Self-drive road trip · Italy
From Alpine Lakes to Renaissance Cities, Vineyards and Timeless Italian Villages
Per person, estimatedUS$1,496
Discover the very best of Northern Italy and Tuscany on this unforgettable self-drive adventure, where every day reveals a new landscape, a new flavour and a new story.
Your journey begins in Milan, where you collect your rental car before choosing your own perfect introduction to Italy. Spend your first two nights beside the sparkling waters of Lake Garda, the romantic shores of Lake Como, or in the timeless city of Verona—the choice is entirely yours.
Continue south through Italy's culinary heart to elegant Bologna, before immersing yourself in the artistic treasures of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Meander through the rolling vineyards of the world-famous Chianti wine region, stopping in charming villages like Greve in Chianti, Castellina in Chianti, and the iconic medieval hill town of San Gimignano, before spending two unforgettable nights in magnificent Siena.
Your adventure continues to the beautiful walled city of Lucca, with time to visit the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, before discovering the culinary delights of Parma, home to Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. Finally, enjoy a relaxing evening in cosmopolitan Milan, where fashion, history and Italian elegance come together before your journey home.
Designed with flexibility in mind, this itinerary allows you to stay longer in your favourite destinations, upgrade your hotels or rental car, and truly experience Italy at your own pace. From breathtaking lakes and vineyard-covered hills to Renaissance masterpieces and unforgettable cuisine, this Fly & Drive combines Italy's most celebrated highlights with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Full freedom with a rental car — no fixed coach schedule
Covers the Italian Lakes, Tuscany and everything in between
Drive through Chianti wine country and stop wherever takes your fancy
Choose your own start — Lake Garda, Lake Como or Verona
Eat your way through Bologna, Parma, Florence and Siena
Medieval hill towns, Renaissance cities and lakeside villages all in one trip
Flexible itinerary — stay longer where you love it most
Every stop has a hotel already chosen for you. Open a stop to swap the hotel, add activities or stay longer. The price updates as you go.
Want more time somewhere? Open any stop and tap Add a night. Every day after it moves back, and your dates and price update automatically.
Stay longer or shorter in Arrival in Milan & Your Choice of Northern Italy
Your stay in Arrival in Milan & Your Choice of Northern ItalyDays 1–3
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Pick up your car at MILANO (MIL), from 10:00. It's yours for all 14 days.
Welcome to Italy!
Arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport (or Milan Linate Airport), where you will collect your rental car and begin your unforgettable Fly & Drive adventure.
The beauty of this itinerary is that you choose how to start your journey. Spend your first two nights in the destination that best matches your travel style before continuing deeper into Italy.
Discover Italy's largest lake, where charming lakeside villages, mountain scenery and Mediterranean ambience come together.
Suggested highlights:
Explore the picturesque towns of Sirmione, Malcesine or Limone sul Garda
Enjoy a boat cruise across the lake
Visit historic castles and lakeside promenades
Relax at cafés overlooking the water
Sample local wines and regional cuisine
Choose one of Italy's most romantic cities, renowned for its elegant architecture, vibrant piazzas and rich cultural heritage.
Highlights include:
Verona Arena
Juliet's House
Piazza delle Erbe
Charming shopping streets
Excellent restaurants and wine bars
In the evening, enjoy dinner in one of Verona's beautiful historic squares.
If breathtaking scenery is what you're looking for, Lake Como offers an unforgettable introduction to Italy.
Recommended experiences:
Visit the elegant lakeside towns of Bellagio, Varenna or Menaggio
Cruise across the sparkling lake
Admire magnificent villas and gardens
Relax in waterfront cafés
Enjoy spectacular mountain views
Whether you choose the romance of Verona, the tranquil beauty of Lake Como or the vibrant atmosphere of Lake Garda, your Italian Fly & Drive begins with two unforgettable days exploring one of Northern Italy's most iconic destinations.
After two relaxing nights, continue your journey towards your next destination, where even more unforgettable experiences await.
Overnight: Ostello Bello Lake Como, night 1 of 2
“Ostello Bello Lake Como is a top-rated hostel praised for its prime location near Como's ferry port, restaurants, and shopping. Guests rave about the spotless, spacious rooms, vibrant community atmosphere, exceptional staff, and fantastic amenities including a 24-hour bar, kitchen, and social activities—making it the perfect hub for travelers exploring Lake Como.”
Included in your trip2 Nights, Viale Fratelli Rosselli 9, Como
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Arrival in Milan & Your Choice of Northern Italy surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Northern Italy → Bologna
Your stay in Northern Italy → BolognaDays 3–4
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Approx. 150–174 mi (280 km) | 2–4 hours (depending on your chosen starting point)
After breakfast, continue your journey south through the beautiful landscapes of northern Italy towards the vibrant city of Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region and one of Italy's great culinary destinations.
Spend the afternoon exploring its elegant arcaded streets, lively piazzas and medieval landmarks.
Piazza Maggiore
Two Towers of Bologna
Basilica of San Petronio
Historic food markets
Traditional trattorias serving authentic tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini and mortadella
In the evening, soak up the city's lively atmosphere with an aperitivo under Bologna's famous porticoes before enjoying an overnight stay in this fascinating medieval city.
Overnight: Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
“Guests love this charming, centrally located Bologna hotel, praising its excellent location near Piazza Maggiore and the train station, spacious rooms, and exceptionally friendly, accommodating staff who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.”
Included in your trip1 night, Via Monte Grappa, 9/2
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Northern Italy → Bologna surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance
Your stay in Florence, the Cradle of the RenaissanceDays 4–6
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Bologna → Florence | Approx. 68 mi (110 km) | 1½ hours
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely drive through the rolling hills of the Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany regions as you make your way to the magnificent city of Florence.
With two nights in Florence, you'll have plenty of time to discover one of the world's greatest artistic and cultural treasures.
Spend your days wandering through elegant piazzas, admiring Renaissance masterpieces and experiencing the authentic atmosphere of Tuscany's capital.
Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze)
Ponte Vecchio
Uffizi Gallery
Piazza della Signoria
Piazzale Michelangelo for spectacular panoramic views
Browse the artisan shops of the Oltrarno district
Discover local markets and traditional Tuscan cuisine
Guided walking tour of Florence
Wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside
Cooking class featuring regional specialties
Visit the Galleria dell'Accademia to admire Michelangelo's David
Day trip to the Chianti wine region or the medieval town of San Gimignano
In the evenings, relax at one of Florence's many charming restaurants, enjoy an authentic Italian gelato in a lively piazza, or sip a glass of Chianti while watching the sunset over the city's iconic skyline.
After two unforgettable nights immersed in the art, history and flavours of Tuscany, your Fly & Drive adventure continues towards Italy's enchanting hill towns and countryside.
Overnight: Appartamento Puccini, night 1 of 2
Included in your trip2 Nights, 82 84 Via Dei Macci, Florence
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Through the Heart of Chianti to Medieval Siena
Your stay in Through the Heart of Chianti to Medieval SienaDays 6–8
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Florence → Greve in Chianti → Castellina in Chianti → San Gimignano → Siena
Approx. 112 mi (180 km) | Full Day Scenic Drive
Today is all about slowing down and enjoying one of Italy's most beautiful driving routes.
Leave Florence behind and head into the rolling hills of the world-famous Chianti wine region, where vineyards, olive groves, medieval villages and cypress-lined roads create the picture-perfect landscapes that have made Tuscany famous around the world.
Your first stop is the charming wine town of Greve in Chianti. Browse the local wine shops, enjoy an espresso in the lively piazza or sample some of the region's renowned wines.
Continue along scenic country roads to the medieval hilltop village of Castellina in Chianti. Wander through its ancient streets, admire panoramic vineyard views and enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring traditional Tuscan cuisine paired with excellent local wines.
In the afternoon, continue to the iconic hill town of San Gimignano, often called the "Medieval Manhattan" because of its impressive skyline of ancient towers.
Explore its cobbled streets, artisan boutiques and historic squares before treating yourself to one of Italy's most famous gelatos while soaking up the unique atmosphere.
Finally, arrive in the magnificent medieval city of Siena, where you'll spend the next two nights.
As evening falls, discover the magic of Siena after the day visitors have departed. Wander through its beautifully illuminated streets and enjoy dinner in one of the city's traditional restaurants overlooking the famous Piazza del Campo.
Overnight: Hotel Athena, night 1 of 2
Enjoy a full day exploring Siena and the surrounding Tuscan countryside at your own pace.
Begin by discovering one of Italy's finest medieval cities.
Piazza del Campo
Siena Cathedral
Palazzo Pubblico
Historic shopping streets
Local markets
Traditional Tuscan cafés
In the afternoon, you may wish to venture back into the surrounding countryside.
Optional experiences include:
Wine tasting at a local Chianti winery
Visit the beautifully preserved walled village of Monteriggioni
Explore quiet country roads lined with vineyards and olive groves
Visit family-run wineries producing the famous Chianti Classico wines
Enjoy a long Tuscan lunch overlooking the vineyards
Spend one final evening in Siena, where the relaxed atmosphere, excellent restaurants and beautifully preserved medieval centre provide the perfect setting before continuing your Italian Fly & Drive adventure.
Since your packages are flexible, I'd avoid telling every customer they must visit all four places in one day. Instead, present them as recommended scenic stops. Some travelers will happily spend three hours tasting wine in Greve, while others will want more time in San Gimignano.
That flexibility is exactly what makes EuropeFlyDrive different from a fixed coach tour, and it's worth emphasizing throughout the itinerary.
Overnight: Hotel Athena, night 2 of 2
“Guests rave about Hotel Athena's exceptional staff and prime location near Siena, praising its convenient parking, stunning Tuscan views from the terrace, delicious breakfasts, and ideal position for exploring Chiara wine country and nearby towns—all at great value with complimentary amenities.”
Included in your trip2 Nights, P Mascagni 55
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Through the Heart of Chianti to Medieval Siena surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Lucca
Your stay in LuccaDays 8–10
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Siena → Pisa → Lucca
Approx. 118 mi (190 km) | Full Day Scenic Drive
After breakfast, leave Siena behind and continue west through the beautiful Tuscan countryside towards one of Italy's most iconic landmarks.
Your first stop is the historic city of Pisa, world-famous for its remarkable Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Spend a few hours exploring the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), one of Italy's most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Admire the impressive Cathedral, the Baptistery and, of course, take the classic photo beside the world-famous Leaning Tower.
Enjoy lunch at one of Pisa's welcoming cafés before continuing your short drive to the elegant walled city of Lucca.
Surrounded by perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca is one of Tuscany's hidden gems. Its pedestrian-friendly streets, lively piazzas and outstanding restaurants make it an ideal place to slow down and experience authentic Italian life.
Spend the next two nights discovering this charming city at your own pace.
Walk or cycle along Lucca's historic Renaissance city walls
Explore the beautiful Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
Visit Guinigi Tower with its famous rooftop garden
Discover elegant churches, artisan boutiques and hidden courtyards
Relax with an aperitivo in one of the city's lively piazzas
Enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine in family-run trattorias
Overnight: La Terrazza di via Elisa, night 1 of 2
Included in your trip2 Nights, 1 Via Elisa, Lucca
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Lucca surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Lucca to Parma
Your stay in Lucca to ParmaDays 10–11
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Approx. 106 mi (170 km) | 2½ hours
After breakfast, leave the charming city of Lucca and head north towards the elegant city of Parma, internationally renowned as Italy's gastronomic capital.
The drive takes you through the beautiful Tuscan and Emilian countryside before arriving in a city celebrated for its rich culinary traditions, magnificent architecture and relaxed atmosphere.
Spend the afternoon exploring Parma's historic centre, where beautiful piazzas, elegant streets and impressive monuments invite you to slow down and enjoy authentic Italian life.
Parma Cathedral
Baptistery of Parma
Stroll through Piazza Garibaldi
Discover elegant boutiques and cafés
Sample authentic Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma
Enjoy an unforgettable dinner featuring the flavours that have made Parma famous throughout the world
For food lovers, optional visits to local cheese producers, Parma ham factories or traditional balsamic vinegar producers can be arranged.
Spend the night in Parma before continuing to your final destination.
Overnight: Starhotels Du Parc
“Experience timeless elegance at this beautifully restored Art Déco hotel in Parma, where guests rave about the exceptional staff, comfortable rooms with premium bedding, outstanding breakfast, and prime location near the historic park and town center. A sophisticated retreat that makes visitors feel like royalty with personalized service and thoughtful amenities.”
Included in your trip1 night, Viale Piacenza 12/C
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Lucca to Parma surprise you.
Stay longer or shorter in Parma to Milan
Your stay in Parma to MilanDays 11–14
Each night you add pushes the rest of the trip back by a day. Your dates, hotels, car and price all update for you, and you can undo it anytime.
Approx. 78 mi (125 km) | 1½ hours
After a leisurely breakfast, continue north to Italy's vibrant fashion and financial capital, Milan.
With one final night to enjoy, discover a city that perfectly blends historic landmarks with contemporary style, world-class shopping and outstanding cuisine.
Milan Cathedral (Duomo)
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Sforza Castle
The fashionable Brera district
The lively Navigli canals
Luxury shopping along Via Montenapoleone
Traditional Milanese restaurants and stylish rooftop bars
Whether you choose to explore the city's cultural treasures, indulge in some last-minute shopping or simply enjoy an aperitivo overlooking the Duomo, Milan provides the perfect finale to your Italian Fly & Drive adventure.
Overnight: Heart Hotel Milano, night 1 of 3
“Heart Hotel Milano captivates guests with its prime location near landmarks and major transport hubs, exceptional staff hospitality, and clean, well-appointed rooms perfect for short stays. Visitors consistently praise the friendly service, convenient accessibility, and welcoming atmosphere that makes this boutique hotel an excellent choice for exploring Milan.”
Included in your trip3 Nights, Piazzale Principessa Clotilde 10, Milan
No set plans here. Wander, linger over dinner and let Parma to Milan surprise you.
Return your car at MILANO (MIL) by 10:00, then check in for your flight home.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before making the short drive to Milan Malpensa Airport (or Milan Linate Airport).
Return your rental car and depart with unforgettable memories of Northern Italy and Tuscany—romantic lakes, Renaissance masterpieces, medieval hill towns, world-famous vineyards, exceptional cuisine and some of Europe's most scenic driving routes.
We hope this journey has inspired you to return and discover even more of Italy's timeless beauty.
Departure day · No overnight stay
A rental car is included for all 14 days. Want more room or comfort? Upgrade below.
Pick up, day 1MILANO (MIL), from 10:00
Return, day 13MILANO (MIL), by 10:00
Good to knowRates assume a driver aged 30 or over.
Operated by Avia Travel & Tours.
Download this tour's PDF brochure and plan offline: every day, your hotels, the car and our phone numbers.
Our travel experts know these roads. Call and we'll tailor the trip with you.
Estimated total, 2 travelersUS$2,992
How this road trip stacks up against similar self-drive tours, side by side.
| Tour | |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price, per person | ||||
| From | US$1,496 | US$1,046 | US$1,594 | US$960 |
| Per night | US$115 / night | US$80 / night | US$123 / night | US$74 / nightBest |
| The trip | ||||
| Duration | 14 days, 13 nights | 14 days, 13 nights | 14 days, 13 nights | 14 days, 13 nights |
| Stops | 7 | 8 | 8 | 5 |
| Places | Nungwi, Bologna, Florence, Siena, Lucca, Parma, Milan | Bingen Am Rhein, Strasbourg, Ingersheim, Fuessen, Salzburg, Munich, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Frankfurt | Stockholm, Gävle, Sundsvall, Docksta, Östersund, Mora, Avesta, Västerås | Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Córdoba, Benalmadena |
| Start and finish | Milano | Frankfurt | Stockholm | Barcelona – Malaga |
| On the road | ||||
| Total driving | About 845 km | About 1,360 km | About 1,330 km | About 1,210 km |
| Longest drive day | About 290 kmBest | About 330 km | About 300 km | About 475 km |
| Car included | Intermediate | Compact | Yes | Mini |
| Stays and extras | ||||
| Hotels included | 1 to 4-star hotels | 2 to 4-star hotels | 2 to 4-star hotels | 2 to 4-star hotels |
| Hotel choice | About 12 hotels per stop | About 16 hotels per stopBest | About 9 hotels per stop | About 12 hotels per stop |
| Airport transfer | Not included | Not included | Not included | Not included |
| You're viewing this tour | View tour | View tour | View tour |
"From" prices are per person for 2 travelers sharing, at the cheapest hotels. Driving is estimated from the stop locations.
FromUS$1,046per person
FromUS$1,594per person
FromUS$960per person
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From€878per person