Italy’s 10 Most Scenic Road Trips: Iconic Drives Through Stunning Scenery

Embark on a journey through Italy, a country renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and culinary delights. The beauty of Italy can be especially appreciated through its diverse road trips, which offer travelers a way to explore the picturesque countryside, rugged coastlines, and charming villages at their own pace. Here are ten of the most scenic road trips in Italy, each providing a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural and natural beauty.

1. Amalfi Coast Drive

Route: Sorrento to Salerno The Amalfi Coast is celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, featuring steep cliffs that dive into the deep blue Mediterranean. The road itself is a marvel, with tight bends and narrow passages that challenge even the most experienced drivers but offer unparalleled views and access to famous towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Along this route, travelers can stop at panoramic viewpoints, explore hidden coves, and indulge in the region’s renowned seafood cuisine.

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2. The Chianti Wine Route

Route: Florence to Siena Travel through the heart of Tuscany on the Chianti Wine Route, an area famed for its picturesque vineyards and time-honored wine-making tradition. This drive connects Florence and Siena, two of Tuscany’s most historic cities, and passes through charming towns such as Greve, Panzano, and Castellina. Here, visitors can tour vineyards, taste world-class wines, and visit local olive oil mills. The route is also rich in art and history, with numerous castles and churches dotting the landscape.

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3. The Great Dolomites Road

Route: Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo This iconic road trip takes you through the heart of the Dolomites, offering majestic views of jagged peaks and lush valleys. Starting in Bolzano, where cultures blend under the backdrop of medieval and modern architecture, the route passes through the alpine towns of Canazei and Selva before reaching the chic resort town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Along the way, there are numerous opportunities for hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing.

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4. The Lakes of Northern Italy

Route: Lake Maggiore to Lake Garda Experience the serene beauty of Northern Italy’s famous lakes on a drive from Lake Maggiore in the west to Lake Garda in the east. Each lake offers unique attractions, such as the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, the elegant villas of Lake Como, and the historic sites around Lake Garda. The scenic drive is lined with opportunities for boat trips, leisurely strolls in lakeside towns, and enjoying the lauded Italian lake cuisine.

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5. Sicilian Coastal Drive

Route: Palermo to Taormina Experience the diverse landscape and rich history of Sicily on a coastal drive from Palermo to Taormina. The route offers views of rugged coastlines, ancient ruins, and vibrant towns. Highlights include the Norman cathedrals of Cefalù, the dramatic cliffs of Capo d’Orlando, and the bustling markets of Catania, before culminating in the picturesque town of Taormina with its Greco-Roman theater overlooking Mount Etna.

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6. The Adriatic Riviera

Route: Rimini to Trieste Follow the Adriatic coast from Rimini to Trieste for a different taste of Italian coastal life. This route showcases the diverse cultural heritage of the region, from the Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna to the Renaissance beauty of Urbino. The journey also offers delightful seaside resorts, sandy beaches, and an opportunity to visit the micro-state of San Marino, perched atop a mountain with commanding views of the surrounding area.

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7. The Tuscan Archipelago

Route: Grosseto to Elba Island While most of this journey involves a ferry ride to Elba Island, the drive through the Maremma area from Grosseto offers scenic beauty and a glimpse into the wilder side of Tuscany. Once on Elba, travelers can explore the island’s beautiful beaches, historical residences, and mountainous landscapes, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure.

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8. The Umbrian Journey

Route: Perugia to Assisi Umbria, known as the green heart of Italy, is showcased beautifully on the drive from Perugia to Assisi. This route passes through rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns such as Spello and Montefalco. Assisi, the destination, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its basilicas dedicated to Saint Francis, with frescoes that attract art lovers from around the world.

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9. The Apulian Coast

Route: Bari to Santa Maria di Leuca Discover the charm of Southern Italy with a drive along the Apulian coast. This lesser-known region is steeped in history, with ancient farmlands, centuries-old olive groves, and baroque towns like Lecce. The coastline is dotted with historic watchtowers, while inland offers unique dwellings known as trulli in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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10. The Alpine Passes

Route: Stelvio Pass For those seeking a thrilling drive, the Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps provides an exhilarating experience with its 48 hairpin turns. At an elevation of 2,757 meters, it is one of the highest paved roads in the Alps and offers stunning views and a demanding drive that attracts motoring enthusiasts from across the globe.

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