Italy, a country of breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites, is a dream destination for road trippers. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first Italian road trip, these eight routes promise to leave you spellbound in your visit to Italy. From the scenic coastal roads to the serene countryside, each drive offers a unique glimpse into Italy’s diverse beauty. Check if you need an IDP Now
1. Kick-starting Your Road Trip in Italy: Florence to Orvieto
Route: Florence – Pistoia – San Gimignano – Siena – Orvieto
Distance: 165 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
In one of the best road trips in Italy, experience the true heart of Tuscany by driving from Florence to Orvieto. As you leave the Renaissance splendor of Florence behind, your first stop is Pistoia, a town rich with historic architecture, charming streets, and a vibrant market. Wander through its medieval center, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Next, head to San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers that create a unique skyline. Stroll through its narrow alleys, visit the quaint shops, and perhaps enjoy a scoop of the world-famous gelato.
A stop in Siena is a must. The city’s Piazza del Campo is one of Italy’s most picturesque squares, and grabbing a coffee here offers a chance to soak in the local ambiance. The town is also home to the stunning Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Your final destination in this road trip to Italy, Orvieto, is perched on a dramatic volcanic rock. Explore its impressive cathedral and underground tunnels, or simply enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This journey through Tuscany of central Italy showcases the region’s diverse beauty and historical richness, making it an unforgettable road trip.
Accommodations:
- La Bandita Townhouse, Pienza: A boutique hotel with modern amenities in a historic setting. Rooms start at $300 per night.
- Castello di Velona Resort, Montalcino: A luxurious castle offering spa services and panoramic views. Rooms start at $733 per night.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to October, April to May.
2. To Southern Italy: Catania to Ragusa
Route: Catania – Francofonte – Vizzini – Chiaramonte Gulfi – Ragusa
Distance: 103 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
Start your journey in the vibrant city of Catania, nestled under the shadow of Mount Etna in Southern Italy. From there, drive to Francofonte, a town famed for its lush groves of red oranges. As you pass through the citrus-scented air, you’ll feel the essence of Sicilian agriculture in South Italy.
Vizzini, your next stop, is one of Sicily’s oldest towns. Wander its historic streets, and you’ll encounter ancient churches and remnants of its rich past. It’s a place where history feels alive and present.
Continue to Chiaramonte Gulfi, a hidden gem known for its array of churches and interesting museums. It’s a cultural delight that offers a deeper understanding of Sicilian heritage.
Your journey concludes in Ragusa, a city celebrated for its stunning Baroque architecture and arguably one of the best places in Italy. Explore Ragusa Ibla, the old town, with its narrow streets, beautiful buildings, and inviting squares. This trip reveals the unique charm of southeastern Sicily, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue.
Accommodations:
- Hotel Villa Carlotta, Ragusa: Offers a blend of traditional and modern comforts with rooms starting at $103 per night.
- Relais Antica Badia, Ragusa: A luxury hotel in a restored 18th-century building. Rooms start at $130 per night.
Best Time to Visit: May to June or September to October.
3. Experience the Amalfi Coast in Your Italian Road Trip: Salerno to Sorrento
Route: Salerno – Cava de’ Tirreni – Pompeii – Lettere – Sorrento
Distance: 55 km
Travel Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
This drive along the Amalfi Coast is famous for its breathtaking coastal views and historical sites. Begin in Salerno, with its lively promenade and historic center. From here, make your way to Cava de’ Tirreni, a town known for its picturesque arcades and medieval atmosphere.
Next, visit Pompeii, where the ancient ruins tell the story of a city frozen in time by a volcanic eruption. Walking through its streets, you’ll get a vivid sense of Roman life.
Continue to Lettere, a small town with a fascinating castle offering panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Finally, reach Sorrento, where dramatic cliffs and a vibrant town center welcome you. Enjoy the local lemon-infused delicacies and the stunning views of the sea. This route offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Accommodations:
- Hotel Margherita, Praiano: Offers stunning sea views and modern amenities. Rooms start at $493 per night.
- Bellevue Syrene, Sorrento: A luxury hotel with exquisite service and views of the Bay of Naples. Rooms start at $935 per night.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
4. Catching the Dolomites in this Road Trip Route: Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo
Route: Bolzano – Feldthurns – Terenten – Brunico – Misurina – Cortina d’Ampezzo
Distance: 132 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
For mountain enthusiasts, the drive from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo is a dream come true. Start in Bolzano, a city that blends Italian and Germanic cultures seamlessly. Your first stop is Feldthurns, a quaint village with beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Continue to Terenten, known for its sun-drenched fields and traditional alpine charm. In Brunico, explore the medieval castle and vibrant town center, where history and modern life coexist beautifully.
Drive through the Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The park offers numerous trails with stunning vistas of the Dolomites.
Finally, arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo, an iconic mountain town with breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re here for skiing, hiking, or simply to enjoy the views, Cortina is a perfect endpoint for this picturesque journey.
Accommodations:
- Hotel Greif, Bolzano: Combines historic charm with modern comfort. Rooms start at $272 per night.
- Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort, Cortina d’Ampezzo: Offers luxury and stunning mountain views. Rooms start at $500 per night.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
5. Your Next Italy Road Trip Route: Como to Bergamo In Northern Italy
Route: Como – Museum Cozzi Fratelli – Museum of Saronnese Industries – Rec & Play Museum – Bergamo
Distance: 92 km
Travel Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Take a road trip around the scenic shores of Lake Como from Como to Bergamo, and immerse yourself in a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Start in Como, famous for its stunning lake and charming old town in Northern Italy. As you drive, you’ll encounter the Museum Cozzi Fratelli, where vintage cars and motorcycles bring automotive history to life.
Next, visit the Museum of Saronnese Industries, showcasing the industrial heritage of the region. For something unique, stop by the Rec & Play Museum, perfect for music and game enthusiasts.
Finally, reach Bergamo, a city divided into two parts: the modern lower town and the historic upper town. Wander through the cobbled streets of the upper town, visit the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and enjoy the panoramic views from the Venetian walls. This road trip offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
Accommodations:
- Palace Hotel, Como: Offers lakeside views and modern amenities. Rooms start at $425 per night.
- Relais San Lorenzo, Bergamo: A historic hotel with contemporary comforts. Rooms start at $300 per night.
Best Time to Visit: Late April to September.
6. Best of Abruzzo: Rome to Sulmona
Route: Rome – Tivoli – Villa Adriana – Villa d’Este – Regional Natural Park Sirente Velino – Sulmona
Distance: 163 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
Explore this part of Italy by driving from Rome to Sulmona. Begin in Rome, the Eternal City, and head to Tivoli, home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este. Villa Adriana, the lavish residence of Emperor Hadrian, and Villa d’Este, renowned for its beautiful gardens and fountains, are both must-sees.
Continue your journey through the Regional Natural Park Sirente Velino, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and stunning mountain landscapes.
Arrive in Sulmona, a charming town famous for its sugared almonds (confetti) and beautiful medieval architecture. Stroll through its historic center and enjoy the local flavors. This route showcases the diverse beauty and cultural richness of Abruzzo.
Accommodations:
- Hotel Torre Sant’Angelo, Tivoli: Offers historic charm and modern amenities. Rooms start at $120 per night.
- Grancia dei Celestini, Sulmona: A cozy boutique hotel. Rooms start at $100 per night.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October.
7. Foothills of Sabina: Rome to Terni
Route: Rome – Monterotondo – Ponzano Romano – Bufalotta – Fiano Romano – Narni – Amelia – Terni
Distance: 103 km
Travel Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
This is one of the most beautiful road trips in Italy. Discover the hidden gems of the Sabina region by driving from Rome to Terni. Begin in Rome and head to Monterotondo, a town with a lovely historic center and local markets. Next, visit Ponzano Romano, where the peaceful countryside offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
In Bufalotta, explore the rural landscapes and enjoy a leisurely stroll. Fiano Romano, with its castle and charming streets, is another delightful stop.
Continue to Narni, a town rich in history and legends, often believed to be the inspiration for C.S. Lewis’s Narnia. Wander its ancient streets and explore the underground paths.
Amelia, with its medieval walls and historic center, offers a glimpse into the past. Finally, arrive in Terni, where you can visit the Marmore Falls, one of the tallest man-made waterfalls in Europe. This road trip through Sabina’s foothills is a journey through time and nature.
Accommodations:
- Albergo Abruzzese, Monterotondo: A charming hotel with local flavor. Rooms start at $80 per night.
- Hotel Michelangelo Palace, Terni: Offers comfort and convenience. Rooms start at $110 per night.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October.
8. Your Final Road Trip in Italy Itinerary: Bosa to Capo Caccia
Route: Bosa – Alghero – Capo Caccia
Distance: 71 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
Enjoy a scenic drive along Sardinia’s western coast from Bosa to Capo Caccia. Begin in Bosa, a picturesque town with colorful houses lining the river Temo. Stroll through its charming streets and visit the medieval castle for stunning views.
Next, include in your bucket list visiting Alghero, known as “The Little Barcelona” due to its Catalan influences. Explore its beautiful beaches, vibrant town center, and delicious seafood restaurants. Alghero is a perfect spot for beach hopping and soaking in the Mediterranean sun.
Finally, reach Capo Caccia, famous for its dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the sea. The area is also known for its fascinating Neptune’s Grotto, a cave filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. This drive combines the natural beauty of Sardinia with cultural and historical richness, making it a memorable one.
Accommodations:
- Hotel Palazzo Sa Pischedda, Bosa: Offers historic charm and modern amenities. Rooms start at $245 per night.
- Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa, Alghero: A luxurious retreat. Rooms start at $490 per night.
Best Time to Visit: April to June.
Driving in Italy: Tips, Essentials, and Costs for an Epic Road Trip
Cruising through Italy’s diverse landscapes, charming villages, and historic cities is a dream for many travelers. But before you hit the road of the regions in Italy, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road and pack some essentials in planning a road trip through Italy.
Navigating the Rules:
- International Driving Permit (IDP): If your driver’s license isn’t from within the European Union, getting an IDP is a must. This translates your license and makes it valid in most European countries. Don’t leave this until the last minute – get your IDP in advance to avoid any hiccups.
- Speed Limits: Europe’s highways often have a maximum speed of 130 km/h (81 mph), but in cities, the limit usually drops to 90 km/h (56 mph). Watch those signs to avoid unexpected fines.
- Legal Driving Age and Alcohol: You can legally drive in most countries at 18, but the blood alcohol limit is quite low, often 0.05%. So, if you plan to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, it’s wise to leave the driving to someone else.
- Seat Belts and Headlights: Buckling up is non-negotiable, and in many places, you’re required to keep your headlights on at all times, even during the day.
- Children in the Car: Kids under 12 usually need to ride in the backseat, secured in appropriate child seats.
- Phone Use: Forget about texting or calling while driving. It’s illegal in most European countries and, frankly, dangerous.
Packing for the Journey to Make the Most of Your Italian Road Trip Itinerary:
- Navigation System: A GPS or a detailed map is your best friend on the road. You don’t want to get lost in the Alps or the Tuscan countryside!
- Travel Insurance: Mishaps can happen. Having travel insurance provides peace of mind in case of medical emergencies, accidents, or lost luggage.
- First Aid Kit: A basic kit with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and other essentials can be a lifesaver in a pinch.
- Snacks and Water: Long drives can make you hungry and thirsty. Pack some healthy snacks, fruits, and plenty of water to stay energized.
- Spare Tire and Tools: Flat tires can be part of the journey. Be prepared with a spare and the tools to change it.
Budgeting for Your Adventure: Rent a Car and More
- Car Rental: Rental costs vary greatly depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. Budget anywhere from $50 to $100 per day if you prefer to rent a car and experience the best road trip route when you visit Italy.
- Fuel: Fuel costs can put a dent in your wallet, with an average of $1.70 per liter (about $6.44 per gallon). Plan your route and factor in fuel expenses.
- Tolls: Some countries, like France and Italy, have toll roads. Research the routes you’ll take and estimate the toll costs.
- Accommodation: Lodging ranges from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Expect to spend anywhere from $80 to $500 per night, depending on your preferences and location.
When to Go:
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are generally the best times to visit Europe for a road trip. You’ll enjoy mild temperatures, stunning scenery, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.
FAQs for Your Italian Road Trip
Q: Why should I go on a road trip in Italy?
A road trip in Italy lets you see beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can discover famous places and hidden gems, from the Tuscany countryside to the stunning Amalfi Coast.
Q: When is the best time to go on a road trip in Italy?
The best times are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is nice, and there are fewer tourists. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter might be tricky in the mountains due to snow.
Q: Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Italy?
Yes, if your driver’s license is not from a European Union country. The IDP translates your license into different languages and is recognized internationally. Make sure to get your IDP before your trip.
Q: What are the speed limits and road rules in Italy?
Speed limits in Italy are usually 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways, 90 km/h (56 mph) on main roads outside towns, and 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns and cities. Always follow the signs and local rules. Wear seat belts, don’t use your phone while driving, and keep your headlights on even during the day.
Q: How should I prepare my car for the trip?
Before you go, check your car’s oil, coolant, brakes, and tire pressure. Have a GPS or map, a first aid kit, a spare tire, and tools for emergencies. Bring snacks and water for long drives.
Q: Are there tolls on Italian roads?
Yes, many highways in Italy have tolls. You can pay with cash or a card at toll booths. Consider getting a Telepass for automatic toll payment to save time.
Q: What are the accommodation options along these routes?
You can find a range of places to stay, from budget-friendly hostels and cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels. Each route in our road trip guide suggests specific places to stay that are comfortable and convenient.
Q: How can I have a smooth and enjoyable day trip?
Plan your route and stopovers in advance but stay flexible. Research the places you’ll visit to make the most of your trip. Get travel insurance, and keep important documents like your IDP, driver’s license, and passport handy. Most importantly, take your time, enjoy the journey, and experience the local food and culture.
Wrapping Your Italy Road Trip Itinerary
An Italian road trip doesn’t only cater to specific people. Italy’s diverse routes offer something for every road tripper. From the coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast to the mountainous grandeur of the Dolomites, each drive promises unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, grab your keys, and embark on a journey to the best country in the world. Buon viaggio!
