous Things to do and see in The Roman Castles:

Castel Gandolfo:   On the shores of a volcanic lake, this is the village where the Pope has his summer residence. You’ll enjoy a stunning view over the Lake and a great but tranquil atmosphere.

Rocca di Papa and Grottaferrata:   They are fascinating villages to visit in the Roman Castles area. Both are known for their culture, sights, and gastronomic delicacies, including the traditional “porchetta.”

Frascati :   Towards the northern part of the  Colli Albani , you can reach Frascati, popular with visitors for its beauty and wine production. Here you can stop for a taste of local wine and products in a local tavern and absorb the flavor of the authentic village life in the Lazio region.

RECOMMENDED BEST HOTELS IN CASTELLI ROMANI:

ATLANTIS INN 

A lovely central hotel with fantastic views over the Lake, the owner Francesco is friendly, like most people from Rome and surroundings!  Breakfast is included, and a parking space is available too , mandatory for a stress-free Italy road trip, right? 🙂 Click to  Check the Hotel out!

ITALY 2 WEEKS ITINERARY DAY 4 | MONTEPULCIANO

I’d like to take credit for “finding’” this town, but I accidentally stumbled across  Montepulciano, the medieval town in lovely Tuscany hills  by complete accident. It was a ridiculously beautiful town to stumble upon, providing a welcome opportunity to fill up on some fresh Bresaola and a little wine (for the non-drivers of course).   

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN MONTEPULCIANO:

This lovely town is all about strolling around slowly admiring its beautiful historical buildings and the old medieval atmosphere, so take your time to enjoy it, find an excellent trattoria to eat, drink espresso and  take it “the Italian way” = EASY & SLOW 🙂  

Things To Do in Montepulciano:

The Main Square:   The lovely fountain on the side, the Duomo and Palazzo Tarugi, and Palazzo Contucci.

Palazzo del Comune Tower:  Do you want to admire the incredible views of the Tuscany Hills surrounding this lovely village? Climb the Tower, and you won’t be disappointed!

Gate Porta del Prato and Corso street:   Almost every medieval village in Italy has a main gate to the town. Cross “La Porta del Prato” and stroll around the “Corso street,” with its lovely shops, elegant palaces and renaissance buildings, the church of Sant’Agostino, and the Palazzo Cervini.

RECOMMENDED BEST HOTELS IN MONTEPULCIANO:

ALBERGO IL MARZOCCO

Located within the medieval walls of Montepulciano, this hotel is quite remarkable! Built in the 16th century, it is the oldest hotel in town. It has a bar, free Wi-Fi, rooms with views of Lake Trasimeno or the town, and free parking 🙂 Click to  Check the Hotel out!

RECOMMENDED TOURS IN MONTEPULCIANO:

Being a tiny town, after you have admired its historical center, there are many activities you can book for an even more memorable experience!

Montepulciano Terme: Wellness & Wine Experience:   Honestly? In my view, this is an absolute must (I’m a SPA and wine lover). After driving and walking for hours, you deserve a bit of relaxation! Check out this fantastic experience  here .

Montalcino/Pienza/Montepulciano Full day wine tour: This is one of the best-selling tours in the area and within reason! If you want to relax 100% and see 3 lovely villages instead of one (while tasting the best wines in the region), this is it! Check out all the details here .

TWO WEEKS ITALY ITINERARY DAY 5 | SAN GIMIGNANO

While many visit San Gimignano, the  town declared by UNESCO to be part of the World’s Architectural Heritage , for a very short time, there is plenty to do to keep you busy an entire day if not more!

How do you pronounce/spell “San Gimignano”?! Maybe the most challenging part is genuinely pronouncing its name correctly. Well then, I’m Italian, and I will help you out once and for all: San Gimignano pronunciation sounds like:  San jee mee NYAH noh . Try to repeat it a few times faster, and that’s it! 😉

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN SAN GIMIGNANO:

I had the luck to discover the town I have declared the loveliest of the entire Tuscany Region during a Road trip from Rome to Florence. It was a super dark and rainy day, but my first reaction when I left the car in the spacious parking lot just before the town walls was:  WOW, WHAT IS THIS PLACE? 

As soon as you enter San Gimignano, you will feel like time has stopped, and you are either back to the medieval era or in a lovely fairy tale!

Things to do in San Gimignano:

A stroll down the entire town is required, as well as a visit to the Duomo di San Gimignano and the Palazzo Comunale to view the Pinacoteca of Medieval art.

Torre Grossa views:  C limb to the very top of the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in town to enjoy the best view of San Gimignano ever. The green hills and spectacular Tuscany landscape will make it worth the effort!

Enjoy the food in Piazza della Cisterna:   From gelato to die for to a delicious lunch or dinner at the many restaurants specializing in Tuscan cuisine. I still remember the cute little restaurant in one of the small alleys, where I tasted the best spaghetti with clams (10 years ago!)

Montestaffoli Fortress:  Climbing up to the remains of the Montestaffoli fortress and lots of tastings of the local white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, will round up your unforgettable visit to San Gimignano. You will fall in love with the town, I promise!

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN GIMIGNANO:

HOTEL BEL SOGGIORNO

One of the best hotels in San Gimignano! You’ll have everything at your doorstep: public parking just 50mt away, breathtaking views from the windows, and a superb location, right in the city center. This hotel will be the cherry on top of your fantastic experience in San Gimignano! Click to  Check the Hotel out!

RECOMMENDED TOURS IN SAN GIMIGNANO:

There are many tours, but they depart from other cities like Siena to visit San Gimignano, but since you are on your epic road trip, you don’t need those! The only one I feel I can recommend is actually a “detour” or a secondary option to your itinerary.

Visit Pisa and Lucca (and climb the lining Tower):   Your next stop on the map should be Pisa, but what if you want to slow down and stay a day more in San Giminiano? after all the beauty of these road trips is that you can change your itinerary on a whim. 

With this Tour, you’ll see both Pisa and Lucca; climb the famous leaning tower, and return to San Giminiano for another fabulous night before resuming driving the next day, heading to Florence via San Miniato.  If you like this alternative itinerary, check out the detail of the Tour  here .

14 DAYS ITALY TINERARY DAY 6 | PISA

An obvious choice for any visitor to Italy! Pisa and its famous leaning tower has become a symbolic representation of Italy across the globe.

WHAT TO SEE IN PISA IN ONE DAY:

Pisa’s historic town is relatively small and can be explored in as little as one day.  It’s the perfect place to stop en route between Cinque Terre and Florence. You can stop here for food and explore the Pisa Baptistry, The Leaning Tower in Piazza Dei Miracoli, and San Sisto. Don’t forget to strike “that cheesy pose” when you’re there! 🙂

Yes, I did it too… so why I didn’t put it in here? Because when I went there, digital cameras didn’t exist yet, so  we used the whole film to try and be in the right position for the photo. Only one had the right angle, but it was super blurry!  

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN PISA:

HOTEL DI STEFANO

If you want to rest up and spend the night in Pisa, this is the perfect hotel for you; right in the city center, a mere 5-minute walk from the leaning Tower, it provides a parking space on-site, buffet breakfast, and has excellent reviews 🙂 Click to  Check the Hotel out!

ITALY ITINERARY FOR 2 WEEKS DAY 7 | SAN MINIATO

San Miniato is a gracious small town which is perfect as a quick (or long, it’s up to you!) pit stop on your way to Florence.

WHY YOU SHOULD SEE/STOP IN SAN MINIATO:

San Miniato has always given a warm welcome to (friendly) travelers! Hence why you should go! 🙂 As the main town was a major thoroughfare for medieval traders between Rome and the rest of Europe, San Miniato became shaped by its constantly changing population and exchange of exotic and sought-after goods.

Nowadays, the town still welcomes travelers from all over the world with  stunning sites like The Duomo, The Tower of Frederick, and the medieval precinct of the town . You can spend the whole afternoon here filling up on local olives! Isn’t that a good enough reason for you to stop in there? I know it would be for me 🙂

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN SAN MINIATO:

HOTEL SAN MINIATO

Since this is YOUR road trip, you might decide to spend the night in San Miniato. In this case, I highly recommend this hotel, located in a former convent; it offers  free parking space and even a SPA and wellness center  to recharge your batteries 🙂 Pisa and Florence are only 45 min away by car! Click to  Check the Hotel out!

14 DAYS ITALY TINERARY DAY 8 | FLORENCE

I love visiting certain cities more than once, and Florence is one of my favorites for this purpose. I was 20 when one lazy afternoon my friends and I decided to hop on the first train available from Turin (I was studying at University then) to visit this glorious city!

It was a rather cold October weekend, and we slept without a tent at Piazzale Michelangelo, an amazing spot with amazing city views from the hill.  Florence may be an obvious choice to include on a road trip to Italy, but don’t let its popularity stop you from visiting . In fact, it’s never stopped me. Each time is completely different and unique.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN FLORENCE IN ONE/TWO DAYS:

This beautiful Tuscan city with its super friendly people has SO MUCH to offer that two days should be the minimum to fully enjoy it.

Best Things to do and see in Florence:

Oh my…where do I even start? Just like Rome, Florence is packed with unforgettable experiences and sights. I will try to give you a glimpse of what it can offer.

The Uffizi:   If you love Renaissance art, a stop at the Uffizi is mandatory. Obviously, the lines to get in are insane, but once inside, your jaw will drop from all the beautiful paintings by Botticelli, the statues, and the whole atmosphere.

Piazzale Michelangelo:   It will give you the most incredible view of Florence from above, especially at sunset. Perfect for photography lovers. If you go there, think about me sleeping with only a blanket on the ground. What an epic trip!

Giardini di Boboli:  We spent a whole afternoon there, and you can’t miss these gardens for anything in the world; the main word here is GREEN. So many green fountains, groomed trees, statues, and hidden caves. Go there and … RELAX!

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN FLORENCE:

Visit the “Duomo:   Famous for its red-tiled dome, colored marble facade & the Giotto tower. A beauty for the eye and impossible to miss when strolling around the beautiful historic center.

Santa Croce Church: Its gothic facade and the vast plaza are well-known landmarks in Florence, famous for being the final resting place of Galileo and Michelangelo. You can visit their tombs in Santa Croce.

Ponte Vecchio:   The oldest and more peculiar bridge in Florence, it still houses many jewelry shops and buildings, a typical practice back in the day. It is very suggestive to walk by the bridge or over the Arno river banks, especially at sunset, to admire it from the “outside.”

Ponte Vecchio at sunset. Such a peculiar and beautiful bridge. You won’t see anything like this anymore in Italy.

WHERE TO STAY IN FLORENCE:

HOTEL PITTI PALACE AL PONTE VECCHIO

This hotel has the most perfect location. It is easy to find at the very end of the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge. The hotel is spotless; it has a parking space available, and rooms have a super  view of the entrance to the bridge . Breakfast is served on the terrace on the 6th floor offers a lovely view of the Duomo and Florence skyline. What more can you ask for? Click to  Check the Hotel!

RECOMMENDED BEST TOURS IN FLORENCE:

If you stay for two days in this magnificent city, you will have some spare time to choose from some of the most incredible tours. Since there are so many to choose from, I put some of my favorites below, and  you can check out more tours by clicking on the whole list .

One I strongly recommend? The  “Fast line” ticket to enter the Uffizi Gallery ! You don’t want to waste your precious time waiting in an endless line, which will make you skip it, allowing you to discover much more of Florence.

14 DAYS ITALIAN ITINERARY DAY 10 | BOLOGNA

Often neglected on travel itineraries in favor of Italy’s more famous hotspots,  Bologna has plenty to offer tourists , from food (ah, the food guys!!) to art and hidden secrets.

Bologna is known in the Italian language as “la Dotta, la Rossa e la Grassa”: “ the educated one” in a nod to its University, Europe’s oldest; “the red one,” about the terracotta hues of its buildings and the city’s historic communist leanings; and most importantly, “the fat one,” about the delicious food.

THINGS TO DO IN BOLOGNA IN ONE/TWO DAYS:

I will give you one day in Bologna /Emilia Romagna only because I have to stay within the 2 weeks Italy Road trip Itinerary.  If you are free to change your plans a little (or are lucky to have more time), I would strongly recommend discovering Bologna and Emilia Romagna for at least 3-4 days .

Check out my article “What to do in Bologna and Emilia Romagna.”  I’m sure you’ll love it, I tried so many things, and the pictures speak for themselves!

Best Things to do in Bologna:

The Markets:   The markets in the center are great for fresh fruit and pastries. Via del Pratello is an excellent spot for lunch, and the student area near Via Zamboni has plenty of options for a filling “aperitivo” – but you can’t go far wrong wherever you choose to eat.

The Two Towers:   Believe it or not, Bologna’s leaning tower would put Pisa’s one to shame! The Two Towers are an iconic symbol of the city, and the shorter one, the Garisenda Tower, leans much more dramatically than Pisa’s leaning tower. It is well known (in Italy) that Dante Alighieri invoked this tower in his “Divina Commedia”, so look out for the plaque with the quote.

Giardini Margherita:   One of my favorites spot in Bologna to chill and relax to end the day after walking its gorgeous streets! You will find mostly local people, and there are so many hidden spots for a nice picnic while seeing the turtles in one of the ponds inside. Highly recommended (and easy to get there by bus too.

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN BOLOGNA AND EMILIA ROMAGNA:

Visit Ravenna: Lovely city easily reachable by train for a one-day trip and famous for Dante’s remainings and the many stunning churches.

Explore the Apennines:   Definitely, a must if you have some more time; it was the highlight of my trip to Emilia Romagna. Lake Baccio and Lake Santo are amongst the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen in Italy (and not a tourist in sight either!)

The beauty of the Apennines in Emilia Romagna. The tranquil landscape you can admire at Lake Baccio!

WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA:

HOTEL CORONA D’ORO 

An excellent centrally located hotel with a private garage in a restricted traffic area, a great feature to have (since you’re in the middle of your Italian Road trip!). Friendly staff and great reviews. Abundant breakfast with lots of choices. The rooms are nice and clean, with comfortable beds, crisp linens, and many amenities.  Check this Hotel!

RECOMMENDED TOURS IN BOLOGNA:

As usual, in the most beautiful Italian cities (and Bologna is definitely one of them!), you will have plenty of choices if you want to book a tour online. What I recommend is going for the food tours . Bologna and Emilia Romagna are the top in terms of delicious dishes, so you can’t go wrong! Below are a few tour options, but click the button to see more and enjoy the experience 🙂

2 WEEKS ITALY TINERARY DAY 11 – 12 | CINQUE TERRE

One of my favorite coastlines in Italy and a must-see on any road trip around Italy,  Cinque Terre national park  is an area around 1.5 – 2 hours’ drive north of Pisa. The region is characterized by its dramatic, rugged landscape and of course, its 5 picturesque terraced towns that only beg to be explored (from North to South):

MONTEROSSO AL MARE  | VERNAZZA | CORNIGLIA | MANAROLA | RIOMAGGIORE

Even if not all the 5 villages show on this map, the train stops in each one of them. The road in white you see behind the red line is the road you should use my car, and it takes around 2 hours drive. Image credit: Map data ©2022 Google

One of the best tips I’ve learned is to leave the car at La Spezia city and take the train between these 5 towns . It’s usually the easiest way to discover them without the issue of finding a parking spot (unless you decide to choose one of the villages to stay in for the night).

THE 5 VILLAGES TO SEE IN CINQUE TERRE IN 2 DAYS:

Obviously the main attractions of the Cinque Terre National Park are the famous villages, so let’s check them out in detail to see what distinguishes one from the other, they are all marvelous and unique!

From the top: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia

1) RIOMAGGIORE:   The most southern village of Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is a beautiful town to sit back and enjoy your afternoon. Grab some local food (especially fried calamari) from the street vendors and head for the rocky harbor front. Helpful tip: spend a good few hours dipping your feet and legs into the sea! This town is a fabulous place to watch the sunset, and why not take a swim and cool down after a day under the scorching Italian sun.

2) MANAROLA:   Arguably one of the most photographed towns in Cinque Terre, Manarola is a beautiful place to explore and, of course, grab a bite to eat! Every time I visit Manarola, I put on 4kg in weight! The gelato, the calamari, the wine … it’s all just too good!

3) CORNIGLIA:   Unlike the other four villages of the Cinque Terre, Corniglia is not perched on the seafront but at about 100 meters high on the top of a cliff. Warning: Trying to walk in the scorching midday heat is not the greatest idea – you could end up sweaty, hot, dehydrated, and no doubt looking a bit messy 🙂 you can use the connecting shuttle bus from the train station instead. It takes about 5 minutes to reach Corniglia. A perfect place to enjoy the views of this magnificent area!

Top: Vernazza – Bottom: Monterosso al Mare

4) VERNAZZA:   Dating back nearly 1000 years, the iconic Vernazza is still standing to show you a beautiful piece of historic Italian charm – that I fall in love with every time. This city really stole my heart! Don’t forget to see the Church of Santa Margherita and the hidden Vernazza beach just off Piazza Marconi.

5) MONTEROSSO AL MARE:   The westernmost of all the Cinque Terre villages is Monterosso al Mare, famous for its wider beach and for the many open spaces compared to other countries. What I love most about Cinque Terre is that it feels like a “personality test.” Everyone has their favorite village for very specific reasons. Monterosso al Mare is my least favorite town in the Cinque Terre, but that’s because my heart has already been stolen from Vernazza’s colorful houses (I love colorful houses) 🙂

BEST HOTELS IN CINQUETERRE AND LA SPEZIA:

LEVANTE RESIDENCE 

Just minutes from La Spezia center. Clean, spacious rooms with kitchen. A good option is to have a base there for your La Spezia Gulf or Cinque Terre trips. Safe, private parking and simple breakfast. The train station is within walking distance, and free parking is a plus. Highly recommended. Check out this Hotel!  

BEST TOURS IN CINQUE TERRE:

When you visit the Cinque Terre villages, you can take your time and explore them on your own or book a guided tour to discover the secret places, best restaurants, and panoramic views.

One of the best ones is definitely from Florence to Cinque Terre and it’s most suitable if you are flexible with your dates and are on an Italy road trip, coming from the south and ending in the northern part of the country, like in this case.

Depending on your budget, some of these tours, especially the boat ones, are worth the money . They will provide you with a completely different experience. As usual … it’s up to you to decide! Sometimes I like to opt for a tour, other times I prefer to discover an area on my own.

ITALIAN 2 WEEKS ITINERARY DAY 13 | TURIN

I lived in Turin for 8 years while studying at the University, and not only do I know the city well, but I love it pieces! Unfortunately, the city is one of the least known and appreciated by tourists. While most of those visiting Italy head for the Rome-Florence-Venice triptych, Turin remains off the tourist radar. What a shame.

Maybe is because the city has always been associated with Agnelli and his automotive empire (Fiat). However, people forget that another dynasty, not industrial but royal, chose Turin as its capital eight decades earlier.

Nineteenth-century Turin was also a favorite of intellectuals and artists such as Nietzsche, who loved the city for its austere elegance, atmosphere, literary cafes, and food. So, this seething city should definitely be on your wish list for your Italian road trip.

THINGS TO DO IN TURIN IN ONE DAY:

The beauty of Turin, compared to other Italian cities, is that it is easy to get around on foot and public transport is excellent . I have never used a car in 8 years, and I know every street as it is easy to walk to the city center and some of the most beautiful palaces and squares.

The beautiful Mole Antonellliana by night

Best Things to do in Turin:

Il Quadrilatero Romano: One of my favorite places in Turin for its many restaurants, aperitif bars, and lovely streets filled with history from the Roman empire. Great for an exciting night out in Turin!

La Gran Madre Church:   The “Gran Madre” is a Neoclassic-style church located in front of Piazza Vittorio. Straightforward to reach by foot from Piazza Castello through via Po (famous for its many shops, bars, and restaurants), it’s stunning at night.

Piazza Castello/Via Garibaldi:   Turin’s central square is lined with museums, theatres, and cafes. Dominating it is the part-medieval, part-baroque Palazzo Madama, the original seat of the Italian parliament. To the north is the beautiful facade of the Palazzo Reale, “The Royal Palace” built for Carlo Emanuele II in the mid-1600s. If you are up for some shopping, on the left of Palazzo Reale, you will reach Via Garibaldi, packed with high-end and budget shops (I used to live in the student house in that area!) 😉

OTHER THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN TURIN

Il Castello /Parco Del Valentino:   My favorite spot in town, a massive park with botanical gardens, statues, and, of course, the iconic castle. Perfect for a romantic walk or just to chill during the hot summer days. You can admire the spectacular views of the Valentino Castel by night just by crossing one of the bridges over the river PO. Highly recommended!

La Reggia di Venaria: Declared UNESCO Heritage Site, the Reggia di Venaria is a spot you can’t miss. The palace is marvelous, and during summertime, you can enjoy a wide array of events, from artists performing accompanied by relaxing music to video-mapping shows.

Basilica di Superga:   Another fantastic place to visit in Turin! The church is on a hill where you can admire the city from above. Perfect at sunset to see the city lights and chill after visiting the inside of the beautiful Basilica.

The beautiful Castello del Valentino in the “Parco Del Valentino (Valentine’s Park). One of my most precious places in Turin. Day or night it is truly marvelous!

Museo Egizio:   An excellent place for people passionate about Egyptian History, this museum is the most important one in Italy as it preserves some rare mummified human remains and several Egyptian statues.  

Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace):   Located in Piazza Castello; if you visit it, I promise that the inside will leave you totally speechless. I still remember the first time I saw it, admiring the beautiful dancing room, statues, paintings, and seemingly never-ending luxurious rooms in awe. No wonder it was included in the list of World Heritage sites in 1997. Totally worth it!

The beauty of Turin at sunset: Ponte Isabella over the River Po that divides the city in two.

WHERE TO STAY IN TURIN – BEST HOTELS :

HOTEL URBANI

Excellent location to head off in any direction and explore. The hotel itself is lovely. Accommodating and friendly reception staff. Delicious breakfast, charming rooms, and parking space. The perfect mix to set you up for the day and relax once back from your strolling in Turin.  Check out this Hotel!

14 DAYS TALY ITINERARY DAY 14-15 | MILAN & LAKE COMO

DISCOVER MILAN:

Milan is one of the trendiest cities in Italy . It is the city of fashion and the economic capital of Italy. Both traits are clearly visible when you’re walking around the city. Modern and trendy skyscrapers scattered here and there, surrounded by beautiful historical buildings throughout the city center.

Many of Milan’s most exciting sights and attractions are not readily apparent, so you’ll need to dig deeper to discover the gems that make the city unique.

Luckily, Milan is surprisingly walkable and, at times, feels more like a compact town than a major European metropolis. And once you start chipping away at its foreboding exterior, you’ll find untold treasures below the surface: priceless works of art, beautiful eccentric buildings, world-class restaurants, and oases of calm. Explore the best things to do in Milan and remember: appearances aren’t everything.

DISCOVER LAKE COMO:

Como is filled with luxury Villas you can visit, like Villa Balbianello here, a perfect setting even for weddings!

The itinerary for your Italy Road trip started in the glorious city of Rome, and it couldn’t end less gloriously in the fantastic Lake Como setting. Relax in the shade of a tree in front of the lake, admire its beautiful views … and, who knows? You might even spot George Clooney (owner of one of the most beautiful villas in Lake Como), his buddy Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, or any other A-list celebrity, but there’s so much more to this destination than its famed visitors.

The glacial Lake Como is a mere 1.5-hour drive north of Milan and only 30 minutes or so from the border of Switzerland. The biggest draw to Lake Como is its natural beauty – especially the scenic mountainous region that always leaves me in awe.

Hop on the ferries that cross the lake; it’s a perfect way to explore the beautiful little towns surrounding it like Menaggio, Bellagio, and Varenna, to mention but a few of my favorites.

THINGS TO DO IN MILAN IN ONE DAY:

In Milan, as previously stated, it is super easy to get around by walking a bit or via their efficient public services (the underground system is excellent). This way you can do quite a lot in one day.

The most famous things to do in Milan are:

• The famous Duomo di Milano: The symbol of the city.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (on the left of the Duomo)
• Sforza Castle for a bit of history
• Parco Sempione to end your day in total relaxation!

THINGS TO DO IN LAKE COMO IN ONE DAY:

Honestly? If it was for me (personal taste!) I would spend just half a day in Milan and aim straight to Lake Como, but the itinerary is yours, so maybe you are a fashion addict and want to spend a whole afternoon shopping in Milan 🙂 Either way, Lake Como would deserve at least 2 days of exploring.

So, what to do and see in Lake Como?

• Visit Varenna, a lovely village with great views of the lake.
• Take the ferry! You’ll discover the hidden spots as well as the more popular sights.
• Visit Villa del Balbianello
• Discover Castello di Vezio for awesome views

Villa Del Balbianello, Lake Como

Best Things to do and see in Milan:

Il Duomo Di Milano:   Do I really need to tell you why you should visit it? There is so much information online, and the pictures speak for themselves. It goes without saying that this should be your first stop in Milan, no question about it. And it’s as beautiful as in the pictures. My only tip: go there early in the morning; you will make the most of the experience!

Castello Sforzesco: Nearby the Parco Sempione, the Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castel) is a mandatory stop on your visit to Milan; apart from its famous towers, it hosts several museums from the Ancient Arts to the Pinacoteca and the Egyptian museum, just to name a few. If you love history, this is a great place to visit.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Just on the left side of the Duomo di Milano, its architecture (especially the roof) will leave you in awe. You’ll find many shops, from luxury ones to nice cafes where to sip an espresso and relax, bookstores, restaurants, and more. Since it’s in Piazza Duomo, you can easily make it your second stop in Milan.

Best Things to do and see in Lake Como:

Villa Del Balbianello: Located on the left wing of the Lake, near the village of Lenno, it is a must-see. Beautiful views of the Lake and the Villa with its terrace garden are genuinely out of this world! One of the best spots to admire Lake Como’s mighty beauty. It’s undoubtedly one of the most touristy and popular Villas to visit.

Villa Carlotta: Just a few kilometers away from Villa Del Balbianello (heading north of Lenno), it’s a true gem with its botanical gardens, museums, the staircase, and the stunning entrance to the Lake. Not to be missed! (I will write an article just for the villas to visit around Lake Como as they are jaw-dropping!)

Take the ferry:   One of the best ways to enjoy Lake Como is by Ferry. There are both public and private ferries. The public one is relatively cheap, but obviously, it doesn’t let you hop off to explore what you want. You can either find the private companies online looking for “private ferry lake Como” or, as I suggest below, I’d recommend the Tour from Milan without the hassle of driving there and back.

MORE THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN MILAN

I Navigli Di Milano: A system of canals running in the heart of Milan, surrounded by lovely cocktail bars, are the perfect location to spend your dinner and after-dinner time, not to be missed for an excellent aperitif. Great for a romantic walk at sunset as well. It’s easy to reach by public transport, which is always a bonus!

Parco Sempione:   Located in the heart of Milan, Parco Sempione is a lovely park where you can relax, chill and visit the Sforza Castel and the Arch of peace, two of the most famous landmark in Milan. 

Via Montenapoleone:   If you are in Milan and love fashion, via Montenapoleone is the place you want to be! Filled with luxury shops, whatever brand you are looking for, you will find it there! Splurge as much as you want and enjoy!

The famous Navigli Di Milano, great for the nightlife and the peculiar atmosphere

MORE THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN LAKE COMO

Trekking/hiking Lake Como:   If you have some time or, during your Italy Road trip planning, you decide to skip a place or two, this is one of the best and more rewarding activities to do, with breathtaking views over the lake. The most famous walks/hikes are the Greenway Del Lago and Spina Verde (suitable for everyone, they will take you to the top spots like Villa del Balbianello). For more advanced trekking and hiking, organizing with private companies is better.

Castello di Vezio:   Located in the middle of Lake Como, with an overview of Varenna village, it is a lovely spot for jaw-dropping sights of the lake and its history. It was built over a thousand years ago. Don’t forget to climb its famous tower to enjoy even more incredible panoramic views!

The stunning views you can admire at Lake Como are endless!

WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN AND LAKE COMO :

HOTEL BELLAGIO (LAKE COMO)

In the city center, accessed directly from Bellagio’s main square by 38 cobblestone steps, Hotel Bellagio is within walking distance of the town’s shops, cafés, and restaurants. Parking is available, free cancellation, and incredible views of the Lake.  Check out this Hotel!    If you prefer to take a day tour to Lake Como and base yourself in Milan, check out the  NH PORTA NUOVA hotel, which is convenient and well-located.

Considering the allure of Milan, not only as a tourist destination but also as a potential long-term residence, the prospect of renting an apartment in this trendy city opens up a world of possibilities. Imagine having the iconic Duomo di Milano as a backdrop to your daily life or strolling through the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for your daily dose of luxury and culture.

Beyond the famous landmarks, Milan offers a lifestyle that seamlessly blends modernity with history. Long-term rentals in Milan provide the opportunity to delve into the city’s hidden gems, from charming neighborhoods to authentic local experiences, creating a genuine connection with this cosmopolitan hub. As you embark on your exploration of the city, consider how  renting an apartment in Milan  not only grants you a comfortable abode but also an immersive journey into the vibrant tapestry of Italian life.

BEST TOURS IN LAKE COMO :

Given the proximity of Lake Como to Milan, you can opt for booking one of the grand tours from the Lombardy Capital instead of spending money (and time) using your car. Many people choose this option, and they can enjoy a full day in Lake Como without stress and see all the top sights stated above.

Usually, when talking about the tours, my advice is to decide which option is more suitable for you (car or tour) but in this case, the day trips from Milan are genuinely the best option, also money-wise. Highly recommended!

THE TAKEAWAY OF THIS ITALY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

As you might have noticed, I tried to fit in as many “pit stops” as possible for your 15 days on the road in Italy. I know many people would rather rush a bit to see as many beautiful spots as possible.

That said, If you want to travel slower and stay more in one place, you can easily rearrange this itinerary by skipping a few places, no problem!

I hope you enjoyed my article and that you will be inspired to visit my beautiful Italy, loving my country as much as I do!

If you have any questions or locations you have visited that you particularly liked, shoot me a message in the comments below, I’d love to hear about your experience!

Images credits/attributions: Shutterstock.com (except for Emilia Romagna)

SAVE IT FOR LATER,  PIN IT!

This blog post has truly uplifted me and provided me with the guidance I was seeking. Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights in such an inspiring way. Your generosity and willingness to help others is greatly appreciated.

I like your blog! It is awesome! You give many information about travel! It’s really great! Also, Italy trip is great! I think We should travel to Italy.

I’m a foreigner living in Rome, and I must say that it is the greatest city in the world. The pros of living there are just too many, but one has to look for them. If you’re the kind of person that just wants a smooth, predictable life – let’s say 9 to 5 job, reaching home at 6 by train and finding your parcel delivered at the doorstep – then it’s not your kind of place. Rome is instead for the kind of people who like adventure, going out and having fun. You do your morning walk among the ancient ruins. You spend a lot of time in the bar with friends. You go to swim in the sea during summers, and to ski in the mountains during winters. You face day-to-day inconveniences, but in that situation you help each other, knowing that they’d help you too.

My personal take is that the things which distinguishes Rome and Italy from other parts of the developed world is that for better and for worse, there’s no “consumer” culture over there. The mentality is centered doing the bare minimum needed for survival, and not on getting the maximum output as is the norm elsewhere nowadays. Overall I wouldn’t say that Italians are (stereotypical) lazy, but just not hardworking and with generally modest expectations from life.

Hi Nicole, thanks for your insights! I agree with a lot of what you said and Rome no matter what will always be my favorite city in the world, with all its imperfections too. What I had to think about more is the work ethic and expectations. I would put it differently but I understand what you are expressing. The idea of us being stereotypically lazy is like everyone else thinking that in the US people are only driven by work and goals and can’t appreciate life. We don’t know if people don’t appreciate life there for real, this is our idea. Same with Italians (and you also need to do a big distinction between northern Italy and southern Italy) people might be thinking they have high expectations for their lives, also money wise but maybe compared to your personal experience we are not, and so on. So what I’m trying to say s that things are VERY relative and I try not no generalize a country (altough I know first hand how difficutl it can be) . Enjoy my beautiful Rome!!

VERY INFORMATIVE!! KEEP POSTING THESE ARTICLES!!!

Hey, thanks for sharing this fantastic information with us. Can’t wait to book our holiday to Italy! Thank you and please continue to share blog posts about Italy, they are very useful, especially coming from a local!

quite impressive

Thank you for a very interesting article. I greatly appreciate the time you take to do all the research to put together your posts. I especially enjoyed this one!!

What a great article! I have to say I did a bicycle trip in northern Sardinia, from Olbia to Santa Teresa passing by Maddallena. I have been to many many beaches in my life but I have never seen so beautiful beaches like in Maddalena. The colors of the sea was absolutely stunning! And the scenery in North Sardinia is unique, almost lunar.

This being said, we did a road trip in France from Nice to to Bordeaux avoiding the highways and going through the little villages. Back country road trip. In our mind, the road is as important as the destination. We prefer B&Bs (I think you call them agroturismo in Italy) where we can talk with the hosts and guests and get their ideas about the nicest places in their corner of the country..

So……we are planning a 3 weeks road trip in Italy, September 9 to 30, 2022 more or less. Probably from Venice to Rome and maybe going down to Sorento. We were planning to go to most of the places you mentioned in your article except for Milan and Torino which I’ve already been and not so keen to visit twice. So, adding a week to your 2 weeks itinerary, I was wondering if you have any suggestions for those additional days.

Thank you so much and keep on your good work!

Hey Stephan, wow I’m envious just reading all you will see on your road trip in my beautiful Italy! If you have 2 more weeks I would definitely go : 1) Val D’orcia in Tuscany, it’s BREATHTAKING, I want to make a photo post with the photo I shoot. Just that will convince you. I stayed in a lovely home rented in Castiglione D’orcia and it has been one of the best road trips ever. 2) South of Rome I’d go to Sorrento, Capri, and all the Costiera Amalfitana. It’s mainstream clearly but you can’t miss it! This would deserve a full week to fully explore all the little corners of this beautiful place.

There will be so many places I can add but I don’t want to overwhelm you. If I had these 2 additional weeks I would explore more of Tuscany in general, and the Val D’Orcia area in particular, and all the Costiera Amalfitana. It will make for a fabulous Italy Road trip!! Plus the time of the year is perfect, still warm but with fewer tourists. What can I add if not… Enjoy Italy!! 🙂

Cheers Clelia

Thanks for reaching out! We will definitely put Val D’orcia on our itinerary. Can you let us know what was the lovely home you stayed there? Always nice to go somewhere recommended by some one who stayed there. So 2 weeks from Venice to Rome and one week in the costiera Amalfitana, Right?

Hi Stephan, yes I’d say 1 week in the Costiera Amalfitana, not less… and the remaining 2 weeks you go from Venice to Rome. Oh, I envy you right now 🙂 Let me check the name of the place! I booked it with booking.com I remember so it still should be in my records 🙂 Ok, after a while I found it! It’s the lovely home called “ La Cantina di P ” I hope you didn’t book anything yet because this was a truly lovely place, especially the location was so amazing! Let me know if you need any more help and enjoy your road trip to Italy!

Fantastic! Thanks for the valuable information and we will definitaly book there, Covid permitting. Keep on the great work! Grazie

Thanks Stephan! I’m so glad you liked my Italy road trip itinerary, I’m supposed to create the second part, from Rome to … Sardinia because I had to leave out so much. Two weeks are not nearly enough to enjoy the beauty of Italy and everything it has to offer 🙂 Fingers crossed about the Covid yeah. We had some small trips in Italy so it’s not super bad but in winter it’s always a bit worse. With the proper precautions, I believe we will be able to have a sort of “normal” life again soon.

Wow what a wonderful article, spectacular pics. Italy’s a beautiful country and everyone should know this. I have been twice and looking forward to visiting it after the pandemic. Thanks for sharing with us this fab post.

Italy is Indeed a good place to visit in the world. Being a travel enthusiast I learn that Italy is a place where every city is beautiful as well as historical. You will find the different kind of travellers in Italy and its the place where you can meet new peoples and interact with them. Thanks for sharing this post with us.

Great pics and information. This is my dream destination, I would like to visit here someday. Hope to hear more from you. Thank you.

Very nice information thank you for sharing! We can’t travel to Italy right now but this will be a huge help for when we will be able to visit!

You should work for the Italian tourism department, they are in dire need of people like you. Unlike France and Spain who have done a great job in marketing themselves, in Italy international tourism is unfortunately restricted only to some areas of the country (city of Rome, Veneto, Lombardia, Liguria, Tuscany and maybe Sardinia). Nice to see that you mentioned Piedmont and Emilia-Romagna here. Then there is central Italy outside of Rome, and especially “Mezzogiorno” that I think is super underrated (I’m from Puglia and in my own biased eyes, it’s the closest thing to Paradise on Earth). Also, as much as I love Rome, my favorite city in the world will always be Napoli, which I would recommend to every visitor in Italy.

Ciao Gianmarco, thanks for your kind words, I sadly must agree with you about how we promote certain parts of Italy and completely disregards other parts, and actually this article is just part 1 of another than covers all the regions in Southern Italy. I have been to Puglia and LOVED IT!! (and it’s obviously included in the second article that Iìm going to publish). I’m from Sardinia so we can both say we are very lucky! Interesting about you loving Napoli so much! Why ? Mine is Rome (I have lived there for years) but also Napoli is beautiful for sure!

Napoli is just another city that has no equivalent in the world. First of all, it has the most beautiful landscape in all of Italy, if not the world (try searching “panorama più bello del mondo”). The city has the largest historic center in whole Europe, and just like Rome, it is full of castles, churches and ancient ruins (have you been to the underground areas). Despite everyone in the world consuming pizza these days, all others are fake except Neapolitan one. While the city center still retains it’s ancient vibe with narrow, chaotic streets full of people, some of the most beautiful metro stations of the world are located just below it, highlighting that Neapolitans and Italians in general continue to be great innovators of contemporary times, even if we are obsessed with with our past and aren’t obsessed with becoming “successful” by contemporary definition. Than of course the surrounding areas (Pompei, Amalifi, Capri, Amalfi, Sorrento) are also among some of the most breathtaking places. Overall, I find Rome and Napoli are very similar both in their good and bad aspects, except that Rome is less dense and more spread out. While I won’t trade Rome for any other city in the world, I give Naples the edge over it because of metro, surrounding areas and the overall vibe and sheer passion of the city.

I might say that Italy the most beautiful country in Europe and the world, considering that I’ve traveled to at least ten different locations in Italy, and that you have managed to mention so many amazing places despite touching only a quarter of whole Italy. But as a Frenchman, some things in Italy are really frustrating. Relying on public transport is a real pain, especially if you want to travel to smaller towns. Even if it is available, trains are poorly maintained and always late. Many places are dirty and not taken care of. And it gets crazier as you go southwards with Sicily being the worst, despite still being stunning and soon I’ll be there again. My Neapolitan friend jokes “To drive on roads of Naples, you must have the special ability to pray for San Gennaro”. And he’s so right. Sometimes, it really feels like the vehicles are there to hit you and traffic rules are meek requests. I think this can be said of almost all Italian cities. I do love Italy but I don’t see why Italians don’t acknowledge the clear superiority of the French.

I’m Spaniard and I’m a big fan of Italy. In Spain, Italy is seen as a dream girlfriend that drives you crazy yet you can’t stop loving her. Personally, my favourite Italian regions are the Alps, Veneto, Tuscany and Campania – but the country is very beautiful almost everywhere and there is no city or region in Italy that isn’t worth visiting.

Thanks Lucas, it means a lot especially now. I hope people will start to visit Italy again very soon. Be well!

I wish the same for Spain too. Just like Italy, we choose to ignore the warnings and go on with the fests and parties, and now we are in an even worse situation. Us Mediterraneans are too similar I think.

Indeed we are… I have no idea when this nightmare will be over. I hope people won’t fear traveling to our beautiful countries when all this will be over.

Great post. However, I would like to add my two cents. First of all, I think Milan and Turin, while fantastic, are probably the least breathtaking cities in Italy. Southern Italy and the two islands certainly feel less developed, yet they have an older and more exotic vibe, with better beaches. Finally, I think that something like a planned Italian road trip doesn’t exist. In Italy, you are always close to a centuries old streets and buildings. gorgeous landscape or beach. Apart from some must visit cities that are well known, one can simply drive anywhere between Bolzano and Reggio Calabria and easily discover a lot of magnificent yet unspoiled places all around the country.

Hi Clelia Thank you for your excellent road trip guide . We are travelling from Rome to Lake Como . We have booked most of the hotels you have suggested . We are doing a slight detour. Only concern i have is driving from Rome airport to Hotel Monfy in Rome. I know from visiting Rome previously the roads can be extremely dangerous if you are not a local. Thank you for your help.

Hi Paul! Glad you found my guide useful… As someone who actually took her driving license in Rome, I can relate with your concerns 🙂 I’m not going to lie, driving in Rome is an adventure! Dangerous, I wouldn’t say that maybe you will have to be super careful and prepared before you drive. Meaning knowing exactly your route, but these days using google maps as a navigator will do the trick. You have to be careful with the scooters driving around you but other than that, if someone like me with no driving license could take it and drive safely for 3 years in Rome, I think you won’t have a problem (and I didn’t even have any google maps navigator, at the time!)

Let me know if you need some more help! Cheers Clelia

I love Italy. It is, in many ways, a unique country where you can always find something amazing nearby regardless of the region where you are. From my experience with Italians in UK and Italy, I must say that they are group of humble, outgoing and loving people who are masters of enjoying life. What I don’t like about them is that most of them don’t value rules, work ethic and public property. But my general perception about Italians is quite positive.

I love Italy. It is, in many ways, a unique country where you can always find something amazing nearby regards of the region where you are. From my experience with Italians in UK and Italy, I must say that they are group of humble, outgoing and loving people who are masters of enjoying life. What I don’t like about them is that most of them don’t value rules, work ethic and public property. But my general perception about them is quite positive.

Hey Andre, thanks for your comment and point of view about Italy and Italian people. Just one thing (being Italian I might understand the dynamics a bit) 🙂 Many people think our work ethic is not good but it’s actually not entirely true. Sure there are “lazy” people everywhere and in Italy, we might seem lazy but we are not. We have simply a different approach when it comes to this part of our life, and when we are working we give 110% most of the time. Otherwise, we wouldn’t be able to be masters of “enjoying life” as you mentioned! Regarding the rules, yes you are right we don’t like them especially when they are stupid but also when they are ok. We tend to disregard them more but not in bad faith, we just give the rules less importance I guess. Right, wrong? It really depends on the situation I think. I remember when I first arrived in London people wanted to kill me because I didn’t know I had to stay on the right side of the escalator, while in Italy we just stay wherever we want, and funny enough, after a few years living in the UK, once back in Italy I was like “why people don’t stay on the right!!” so we are just laid back for a few things I guess. I’m sure you’ll find my next article coming soon about Italian culture quite entertaining then.

One of my favourite itineraries and absolutely right about staying at least 3-4 days in each location. Drives me mad to see people racing from photo op to photo op without taking the time to at least get a flavour of the locale…

Exactly my philosophy Gary, I understand that people want to squeeze as much as possible from their Italian Itinerary but going slowly is much more rewarding…

Hi Clelia, My husband and I have just decided to take a trip to Italy in May this year. We were not sure how we were going to travel thru the country but I found your blog and am convinced a road trip is the answer. I have read thru the itinerary and only wanted to know if in addition to the sites you highlight, are there any places that have recently become a no miss which you have not mentioned. We are travelling for 15 days. Thanks

Hi Lori! I’m so glad to hear that you’re taking a road trip to Italy because you read my article! (it took me forever to put it together so at least I know it’s useful) 🙂 As for your question…

oh my! I left out so much from this itinerary already because of the limited time but recently I visited a place where I left a piece of my heart: The “Val D’Orcia” and in particular the village of Castiglione D’Orcia where I stayed in a lovely house in the center behind the small piazza for one week. It’s out of this world. Not only the village but also the surrounding areas.

There are so many of the typical “Casali” with the famous Tuscan landscape and trees, I even spotted the gates of the house where the movie “The Gladiator” was shot and saw one of the best sunsets of my life. I usually never do this, but to give you an idea you can check this picture I took and put on Instagram and this other one which has a truly lovely story behind it. I even made a few Instagram stories of that place. I think I’m going to add this to the itinerary because I’m obsessed 😀

So yes, please Go to Castiglione D’Orcia ! If you want some advice about the accommodation, the place I obviously recommend is where I stayed LA CANTINA DI PI , cheap and lovely, everything was at walking distance and you can park the car for free in the parking lot at 5 min walk.

I hope you can make it and if you have time also visit Montalcino and, nearby Castiglione, also go to the (completely free) Terme called “Bagni di San Filippo” at just 10 min by car and super easy to reach. You’ll love it! If you need more info about it, given that I still have to write an article about my stay, feel free to ask in here!

Cheers! Clelia

Hi Clelia – thank you for the excellent information! I’m returning to Italy in May with friends and family for a 10 year anniversary trip and was hoping you might be able to help me. We are renting cars in Rome FCO and will be driving directly to a villa near San Miniato in the late afternoon 5/6pm. What would you suggest is the easiest route to take? We will not be making many stops or are concerned about scenery at this point – mainly just about getting there quickly and easily. Any suggestions?

Hi Aimee, glad that you liked my Italian guide! And what a lovely choice going nearby San Miniato, you’ll going to love it! As for your question, the easiest route is without a doubt to go towards Viterbo (the signs pointing to the E35/a1 towards Florence). before finding that road you’ll need to get into the Grande Raccordo anulare first and find the right exit. But If you have even google maps, you can put your point of departure and destination and let it guide you. But if it gives you more than one choice, you go with the E35.

It might be a bit tricky on the Raccordo Anulare, there are so many lanes and exits but if you drive carefully and study the indications on Google maps, you should be fine. Once you’re on the E35 you will go straight for at least 1+ hour, then you’ll have to stay alert again for the right exit (which depends on where you are heading exactly). The total time spent to get to San Miniato city is about 2:30 min with no stops, I’d say 3 hours with one stop and counting the traffic in the Raccordo Anulare.

Recently I took that road to get to a village in Tuscany but from Civitavecchia ferries port and it was a very pleasant ride even if you’re not looking for particular scenery. You still will find it quite nice!

I hope it helps and if you never drove in the Raccordo anulare, be careful because there are some crazy drivers in there so go at your own pace and everything will be fine! (I lived in Rome for years so I know the raccordo and the nearby roads quite well)

Italy is a fantastic country – I don’t think any other country can offer so much variety (natural, historical and cultural) in such a small area. But I must say that my favorite area in Italy is the south. I personally think that it is the most beautiful part of Italy, and as of now it is quite undiscovered, unspoiled and authentic. I also love people of that region – who have a “I don’t really care” attitude for most aspects of life, and seem to enjoy their lives in their secret paradise without having any ambition for the future. Apart from having been to the mainstream cities (such as Florence and Venice), I’ve enjoyed road trips from Naples to Reggio Calabria and Salento and it was fantastic to travel across the hilly countryside, beaches and old, magnificent towns.

Hey Oliver thanks for stopping by and saying so many beautiful things about my country! I agree the south is more relaxed (but hey we have ambitions, we are just not obsessed by them) 😉 You’ve been to awesome paces but you’re missing one…. my fabulous island Sardinia! I know I know, it might seem biased but trust me, not only we are also Italians but our culture and beaches are incredible! Cheers from Paradise!

Apart from so many great things, it needs to be said that Italy can surely improve infrastructures, customer service and cleanliness of public places (it isn’t bad, but not “top notch”). That prevents many potential northern European visitors who prefer Spain and France instead. But despite its flaws, I love Italy. It isn’t a place with a giant hotel in front of beaches, gentrified or renovated historic centers, fake friendliness just to please the visitor. In other words, it seems like a place which hasn’t sold it’s soul just to become richer. I’ll consider Sardinia in near future, for sure.

Oh you’re totally right. We are not that great when it comes to Infrastructures in Italy, in a way it’s bad, I reckon, but you know what? If it’s just a bit messy sometimes it’s because we are simply … ITALIANS 😀 We are chaotic, messy, chill out and we should clean up a bit more yes! Italy doesn’t even need to sell its sowl, there are so many beautiful places that we don’t need to overdo it! And if you complain about infrastructures in Italy, wait till you come to Sardinia… being an Island we are a bit behind and the public transports also are less than ideal, but when you see the beauty you tend to forget everything about it!

I totally get your point. And I won’t say it is as bad as some people say (Italians complain all the time). The worst, however are the large cities (Rome and Naples). I remember my first experience in Rome and it was a shock for me coming from Geneva. I learnt a few lessons : expect at least half an hour delay of any mode of transport, you DON’T really need to buy a ticket for getting into a bus, the concept of personal space doesn’t exist, don’t expect vehicles to stop for crossing the road, no one will mind you if you throw trash on roadside and that you may take three hours to reach your destination (but you’ll still be there before your Italian friends). I do get that the culture of Italy is different and organisation isn’t something to expect there. And as far beauty is concerned, no one can deny it.

How couldn’t agree with you? We are like this, some places like you mentioned more than others are affected by this. And you forgot to mention that for us there are no rules in the escalators. I discovered that in Europe is different the very first day I moved to London, innocently stayed on my left only to be hit by the rage of the English people saying that I was an animal basically 😀 I was in shock and didn’t understand why they were so mad at me. Then I realized that it’s just in Italy that we stay wherever we want 😀 The beauty and the irony of it is that after 6 years living in the UK, when I went back to Italy and used an elevator I felt our behavior was outrageous ahahahah, I’ve been civilized I think 🙂 Thanks for all these inputs, I should write a post about it!

Many good reviews here, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Meeting up at the coach ‘station’ was a little disorganised but it worked and we had a great day out. Siena was beautiful, although we didnt read the small print – Cathedral guide not included. San Gimignano very pretty, the wine tasting was fun too, although with wine at 30 or 60 euros a bottle we didnt buy any. A good day out.

Glad that despite little not so perfect details, you had a good time in Italy! Cheers

Hi Clelia, your blog on road trip to Italy is just vividly marvelous. Further, I appreciate the pride you take in your country and I feel like visiting your fascinating nation very soon. Thanks a ton for your itinerary.

Thanks Albert! Indeed I am very proud of being Italian! Our country has so much beauty to be discovered, from north to South. A southern Italian Itinerary is coming soon (I couldn’t include that because of lack of time to visit everything of course). Italy is pretty big and even if people would love to have a taste of the north and the south on the same trip, if they use a car and don’t have at least one month or more, it is impossible.

Loved your blog, but what you have touched is barely the tip of an iceberg, and if Venice is added to the list, they are the places that are frequented the most by foreigners. Italy is SO MUCH more. Must visit places in the north include Alto Adige, Valle d’aosta and Trieste, all of which have a unique culture, even for a country as diverse as Italy. As you have not covered any part of Southern Italy (which, by any means, is NOT a region that can be left out), I must add that it is a region that is as worthy of visiting as the the places mentioned in this blog. As a Calabrese, I’ll say that it is arguably more beautiful, because the weather is better, cuisine is better and more diversified, beaches are much better than the north, the number of historical sites is higher (because of rich historical background) and people in general are very hospitable. Must visit places in South include Naples (a city that has probably no equivalent in Europe or World) and its surroundings (Sorrento, Costiera Amalfitana, Pompei, Caserta), Palermo, Catania, Siracusa, Reggio Calabria, Tropea, Pizzo Calabro, Matera, Ostuni, Alberobello, Brindisi and Lecce.

Hey Antonio, Thanks for your comment and of course I only touched the tip of the Iceberg! This was a specific Itinerary (and even a very crammed one to be honest) to include most of the popular sights, but I have another post or two coming for the rest of Italy, including the south (with all the places you have mentioned) and also another one for the mountain lovers. There is so much to see and do in Italy! By the way, I’m Sardinian and I visited Calabria more than once and loved it! We are very lucky indeed 🙂

Hi. I found your Blog by chance cause I’m searching for help with a road trip I’m taking with my husband and 10year old twins from Calabria to Puglia (excluding the heel) up to the whole east coast of Italy. Then cross quickly to Genoa to get the ferry down back to sicily. We have in total 28 days to discover and enjoy the East Coast. Whenever I search for tips, this area of Italy is hardly ever mentioned by travellers. Our trip starts soon, on the 1st August 2019, this is a short notice, but such an opportunity came up and we’re grabbing it. Do you have some recommendations of the NOT To MISS places and fun activities with kids?

THANK YOU Lorraine

Hi Lorraine, Thanks for stopping by! There are not much info about the east coast because the sea is not exactly nice for our Italian standards. I personally prefer the west coast with the exception of some places in Calabria and Puglia (not sure what u mean by not covering the hill as Puglia is definitely on it ). If you can, don’t miss Rossano Calabro, and in Puglia, the Gargano (and the national park of course), the “Trulli” and I also suggest to also take a day or two were you don’t plan and take the car exploring the little coastal villages along the way. I remember in Rossano Calabro there is a massive aqua park your kid would love, it’s called Odissea 2000, that could be a great place for you to relax and the kids have some fun! Unfortunately, it’s been a while since I last visited Calabria and if it weren’t last minute, most of my friends are from Calabria and Puglia so they could give you the real local insights, if you reply to this, tell me so I might try to contact them and ask for more precise info! Cheers Clelia

Your article was really helpful, 16 Day Itinerary Italy looks different and so amazing in this article. It was such a good read. Thank you.

Very nice, thanks for sharing! A very good overview of how to explore the north/northwestern part of Italy!

Thanks David!

HOW COME U DINT TOUCH UP ON VENICE?? AND AMALFI COAST

Good question! Italy has so much to offer that if I had made an Itinerary covering from north to south I would have needed to write a book 🙂 A second article with an Itinerary from Rome to Campania Puglia and Basilicata (including the Amalfi coast) is coming up soon! As for Venice, believe it or not, I’ve never been there and I am not planning on going because I see it as a trap for tourists. My friends who used to live close to the city can confirm that. Venice is like Disneyland to me, nothing truly authentic has remained. It’s certainly beautiful judging from the pictures but as an Italian giving advice to tourists, first I wouldn’t recommend a place I’ve never visited myself in Italy and second, I’d rather say what I think and then leave the last decision to you guys! Which means that if you don’t mind Venice being not the real Italy, by any means, go on and visit it! 🙂

Great info, Clelia, Gracie! Your country is my favourite country in the World (and I have been to a lot of places).. I am of Indian origin but have lived in the UK for 25 years. I agree. I have been to most places in Italy including Sardinia and Sicily. My favourite so far is Puglia- we cycled for 8 days around Puglia last year, ! Sardinia (again cycling !) is my next favourite!. We are planning to drive to Tuscany in our new camper van from the UK (with our bikes), in August 2019. This information will really help us.

We don’t want to rush it.. We want to spend two weeks in the region covering Florence, Pisa, Siena, Cinque Terre and maybe Genoa or Turin on the way in or back from the UK..

The villages of Italy,the country side, the food, the beaches would take up most of our time. We’ll spend hardly any time in tourist traps – though there are unfortunately must -do’s on most itineraries – Pisa, Siena, Florence ! Most Italian cities like Venice are now groaning under the pressure of mass-tourism.which is sad. Head away from the crowds, experience the lovely people of Italy and cover once region at a time -come back often, . – for a life time… that’s our plan !

Hello Clelia, these itineraries are just amazing for a traveler. Is it budget friendly for a solo traveler or its better to be with a group tour?

Hi Lydia, Thanks for your comment! To be honest with you, it really depends! As a general rule (and solo traveler myself) it is always slightly convenient to travel with friends or as a couple, if only just to share the hotel room bill, car rental etc. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t go on the cheap by yourself. I have done both and the freedom of just deciding where and when to go is so amazing!

Italy can be super expensive but also very cheap, you just need to research a bit beforehand for the best hotels or hostels if you are flexible, train or buses instead of cars and you are in business! I was able to have a great holiday in Sardinia (which is well known for being quite expensive) when I was a penniless student!

As for the tours, I recently came back from an amazing trip to Australia and generally I prefer to go by myself because I like the freedom of decision but due to Australia being soooo expensive and other practical reasons, in the end, I decided to go by tour for a few things I wanted to see and it was AMAZING. If you travel solo you also have the opportunity to meet new fun friends and exchange life experiences along the way. So if you think a tour around Italy is better for you, by all means, book that if it’s your cheapest option!

If you need some advice about tours, let me know! Being Italian I can guide you to the ones I think are the best value for money! Cheers Clelia

Lovely Post. Italy such a wonderful place to visit. All the photos are very good. This is an informative post. Thank you so much for sharing the list. I would like to share with my friends.

Thanks Gary, feel free to share the beauty of Italy and try it for yourself of course! 🙂

I have been reading your posts regularly.I need to say that you are doing a fantastic job by posting information regarding Italian beautiful and tour places.I will bookmark your site Please keep up the great work.

Please note that as per my comments guidelines I had to remove the name of your business and the link. Thanks for your understanding. Kind Regards Clelia

Amazing photos and information. thanks for sharing this! Love Italy!

Thanks Gabbar!

Oh man what a post! Lake Como, the italian tastes, the eye-candy accommodation… Have mercy!

Ahahaha I know, right! I was drooling over MY OWN COUNTRY while writing this post! Italy is just so beautiful 🙂

Never thought about a road trip round Europe but this looks amazing. I would want to take in San Marino for sure.

Hey Craig! Thanks for stopping by! Just for the records… San Marino is truly beautiful and it’s not on this list just because even being in Italian territory it is a state of his own, not politically part of Italy, just like the Vatican is. I mentioned the Vatican just because it’s basically inglobated in the city of Rome, but I should point out that it’s also a state of its own 🙂

Great list of things to do, really loved Florence and can’t wait to get to Venice

I also loved Florence, a marvelous city full of art!

Went to Italy in 2016, was one of our favorite countries to visit, need to get back ASAP!

Sounds a great way of giving a treat to myself and my wife for our anniversary! thanks for sharing this post, Italy is really very amazing and awesome, I can’t wait to visit one day!!

Italy is always a treat for every occasion I guess 🙂

Love this article! Going to Europe for a 2 month road trip this summer. This Italy road trip will fit in perfectly with my plan. Thank you!

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it and I hope you’ll have a fantastic trip to Italy! 😉

Thank you for the article. We are going to visit this country with my wife. Hotels and cars have already booked. It remains only to have a good time

Hey Dylan, if you have everything sorted out, I’m pretty sure you’ll have a wonderful time! I have a friend now on a trip to Italy and he is having the time of his life apparently 🙂

I’ve mostly been a UK and France traveler, but the more I see and read about Italy, especially the ancient cities … ! Thanks for a great post. Your photos are amazing! I’m off to see what airfare looks like for next season!

Hey Phill, being Italian myself I might be biased but a friend of mine is currently traveling around Italy and he is sending me pictures of everything he sees in absolute wonder, you have to put it on your bucket list!! 🙂

Thanks for an informative post, Clelia! It is very well-written, as well. I love how you included a video to teach your readers on how they can make use of Pruvo. Italy has always been a place to visit and explore for me but have not gotten the chance to fulfill at this time. It’s also nice that lots of airlines these days are getting better with air travel services and amenities. Kudos!

Thanks Elizabeth! I hope you will be able to take an epic road trip to italy very soon, you will not be disappointed! 🙂

This was a really interesting post, thanks for sharing your travel experience.

Italy is the perfect place to visit and I would love to explore it more. You captured awesome pictures on your travel trip. Thank you so much for sharing this post.. Loved this!!

Thanks Samy! Italy is indeed a beautiful country and I’m a very lucky girl!

Wow! This post sounds amazing.. Italy looks awesome to explore. There are so many things to do. Love your post. I will be definitely adding to my bucket list. Keep posting!

Thanks Sammy! Italy should be in everyone’s bucket list and a road trip to Italy even more! 🙂

I think everyone would like Venice in Italy. Venice was my favorite place where I would like to hang out with friends.

I can’t talk about Venice as it is one of the few places in Italy I haven’t visited. Mostly on purpose as I see it as a place that has no real locals but just tourists. The pictures are surely nice and the atmosphere and views too, but somehow it never was on top of my list of places to see in Italy! Maybe one day I will. Just to see if I was right or wrong about my feelings towards Venice.

Extremely informative and well written. 🙂

Thanks! A lot of work went into it! Now on with the second part… the beautiful southern Italy, soon to be published (soon can mean 1 week to a month!) lol

It’s obvious by the quality that much effort was exerted to produce the article. I look forward to what part two offers..

The second part will also be a hell of a job but so worth it as it will cover some of the best parts of southern Italy like the Amalfi coast, Puglia, and other lovely places!

Italy sounds different and so appealing in this post. Loved the detailing! It was such a good read. Thank you.

Thanks Reshmaty!

I appreciate your blog post, Thanks for sharing. Air travel gets easier with airline sophistication. Its invention has revolutionized the entire travel arena.

Not sure how talking about airlines is relevant on a road trip article… but thanks for stopping by anyway!

Italy is a perfect place to travel as every city is to beatiful and historical. My favorite was Florence from the very well known ones but as I prefer less touristic destinations I enjoyed Bologna too for the students vibe.

Yes, Italy is beautiful no matter where you go you will always find something special! I also loved Florence and Bologna, they are less overwhelming than Rome and Milan for sure (even if my heart will forever stay with the eternal city!). Not sure if you have visited San Gimignano and Lake Como but they are seriously jaw-dropping locations! Now I’m preparing the southern road trip from Rome to the Amalfi coast, super excited as I love that part too 🙂

You did a lot of work to make this post. Italy is very beautiful, especially if you travell alone, without any excursion groups.

Thanks Jenny, Italy is beautiful no matter how you decide to visit it. Some people like you love to discover it without any guide but in certain circumstances, I recommend the tours (or at least using the services to skip the lines) as if you don’t have much time they can truly save a lot of time and some guided tours are also worth it because being the guide Italian you will have a fun experience and you will not miss the best parts or waste time to find them 🙂 to each its own! The most important thing is to just pack up and come to Italy no matter how you decide to discover it, it’s just too beautiful 🙂

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Ruta por Italia en 10 días: tres itinerarios por todo el país

Hacer una ruta por Italia siempre es una idea estupenda. Nosotros siempre decimos que es uno de los mejores países para hacer turismo: hay un montón de atractivos que ver en Italia , tiene una gastronomía buenísima que puedes comer bien por poco en casi cualquier lado, tiene islas preciosas con playas de postal, el transporte es bueno y es un país seguro. En este post hemos preparado tres tipos de ruta por Italia en 10 días para que elijas el que más se adapta a tus preferencias. ¡Tarde o temprano los tienes que hacer todos!

Contenidos de este artículo

RUTA POR ITALIA EN 10 DÍAS: 3 ITINERARIOS

Días 1, 2 y 3 – roma, días 4 y 5 – florencia, día 6 – excursión por la toscana, días 7 y 8 – cinque terre, días 9 y 10 – venecia, día 4 – nápoles, día 5 – pompeya y vesubio, una excursión imprescindible en una ruta por el sur de italia, día 6 – sorrento, día 7 – capri, días 8 y 9 – costa amalfitana, una parada colorida en la ruta por italia, día 10 – vuelta a casa, días 1 y 2 – venecia, día 3 – verona, una parada perfecta en la ruta por italia para los más románticos, día 4 – sirmione y el lago de garda, día 5 – brunico, lago de braies y adolf munkel trail, día 6 – lago de carezza, días 7 y 8 – milán, día 9 – lago de como, uno de los lugares más pintorescos de la ruta por italia, día 10- regreso a venecia y fin de la ruta por italia.

Te proponemos tres itinerarios para que elijas el que más te guste: el clásico , el Tirreno y lo mejor del norte . No importa cuál elijas, puedes descubrir un montón de rincones chulísimos de las principales ciudades italianas haciendo itinerarios a pie diseñados por locales . Son perfectos para descubrir las ciudades a tu aire, sin agobios y aprendiendo un montón de datos interesantes.

1. Itinerario clásico, la ruta por Italia más común

Esta ruta por Italia en 10 días es la más famosa y frecuente entre la mayoría de los viajeros. Te llevará a conocer los sitios más turísticos del país: Roma , Florencia , Cinque Terre y Venecia . Creemos que es un recorrido ideal si es tu primera vez en Italia y quieres conocer sus imprescindibles.

¿Cómo moverse en esta ruta por Italia en 10 días?

Esta ruta por Italia empieza en Roma y acaba en Venecia . Así que si quieres hacerla, recomendamos sacar la ida a Roma y la vuelta desde Florencia. Puedes encontrar vuelos baratos a ambos aeropuertos .

Aconsejamos hacer esta ruta por Italia en transporte público. Si alquilas coche tendrás más libertad pero es totalmente prescindible. Especialmente en Roma y Venecia. Nosotros no aconsejaríamos alquilar coche .

Si decides hacerlo, alquílalo en Florencia y devuélvelo en el mismo sitio. T e servirá para explorar Cinque Terre a tu aire y perderte por la Toscana . Pero para ir de Roma a Florencia y de Florencia a Venecia no lo recomendamos.

En el mapa encontrarás todos los lugares a visitar en esta ruta por Italia .

No se nos ocurre un mejor sitio para empezar una ruta por Italia en 10 días que hacerlo en la capital del país. Roma nos pareció la ciudad más espectacular de Italia . La ciudad eterna nunca defrauda. Sus calles están llenas de historia. Hay un montón de cosas que hacer en Roma . Y en 3 días tendrás tiempo de ver casi todos sus imprescindibles.

Desde pasear por sus calles con un gelato en la mano hasta alucinar con el Coliseo . Roma  es la ciudad con más bienes históricos y arquitectónicos del mundo . ¡Así que hay que pasear por la calle con los ojos bien abiertos porque cada esquina es una obra de arte!

Durante las dos primeras noches de esta ruta por Italia en 10 días te tocará dormir en Roma. Nosotros nos alojamos en este hotel . Muy recomendable.

🚂 Duración del trayecto desde Roma : 1 hora y 30 minutos aproximadamente

De la ciudad eterna pasamos a la cuna del Renacimiento. Conectar ambas ciudades es muy sencillo. Te contamos cómo ir de Roma a Florencia . ¡Pero tardarás poco más de una hora en tren!

Florencia es una de las ciudades más bonitas de Italia . ¡Así que no podía faltar en tu ruta por Italia . La ciudad alberga algunos de los principales iconos de Italia: el ponte Vecchio o el David de Michelangelo. Y tampoco te pierdas el atardecer desde la Piazzale Michelangelo. ¡Es precioso! Te contamos 25 cosas que hacer en Florencia  para que disfrutes de la ciudad.

Nosotros nos alojamos en el Hotel Bellavista , en el corazón de Florencia. ¡Y es totalmente recomendable por su buena relación calidad-precio!

Florencia es una ciudad preciosa. Y además está ubicada en la Toscana, una región preciosa con un montón de sitios interesantes. Así que nuestro consejo es que aproveches este sexto día de la ruta por Italia para hacer una excursión por la Toscana .

Para que te inspires, te dejamos las 10 mejores excursiones desde Florencia . Pero nuestras sugerencias serían Pisa para conocer su torre inclinada, Siena pueblos más bonitos de la Toscana o alguno de los .

Después de la excursión, si te mueves en transporte público recomendamos volver a Florencia para dormir en el mismo hotel que las dos noches anteriores.

🚂 Duración del trayecto desde Florencia : 2 horas aproximadamente

Cinque Terre es uno de los lugares más mágicos que ver en esta ruta por Italia.  Son cinco pueblos costeros y muy pintorescos (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola y Riomaggiore). Nuestro favorito es Riomaggiore, aunque todos son preciosos.

Te contamos cómo llegar a Cinque Terre . Lo ideal es establecer La Spezia como base y disfrutar de los pueblos de Cinque Terre los días 7 y 8 de esta ruta por Italia .

Aconsejamos pasar una noche en Cinque Terre. Nosotros nos alojamos en la Spezia. No es el típico pueblo pero es donde encontrarás los mejores precios. Nuestro hotel fue el CDH Hotel La Spezia .

El octavo día por la tarde, una vez hayas visitado todos los pueblos, recomendamos ir a Venecia para dormir allí. En total hay unas 4:30h en tren haciendo transbordo en Florencia.

Las dos últimas noches de esta ruta por Italia en 10 días las pasamos en Venecia. Bueno, nos alojamos en Mestre, donde hay alojamientos más económicos. Concretamente en el Elite Hotel Residence . ¡Muy recomendable!

🚂 Duración del trayecto desde La Spezia: 4 horas y 30 minutos aproximadamente (escala en Florencia)

El noveno día lo vas a tener entero para enamorarte de la preciosa ciudad de Venecia y sus canales. Te contamos 40 que hacer en Venecia para que descubras lo mejor de la ciudad.

Y el último día intenta aprovechar el tiempo que puedas en la ciudad antes de ir al aeropuerto. Te contamos cómo ir de Venecia al aeropuerto de Treviso o de Venecia al aeropuerto de Marco Polo . Volver a casa siempre es triste pero esperamos que te haya gustado esta ruta por Italia en 10 días .

¿Tienes más tiempo? Siempre puedes añadir alguna de las mejores excursiones desde Venecia a tu itinerario 🙂

2. Itinerario Tirreno , una ruta por Italia ideal para los amantes del mar

Esta ruta por Italia es ideal para los amantes del mar ya que casi todos los días vas a estar cerquita del Tirreno. Vas a poder conocer Roma , Nápoles , Pompeya , el Vesubio , Sorrento , Capri y la preciosa Costa Amalfitana .

Aconsejamos sacar el vuelo de ida a Roma y a la vuelta desde Nápoles.

¿Cómo moverse por esta ruta por Italia?

Nosotros no aconsejamos alquilar coche. Puedes hacerla perfectamente en transporte público . En el mapa verás todos los puntos a visitar en esta ruta por Italia en 10 días .

Los tres primeros días de esta ruta por Italia también aconsejamos dedicarlos a Roma , la ciudad eterna. Igual que en la sugerencia anterior, en tres días podrás conocer la mayoría de sus atractivos.

Lo suyo es alojarse en Roma dos noches. Nosotros nos alojamos en este hotel .

🚂 Duración del trayecto desde Roma : entre 1 y 3 horas aproximadamente

Después de tres días en Roma, en vez de ir hacia el norte como en la ruta por Italia anterior, ¡bajaremos a conocer el sur! En este caso, te contamos cómo ir de Roma a Nápoles .

Es uno de los principales destinos turísticos de Italia . Nápoles  es caótica y a nosotros no nos gustó demasiado. Pero está llena de historia y es el mejor sitio para probar algunas de las mejores pizzas del mundo. Te contamos 25 cosas que hacer en Nápoles. 

Dedicarle un día a la ciudad es suficiente, por eso te proponemos un itinerario para visitar Nápoles en un día . Nosotros creemos que los lugares más atractivos están en sus alrededores .

Recomendamos pasar dos noches en Nápoles. Nosotros nos alojamos en el Napoli City Rooms . Correcto, cerca de la estación.

Al día siguiente aconsejamos hacer una de las mejores excursiones desde Nápoles. En el mismo día tendrás la oportunidad de conocer Pompeya y el Vesubio, dos de los principales atractivos que ver en esta ruta por Italia en 10 días . Lo más cómodo es contratar una excursión conjunta desde Nápoles en español. 

Pero si quieres ir por tu cuenta, también es bastante sencillo. Primero tendrás que visitar Pompeya y luego el Vesubio. Te contamos cómo visitar Pompeya desde Nápoles.

Y una vez hayas acabado tu visita es hora de subir al Vesubio. Puedes ir perfectamente desde Pompeya. Las dos atracciones turísticas están muy bien conectadas. Te contamos cómo subir al Vesubio .

Por la noche es recomendable dormir en Nápoles para no tener que cargar con el equipaje todo el día.

🚂 Duración del trayecto desde Nápoles : 1 hora aproximadamente

Sorrento es uno de los pueblos más bonitos de Italia. Su paisaje nos dejó alucinados: hay un contraste precioso  entre el mar y las montañas. Creemos que es el mejor sitio para establecer la base para conocer Capri y la Costa Amalfitana.

Pero sobre todo, hay cosas muy interesantes que ver en Sorrento . Por ejemplo, el Bagni della Regina Giovanna , una piscina natural preciosa. Te contamos cómo ir de Nápoles a Sorrento fácilmente .

⛴ Duración del trayecto desde Sorrento : 30 minutos aproximadamente

Es una de las islas más famosas del Mediterráneo , así que no podía faltar en esta ruta por Italia. Capri es el mejor sitio para hacer esta excursión. Puedes llegar fácilmente en ferry en apenas media horita . Incluso puedes alojarte en Capri para una experiencia completa, ya que por la noche la isla está mucho más tranquila.

Si quieres más comodidad, lo mejor es contratar una excursión en español que incluye transporte y guía para que solo te preocupes de disfrutar de maravillas como la Gruta Azul.

🚎 Duración del trayecto desde Sorrento : 1 hora aproximadamente hasta Positano

La Costa Amalfitana es uno de los highlights de esta ruta por Italia en 10 días. Todos los pueblos que integran este tramo de costa bañado por el Mar Tirreno son Patrimonio de la Humanidad desde 1997 . ¡Así que no te los puedes perder!

Está bastante bien comunicada en transporte público desde Sorrento . Casi tardarás lo mismo que en coche. Así que si no has alquilado uno, no te preocupes. Tienes dos días enteros para descubrir sus pueblos más bonitos como Positano o Ravello.

Guía para visitar la Costa Amalfitana:

• 15 lugares imprescindibles que ver en la Costa Amalfitana
• Dónde alojarse en la Costa Amalfitana: mejores zonas y hoteles

Esperamos que hayas disfrutado de esta ruta por Italia en 10 días.  Lo ideal sería volver desde Nápoles. Si tienes pensado volver desde Roma, aconsejamos hacer la noche del noveno día al décimo en Nápoles para llegar más rápido a Roma.

3. Lo mejor del norte , una ruta por Italia para los amantes de la naturaleza

Como indica su nombre, esta ruta por Italia en 10 días te llevará a conocer lo mejor del Norte de Italia. Las ciudades de Venecia y Verona , la preciosa región del Trentino y sus maravillas naturales y la capital de la moda, Milán .

¿Cómo moverse en esta ruta por Italia?

En este caso es imprescindible alquilar coche. Aconsejamos alquilarlo al tercer día porque durante los dos primeros en Venecia no lo vas a utilizar. Y también devolverlo en Venecia al final de esta ruta por Italia en 10 días  para evitar cargos por devolución en oficina distinta. Así que a diferencia de los dos itinerarios anteriores, es que reserves el vuelo de ida y vuelta desde Venecia.

El mapa te puede servir para ver el recorrido y todas las paradas de esta ruta por Italia .

Los dos primeros días de esta ruta por Italia los recomendamos pasar en Venecia para conocer sus canales. Conocer Venecia en un día  es fácil. Así que si en 24 horas ya lo has visto todo, al segundo día puedes hacer una excursión a Murano y Burano .

🚘 Duración del trayecto desde Venecia : 1 hora y 25 minutos aproximadamente

Verona es una de nuestras ciudades favoritas en Italia. Es la ciudad de  los enamorados Romeo y Julieta . De hecho podrás visitar su casa y el famoso balcón. Sin embargo nosotros nos quedamos con las plazas preciosas que tiene la ciudad y sobre todo su Arena. Te contamos 25 cosas que hacer en Verona .

Nosotros recomendamos dormir en el Novo Hotel Rossi . Céntrico y con parking gratuito.

🚘 Duración del trayecto desde Verona : 45 minutos aproximadamente

El cuarto día de esta ruta por Italia es uno de los más interesantes. Vas a tener la oportunidad de conocer el Lago de Garda, uno de los más bonitos del país. Pero sobre todo lo que más nos gustó fue Sirmione. Este pueblo se encuentra a solo  media horita de Verona.  Su casco antiguo medieval es precioso y su ubicación, a la orilla del Garda, mágica.

Después de recorrer algunos pueblos del lago de Garda, aconsejamos ir a Bolzano para hacer noche allí. ¿Preparado para descubrir la magia de la región del Trentino?

Brunico – 1 hora desde Bolzano

Es nuestro pueblo favorito de la región. Haz una parada rápida y pasea por sus preciosas calles.

Lago de Braies – 35 minutos desde Brunico

Es uno de los lagos más bonitos que ver en Italia. Es impresionante ver ese agua de color esmeralda donde se reflejan los picos de los Dolomitas. El parking cuesta 8€/día y está al lado del lago.

Adolf Munkel Trail – 2 horas desde el lago

Y finalmente, si tienes tiempo y ganas puedes acabar el día haciendo esta ruta senderista en los Dolomitas . Es una de las mejores porque es fácil y las vistas son espectaculares. En total es un recorrido circular de 9 kilómetros que se hace en unas 3 horas. 

🚘 Duración del trayecto desde Bolzano : 30 minutos aproximadamente

Junto al lago de Braies creemos que es el lago más bonito que puedes ver en esta ruta por Italia en 10 días . Está a apenas 30 minutos desde Bolzano. ¡Así que es muy fácil llegar hasta allí! El parking (de pago) está justo al lado del lago. No tendrás problemas para aparcar.

Y después toca poner rumbo a Milán para conocer la capital de Lombardía. En total son unas 4 horas de viaje desde el lago.

Las tres últimas noches de esta ruta por Italia en 10 días te aconsejamos pasarlas en Milán. Nosotros nos alojamos en el 43 Station Hotel , justo al lado de la estación central. Aunque en esta ocasión no llevábamos coche.

🚘 Duración del trayecto desde Carezza : 4 horas aproximadamente

Dedicarle dos días enteros a la ciudad de Milán son más que suficientes. La capital de la moda es una ciudad muy interesante. Podrás conocer su Duomo , uno de los templos más bonitos de Italia. Por cierto, ¿sabías que Milán también tiene canales? No pierdas la oportunidad de pasear por el animado barrio de Navigli para tomar algo. Te contamos que 30 cosas que hacer en Milán .

🚘 Duración del trayecto desde Milán : 1 hora aproximadamente

Y para acabar esta ruta por Italia en 10 días de la mejor manera no hay nada mejor que ir a descubrir el Lago de Como. ¡Es precioso! Está a una horita en coche desde Milán. Te recomendamos conocer algunos de los pueblos que están en su orilla. Como ,  Bellagio y Travenna son de los más bonitos. ¡No te los pierdas!

🚘 Duración del trayecto desde Milán : 3 horas aproximadamente

Y finalmente toca regresar en coche a Venecia para devolver el coche en la misma oficina para evitar cargos. De Milán a Venecia tendrás unas 3 horitas , aunque cómodas por autopista. ¡Esperamos que hayas disfrutado de esta ruta por Italia en 10 días y hayas conocido sitios espectaculares!

Albert Serratacó

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10 comentarios.

Hola. Quizás el post tenga demasiado tiempo pero a ver si pueden ayudarme, quiero hacer la primera opción de ruta pero es la primera vez en muchas cosas, que voy al extranjero, que uso avión y el mayor problema una peque de 2 años.

Los días que abandonas un hotel para ir a otro, que visitas las cosas con las maletas a cuesta o usas algún servicio para llevarla de un lado a otro. Qué recomiendas maletas o mochilas para llevar las cosas. El tema médico, sobretodo para la peque, hay que sacar alguna tarjeta sanitaria europea o algún seguro.

MUCHAS GRACIAS!!

Hola Jorge,

Nosotros siempre llevamos el equipaje con nosotros en los traslados. Entiendo que viajando con la peque es más complicado ir ligero, pero Italia es un país bien preparado para los turistas y no tendréis problema moviéndoos en trenes/buses con equipaje. Otra opción que quizá os hace sentir más cómodos sería alquilar un coche …

Respecto al seguro médico, es súper importante en todos los viajes. Nosotros viajamos con IATI, que ofrece un seguro para familias con máxima protección para los niños.

¡Que vaya genial el viaje!

Hola, estamos planeando visitar el sur de Italia de Nàpoles a Sicilia y nos resultan muy interesantes las sugerencias de su blog. En qué época del año conviene hacerlo? Somos de Argentina. Gracias!

Hola Graciela,

Nosotros recomendaríamos ir en mayo-junio o septiembre-principios de octubre para evitar las altas temperaturas y la ola de turistas.

¡Un abrazo para nuestros amigos argentinos!

Hola vivimos en ciudad de Mexico y quiero hacer un recorrido de 15 dias con mi mama y hermana a Itlaia, quisieramos recorrer cinque terre y hacer un itinerario que me recomendarias. un viaje para disfrutar y no andar tan acelradas como en un tour

Días 1-3: Roma Días 4-6: Florencia Días 7-9: Cinque Terre Días 10-12: Venecia Días 13-15: Milán

Si no te interesa Milán, puedes cambiar por Nápoles y Costa Amalfitana y hacerlo después de Roma, aunque vais a ir un poco más apurados de tiempo.

¡Un abrazo!

Buenos días, para acabar de hacer la ruta por la costa amalfitana, no hay problemas con el transporte público, en el mes de agosto, saliendo de Sorrento hacia Positano, Amalfi, etc?

Hola Josep,

Entre las principales localidades sí puedes moverte en transporte público, aunque lo más recomendable es hacerlo en coche para disfrutar de la carretera que bordea la costa.

¡Un abrazo y feliz viaje!

Buenos días,

Estamos planificando un viaje para 2023 en Italia. El 20 de mayo saldríamos de Nápoles y el 30 de mayo deberíamos llegar a Ancona (para luego cruzar en ferry hacia Split). Que ciudades y lugares nos recomiendan para visitar en Italia en el trayecto de 10 días de Nápoles-Ancona? Lo haríamos en transporte público.

Muchas gracias!! Nos encanta el blog!

Hola Lucía,

Después de ver Nápoles y alrededores, sin duda te recomiendo conocer Roma (4 días) y Florencia (2 días) si es vuestra primera vez en Italia. De camino a Florencia podéis parar en algún pueblo de la Toscana , son bellísimos.

¡Disfrutad muchísimo el viaje!

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23 Best Places In Italy To Visit On A Road Trip

From the stunning cites like Rome , coastal regions like Cinque Terre and the incredible villages in southern regions , Italy is one of the most diverse European countries to visit. That being said, it can get pretty bamboozling to plan a trip to see as much as possible. This is so true when there’s so much choice on the best places in Italy to actually visit.

Especially on a road trip! 

Now, one of the best ways I’ve found to explore the best Italian cities and charming spots is by road (or train, if you can’t drive) with the country being well connected by road and pretty great for trains, too.

After we headed on our 900km Italian road trip (in a rickshaw), we really began to appreciate how many of the best places in Italy can be explored when heading down (or up) the spine of Italy. There are so many stopping points and it’s so incredible. 

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best places in Italy to visit on your trip! Some are relatively easy to get to, others a little more tricky but with a little ingenuity and an explorer’s spirit you’ll make it work. 

Anyway, without going on for ages, take a look at some of the best places in Italy you should really visit on a road trip across the country. Have the best trip! 

(1-5) Cinque Terre 

Cinque Terre is totally iconic and a region of Italy you can’t miss!

For me, it’s one of my favourite coastlines in Italy, especially as it’s relatively easy to visit if you’re near Pisa. 

You see, Cinque Terre is an area around a two-hour drive north of Pisa. The region is characterised by its dramatic, rugged landscape and of course its 5 picturesque terraced towns of; Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Now, the five towns are minutes away from each other by train and it’s quite treacherous to even attempt it in the car.

Now, the reason I say treacherous is that I ended up scratching the side of the car on the way to Vernazza; Yaya won’t let me live it down. As you can expect, when we visited for the second (and third) time, we parked our car in La Spezia and jumped right on that train. It’s honestly the easiest way to visit this region. 

1.) Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre

The most western of all the Cinque Terre ‘Lands’ or towns is Monterosso al Mare is easily one of the best places in Italy to visit on a road trip.

You see, Monterosso al Mare is famed for its much larger beach and open spaces than the rest of the towns and is great if you want a day by the sea. 

Now, it might not have the same charm as the other towns in Cinque Terre but it’s well worth a visit if you’re already exploring the region.

Read more: Best things to do in Cinque Terre

2.) Vernazza ,  Cinque Terre

Dating back almost 1000 years, the totally iconic Vernazza still stands today and is a stunning piece of historic history to explore.

Honestly, Vernazza is so beautiful and you really can’t miss hopping off the train here. Oh yeah, on that point, make sure to get one of the day ‘hop on and off’ pass from the train station. This way you can head between the towns when and how you want.

Once here, don’t forget to see the Church of Santa Margherita and Vernazza’s hidden beach just off Piazza Marconi.

3.) Corniglia ,  Cinque Terre

Unlike the four other Cinque Terre towns,  Corniglia is not perched right on the seafront, but some 100 metres high on the cliff-top!

Yaya and I tried to walk this in the blistering heat at midday, too. Let’s just say it was a bad idea! We just ended up sweaty, hot, dehydrated and no doubt in a bit of a mess.

The second time we visited we used the connecting shuttle bus from the train station, it only takes 5 minutes or so and is so much easier. 

A perfect place to enjoy the views across the magnificent region. We love stopping here for lunch, too. There are lots of little restaurants you’ll see lining the streets.

4.) Manarola , Cinque Terre

Arguably one of the most photographed towns in Cinque Terre,  Manarola is one of the best places in Italy to visit.

I swear that every time I visit Manarola I pile on that holiday weight. The gelato, seafood, the wine; it’s all just too good! Spend a few hours walking the town, exploring the coastal cliff walks and take a dip in the sea. 

It’s a stunning place. 

5.) Riomaggiore ,  Cinque Terre

The most southern village of Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is a beautiful town to sit back and enjoy your afternoon.

Grab some local foods (especially fried calamari) from the street vendors and head straight for the rocky harbour front. Yaya and I spent a good few hours dipping our toes into the sea.

This town is a particularly glorious place to watch the sunset from and perhaps even jump into the sea to cool down from the scorching Italian sun.

Now, personally, I’d give it a few days to explore all the five towns in Cinque Terre. Though, if you’re short on time and only have a (long) day, then make sure to plan and arrive early to explore as much as possible.

6.) Trieste

Situated in the Northeastern edge of Italy, Trieste is quite different from the southern Italian towns you might be used to seeing. You see, it has a mix of cultures and heritage that spans centuries.

You see, its turbulent past of being a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (and the largest part of the Habsburg Monarchy) has ensured Trieste has a mix of influences and cultures that’s well worth experiencing. 

If you’re looking for some Austrian schnitzel, some Adriatic aperitifs or even castles (like Miramare Castle), Trieste is a great spot to visit.

Plus, it’s right on the border with Slovenia so it’s a great stopping point before exploring more of the Adriatic Coast around Croatia and Slovenia that’s so close. 

Read more: Best Italian cities to visit

7.) Lake Como

Yup, you might think that Lake Como is just for those snazzy Hollywood celebs but there’s so much more to this destination than its famed visitors.

The glacial Lake Como is only about 1.5 hours away (by car) from Milan .

This is exactly how we visited, by hopping in the car from Milan and exploring all around the northerly region. 

For me, the biggest draw to Lake Como is its natural beauty. This is especially true for those dramatic mountains that always draw me in!

Don’t forget to hop on the boats that cross the lake, it’s a perfect way to explore the beautiful towns surrounding it like Menaggio, Bellagio, and Varenna, to mention but a few of my favourites.

Read more: Best things to do in Lake Como

Who doesn’t love a bit of snow, eh? Around 100km or so north of Turin , Aosta is nestled within the Italian Alps. It’s easily one of the best places in Italy to visit on a trip in the north; especially with Gran Paradiso National Park close by! 

With over 2,000 years of history in this town, Aosta is the perfect town to explore sites such as the Bridge of Grand Arvo and the ancient town walls that still stand to this day. Don’t forget to pack your skis too, there are some great (but steep) slopes around the region and the ingress at Monte Bianco.

Oh, and on your way north, make a little pit stop in Valle d’Aosta, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Turin

9.) San Miniato

San Miniato is a totally stunning town to visit that’s perched in the province of Pisa.

Long ago, San Miniato was a major thoroughfare for medieval traders between Rome and the rest of Europe. So, to this day, San Miniato has been shaped by this.

Once here, make sure to explore the Duomo, the Tower of Frederick and the medieval centre of the town itself.

We spent the whole afternoon here filling up on local olives and wine (for Yaya, who wasn’t driving). 

It’s totally one of the best places in Italy to visit when in this region and so easy to include on a trip when travelling by car. 

Read more: Exploring San Miniato

10.) Florence

Florence is an incredible Italian city to visit and one of my favourites to explore! We’ve visited four times over the years and each has been amazing. 

Now, once here, park up the car as you won’t need it in the city itself. It’s best explored by foot and will give you a welcome little break from driving, too.

Once here, make sure to explore the best things to do in Florence and see Ponte Vecchio which stretches across the Arno River and the Duomo that proudly stands for all to see across the city.

Oh, and don’t forget to head up to Piazzale Michelangelo for some of the best views across the city .

Read more: Best things to do in Florence

11.) San Marino

Okay, so technically not Italy but is instead a tiny microstate , San Marino is one of the best places in Italy that’s actually not part of Italy at all!

Considered to be the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world, San Marino is a few hours east of Florence and can be enjoyed over a weekend or a day trip if you’re short on time.

Don’t forget to visit the  Historic Centre and Mount Titano which have both been recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status.

Afterwards, head west for about 90km and visit the historic city of Arezzo, too. It’s totally stunning and well worth visiting.

Read more: Microstates to Explore in Europe

12.) Orvieto

Nestled in south-west Umbria, Orvieto stands proud situated on the very top of volcanic tuff that’s pretty special to see.

We stopped here by total accident on the way south to Rome , when we noticed it and just had to stop.

Orvieto is a great place to relax and spend a day, the historic centre is easily walkable, with its charming cafes and restaurants serving some of its prized (and totally tasty) wines.

It’s stunning here. 

Oh, also, make sure to check out Pitigliano that’s a cliff-side town about 50km west of Orvieto .

It’s well worth stopping if you’re heading to the west coast and it’s so stunning.

Read more: A day exploring Orvieto

Rome is easily one of the best places in Italy to visit and a place you should certainly visit when on a road trip. 

 The historic centre of Rome is a must-see stop on your Italian road trip but can be quite a hassle to drive once you’re there. Park up your car and explore the city by local transport or taxi, too.

Just remember to stamp your bus tickets once you get on the bus! I didn’t realise you had to do this and was thus fined €50 for the pleasure. Urgh!

Once here, make sure to explore some of the best places in Rome to visit and see some of the secret spots in the city , too.

Read more: Best things to do in Rome

14.) Vatican City

Enclaved within the city of Rome, Vatican City is officially the smallest recognised state in the whole world! This makes it one of the best places in Italy, like San Marino, that isn’t really in Italy at all.

That being said, it’s so easy to visit when you’re staying in Rome and incredible to explore. Once here, make sure to climb St Peter’s Basilica for the most impressive views across Rome and Vatican City . The views are so impressive.

Also, If you fancy keeping your feet firmly on the ground though, take a tour of the Sistine Chapel and the gardens of the Vatican.

Just make sure to book your tickets online before you go.

This will cut out so much queuing time which can be horrendous in the height of summer. 

Read more: Exploring the Vatican City

15.) Pompeii

Pompeii is one of the best places in Italy to visit if you want to see the ruined city that was devastated thousands of years ago. 

We loved our visit and it’s well worth seeing for a half a day trip when driving between Naples and the Amalfi Coast . 

Once here, you can visit the historic site of Pompeii and even see streets, houses and even people of the town that were desecrated by Mount Vesuvius all those years ago.

One of the best ways to see Pompeii would be to arrive there first thing in the morning before it gets too busy. Oh, and if you want a longer stay, you can partner it with a journey up Mount Vesuvius, too. Just take your walking shoes with you and an appreciation of heights.

Read more: Exploring Pompeii

16.) Amalfi Coast

Arguably one of Italy’s most famous coastlines, the Amalfi Coast is totally incredible to explore. Not only that, there’s a heap of the best places to see on the Amalfi Coast that are totally stunning.

Stretches along the Sorrentine Peninsula in Southern Italy, it’s the perfect place to explore but it isn’t for the faint-hearted of drivers.

The roads are narrow and can be very high! If you feel more comfortable, park up at your hotel and use cabs whilst you’re there. 

While in the historic port town of Amalfi , do visit the Duomo di Amalfi and the Piazza which both provide stunning views of historic Italy. There are lots of steps, but well worth it for the beautiful picture you’ll capture.

Afterwards, take a little trip over to places like Capri and see what makes this region so special. 

Read more: Best places to see on the Amalfi Coast

17.) Positano

Positano is actually one of the spots on the Amalfi Coast that’s easily one of the best places in Italy to see. 

Positano was traditionally a fishing village and wine exporter, so expect lots of fresh seafood, limoncello and wines to try! It’s amazing.

Read more: Tips to spot the best gelato when in Italy

18.) Palermo

For me, Palermo is one of the best places in Italy to visit once you’ve headed over to Sicily to explore more of the island. 

What I loved most about Palermo is its mix of both Italian and North African heritage; there really is a diverse mix.

While in the city , don’t forget to check out the very eery Capuchin Catacombs where hundreds of preserved mummies are housed. It’s very surreal and a little macabre but totally unique. 

If you’re looking for some great views of Sicily, head up to Mount Pellegrino where there are a range of caves and historic buildings to explore.

Read more: Best national parks in Italy

19.) Mount Etna

Like Palermo , Mount Etna is situated on the island of Sicily, which can be easily reached by car ferry from the mainland.

Mt Etna is considered to be one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is almost always in a state of constant activity.

We had booked a driving tour up Mount Etna, but due to the rainy and windy weather, it got cancelled.

That being said, you can arrange tours to see Mount Etna, especially in the summer and it’s well worth seeing if you’re into geological history. 

Read more: Best hikes in Italy

Pisa and its famous leaning tower have become a symbolic representation of Italy across the globe. Plus, it’s pretty unique in how it looks like it’s gonna fall over.

Now, Pisa’s historic town is relatively small and can be explored in as little as 1-2 days, which makes it a perfect place to stop en route between Cinque Terre and Florence.

Once here, explore the Pisa Baptistry, The Leaning Tower and San Sisto that’s totally gorgeous. Oh, and don’t forget to strike that cheesy pose when you’re there of course.

Read more: Best cities in Italy to visit

21.) Venice

In my opinion, Venice is unlike any other city in the world!

Its famed canals, labyrinthine streets, Venetian architecture and gondolas make it a great city to explore over a few days.

Now, whilst you can’t drive in Venice, the city is very easily explored by foot. Yes, you will get lost and no doubt has no clue where you’re heading but that’s all part of the fun of exploring here.

While here, don’t forget to visit the Grand Canal, Saint Mark’s Basilica, The Rialto Bridge and The Bridge of Sighs.

Read more: Best things to do in Venice

22.) Montepulciano

Funnily enough, we discovered Montepulciano randomly on one of our drives around the region!  It was a ridiculously beautiful town to stumble upon.

Once here, make sure to wander around the Palazzo Comunale, Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral and the remaining walls of the city that date back beyond the 14th century.

It’s totally stunning and one of the best places in Italy to explore whilst seeing the gems of Tuscany . 

Read more: Best places in Tuscany to visit

23.)  Alberobello

Alberobello is easily one of the more unique and best places in Italy to visit if you love historic spots! 

You see, Alberobello is characterised by its beautiful architecture and quaint charm dating back beyond the Age of enlightenment to 16th century Italy.

Many of the historic houses have now become home to local crafts and skills that are showcased for visitors to this wonderful town. It’s totally gorgeous to wander around and explore and well worth visiting from Bari. 

For a bite to eat (and some wines) pop into the charming Trulli e Puglia wine bar.

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Blog de viajes para viajar por libre - Viajeros Callejeros

Blog de viajes con las mejores guías, consejos, ciudades que ver, cosas que hacer, lugares que visitar para que puedas organizar y preparar tu viaje por libre por todo el mundo

Ruta por Italia en 14 y 21 días (tren o coche)

No conocemos a ningún viajero al que no le guste o sueñe con hacer una ruta por Italia. Da igual el destino, da igual la época del año e incluso los días que tengas. Probablemente estos aspectos sean los menos importantes cuando hablamos de un país tan completo como este que es capaz de ofrecer su mejor cara independientemente de las condiciones. Pero pese a esto, sabemos que si tienes un tiempo limitado es importante planificar un itinerario que te permita aprovechar el tiempo al máximo y sobre todo, disfrutar de un país tan impresionante como este. En este caso vamos a centrarnos en una ruta por Italia en 14 y 21 días , tiempo suficiente para conocer gran parte de los lugares más importantes del país, tanto en coche como en tren, las que creemos, son las mejores opciones de transporte.

Basándonos en las muchísimas veces que hemos visitado el país y que puedes ver en esta guía de Italia , te dejamos la mejor ruta por Italia en dos y tres semanas . ¡Empezamos!

Ruta por Italia en dos semanas

Dos semanas es el tiempo perfecto para conocer algunas de las ciudades de Italia más bonitas además de algunas zonas tan conocidas como La Toscana o Cinque Terre que estamos seguros, no te dejarán indiferente y se convertirán en algunos de los lugares que ver en Italia más destacados de la ruta.

En caso de que no tengas tantos días te recomendamos seguir esta ruta por Italia en 7 y 10 días que además de hacerla en coche o tren, puedes disfrutar haciendo excursiones desde Roma o Venecia.

Te recomendamos leer los siguientes posts antes de hacer el viaje para tener toda la información importante:

• Consejos para viajar a Italia
• Mejores rutas en coche por Italia
• 9 lugares que ver en el norte de Italia

Es importante saber que hemos planificado esta ruta pensando en viajeros que quieran conocer lo máximo en este periodo de tiempo por lo que si en tu caso quieres ir más relajado, puedes eliminar alguna de las ciudades o zonas e ir haciendo el resto de las visitas con más tranquilidad.

• Día 1: Vuelo a Venecia
• Día 2:  Venecia
• Día 3:  Florencia
• Día 4:  Florencia
• Día 5:  Lucca – Volterra – San Gimignano – Monterriggioni – Siena
• Día 6:  Siena – Montalcino
• Día 7:  Pienza – Montepulciano – Florencia (devolver coche) – tren a Pisa
• Día 8:  Pisa – Cinque Terre
• Día 9:  Cinque Terre
• Día 10:  Roma
• Día 11: Roma
• Día 12:  Nápoles
• Día 13:  Herculano-Pompeya
• Día 14:  Nápoles – vuelo de vuelta

En caso de que ya conozcas alguna de las ciudades puedes sustituirla por otra ciudad o por alguna otra zona cercana.

Es importante tener en cuenta que esta propuesta está pensada para hacer un vuelo multidestino , entrando por Venecia y saliendo por Nápoles para aprovechar al máximo los días. En caso de que no te encaje esta opción, siempre puedes coger un tren de Nápoles a Venecia (5:30h) y hacer un vuelo ida y vuelta desde esta ciudad. Además esta ruta por Italia en 14 días está especialmente diseñada para realizar todos los trayectos en tren exceptuando la zona de La Toscana, en la que te recomendamos alquilar coche ya que este te dará mucha más libertad de movimientos para visitar todos los lugares que ver en la Toscana imprescindibles.

Mapa del itinerario por Italia en 14 días

En este mapa puedes encontrar las ubicaciones de todos los lugares que te proponemos visitar durante la ruta por Italia en dos semanas .

Ruta por Italia en 21 días

Sin ningún tipo de duda, la mejor opción para realizar una ruta por Italia es contar con 3 semanas, un tiempo que te permitirá disfrutar al máximo del país y además, hacerlo con cierta tranquilidad. En este caso, al igual que en la ruta por Italia en dos semanas, te recomendamos moverte por el país en tren ya que este es un medio de transporte muy rápido y cómodo, exceptuando la zona de La Toscana que te recomendamos recorrerla en coche de alquiler ya que aunque también puedes moverte en tren, al incluir la visita a pueblos más pequeños y con menos combinaciones para el transporte público, el coche será mucho más cómodo. Además, el recorrido está pensado para hacerlo entrando por Milán y salir por Nápoles para así aprovechar al máximo el tiempo. En caso de que no te vaya bien esa combinación, puedes empezar por Venecia o Roma por ejemplo y moverte a Milán en tren ya que el trayecto es relativamente corto (Roma-Milán 3:40h y Venecia-Milán 2:30h).

Otra cosa importante es pensar que esta propuesta también está pensada para viajeros que quieran conocer lo máximo del país en este tiempo por lo que ruta es bastante completa y deja poco tiempo a la relajación . En caso de que quieras tomarte algunos días más tranquilos te recomendamos prescindir de la visita a algunas ciudades, como podrían ser Turín y Bolonia, y estos días añadirlos a alguna otra ciudad para poder conocerla con más tranquilidad.

• Día 1: Vuelo a Milán
• Día 2: Milán
• Día 3:  Turín
• Día 4:  Lago Como
• Día 5:  Lago Como – Venecia
• Día 6:  Venecia
• Día 7:  Venecia
• Día 8:  Bolonia
• Día 9:  Florencia
• Día 10:  Florencia
• Día 11:  Lucca – Volterra – San Gimignano – Monterriggioni – Siena
• Día 12: Siena – Montalcino
• Día 13:  Pienza – Montepulciano – Florencia (devolver coche) – tren a Pisa
• Día 14:  Pisa – Cinque Terre
• Día 15:  Cinque Terre
• Día 16:  Roma
• Día 17:  Roma
• Día 18:  Roma
• Día 19:  Nápoles
• Día 20:  Herculano-Pompeya
• Día 21:  Nápoles – vuelo de vuelta

Mapa del itinerario por Italia en 3 semanas

Te dejamos las ubicaciones de todos los lugares que te proponemos visitar en esta ruta por Italia en 3 semanas para que puedas localizarlos de una forma fácil y rápida.

Puntos de interés de la ruta por Italia en 2 y 3 semanas

En este apartado queremos dejarte una especie de guía día por día en la que podrás encontrar toda la información para hacer los traslados y también para visitar las ciudades y zonas que te proponemos visitar. Además, en cada uno de los días incluimos una recomendación para alojarte y enlaces a todos los artículos que tenemos publicados sobre ese destino para que no te pierdas nada importante.

Ten en cuenta que para este día a día nos hemos basado en la ruta por Italia en 21 días. En caso de que vayas a hacer la de 14 días deberás ir saltando algunas ciudades y leer únicamente los días que incluimos en ese recorrido.

Día 1 y 2: Vuelo a Milán y visita a la ciudad

El primer día del recorrido por Italia en 3 semanas empezará volando a Milán, una ciudad que aunque inicialmente no esté entre las más visitadas del país, te aseguramos que no te dejará indiferente además de ser una puerta de entrada perfecta para esta propuesta de ruta. Nuestra recomendación es que, siempre que puedas, intentes llegar por la mañana para poder aprovechar la tarde como primera toma de contacto y el segundo día seguir esta ruta por Milán en un día y esta de Milán en dos días que incluyen la mayoría de lugares que visitar en Milán entre los que destacan:

• Iglesia Santa Maria delle Grazie – Visita a La Última Cena , una de las mejores cosas que hacer en Milán
• Castillo Sforzesco
• Barrio de Brera y Barrio Navigli
• Galería Vittorio Emanuele II
• Teatro de La Scala
• Quadrilátero de Oro

En caso de que tengas un día extra te proponemos seguir esta ruta por Milán en 3 días que incluye el último día alguna escapada como por ejemplo el Lago Como que nosotros te proponemos visitar en un par de días y es una de las mejores excursiones desde Milán . Te recomendamos leer este post sobre cómo ir del aeropuerto de Milán al centro para realizar este trayecto de una forma cómoda y rápida.

• Hotel recomendado: Andreola Central Hotel , situado a 200 metros de la estación central de trenes y con una parada de metro muy cerca es una opción estupenda. Más información en este post sobre dónde alojarse en Milán .
• Información extra: dónde comer en Milán , mejores free tours en Milán ,  consejos para viajar a Milán y guía de Milán

Día 3: Turín

Aunque esta es una ciudad perfecta para pasar un par de días, sabiendo que el tiempo es limitado, te proponemos visitarla en una escapada de un día desde Milán ya que en tren rápido tardarás 1 hora en hacer este trayecto. La recomendación en este caso es que salgas a primera hora de la mañana para tener todo el día disfrutando de las cosas que hacer en Turín más recomendables como:

• Catedral de Turín
• Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I
• Museo Egipcio y Museo del Cine, dos de los lugares que ver en Turín en un día
• Mirador Monte dei Cappucini

Dependiendo de las visitas que quieras hacer puede ser muy recomendable adquirir la Torino Piamonte Card , una tarjeta turística con la que puedes ahorrar mucho tiempo y dinero.

En caso de que quieras pasar la noche en Turín mañana podrías coger un tren hasta Como por la mañana aunque deberás hacer escala en Milán por lo que para que no tengas que ir con el equipaje arriba y abajo creemos que lo mejor es volver a dormir a Milán.

• Información extra: dónde comer en Turín

Día 4 y 5: Lago Como

El itinerario por Italia en 21 días continúa visitando el Lago Como, uno de nuestros lugares preferidos de Italia en el que podrás disfrutar de una combinación perfecta de naturaleza y pueblos encantadores que estamos seguros, no te dejarán indiferente. La recomendación es que cojas un tren por la mañana de Milán a Como (trayecto 1h), donde puedes alojarte, ya que esta ciudad es la más accesible y la que tiene más infraestructuras tanto de alojamientos como restauración. Puedes encontrar más información para realizar este trayecto siguiendo el post sobre cómo ir de Milán al Lago Como .

Como tendrás prácticamente un par de días en la zona te proponemos hacer estas visitas:

• 1er día: Villa Balbianello, Lenno, Bellagio, Brienno, Cernobbio y Como
• 2º día: ruta en barco por la zona haciendo paradas en Varenna, Menaggio y Nesso.

El día 5 por la tarde deberás coger un tren que te llevará de Como a Venecia en 3:30h (tren rápido). En caso de que optes por el tren «normal», el trayecto será de unas 4 horas. Puedes encontrar mucha más información en este post sobre los lugares que ver en el Lago de Como .

• Hotel recomendado: B&B Al Porticciolo di Sant’Agostino situado cerca del centro de Como y la estación de tren.
• Información extra:   consejos para viajar al Lago Como

Día 6-7: Venecia

La siguiente parada de este recorrido por Italia en 3 semanas te llevará a Venecia, la ciudad de los canales y una de las ciudades más bellas y románticas del mundo, que te proponemos conocer durante dos días. Pese a que no es mucho tiempo te aseguramos que podrás conocer gran parte de los lugares que visitar en Venecia como el Palacio Ducal , el Gran Canal, el Puente Rialto, la Plaza San Marcos con la Basílica de San Marcos , dar un paseo en góndola por Venecia , que es una de las cosas que hacer en Venecia más recomendadas y visitar el Barrio de Dorsoduro además de hacer una escapada a Murano y Burano que es una de las mejores excursiones desde Venecia .

Te recomendamos seguir estas guías de Venecia en un día , Venecia en dos días y Venecia en 3 días para no perderte nada importante y estos sobre los lugares que ver en Murano y los lugares que ver en Burano . Además, en estos días podrás disfrutar de la gastronomía italiana en alguno de los restaurantes donde comer en Venecia más recomendados que estamos seguros, te dejarán el mejor sabor de boca.

• Hotel recomendado: Antica Locanda al Gambero , situado a 5 minutos andando de la Plaza San Marcos y el Puente Rialto. Puedes encontrar más información en este post sobre dónde alojarse en Venecia .
• Información extra:   consejos para viajar a Venecia y guía de Venecia .

Día 8: Bolonia, otra de las ciudades que incluimos en el itinerario por Italia en 3 semanas

Después de la visita a Venecia y de camino a Florencia te recomendamos hacer una parada en Bolonia, una de las ciudades desconocidas de Italia, que estamos seguros, será todo un descubrimiento. La propuesta es que cojas un tren rápido a primera hora de la mañana que te dejará en Bolonia en 1:30h. Después de dejar el equipaje en el alojamiento te recomendamos empezar a conocer algunos de los lugares que visitar en Bolonia más conocidos entre los que destacan:

• Piazza Maggiore
• Las Dos Torres
• Il Quadrilatero
• Piazza de Santo Stefano
• Palacio Archiginnasio
• Mercato delle Erbe
• Santuario de Nuestra Señora de San Luca
• Basilica di San Domenico

Todos estos lugares los podrás conocer durante este día ya que están relativamente cerca y además, son accesibles a pie.

• Hotel recomendado: Hotel Nuovo Porto , situado a 15 minutos a pie del centro histórico y a 10 minutos de la estación de tren central.
• Información extra:   restaurantes donde comer en Bolonia .

Día 9 y 10: Florencia

Llega el momento de conocer Florencia, la capital de la Toscana y la que dicen, es una de las ciudades más bellas del mundo. Considerada por muchos como un museo al aire libre, son tantos los lugares que visitar en Florencia que nuestra recomendación es que cojas un tren a primera hora de la mañana (trayecto 30 minutos en tren rápido), dejes tu equipaje en el hotel y empieces a conocer algunos de los lugares más increíbles de la ciudad entre los que no puedes perderte:

• Catedral de Florencia, Campanile de Giotto y Battistero di San Giovanni
• Mercato Nuovo
• Piazza della Signoria
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Iglesia de Santa Croce
• Galería Uffizi y Galería de la Academia
• Ponte Vecchio
• Ver el atardecer en Piazzale Michelangelo, que es una de las mejores cosas que hacer en Florencia
• Iglesia de Santa María Novella
• Capilla de los Médici

Para que sea más fácil la visita de la ciudad te recomendamos seguir estas rutas por Florencia en un día , Florencia en dos días o esta de Florencia en 3 días en caso de que dispongas de un día extra que incluye también algunas de las mejores excursiones desde Florencia .

• Hotel recomendado: Le Tre Lune Suites , situado a 400 metros de la Piazza della Signoria y con una excelente relación calidad/precio. Otra recomendación, si quieres estar cerca de la estación de trenes Santa María Novella, es el Hotel Jolì que destaca por la amabilidad del personal y un excelente desayuno. Puedes encontrar más información sobre este tema en este post sobre dónde alojarse en Florencia .
• Información extra:   restaurantes donde comer en Florencia y guía de Florencia .

Día 11 al 13: La Toscana

El recorrido por Italia en tres semanas continúa adentrándote en la Toscana, una de las zonas más bellas del país en la que podrás conocer pueblos que pareen anclados en el tiempo y paisajes que te sorprenderán a cada paso. Para realizar esta ruta te recomendamos recoger el coche de alquiler en Florencia la mañana del día 11, ya que este medio de transporte te permitirá tener total libertad de horarios y movimientos. En caso de que no puedas o no quieras alquilar coche, puedes hacer las visitas en transporte público (a algunos pueblos será más complicado llegar) u optar por hacer excursiones desde Florencia.

Al contar con 3 días completos para recorrer la zona nuestra propuesta es la siguiente:

• 1er día: Lucca – Volterra – San Gimignano – Monterriggioni – Siena
• 2º día: Siena – Montalcino
• 3er día: Pienza – Montepulciano – Florencia (devolver coche) – tren a Pisa

Para ver los detalles del día a día te recomendamos leer esta ruta por la Toscana en 5, 7 y 10 días y la ruta por Italia en 7 y 10 días además de los post sobre lugares que ver en Lucca , lugares que ver en Siena y lugares que ver en Volterra .

El último día, después de devolver el coche en Florencia, la propuesta es que cojas un tren a Pisa (1h de trayecto) donde te alojarás el día 13 para conocer esta ciudad al día siguiente.

• Hotel recomendado: Albergo Chiusarelli (Siena) – Albergo Il Giglio (Montalcino) – Hotel La Pace (Pisa). Puedes encontrar más información sobre este tema en este post sobre dónde alojarse en la Toscana y dónde alojarse en Pisa .
• Información extra:   consejos para viajar a la Toscana , donde comer en Siena , donde comer en Volterra , donde comer en Montalcino , donde comer en Pienza , donde comer en Montepulciano y donde comer en Lucca .

Día 14: Pisa

Pisa es una ciudad en la que sus puntos más importantes se pueden visitar relativamente rápido. Es por eso que de camino al siguiente punto del recorrido por Italia en 3 semanas te proponemos pasar parte del día conociendo esta ciudad famosa por su torre inclinada. Entre los lugares que ver en Pisa más importantes destacan:

• Piazza dei Miracoli: Torre Inclinada, Catedral de Pisa, Baptistero y Camposanto Monumental.
• Piazza dei Cavalieri
• Iglesia de Santa Maria della Spina
• Corso Italia y Ponte di Mezzo
• Centro histórico de Pisa
• Borgo Stretto

Ten en cuenta que la zona del centro es relativamente pequeña y todos los lugares son accesibles a pie por lo que si empiezas las visitas a primera hora de la mañana, después de disfrutar de la gastronomía italiana en alguno de los restaurantes donde comer en Pisa más recomendados y seguir conociendo los lugares que te queden pendientes, podrás coger un tren hasta Cinque Terre (trayecto 1:30h) entrada la tarde.

Cinque Terre está formada por 5 pueblos costeros, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola y Riomaggiore, que son una auténtica maravilla. Todos ellos tienen opciones de alojamiento, por lo que dependiendo de tus necesidades, será más adecuado uno que otro. Te recomendamos leer este post sobre dónde alojarse en Cinque Terre para escoger el que mejor encaje con el tipo de viaje que estés haciendo.

Día 15: Cinque Terre

Este día te proponemos pasarlo visitando algunos de los lugares que ver en Cinque Terre más interesantes, por los que puedes moverte perfectamente en tren ya la distancia entre ellos es de pocos minutos.

• Monterroso: este es el pueblo más grande de Cinque Terre y el que tiene mayor infraestructura hotelera y de restauración.
• Vernazza: ubicado sobre un pequeño acantilado, este pueblo destaca por sus encantadoras casas de colores.
• Corniglia: este es el pueblo más pequeño de Cinque Terre y también el único que no está conectado con el mar ya que se encuentra situado sobre un acantilado de más de 100 metros de altura.
• Manarola: probablemente este es el pueblo más conocido de Cinque Terre y también el más fotogénico.
• Riomaggiore: ubicado sobre una colina, este pequeño pueblo destaca por las casas de colores que se extienden hasta su puerto.

Te recomendamos leer este post con consejos para viajar a Cinque Terre y esta ruta por los pueblos de Cinque Terre más bonitos, para tener toda la información importante para disfrutar al máximo de este día. Además, para que tengas otra perspectiva de esta preciosa zona, te recomendamos volver al pueblo en el que te alojes en barco, otra forma única de recorrer Cinque Terre.

• Hotel recomendado: Hotel Souvenir  (Monterosso) – Rina Rooms (Vernazza) – Il Taragio (Corniglia) – Arpaiu (Manarola) – Casedirio (Riomaggiore). Puedes encontrar más información sobre este tema en este post sobre dónde alojarse en Cinque Terre .
• Información extra:   restaurantes donde comer en Cinque Terre .

Día 16 al 18: Roma, otra de las ciudades que no puedes perderte en el itinerario por Italia en 3 semanas

El día de hoy te recomendamos madrugar ya que deberás coger un tren rápido hasta Roma (4 horas de trayecto). Una vez en la ciudad y después de dejar el equipaje, te recomendamos empezar a conocerla a través de algunos de los lugares que visitar en Roma más importantes como:

• Foro Romano
• Mercado de Trajano
• Piazza Navona
• Fontana di Trevi
• Panteón de Agripa
• Basílica de San Pedro, otro de los principales lugares que visitar en el Vaticano y los Museos Vaticanos
• Circo Máximo
• Termas de Caracalla
• Plaza de España
• Catacumbas de San Calixto, una de las mejores catacumbas romanas
• Basílica de San Pietro in Vincoli
• Museos Capitolinos

Te recomendamos seguir estas rutas por Roma en un día , Roma en dos días y Roma en 3 días para no perderte nada de la ciudad. En caso de que tengas más días, puedes seguir esta ruta por Roma en 4 días o esta de Roma en 5 días que incluyen también algunas de las mejores excursiones desde Roma .

• Hotel recomendado: Residenza San Calisto , situada en un edifico histórico a pocos metros de la Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. Otra opción perfecta, si quieres estar cerca de la estación de tren, es el UNA Hotel Roma . Puedes encontrar más información sobre este tema en este post sobre donde alojarse en Roma y en este en el que compartimos contigo recomendaciones de hoteles baratos en Roma .
• Información extra:   restaurantes donde comer en Roma , consejos para viajar a Roma y guía de Roma .

Día 19 al 21: Nápoles y visita a Herculano y Pompeya

La última ciudad que te proponemos visitar en este recorrido por Italia en 3 semanas es Nápoles, una de nuestras ciudades preferidas del sur de Italia pese a que algunos viajeros no la incluyen en sus itinerario por su imagen un tanto decadente y su fama de insegura , algo que te aseguramos, no debería ser motivo para no visitarla.

El primer día te recomendamos madrugar ya que deberás coger un tren desde Roma (2h de trayecto) para después de dejar el equipaje en el alojamiento empezar a conocer algunos de los lugares que ver en Nápoles más importantes como:

• Spaccanapoli
• Catedral de Nápoles
• Basílica de Santa Clara, Capilla de San Severo y Basílica de Santo Domingo Mayor
• Plaza del Plebiscito
• Castel dell’Ovo
• Museo Arqueológico Nacional de Nápoles
• Barrio Español

Te recomendamos leer este post sobre cómo ir de Roma a Nápoles para realizar este trayecto de la forma más cómoda. El segundo día de tu estancia en la ciudad te recomendamos ir a Herculano y Pompeya, dos de las mejores excursiones desde Nápoles y dos lugares que estamos seguros, no te dejarán indiferente.

Para no perderte nada importante de esta visita te recomendamos leer este artículo sobre los lugares que ver en Pompeya y este post sobre cómo ir de Nápoles a Pompeya .

Y el último día, dependiendo de la hora en la que salga tu vuelo, puedes seguir conociendo la ciudad o incluso, hacer alguna visita por los alrededores.

• Hotel recomendado: UNA Hotel Napoli , situado en una de las zonas más céntricas de Nápoles y mejor conectadas, justo enfrente de la estación de tren Napoli Centrale. Otra opción perfecta, si quieres estar en el centro histórico, es el In Centro B&B , que cuenta con una excelente relación calidad/precio. Puedes encontrar más información sobre este tema en este post sobre dónde alojarse en Nápoles .
• Información extra:   restaurantes donde comer en Nápoles , consejos para viajar a Nápoles y guía de Nápoles .

¿Quieres organizar un viaje a Italia? Consíguelo aquí: Las mejores ofertas de Vuelos a Italia aquí Los mejores hoteles a los mejores precios en Italia aquí Alquila tu coche en Italia al mejor precio aquí Reserva los mejores tours y excursiones en Italia en español aquí

Si quieres ayudarnos a ampliar esta ruta por Italia en 14 y 21 días puedes hacerlo en los comentarios.

Interacciones con los lectores

Artículos relacionados, hoteles en cinque terre.

10 consejos para viajar a Italia imprescindibles

Cómo ir de Florencia a Siena (tren o autobús)

Comentarios

Evelyn dice

26 junio, 2024 en 02:13

Me encanta! Fiel seguidora de ustedes! Mi idea era ir a italia aprox mayo / junio (seria 1era vez visitando el pais) queriamos armar un itinerario para conocer los mejores pueblos y también las mejores playas, que nos recomiendan?

Vane y Roger dice

26 junio, 2024 en 07:23

Hola Evelyn, Muchas gracias por leernos. Sentimos no poder ayudarte mucho ya que las rutas que tenemos publicadas están centradas en ciudades. No tenemos ninguna que incluya playas y pueblos. Saludos

Ariel Macarini dice

20 marzo, 2023 en 02:49

Hola! Muy buenos dias!! En principio quisiera agradecerles por este espacio y por toda la información que pude obtener leyendo sus post, han sido de gran ayuda en el armado de mi viaje.

Les escribo para ver si pueden ayudarme a terminar de definir mi itinerario por Italia.

Comento nuestra situación: Somos un grupo de 4 personas, pareja de 30 años y pareja de 60 años. Ya tenemos un itinerario bastante avanzado pero nos surgen algunas dudas que seria de gran ayuda definirlas en base a la experiencia de alguien que conozca la zona.

Te paso el detalle de como armamos nuestro itinerario, dia por dia y las dudas que tenemos para que nos puedas ayudar.

ITALIA 2023 ROMA DIA 1 (26/05): Llegamos a Roma por la tarde. Hacer un tour gratuito por la noche.

DIA 2 (27/05): VISITA GUIADA POR LA MAÑANA: Coliseo, Palatino y Foro Romano. Arco Constantino, Altaredella Patria, Campidoglio. Mas alejado barrio Trasteveré, Fontana di Trevi Y Plaza España.

DIA 3 (28/05): VISITA GUIADA POR LA MAÑANA: Vaticano y capilla Sixtina. Castillo y puente SantAngelo, Plaza Navona, Campo de Fiori

DIA 4 (29/05): Recorrer con visita guiada el Panteon (media mañana), si alcanza el tiempo hacer algún tour gratuito por Roma, luego tomar el tren hacia Florencia.

FLORENCIA DIA 5 (30/05): Recorrer Florencia DIA 6 (31/05): Excursion a Pisa y Lucca DIA 7 (01/06): Excursión a cinqueterre DIA 8 (02/06) Excursión a san gimignano, siena y chianti

VENECIA DIA 9 (03/06): Tomamos el tren a Venecia (2 hsaprox). Recorremos Venecia DIA 10 (04/06): Islas Murano/Burano DIA 11 (05/06): Excursion a Verona

TROPEA DIA 12 (06/06): Tomamos vuelo de Venecia a Tropea (Aeropuerto Lamezzia) Alquilamos un auto. Recorremos el centro de Tropea DIA 13 (07/06): Playa en TROPEA. Capo Vaticano DIA 14 (08/06): Playa en TROPEA DIA 15 (09/06(: Recorremos los pueblos de los familiares en Calabria (Catanzaro, laureano di borello, Rombiolo, Calimera). Si queda tiempo seguir recorriendo Calabria. DIA 16 (10/06): Devolvemos el auto y nos tomamos el tren a Salerno.

COSTA AMALFITANA (base en Salerno) DIA 17 (11/6): Capri DIA 18 (12/6): Positano, Amalfi, Ravello DIA 19 (13/06): Maiori y Atriani

NAPOLES DIA 20 (14/06):. Tren de Salerno a Napoles. Recorremos Napoles DIA 21 (15/06): Recorremos Napoles DIA 22 (16/06): Nos vamos temprano a Roma en tren. A las 19:15 sale el vuelo por lo que deberíamos estar en el aeropuerto a las 17 hs aprox

CONSULTAS: 1 – Esta bien la cantidad de días destinadas a cada lugar? Algún lugar requiere mas o menos días? Conviene hacerlo de esa manera o conviene invertir el orden de las ciudades?

2 – saber si los trayectos que tenemos de ciudad a ciudad conviene hacerlos de la manera que pensamos o existe una manera mejor.

3 – Cinqueterre es necesario quedarse unos días o esta bien hacerlo en una excursión desde Florencia?

Estas son nuestras principales dudas, saber como vamos a destinar cada dia de nuestro viaje, luego veremos que vamos a hacer en cada lugar al que visitaremos. Pero en principio esto nos ayudaría mucho para poder ir contratando los hospedajes y traslados de ciudad a ciudad.

Espero no haberlos molestado, seria de gran ayuda conocer su opinión en base a su experiencia. Desde ya le agradezco mucho por su tiempo y su espacio!!

SALUDOS Y GRACIAS!!

Ariel Macarini

20 marzo, 2023 en 07:00

Buenos días Ariel, Muchas gracias por leernos. Te contestamos a las consultas que tienes sobre el itinerario.

1. El recorrido está muy bien organizado aunque es exigente. Nosotros sin duda lo haríamos ya que nos gusta conocer muchos lugares y preferimos hacer visitas que estar mucho tiempo de relax. 2. Moverse por Italia en tren es lo más recomendable por lo que podéis hacerlo como habéis pensado. 3. Para Cinque Terre, lo ideal sería quedarse una noche. En caso de que queráis hacerlo este día podríais trasladarlo al día 8 de vuestro recorrido, intercambiando con San Gimignano…, y coger el tren a Venecia desde La Spezia haciendo un par de cambios de tren (el trayecto total son unas 5 horas).

Te dejamos la guía de Italia que tenemos publicada en el blog por si quieres echarle un vistazo ya que incluye información de todos los lugares que queréis visitar.

20 marzo, 2023 en 15:44

Muchas gracias por responder Vane y Roger. Muchas gracias por el consejo de Cinqueterre. La guia de Italia es super completa, me ayudara mucho a terminar de definir que vamos a hacer en cada ciudad, Nos falto algo de tiempo para hacerlo aun mas exigente y poder conocer mas lugares. De seguro serán unas vacaciones en las que caminaremos mucho.

Saludos y GRACIAS!

21 marzo, 2023 en 06:37

Hola Ariel, Estamos seguros de que será un gran viaje. Italia siempre es in acierto. Saludos

7 marzo, 2023 en 21:26

Buenas noches, estoy planificando una ruta por Italia, ¿existe algun tipo de abono de viajes para realizar viajar en tren por todo el país? Saludos.

8 marzo, 2023 en 07:12

Hola Rocío, Hasta donde sabemos no hay abonos que cubran toda la red de transporte de Italia. De la que sí tenemos constancia es Smart Worker de Trenitalia pero no la hemos utilizado nunca. Saludos

Carlos García Vazquezz dice

23 febrero, 2023 en 01:06

Hola, cómo están? Excelente guía, con tips muy valiosos e intrresantes. Haremox el viaje de tres semanas con algunas variantes. Qué nos recomendarían para hacer Salerno.? Incluyendo Capri y Anacapri. Ischia y toda esa zona. Quizás dándole prioridad en la visita a Nápoles. Muchas gracias

23 febrero, 2023 en 06:46

Hola Carlos, ¡Muchas gracias por leernos! Sentimos no poder ayudarte demasiado ya que aún no hemos estado en la zona. Saludos

Angeles dice

28 agosto, 2022 en 20:03

Holaa, tengo solo 8 días para visitar Italia y a la ruta de 7 días que uds proponen yo agregare Milán, la pregunta es que terminaré el trayecto en Cinque Terre y como no sacaré viaje multidestino, como lo hago para volver a Milán donde comenzaré mi viaje? Hay algún tren director?

29 agosto, 2022 en 07:18

Hola Ángeles, Puedes volver a Milán desde La Spezia en tren directo (3:30h de trayecto). Puedes mirar opciones, horarios…etc, en la web de Omio . Saludos

Stephanie Zuniga dice

20 agosto, 2022 en 21:16

Quiero ir..necesito imformacion de el tour please.

21 agosto, 2022 en 08:44

Hola Stephanie, Sentimos no poder ayudarte ya que nosotros no somos una agencia y no organizamos viajes. Estas son propuestas que compartimos para que cualquier viajero pueda replicarlas o tomarlas como ejemplo para organizar sus viajes. Saludos

Esther dice

18 agosto, 2022 en 22:26

Me encanta viajarrr. Viajó lo máximo posible y cuando empiezo a buscar información para preparar un viaje, os busco a vosotros por si tenéis alguna publicación y os puedo decir q sigo vuestras rutas con gran acierto. Os recomiendo siempre a los amigos que se preparan un viaje. Felicidades por vuestros post q son de gran ayuda

19 agosto, 2022 en 07:43

Hola Esther, ¡Muchísimas gracias por tus palabras! Y muchísimas gracias por leernos y recomendarnos. No te imaginas la ilusión que nos hace recibir esta mensajes y saber de primera mano que os sirve el contenido que publicamos para organizar vuestros viajes. De nuevo, ¡muchísimas gracias! Saludos

María Paula Ramos dice

24 junio, 2022 en 04:46

Me encanta el viaje de 21 días, me podrían indicar un presupuesto aproximado ?) Muchas gracias!

24 junio, 2022 en 18:53

Hola María Paula, El presupuesto de un viaje como este depende del tipo de hoteles, origen del vuelo, tipo de restaurantes…etc pero en líneas generales, te diríamos que unos 120-150 euros/día es un importe adecuado para poder incluir estos aspectos. Saludos

Ingrid Muñoz dice

1 julio, 2022 en 06:57

Holaaa vamos con mi marido por 2 meses a Italia. Llegamos a Roma y reservamos 5 noches. Después no tenemos itinerario. Nos pueden ayudar?.gracias

1 julio, 2022 en 11:20

Hola Ingrid, Te dejamos la guía de Italia que tenemos publicada en la que puedes encontrar información sobre los lugares que conocemos. Saludos

18 abril, 2022 en 23:31

Buenas noches quería saber que valor tienen.

19 abril, 2022 en 07:01

Hola María, Sentimos no poder ayudarte ya que nosotros no somos agencia y no organizamos viajes. Esta ruta es una propuesta para que los viajeros puedan tomarla como ejemplo y organizar el viaje ellos mismos, siguiendo las indicaciones Saludos

Nelson Lozano Oyuela dice

22 octubre, 2021 en 02:33

Buenas noches tengo el deseo de visitar el Vaticano se podría visitar la tumba del santo padre Juan Pablo II Podria hacerlo en la ruta de 21 días ?

22 octubre, 2021 en 08:48

Hola Nelson, Por supuesto que puedes visitarla cualquiera de los días que estés en Roma preferiblemente el día que dediques a las visitas del Vaticano . Saludos

Kebab - Expomaquinaria dice

20 octubre, 2021 en 17:04

Muy buen post, con mucha informacion nutritiva, si lees detenidamente tiene muy buenos consejos, saludos.

21 octubre, 2021 en 06:51

¡Muchísimas gracias por leernos!

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10 itinerarios y rutas por Italia en coche, ¡con planning!

Si buscas itinerarios y rutas por Italia en coche quédate por aquí porque he confeccionado 10 rutas para hacer algunos de los mejores viajes que se pueden hacer por Italia 😉 Desde una ruta de una semana por la preciosa Toscana a las islas Cerdeña y Sicilia… un rutón por el sur “de la bota” , los pueblecitos de colores de Cinqueterre, las brutales montañas Dolomitas, otra ruta por el norte, 15 días recorriendo “lo imprescindible” de Italia…

A lo largo de estos años he hecho un montón de viajes por Italia , para mi el país más bonito del mundo con permiso de España… ¡y este post de rutas por Italia era algo que tenía que publicar!

Pero ahora bien, ¿por dónde empezamos? ¿cuáles son las formas más guay de recorrer Italia? Pues paciencia joven padawan , que para ello me he currado 10 súper itinerarios por Italia en coche donde os detallo al milímetro:

• PLANNING detallado día a día
• TIEMPOS entre puntos en coche
• TRAYECTOS entre puntos nunca superiores a 2h
• ALOJAMIENTOS recomendados y qué noches hacer
• RESTAURANTES guay donde hacer una paradita
• MAPAS offline para llevar en el móvil
• PDF para descargar gratis de todas las rutas

Creo que estaréis de acuerdo conmigo que si buscabais las mejores rutas en coche para viajar por Italia habéis ido a parar al sitio adecuado, ¿me equivoco? 😉 Id ahorrando porque después de este artículo me vais a poner un piso en Cinqueterre 😀 Lo dicho, pillad papel y boli que… ¡allá vamos!

Ruta por el norte de Italia

La primera de las rutas en coche por Italia que vengo a traeros es un espectacular recorrido de 12 días por el Norte de Italia que empezaremos en Venecia y terminaremos en Milán, recorriendo auténticas joyas de Italia como Bolonia, Verona, Bérgamo, los mosaicos de Ravena, Padua, Ferrara y los lagos di Garda y Como. Viajazo.

A lo largo de este espectacular itinerario por el norte de Italia recorreremos lugares tan increíbles como la Villa de Balbianello a los pies del lago Como, la Capilla de los Scrovegni en Padua, los pueblecitos de Burano y Murano, atardeceres como el del Castillo de San Pietro de Verona, entre otros muchos lugares… esta ruta está llena de momentazos y su recorrido quedaría así:

A continuación os dejo el planning detallado día por día:

Currado, ¿eh? Este itinerario por Italia lo podéis cortar en cualquier momento. Lo he diseñado para que en cualquier momento de la ruta podáis hacer “ stop ” en caso de no tener 15 días. También es posible hacerlo a la inversa, empezando por Milán y terminando en Venecia. Si queréis llevaros esta ruta por el norte de Italia en PDF a continuación os dejo un enlace para descargarla:

Como consejos para hacer este recorrido por Italia yo diría que no olvidéis llevar paraguas ya que en el norte llueve bastante, reservad con mucho tiempo este tour para ver la última Cena en Milán, los tickets para la capilla de Scrovegni en Padua y sin duda pillad la Verona Card de 24h que incluye entrada prioritaria para el teatro Arena de y la casa de Julieta.

Ruta por Italia en 15 días: “la más completa”

Tanto si es tu primer viaje por Italia como si no conoces nada de ella, esta ruta de 15 días por Italia es perfecta para recorrer los lugares más imprescindibles que visitar de todo el país como son Nápoles, la ciudad de Pompeya, Positano, 3 días para visitar Roma, la preciosa Asís, enclaves de la Toscana como Pienza, el precioso Valle de Orcia, Siena, Florencia, la torre de Pisa, Bolonia, Verona y por supuesto Venecia, donde terminaríamos.

Para que veáis un poco más claro el recorrido por aquí os dejo un mapa que ilustra perfectamente la diagonal que realizaremos, de norte a sur, en esta espectacular ruta de dos semanas por Italia donde como digo, veremos no todo pero si lo más increíble del país:

El itinerario de 15 días por Italia que os propongo, quedaría, día por día, de la siguiente manera:

Evidentemente en el tintero se han muchas otras ciudades, las islas, etc… pero si sólo tenemos dos semanas y queremos visitar el mayor número de imprescindibles del país, desde mi humilde opinión, esta propuesta de ruta por Italia en 15 días es de mis favoritas y la que sin lugar a dudas yo haría.

Como consideraciones importantes de esta ruta por Italia tan solo advertiros de dejar el coche en parking vigilado SIEMPRE en la zona de Nápoles y Pisa . Recordaros que tendremos coche de alquiler hasta el día 13º, ya que no tiene sentido seguir con él en Venecia. Extremar precauciones al volante en el tramo de carretera entre Pompeya y Positano 😉 En cuanto a los alojamientos de Florencia, Verona y Bolonia, son en el extrarradio porque así os ahorráis parkings de 24h y posibles multas por circular por el centro de estas ciudades.

Ruta por la Toscana en coche

Para mi una de las mejores rutas por Italia en coche que se pueden hacer es esta que haremos por los preciosos paisajes y pueblos de la Toscana. Esta zona es un sueño que inspiró a productores de películas como Gladiator (cuyos escenarios os los he geolocalizado) y donde dormir en sus “Agriturismo”, pequeñas casitas de piedra rodeadas de cipreses, es uno de los puntos del viaje.

Para que os hagáis una idea de por dónde discurre este itinerario por Italia en 7 días , aquí os dejo otro mapita donde podréis ver cómo es la ruta:

Como veis, la ruta es circular, empezando y terminando en Florencia. Como con las anteriores recorridos en coche por Italia , aquí os dejo el planning de esta ruta:

Como veis esta ruta por la Toscana en coche mola un huevo y parte de la yema del otro. Sólo me quedaría recordar un par de notas importantes. La primera insistiros en que para Florencia debéis sacar los tickets que os dejo arriba para la cúpula del Duomo y la galería Uffici con tiempo u os vais a chupar una cola de categoría y la segunda recordaros el tema de seguridad en cuanto a los parking en Pisa. ¡Mucho ojo!

Así que ya sabéis, si buscáis “ relax ” y buscáis la mejor ruta por Italia para evadiros de la rutina, no hacer nada y desconectar en un sitio bonito, animaros con este viaje.

Ruta por Cinqueterre

Si buscáis un viaje “relampago” y bonito, una de las escapadas por Italia más chula que podéis hacer es recorrer la zona de Cinqueterre en barco y tren. Seguro que habéis visto 1000 fotografías de Riomaggiore, Mannarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, los 5 pueblecitos de colores junto al mar más famosos de Italia.

Como campamento base para recorrer la zona utilizaremos a La Spezia, desde donde nos desplazaremos para visitarlos en tren y barco debido a que en coche no os lo recomiendo. A continuación os enseño un mapita para ubicaros:

Y por aquí os explico el plan para esta ruta por Italia:

En mi opinión esta es la forma ideal de recorrer la zona. Para la jornada nº2 sacaremos un ticket 24h de tren (ojo, el tiempo empieza a contar desde que se utiliza por primera vez) y en la jornada nº3 un ticket de barco con objeto de contemplar todos los pueblecitos desde el mar.

Ruta por el sur de Italia

La siguiente ruta de poco más de una semanita recorriendo todo el sur del país es otra de las mejores rutas por Italia en coche que podéis hacer, donde aterrizaremos en Nápoles e iremos bajando por la costa visitando lugares como la isla de Capri, Positano, la impresionante Pompeya, Amalfi y su carretera, pueblecitos como Matera, Craco o Castelmezzano y la zona del Adriático, con Bari y Polignano a Mare como zonas más brutales.

Para que os hagáis una idea del viaje que os propongo, por aquí os dejo el recorrido en forma de mapa. Como veis, entramos por Nápoles y pese a que terminamos en Lecce, la salida la haremos por el aeropuerto de Brindisi, que está solo 33 minutos en coche de Lecce.

Como con las anteriores rutas, echad un ojo a mi propuesta de ruta por el sur de Italia en coche con el planning detallado que he preparado:

Apuntaros con letras de oro una cena en el Restaurante Grotta Palazzese. Yo no me lo perdería por nada del mundo. Barato no es pero… merece la pena. Por aquí os dejo este itinerario por el sur de Italia en PDF:

Como consideración importante, insistiros una vez más en bloquear alojamientos cuanto antes porque sobre todo en la zona costera se terminan MUY pronto y adelataros de ir muy mentalizados que la carretera que va de Napoles a Amalfi tiene fama de ser “curiosa” . Los italianos se las pelan y debéis ir mentalizados por este tramo 😉 No os asustéis.

Ruta por los Dolomitas

Si te gusta la naturaleza, una de las rutas más bonitas por Italia que puedes hacer es por la zona de Dolomitas, a través de algunos de los lugares de naturaleza más espectaculares de Italia, rutas senderistas en lugares tan increíbles como Alpe di Siusi, Tre Cime di Lavadero y las montañas “rosas”, el increíble Val di Funes, los lagos Carezza o Braies.

A continuación os dejo varias propuestas para recorrer Dolomitas en 3, 5, 7, 8 y 10 días. ¡Viajazo con mayúsculas!

Como amante de la naturaleza tengo que decir que es de mis rutas por Italia favoritas. Si os gusta el senderismo, esta zona os va a encantar. Por aquí os dejo otro enlace por si queréis inspiración por los 4 costados con un recorrido por los 10 lugares que ver en Dolomitas imprescindibles .

Ruta por los lagos del norte de Italia

Uno de las rutas por Italia más románticas y bonitas que podéis hacer en coche son por los lagos del norte del país: Como, Garda e Iseo. Hasta el propio George Clooney se ha pillado una casa en esta zona donde preciosas villas repletas de jardines a ras de agua hacen de esta zona una de las más bonitas para recorrer en coche.

Para que os hagáis una idea de cómo sería esta ruta por los lagos de Italia, os adjunto un planito con el itinerario, donde os propongo aterrizar en Verona, bordear el lago di Garda, saltar al lago Iseo haciendo noche en el islote que hay dentro de él conocido como Monte Isola y continuar hacia el famoso lago di Como, con Varenna, Bellagio y la mítica Villa de Balbianello, donde se rodó Star Wars, como protagonistas.

Y como siempre, el planning para este viaje express para esta ruta por Italia en 5 días recorriendo los lagos más bonitos del norte:

Como consideración súper importante para que esta ruta salga con éxito tan solo deciros que debéis reservar MUY prontito los alojamientos ya que la zona no presume de tener muchos, de tener bien controlados los horarios de ferry en la web oficial Navegazione Laghi y sobre todo el reservar las entradas de la Villa de Balbianello porque hay cupos limitados.

Rutas por las islas de Italia

A continuación os traigo dos de las mejores rutas en coche por Italia recorriendo las 2 principales islas del país: Sicilia y Cerdeña. Un viaje de 2 semanas por Sicilia, exprimiendo al máximo la isla, y una segunda ruta de 10 días por Cerdeña. Ambos viajes, ¡brutales!

La primera ruta por la islas de Italia que os propongo es esta que os dejo a continuación por Sicilia. Un recorrido de dos semanas en el que entraremos por el aeropuerto de Catania y saldremos por el de Palermo y cuyo recorrido es así:

Como siempre, por aquí os dejo el planning:

Como platos fuertes del viaje tenemos la visita al volcán Etna, dos cruceros por las islas Egadas los días nº7 y nº8 del viaje. Ojo, al igual que os decía arriba con Pisa y Palermo, en Sicilia debéis también de extremar precauciones con los parking “no vigilados”. No dejéis nunca las cosas a la vista, ¿ok?

Y bueno, tal y como os decía al principio, la segunda de las rutas en coche por las islas de Italia evidentemente incluyen a Cerdeña, una de las joyas de la corona más bonitas del mediterráneo cuyo “itinerario ganador” sería de 10 días, 100% circular y tendría esta pinta:

Como veis, el recorrido es 100% circular, entramos y salimos por el aeropuerto de Cagliari y el planning detallado, día por día, quedaría así:

Si buscáis una ruta bonita por Italia que incluya playas… esta es un sí o sí. Concretamente la zona de la isla de Tavolara, el golfo de Orosei y las islas Maddalena…. son un sueño.

¡Combina estas rutas por Italia!

Ahora que sabéis cuales son las rutas por Italia más bonitas y espectaculares, ¿qué tal si combinamos algunos de estos itinerarios? ¡Sí! Los he diseñado de tal forma que podáis hacerlo de forma MUY fácil 😉 Eso si… ¡vais a necesitar vacaciones! Las posibles combinaciones son:

• NORTE + CINQUETERRE
• NORTE + CINQUETERRE + TOSCANA
• SUR + ISLAS
• LAGOS + DOLOMITAS
• LAGOS + TOSCANA
• TOSCANA + SUR
• TOSCANA + SUR + ISLAS
• CINQUETERRE + CERDEÑA
• SUR + SICILIA

¡Lo mismo a vosotros os salen más combinaciones potentes! 😀 Pero en mi opinión… estas que veis arriba son las combinaciones más alucinantes que se pueden hacer con las rutas e itinerarios por Italia que habéis visto arriba.

Mapas de estas rutas por Italia en coche

Si te han gustado todas estas rutas por Italia y quieres llevarte todas las coordenadas en el móvil, a continuación os dejo el link a mi mapa Google Maps de Italia donde al entrar se os guardarán todas las coordenadas que aparecen en este post en la app de Google Maps.

Links útiles para hacer estas rutas

A continuación os dejo con una serie de enlaces que os serán muy útiles e imprescindibles para montar cualquiera de estas rutas por Italia:

Y por último os dejo por aquí mi cuenta de Instagram donde podréis seguir todos mis viajes por el mundo, stories de mi día a día, estar al loro de más reportajes como este y por supuesto hacerme las preguntas que queráis sobre todas estos itinerarios y rutas por Italia en coche 😉 ¡Buen viaje!

Historias Destacadas

Reflexiones tras estar todo un año viviendo en Cuba aislado sin radio, prensa, cine, TV ni Internet.

Recorrido por los lugares imprescindibles que ver en Los Ángeles y alrededores: Hollywood, Malibú y sus mansiones, los canales de Venice, Santa Mónica...

Aquí os he escogido algunos de los mejores hoteles donde dormir barato en Los Ángeles sin acabar encerrado en atascos y pagando un dineral.

Así pasamos 24 horas recorriendo algunos de los lugares imprescindibles que ver en San Francisco en un día. ¡Pilla papel y boli!

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RB ITALIA Blog

16 Kid-Friendly Countries Ideal For Your Next Family Vacation

Posted: July 22, 2024 | Last updated: July 22, 2024

Choosing the right destination is crucial for a successful family vacation for all ages. Luckily, the world offers numerous kid-friendly countries where that celebrate the importance of family. From Ireland’s enchanting landscapes to Mexico’s cultural wealth, these 16 destinations promise to inspire children and adults alike, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Italy is a popular international destination with its unique boot-shaped geography. It offers the perfect setting to indulge in the finest food, experience the most beautiful beaches, and partake in any activity your heart desires. Additionally, Italians are known for their welcoming and forward culture, emphasizing family values.

Every year, Scandinavian countries rank among the happiest and safest nations globally. Denmark, in particular, is renowned for being the birthplace of LEGO and world-famous theme parks such as Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. Parents can rest assured knowing that their children are secure in Denmark, as Danish parents leave their kids in strollers outside stores while they go in.

Singapore is a small and safe country, ranking 8th on the World Peace Index. Thanks to its size, it makes for the perfect 3- to 4-day trip. There are numerous activities for kids in Singapore, such as visiting zoos and renowned science centers. Furthermore, Kids can enjoy Fantasy Land Water Park, Universal Studios, and Volcano Land on Sentosa Island.

Australia is a vast country that offers many activities and attractions. From scenic walks to snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, there is something for everyone to appreciate. Children will be thrilled to encounter exotic animals like koalas, kangaroos, and platypuses not found in their home countries.

Germany is an excellent destination for a family vacation. It boasts stunning mountain castles, picturesque villages that look like they have come straight out of a storybook, and sprawling urban metropolises. The best part is that even picky eaters will find something they like, as Germany is famous for its frankfurters, schnitzel, potato dishes, and indulgent desserts.

As the trend of safari vacations gains popularity, Kenya continues to emerge as a sought-after destination for thrill-seeking families. With its diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos, children will be thrilled to witness these animals up close after having only seen them on TV.

Any family can find something to do in Canada, from British Columbia to Quebec. The country attracts tourists yearly with Olympic-level ski slopes, the cascading wonder of Niagara Falls, and large urban landscapes. Kid-friendly activities like the Vancouver Aquarium and the Montreal Biodome are available everywhere.

Mexico is perfect for all ages, even those who are very young. In many parts, families can spend a few days in paradise with all-inclusive packages. However, the most important thing is picking the right area. Quintana Roo is a hub for family travel, with regions like Playa Mujeres and Riviera Maya that are well-suited for children, as well as gorgeous beaches and kid-friendly resorts.

Portugal offers a fascinating history, a welcoming atmosphere, and breathtaking landscapes that can captivate anyone. In addition, it is an easily accessible destination for US citizens, with shorter flights from New York City to Lisbon than to other European cities. Being one of the more affordable countries in Europe, Portugal is an excellent choice for families looking to travel on a budget.

If you’re considering a family trip to Ireland, a road trip is a great way to explore the country. Starting and ending in Dublin, a two to three-week tour will allow you to visit many exciting places. The locals are friendly, and traditional Irish pub food is perfect for kids. With Ireland’s rich mystical and mythological influence, your children will feel like they’re stepping into a fairytale.

Despite its location in Southeast Asia, Thailand is family-friendly and easily accessible. Adults and children will enjoy exploring vibrant temples and bustling markets while indulging in delicious food. Additionally, many of Thailand’s islands, such as Koh Lanta, offer ample spaces for kids to play and have fun.

With its 4000 islands, Greece provides numerous family vacation options. The country is renowned for its relaxed and welcoming ambiance, with large Greek families known for their close-knit relationships. Several islands offer a range of activities suitable for children, with pristine sandy beaches and crystalline blue waters being the main attractions.

Costa Rica is a dream for families who love adventure and nature. Kids can wander through rainforests, spotting monkeys and sloths, or take thrilling zip-line rides through the canopy. Visiting volcanoes and soaking in hot springs are also great activities for kids. Plus, the beautiful beaches are perfect for surfing, snorkeling, or just building sandcastles.

Japan is a fantastic mix of the old and new that kids will find amazing. They can have a blast at Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan with all the rides and shows. The Ghibli Museum is a hit with its fun, interactive exhibits, and exploring ancient temples and castles feels like stepping into a storybook. The clean, safe, and easy-to-navigate public transport makes getting around so easy and comforting.

United States

From the theme parks of Orlando to national parks like Yellowstone or Yosemite, the USA has something for every family. You can take the kids to explore the museums in Washington D.C., relax on the beaches in California, or go on thrilling rides at Disneyland. And don’t miss out on interactive science centers and zoos that make learning exciting and hands-on for everyone. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!

Malaysia is an affordable, family-friendly vacation spot with a mix of diverse cultures, stunning islands, and cool modern attractions. Kids will have a blast at theme parks, checking out wildlife sanctuaries and wandering through its colorful cities. Don’t miss the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, the beautiful beaches of Langkawi Island, and the fun-filled Legoland Malaysia.

More For You

Planning a road trip with your family and need inspiration? The United States has some of the most beautiful and scenic routes for you to explore.

This article was first published at  Rbitaliablog .

The post 16 Kid-Friendly Countries Ideal For Your Next Family Vacation appeared first on RB Italia Blog .

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