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Exploring Italy by Car
A road trip through Italy offers you the opportunity to experience this multifaceted country off the beaten track. Discover charming villages as well as hidden bays and picturesque landscapes along the way. Find out more about Italian culture and sample the diverse range of cuisine on offer during your trip.
Antonella Deuster
Travel Expert for Italy
Updated on 08/19/2025
From Tuscany to Apulia
This trip takes you from Tuscany in the northwest of Italy to the heel of the boot in Bari, in Apulia. As you travel from north to south through 5 regions, you will not only immerse yourself in Italy's culture, but also get to know regional differences and culinary specialties.
There is plenty of time for sightseeing, shopping, swimming and enjoyment at the various stops.
Highlights: Pisa ➢ Florence ➢ Rome ➢ Naples ➢ Matera ➢ Bari
➔ Plan a road trip through Italy
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| 🛫 Flight Duration: | approx. 10 to 13 hours |
| 🔆 Best Travel Time: | May - October |
| ⌛ Trip Duration: | from 15 days |
| ⟷ Distance: | approx. 620 miles |
| ⭐ Accommodations: | 3-4 star hotels |
| 🍴 Meals: | Breakfast included |
| 🍷 Activities: | Bike tour - Cooking class - Wine tasting |
| 🚗 Vehicle: | Compact car |
| 💰 Cost: | from $3400 per person (excluding flight) |
1. Pisa
Enjoy an unforgettable day in the Tuscan city on the Arno. Explore the enchanting city center with its centuries-old cathedral and circular baptistery. Spend a relaxing evening at the historic Teatro Verdi. Discover Pisa on a food tour. And don't miss out on a visit to the Leaning Tower.
2. Florence
As the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence delights visitors with its breathtaking architecture, countless theaters and exciting museums. The best way to explore the city's multifaceted heritage is on foot. Sample the city's fantastic delicacies again and again. Or visit one of the region's wonderful wineries.
3. Rome
History comes alive in Rome. Whether it's a visit to the Colosseum, a trip to the Trevi Fountain, a stroll through Trastevere or a guided tour of the Vatican, you're guaranteed not to get bored in the Eternal City. In addition to centuries-old buildings and a first-class gastronomic offer, Rome awaits you with a spectacular flair.
4. Naples
Let yourself be carried away by the colorful hustle and bustle of Napoli. Explore the winding alleyways of the Spaccanapoli district with all your senses on a street food tour. Sip a caffè in the Piazza del Plebiscito. Visit the impressive Castel dell'Ovo right by the sea. Or use your visit for an excursion to nearby Pompeii.
5. Matera
Follow the narrow alleyways in Matera's historic town center and discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site Città dei Sassi on your own. Marvel at the enchanting tuff stone houses, cave churches and countless balconies. And in the early evening, enjoy the view over the picturesque town from the Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli.
6. Bari
Discover Bari's beautiful Marat district on a relaxed stroll through the city. Watch how the typical regional pasta is made by hand in Via delle Orechiette. Follow the Lungomare by bike to the imposing Castello Normanno-Svevo. Or make the most of your visit to Bari with a street food tour.
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The Most Beautiful Panoramic Routes in Italy
Amalfi Coast
Follow one of Italy’s most scenic coastal drives and experience the Amalfi Coast up close. In just 30 miles between Positano and Vietri sul Mare, you’ll pass through charming villages, secluded coves, fragrant lemon groves, and a dramatic stretch of cliffs, tunnels, and hairpin turns.
Take in the postcard-perfect views of Positano’s colorful cliffside homes. Explore the stunning cathedral in Amalfi. Enjoy panoramic sea views from Ravello’s hilltop gardens. And soak in La Dolce Vita in the coastal gems of Cetara and Vietri sul Mare.
Val d'Orcia
The enchanting Val d'Orcia region in Tuscany is home to medieval hill towns, rolling landscapes, scenic nature parks, and world-class wineries. Explore this breathtaking area along a roughly 60-mile route from Castiglione d'Orcia through Montalcino and on to Pienza.
Soak in the natural thermal springs near Monte Amiata. Savor handmade pasta and local specialties. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Pienza, known for its Renaissance architecture. And don’t miss the serene Lucciola Bella Nature Reserve near Radicofani for unforgettable views of the Tuscan countryside.
Val di Noto
Experience the south of Sicily on a multifaceted tour from Catania to Ragusa. Combine classic city tours in the vibrant city center of Catania or the baroque city center of Noto with lots of history and culture.
For example, visit the impressive temples in Syracuse and stroll through the baroque city center of Modica. Or simply take in the breathtaking coastal landscapes of Sicily with its huge olive and citrus groves.
Practical information for your road trip
During your Italy road trip, keep in mind that many highways (called autostrade) have tolls. You’ll typically take a ticket when entering the toll road and pay when exiting—either in cash or by card. Speed limits on highways are usually 130 km/h (about 80 mph). In towns and cities, be extra cautious around scooters and motorcycles, which often maneuver between lanes. Stay alert and go with the flow of local traffic.
To rent a car in Italy as a U.S. traveler, you’ll need a valid U.S. driver’s license, your passport, and a credit card in your name. While not always required, it’s highly recommended to also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), as some rental companies may request it.
A road trip in Italy is generally possible all year round. However, you should watch out for snow and black ice at higher altitudes in winter. Spring and fall are particularly suitable for a road trip, as the temperatures are more pleasant and there are usually fewer crowds.
The cost of a road trip in Italy depends on your route, car type, accommodation, and time of year. Renting a small car typically starts at around $75 per day. You’ll also need to budget for gas and highway tolls—many major routes in Italy charge toll fees, which can add up over longer distances.
