Italy Road Trip: La Dolce Vita

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Milan & Drive to Venice

   

   Welcome to Italy! Begin your adventure as you arrive in the vibrant city of Milan, where your rental car awaits. Embark on a scenic three-hour drive covering approximately 320km (198 miles) to the enchanting city of Venice. Upon arrival, unwind and settle into the comfort of your chosen hotel.

   Suggestion for the day: On the way, we suggest you stop along the way in the picturesque city of Verona

    Known for its romantic charm and rich history, Verona offers several attractions worth exploring:

   • Visit the famous Verona Arena
   • Explore the historic center of Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage site
   • Stop by Juliet's House (Casa di Giulietta) 
   • Take a leisurely stroll along the Adige River and enjoy the scenic views
   • Visit the beautiful Piazza delle Erbe

   (The drive from Milan to Verona takes approximately 2 hours. From Verona to Venice, it's an additional 1 hour of travel time.)

   What to Know Before Visiting Venice:

   • Cars are not allowed to be driven into Venice. That’s why Venice offers numerous car parks where you can leave your car even for long periods, at a reasonable charge. There is a parking at Piazzale Roma, at the end of the road into Venice; one at Tronchetto, to the right at the end of the bridge into Venice; and reasonably priced parking next to the train station at Mestre, on the mainland. From Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, you can take a vaporetto (water bus) to other parts of Venice. From Mestre, you can take a train to Santa Lucia station or a bus to Piazzale Roma, then a vaporetto. Most properties offer transfers from the car parks or bigger terminals. However, guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel. All transfers must be booked in advance.
   • On certain dates of the year, visitors must pay an access fee of EUR 5 per person per day to enter Venice. Those with accommodation in Venice are exempt from paying this. Guests must however request an exemption voucher in advance and present it with an identity document on arrival. To check affected dates and request an exemption, visit cda.comune.venezia.it.
2. Day 2 Venice

   

   Suggestion for the day: Explore Venice

   • For the second day in Venice, we suggest you visit St. Mark's Square and marvel at the stunning St. Mark's Basilica. You can take a stroll through the narrow streets and charming canals of Venice, getting lost in its unique atmosphere. For a romantic experience book a gondola ride along the canals, admiring the beautiful architecture and soaking in the ambiance. In the evening, savor a delicious Venetian dinner at a local restaurant.
3. Day 3 Venice

   

   Suggestion for the day: Boat Excursion 

   • On the 3rd day of your adventure in Venice, let us help you book a Boat Excursion to Murano, Burano, and & Torcello Islands. Embark on a captivating journey from Venice to the picturesque islands of Murano, known for its glass-blowing heritage; Burano, celebrated for its vibrantly colored houses and lace-making tradition; and Torcello, rich in history and tranquility.
4. Day 4 Drive to Florence

   

   Embark on a scenic journey from the enchanting city of Venice to the art-filled haven of Florence, a drive approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes long, spanning a distance of about 256 kilometers or 159 miles.

   Suggestion for the day: When driving from Venice to Florence, a suggested stop along the route is the vibrant city of Bologna

   • Explore Piazza Maggiore
   • Climb the iconic Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline
   • Visit the historic University of Bologna
   • Indulge in Bologna's renowned culinary scene

   (The drive from Venice to Bologna takes roughly 2 hours, and the subsequent journey from Bologna to Florence requires an additional 1 hour and 45 minutes.)

5. Day 5 Florence

   

   Suggestion for the day: Another Day in Florence

   • Today is the day you explore Florence. Begin by immersing yourself in the artistic treasures of the Uffizi Gallery, where masterpieces from renowned artists adorn the walls. Marvel at the sublime beauty of Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery, standing in awe of its intricate craftsmanship. Embark on a guided walking tour through the city's charming streets, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will share fascinating stories and insights about Florence's rich history and iconic landmarks. From the magnificent Duomo to the Ponte Vecchio, every step reveals the splendor of this Renaissance city, leaving you with an unforgettable day of cultural exploration and discovery.
6. Day 6 Florence

   

   Suggestion for the day: Discover Tuscan Countryside

   • Today we suggest you take a break from the city and embark on a day trip to the scenic Tuscan countryside. Tuscany is a region of Italy renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and exquisite cuisine. When visiting Tuscany from Florence, here are some of the highlights worth exploring:
   • • Chianti Wine Region
     • The medieval charm of Siena
     • Step into the medieval era in the hilltop town of San Gimignano
     • Marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
     • Explore the picturesque Val d'Orcia region
     • Visit the hilltop town of Cortona
     • Discover the enchanting city of Lucca
7. Day 7 Drive to Milan

   

   Depart from the enchanting city of Florence and embark on a scenic drive towards the vibrant metropolis of Milan, a journey approximately spanning 350 kilometers (217 miles) and estimated to take around 4 hours.

   Suggestion for the day: An interesting suggested stop between Florence and Milan is the city of Parma

   Parma is a city renowned for its rich architecture, vibrant music and art scenes, and globally recognized culinary contributions such as prosciutto and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

   • Parma Cathedral (Duomo)
   • Palazzo della Pilotta
   • Teatro Farnese
   • Stroll through Piazza Garibaldi
   • Parma Botanical Garden

   (The journey from Florence to Parma typically takes approximately 2.5 hours, and the subsequent drive from Parma to Milan is about 1.5 hours, making it a comfortable road trip through some of Italy's most beautiful landscapes.)

8. Day 8 Milan

   

   Suggestion for the day: Explore the City of Fashion - Milan

   On the second day in the fashion capital of the world - Milan, book a guided tour of the city. Marvel at Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' in Santa Maria della Grazie and explore the city's stylish charm. Don't miss the grand Sforzesco Castle, a medieval fortress housing numerous art collections, and the awe-inspiring Duomo, one of the world's largest Gothic cathedrals adorned with over 3,200 statues and 135 spires.

9. Day 9 Milan

   

   Suggestion for the day: Visit Lake Como

   • Drive to Lake Como (approx. a 2-hour drive). Lake Como is a tranquil haven renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The lake's sparkling blue waters are hemmed by green mountains and dotted with elegant villas, making it a paradise for nature lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike. Highlights include the quaint town of Bellagio, known for its historic center and luxurious ambiance, and Villa del Balbianello, a blend of impressive art and nature. Take a boat tour to fully appreciate the lakeshore highlights or indulge in exhilarating water sports such as rowing, sailing, and diving. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the beach or adventurous exploration of old towns and gardens, Lake Como offers a unique and unforgettable experience. In the evening return to Milan.
10. Day 10 Milan

    

    Suggestion for the day: Drive to Portofino/ Cinque Terre

    • Today you can drive to Cinque Terre (approx. a 3-hour drive). Cinque Terre, an enchanting coastal region in Italy, is a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising five vibrantly colored villages perched on rugged cliffs along the Italian Riviera. The highlights of this area include the charming village of Vernazza with its natural harbor and old castle, and Monterosso al Mare's stunning beaches. Enjoy the breathtaking views by hiking the Blue Path that connects all five villages, or explore the unique culture and architecture of each town. From the captivating panoramic views to the delightful local cuisine, Cinque Terre offers an immersive experience of Italy's scenic beauty and rich heritage.
11. Day 11 Return Flight Home

    

    Safely return your rental car at Milan's airport, and we wish you a pleasant and secure journey back home.