9-Day Road Trip in Italy and Austria from Venice to Florence, Rome, Bologna, and Klagenfurt

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Italy and Austria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Venice in Italy. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Venice for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Italy to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Venice before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Venice. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Venice. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Italy in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Do not miss out on an incredible dining experience at Local, one of the finest Bib Gourmand restaurants in Venice, boasting 1 Michelin stars. Featuring delightful food options and contemporary offerings, Local has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than Wistèria. This food haven in Venice has been awarded 1 Michelin stars. Featuring contemporary and venetian cuisine, this well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at Quadri. This celebrated dining spot in Venice is renowned for its sumptuous meals and modern menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 1 Michelin-star prestige.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Adagio. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 621 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Il Mercante. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 666 customers.

Cantina Do Spade cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 3,120 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

Your multi-country road trip in Italy and Austria has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your multi-country journey across Italy and Austria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Venice in Italy. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Florence where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Piazza San Marco. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 152,982 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Piazza San Marco is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating St Mark's Basilica is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This cathedral and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,439 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing palace, Doge's Palace, which hosts approximately 318,104 visitors per year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 24,775 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Bridge of Sighs, an outstanding square, is one place you should visit while in Venice considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,223 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Venice and set your GPS to Florence. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 54 min. Upon reaching Florence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Florence of your choice.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Italy and Austria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Florence’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a Bib Gourmand local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 3 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Enoteca Pinchiorri consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional italian contemporary cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Santa Elisabetta, one of the best 2-star Michelin establishments in Florence. Take your pick from the creative and mediterranean menu, which has consistently earned Santa Elisabetta high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Florence and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, Il Palagio. Its delectable italian contemporary offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Manifattura, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Florence. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, backed by 509 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Caffe Concerto Paszkowski, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Ristorante Buca Mario, one of the top-rated bars in Florence, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,879 satisfied customers.

Take in the ambiance of Florence as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Florence in Italy. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rome, your home for 2 nights.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Rome.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Italy's delectable cuisine at one of Rome's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Reserve a table at La Pergola, a 3 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Rome. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious mediterranean and contemporary offering makes it a crowd favorite. La Pergola is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Rome is Il Pagliaccio, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative and innovative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Il Pagliaccio’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, Enoteca La Torre. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Rome for its appetizing selection of food, including its mediterranean and creative courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 2 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at RoYaL Art Cafè Roma. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,972 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Ai Tre Scalini. This popular bar in Rome is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,950 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Centro. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Centro has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,488 reviews.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Italy and Austria has in store for you! You will be staying in Rome for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Rome's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Italy to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Rome has them.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit 433. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Rome has received a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from around 2,341 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Roma Sparita should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Rome, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,073 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Ristorante Amedeo. This highly regarded restaurant in Rome has earned a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 1,798 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit DEROMA - Farine Romane, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, DEROMA - Farine Romane has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,432 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Hotel Hassler Roma, a crowd-favorite. Around 895 customers have rated their experience at Hotel Hassler Roma an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

VinAllegro belongs to the list of the best bars in Rome, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,167 bar-goers.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Italy and Austria. Today's main destinations are Rome in Italy, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bologna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Rome is the magnificent Trevi Fountain. Around 343,494 visitors have rated this excellent sculpture and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Piazza di Spagna on this leg of your adventure in Italy. This attraction is a well-known square that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 113,658 travelers.

The remarkable piazza del Popolo is known to be one of the best places to visit in Rome, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,807 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Rome by exploring the captivating Foro Italico. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,438 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Rome exploration list!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rome, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bologna may take around 3 hours 58 min. Upon your arrival in Bologna, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Bologna. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bologna. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Italy and Austria.

Elevate your stay in Bologna by dining at this luxury restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Ahimè consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional country cooking cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Bologna is I Portici, which holds a rating of 1 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting atmosphere and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative and contemporary menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to I Portici’s culinary excellence.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, consider reserving a table at Trattoria di Via Serra. This celebrated dining spot in Bologna is renowned for its creative meals and emilian menu. Countless guests have praised this luxury restaurant.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Va Mo Là. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,876 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Ca' Pelletti - Altabella. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,464 customers.

Cantina Bentivoglio cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 2,094 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Italy and Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bologna in Italy and Klagenfurt in Austria. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Klagenfurt, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bologna today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Piazza Maggiore. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Padua. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.

Prato della Valle is a travelers’ favorite in Padua, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 47,576 visitors.

In Padua, don’t miss The Basilica of St. Anthony, a great church and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 38,852 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Austria, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Klagenfurt. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Klagenfurt. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Klagenfurt. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the region’s most popular bars.

Reserve your spot at Das Katzencafé - Cat’n’Coffee, a popular local restaurant in Klagenfurt. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,446 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Zum Heiligen Josef during your stay in Klagenfurt. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 733 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Gasthaus im Landhaushof, a popular local gem in Klagenfurt. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,231 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Frankie's Restaurant Bar & Café, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Frankie's Restaurant Bar & Café boasts an impressive 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,192 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at 151 Bistro Bar, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. 151 Bistro Bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 607 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, McMullens Klagenfurt. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5-star from 607 customers.

As the night falls in Klagenfurt, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Salzburg. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the region for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the region of Klagenfurt boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Austria.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bierhaus to Augustin, an iconic dining spot in Klagenfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,038 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at La Bottega while in Klagenfurt. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,185 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Le Burger Klagenfurt, a favorite in Klagenfurt. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 964 discerning guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at GATES Lifestyle Bar - good vibes since 1996. This famous bar in Klagenfurt has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 169 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, La Baita. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. La Baita has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 119 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend DER SANDWIRTH. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,494 customers.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Italy and Austria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Klagenfurt in Austria and Venice in Italy. In the evening, you’ll end up in Venice, where you will stay for 1 night.

Neuer Platz is a travelers’ favorite in Klagenfurt, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,497 visitors.

In Klagenfurt, don’t miss Reptilienzoo Happ, a great zoo and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,217 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pörtschach am Wörther See. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A tour of Pörtschach am Wörther See is not complete without a visit to the famous Pyramidenkogel Tower. This incredible observation tower and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,280 travelers.

Make the most of your Pörtschach am Wörther See travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Wörthersee. This lake and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,102 travelers.

Venice’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pörtschach am Wörther See behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 58 min. Venice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Venice’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Venice boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Italy.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Rio Novo, a distinguished dining establishment in Venice. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 3,401 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Venice is Trattoria Al Gazzettino. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 3,378 happy diners.

Farini stands out as a local favorite in Venice. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,615 customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Bistrot de Venise. This famous bar in Venice has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,931 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Impronta. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Impronta has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,541 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Osteria Bancogiro. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,747 customers.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Venice before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Italy and Austria. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

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

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

Get a last taste of Italy’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Venice and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Italy and Austria.

The time has come to say farewell to Venice for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Italy and Austria with fond memories. Safe travels!