The Most Scenic Road Trips in Italy You Need to Take!
What if you could experience the grandeur of Italy’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany, all from the comfort of your own car? Italy is renowned for its stunning scenic drives, offering travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage1. But with so many incredible road trip routes to choose from, where should you begin?
In this captivating article, we’ll uncover the most enchanting and unforgettable road trips that Italy has to offer. From the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast to the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites, these journeys will transport you to a world of panoramic vistas, charming medieval towns, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time explorer, these routes are sure to leave you awestruck and inspired21.
Key Takeaways
- Italy is renowned for offering some of the best road trips in Europe, with a diverse array of scenic routes to choose from.
- Road trip distances in Italy range from approximately 61 km to 203 km, with durations typically ranging from 2 to 4.5 hours.
- Milan and Turin are popular starting points for Italian road trips, showcasing the country’s well-connected transportation network.
- The Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and the Dolomites are among the must-experience road trip destinations in Italy, offering breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions.
- Italian road trips provide opportunities to discover hidden gems, from quaint medieval towns to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Traversing the Amalfi Coast: A Breathtaking Coastal Odyssey
Experience Italy’s most spectacular coastal scenery on a white-knuckle drive along the Amalfi Coast. Starting from Salerno, the main southern gateway to the coast, the route winds its way west to Vietri sul Mare, a small town renowned for its ceramics and the official start of the coastal road3.
After around 20 kilometers, you’ll arrive in Amalfi, the coast’s main hub. Stop here to admire the landmark Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea before heading up to Ravello, the charming town perched in the hills above4.
Next, push on to Positano, a chic, near-vertical town where colorful, steeply-stacked houses cascade down the precipitous hillsides. Beyond Positano, the route leads inland, up and across the hilly interior to Sorrento, a lively tourist hotspot overlooked by the dark, brooding bulk of Mount Vesuvius5.
This breathtaking coastal odyssey offers a glimpse into some of Italy’s most picturesque towns, from the charming ceramics hub of Vietri sul Mare to the dramatic cliffside dwellings of Positano. With its winding roads, stunning vistas, and historic landmarks, the Amalfi Coast is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Italian coastline354.
Tuscany’s Alluring Landscapes: A Vineyard-Studded Journey
Tuscany, the iconic Italian region, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of medieval cities, world-renowned vineyards, and quintessential countryside vistas6. This two-day route leads from Florence, the cultural heart of the region, to the charming town of Orvieto in neighboring Umbria, showcasing the best of Tuscany’s allures.
Begin your journey in the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence, before venturing into the picturesque Chianti region. Stop for a tasting at the renowned Enoteca Falorni in Greve, and savor the celebrated bistecca (steak) at the legendary L’Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano6. As you leave the vineyards behind, the road winds through the captivating medieval city of Siena, centered on its awe-inspiring Duomo and the famous Piazza del Campo.
From Siena, head south to the renowned wine region of Montalcino, home to the acclaimed Brunello di Montalcino7. The scenic Val d’Orcia, with its rolling green hills, cypress-dotted landscapes, and charming hilltop towns, offers a quintessential Tuscan experience. Continue through the historic town of Montepulciano before reaching the striking hilltop city of Orvieto, renowned for its remarkable Gothic Duomo.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Italy, this Tuscan journey promises to captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression8. Explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, savor its renowned culinary delights, and bask in the serene landscapes that have inspired artists and writers for centuries678.
Sicily’s Southeastern Splendors: Baroque Marvels and Ancient Ruins
Venture into the rugged southeastern corner of Sicily, where a captivating tapestry of baroque architecture, ancient ruins, and stunning natural landscapes awaits. Start your adventure in Catania, a city renowned for its grand historic center and lively fish market. After indulging in a seafood-centric lunch, head to Syracuse, where you can explore the Greco-Roman ruins of the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis and stroll the elegant baroque streets of the Ortygia district9.
Continue your journey to Noto, a UNESCO-listed town that boasts what is arguably Sicily’s most beautiful street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Venture inland to Modica, a bustling town nestled in a deep canyon, famous for its exceptional chocolates. As you push on through the rocky hinterland, you’ll reach Ragusa, where the handsome historic center of Ragusa Ibla awaits10.
This two-day road trip through Sicily’s southeastern region promises a captivating blend of baroque splendor and ancient wonders. From the grand architecture of Catania and Syracuse to the charming streets of Noto and Modica’s renowned chocolate, you’ll uncover the diverse treasures that make this corner of the island a true delight11910.
The Great Dolomites Road: Majestic Mountain Vistas
Prepare to be awed by the breathtaking scenery as you embark on the Great Dolomites Road, a scenic route that winds through the majestic Dolomite Mountains in northeastern Italy12. This drive, stretching from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo, offers a captivating journey through a land of towering peaks, lush valleys, and charming towns.
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are renowned for their striking, saw-tooth peaks and dramatic limestone formations13. As you depart from Bolzano, you’ll soon catch your first glimpse of these iconic mountains, with the granite summits of Ponte Nova rising in the distance12.
The road winds eastward, leading you into the magnificent Val di Fassa, a valley framed by forested slopes and gigantic rock formations12. Continuing onward, you’ll ascend to the breathtaking Passo Pordoi, a 2,239-meter mountain pass that offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks14.
From here, the descent takes you through the spectacularly sited Val Badia, where the charming town of La Villa awaits12. As you approach the end of your journey, the chic resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo comes into view, marking the culmination of this unforgettable drive through the heart of the Dolomites12.
Whether you’re seeking awe-inspiring landscapes, outdoor adventures, or simply the chance to immerse yourself in the unique culture of this region, the Great Dolomites Road is a must-do experience for any traveler to Italy13. Prepare to be left breathless by the majestic mountain vistas that unfold before you along this captivating route121314.
Italy scenic road trips: Discovering Hidden Gems
Our road trip in Italy began in Trento, a charming little northern Italian town filled with rich history and renowned for its wine production15. The main square, Piazza Duomo, is dominated by the magnificent Duomo di Trento cathedral, and wandering the pretty streets, we stumbled upon a shopping arcade that looked like an art gallery15. Our next stop was Verona, known worldwide for the setting of Romeo and Juliet15. The city’s highlights include the ancient Roman amphitheater, Verona Arena, and the “Romeo and Juliet house” with its famous balcony.
Further along, we explored the five picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre, hiking between them and taking in the stunning coastal scenery15. This two-week road trip covering various Italian destinations from Genova to Palermo was filled with a focus on exploring new places daily, along with sufficient rest during the trip15. Renting a car for mobility was the preferred mode of transport, with public transport being an option for the first half of the itinerary15.
Specific recommendations for places such as Genova, Portofino, Monterey Al Mare, Vernazza, Lucca, Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast were highlighted, along with the inclusion of lesser-known villages and towns like Cinque Terre, focaccia prices, and local bakery suggestions15. The journey also featured diverse dining experiences, accommodation choices, and sights visited, like Piazza dell’Anfiteatro in Lucca, Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, and the Fountain of Trevi in Rome15.
Travelers who prefer slow travel in Italy over tour groups or designated itineraries make up a significant percentage16, and the author has shared numerous rental car experiences throughout the country16. With a focus on exploring the hidden gems of northern Italy, the road trip through Trento, Verona, and the Cinque Terre provided a unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural wonders171516.
Lake Como’s Southern Shore: Elegant Villas and Waterfront Gardens
Nestled in the heart of northern Italy, Lake Como is a picturesque haven that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and historic charm18. Embark on a leisurely road trip along the southern shore of this magnificent lake, where you’ll discover elegant art nouveau villas and lush waterfront gardens that will leave you in awe19.
Start your journey in the town of Como, where you can explore the charming historic center and marvel at the architectural splendor of the Como Cathedral19. Just outside the city, the magnificent Villa Olmo, dating back to the 18th century, awaits with its neoclassical facade and expansive gardens18.
As you continue your drive, you’ll reach the captivating town of Bellagio, often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como.”19 Stroll through the romantic alleyways, admire the colorful buildings, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere along the promenade19. Be sure to visit the neoclassical Villa Melzi d’Eril and its picturesque gardens, which boast a Moorish Lookout structure with an Italian cypress-lined dome20.
Continuing your journey, you’ll reach the charming town of Tremezzo, home to the magnificent Villa Carlotta19. This 17th-century villa showcases a stunning botanical garden, where you can explore a ferny ravine with Tasmanian tree ferns, rows of azaleas, and old rhododendrons20. Expert guides provide informative tours, sharing the historical significance and plant treasures within the gardens20.
As your scenic road trip along Lake Como’s southern shore comes to an end, you’ll find yourself in the historic city of Bergamo, another gem worth exploring18. This leisurely journey has allowed you to witness the elegant villas, lush waterfront gardens, and captivating towns that make Lake Como one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations191820.
Abruzzo’s Unspoiled Landscapes: A Rural Escape
Just over an hour’s drive east of Rome, the little-known region of Abruzzo offers a world apart from the big city, with wild, empty valleys and unspoiled mountain landscapes21. The Abruzzo region spans an area of 10,795 square kilometers, with a third of this area being covered by three national parks, nature reserves, and protected areas21. Abruzzo has a population of approximately 1,322,247 residents21, and is divided into four provinces: Teramo, L’Aquila, Pescara, and Chieti, containing a total of 305 municipalities21.
From the capital, we took the A24 autostrada to Fonte Cerreto, from where it was a twisting climb up to Campo Imperatore, a highland plain overlooked by the Apennines’ highest peak, Corno Grande22. The autostrade A24 and A25 connecting Abruzzo with Rome were completed in the 1970s22, and Campo Imperatore, also known as “Mussolini’s Playground,” is a vast plain surrounding by the Gran Sasso mountains that was once used by Mussolini as his escape route back to power22.
We continued on to the remote, semi-abandoned village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, high in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga. In the afternoon, we pushed on to Sulmona, a graceful town set in the shadow of the Morrone massif, famous for its confetti (sugar-coated almonds).
23 Abruzzo Italy is known as “the green lung of Europe” for its three National Parks, one Regional Park, and several natural reserves, making it the largest natural area in Europe23. Abruzzo Italy has been listed among the 50 best places to travel in 2022 by Travel + Leisure, being the only Italian destination alongside Sardinia included on the list23. The region boasts temperatures averaging between 54 and 61 degrees F, with the hottest temperature reaching around 75 degrees F in the summer, making it a year-round destination23.
21 Abruzzo boasts a 130 km stretch of beaches along the Adriatic sea21, and is home to 24 medieval and Renaissance hilltop villages and towns nominated for the ‘Borghi più belli d’Italia’, which translates to the most beautiful towns in Italy21. Almost half of the territory of Abruzzo is occupied by nature reserves, three national parks, regional parks, and marine areas, making it the greenest region in Europe with 75% of all European plants and animals present2123.
The Trabocchi coast in Abruzzo spans 54 kilometers (33 miles) from Ortona to the Vasto area, known for its collection of old fishing net structures called trabocchi23. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo (DOC) wine is seen as the ambassador of the region abroad, particularly in the US and Germany where it is perceived as a product of excellence23. Abruzzese cuisine is rated among Italy’s top 3 regional cuisines and is home to the oldest Italian cookery school, De Cecco pasta, and several renowned local delicacies such as arrosticini and Brodetto alla Vastese2322.Abruzzo is known as “The Little Tibet” due to its second rank in the number of hermitages it contains compared to the country Tibet22. The Gran Sasso Mountain range in Abruzzo holds the highest peak in the Apennines, Corno Grande, which is over 2900 meters high22. Pineto, a beach town in Abruzzo, was founded by the Filiani family in the early 1900s who planted 2,000 umbrella pines along the beach22.
Sardinia’s Coastal Wonders: Beachside Bliss and Seaside Towns
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Sardinia is a captivating Italian island that promises a road trip filled with breathtaking coastal scenery and charming seaside towns24. Boasting a diverse landscape that ranges from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, Sardinia offers a true taste of coastal bliss24.
One of the highlights of this road trip is the picturesque town of Alghero, often referred to as the “Little Barcelona” due to its Catalan influences25. Stroll along the historic city walls, explore the charming old town, and indulge in the vibrant seaside atmosphere. Beachgoers can also enjoy a variety of sandy stretches, from the serene settings of San Teodoro to the crystal-clear waters of the island’s numerous stunning beaches25.
Beyond Alghero, the coastal towns of Olbia and Cagliari offer their own unique charms24. Olbia, with its natural landscapes and quaint seaside settlements, provides a tranquil respite, while Cagliari, the island’s capital, boasts a lively harbor and a picturesque historic center24. Whether you’re seeking sun-drenched beaches, charming fishing villages, or opportunities to immerse yourself in Sardinia’s rich cultural heritage, this road trip promises an unforgettable journey along the island’s stunning coastline26.
From the dramatic cliffs of the northeastern coast to the serene coves of the southern shoreline, Sardinia’s coastal wonders are sure to captivate and leave you longing for more24. So pack your bags, hop in your car, and embark on a road trip that will introduce you to the beachside bliss and seaside charms of this enchanting Italian island25.
The Road Less Traveled: Sabina’s Ancient Towns and Natural Parks
Just 30 kilometers from Rome lies a picturesque road trip through the Sabina region, offering a glimpse into Italy’s ancient past and unspoiled natural beauty. Depart the capital and head northeast to discover the charming hilltop town of Tivoli, renowned for its Roman heritage, stunning Villa Adriana, and the magnificent 16th-century Villa d’Este and its cascading fountains27.
As you continue along the winding roads, uncover a trove of hidden gems, such as the historic towns of Monterotondo, Ponzano Romano, Bufalotta, Fiano Romano, Narni, and Amelia. Each of these destinations boasts well-preserved architecture, museums showcasing local culture, and inviting restaurants serving up the flavors of Sabina27.
Venture into the Foothills of Sabina, where the countryside unfolds in a tapestry of rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards28. Explore the charming villages of Rocca Sinibalda, Castel di Tora, Collalto Sabino, Orvinio, and Monteleone Sabino, three of which are listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages of Italy.”29 Discover ancient ruins, historic churches, and stunning vistas as you wind your way through this captivating region29.
Whether you’re seeking a respite from the bustle of Rome or a chance to immerse yourself in Italy’s rich cultural heritage, the Sabina road trip offers a delightful and off-the-beaten-path adventure27. Venture beyond the well-trodden tourist trails and uncover the hidden gems that make this corner of Italy truly special27.
Conclusion: Unforgettable Journeys Across Italy’s Diverse Terrain
Italy’s roads offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged30 Dolomites to the idyllic Amalfi Coast, and everything in between. Whether you’re drawn to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany31, the baroque splendor of Sicily32, or the unspoiled wilderness of Abruzzo, an Italian road trip promises unforgettable experiences and stunning scenery around every bend32. By renting a car and hitting the open road, travelers can immerse themselves in the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and celebrated culinary traditions, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
From the enchanting cities of Florence, Venice, and Rome to the natural wonders of the Italian Alps and Dolomites, Italy’s diverse terrain offers a wealth of opportunities for32 cultural exploration and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re seeking the tranquil beauty of Lake Como and Valsugana30 or the picturesque beaches and islands along Italy’s coastline32, a road trip through this captivating country promises to deliver an unforgettable journey that will leave a lasting impression.
From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged landscapes of Sicily, Italy’s3132 scenic routes and diverse landscapes invite travelers to embark on a journey of discovery, immersing themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. With a myriad of options for31 road trips, from the Amalfi Coast to the Dolomites, Italy offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore its captivating terrain and create lifelong memories.
