Verona and Modena, Italy 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive from Split to Verona

Embark on your scenic road trip from Split, Croatia, to Verona, Italy.

This will be a significant drive, so plan for comfort stops and border crossings.

Remember to have valid travel documents for Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy. Keep water and snacks handy for the journey, especially for the kids and your dog. New Year's Day traffic might be lighter, but services on the road may be limited.

Hotel Check-in & Settle In

Check into your dog-friendly hotel in Verona and take some time to relax after your drive.

Let your dog get acquainted with the new surroundings.

Confirm pet policies directly with the hotel prior to arrival. Ensure your dog has a comfortable spot and access to water. The hotel has an internal garage, which is convenient for parking.

Evening Stroll & Piazza Bra

Enjoy a relaxed evening stroll to Piazza Bra, the largest square in Verona, home to the Arena.

Many shops and restaurants might be closed or have limited hours on New Year's Day, but the festive atmosphere will still be enjoyable.

Piazza Bra is beautiful at night. Keep your dog on a leash. Look for outdoor cafes with heaters if you want to grab a drink. This is a good opportunity for some fresh air after the long drive.

Relaxed New Year's Dinner

Find a local restaurant with outdoor seating (weather permitting) or opt for a relaxed meal at your hotel or a take-away to enjoy in your room. Due to New Year's Day, options might be limited, so consider booking in advance.

Many restaurants require reservations, especially on holidays. Ask your hotel for recommendations for dog-friendly dining options. A simple, cozy meal might be best after the day's travel.

Verona Arena Visit

Explore the incredibly well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, a symbol of Verona.

Imagine gladiatorial contests and opera performances within its ancient walls.

Dogs are generally not allowed inside the Arena. One adult may need to wait outside with the dog while others explore, or take turns. Booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid queues.

Veronese Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Veronese lunch.

Look for local specialties like pastisada de caval (horse stew) or risotto all'Amarone.

Many restaurants have outdoor seating suitable for dogs. Ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel for authentic cuisine.

Verona Cathedral

Visit the stunning Duomo di Verona, a Romanesque cathedral with a beautiful interior and a rich history.

Admire the architecture and artwork.

While dogs are typically not allowed inside, the exterior and nearby streets are lovely for a walk. Free entry to the cathedral, but donations are welcome.

Juliet's House Courtyard

Visit the famous Casa di Giulietta, said to be Juliet's house.

See the iconic balcony and touch Juliet's statue for good luck. The courtyard is free to enter.

The courtyard is often very crowded. Dogs on leash are generally permitted in the courtyard, but not inside the house itself. This is a quick photo opportunity.

Passeggiata & Shopping

Enjoy a leisurely 'passeggiata' (evening stroll) along Verona's charming streets, perhaps browsing the shops on Via Mazzini.

Keep your dog on a leash. This is a great way to soak in the local atmosphere. Most shops will be open.

Dinner in Verona

Enjoy another delightful Italian dinner.

Verona offers a wide range of dining experiences, from casual pizzerias to elegant trattorias.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is convenient when traveling with a dog. Consider trying local wines like Valpolicella or Soave.

Drive to Modena

Enjoy a pleasant drive south from Verona to Modena, a journey of approximately 1.

5 to 2 hours through the Emilia-Romagna countryside.

This is a relatively short and easy drive on the autostrada. Have some Italian pop music ready for the car ride!

Modena Hotel Check-in

Check into your dog-friendly accommodation in Modena, conveniently located for exploring the region.

RMH Modena Des Arts is located just outside the city center, offering easy access by car and potentially more space for your dog. Always reconfirm pet policies.

Lunch in Modena

Enjoy a delicious lunch in Modena.

This region is famous for its cuisine, so look forward to fresh pasta like tortellini or tagliatelle.

Finding a restaurant with outdoor seating might be easier when dining with a dog. Modena's food scene is incredible, so try to taste some local specialties.

Ferrari Museum Maranello

Immerse yourselves in the legendary world of Ferrari at the Maranello Museum.

See iconic cars, learn about the brand's history, and experience the thrill of speed. Children aged 14 and 15 will love this!

Maranello is a short 20-minute drive from Modena. Dogs are not allowed inside the museum. One adult may need to wait outside with the dog, or you can take turns. Book tickets online well in advance.

Evening & Dinner in Modena

Return to Modena for a relaxing evening and dinner.

Explore the city center's ambiance or enjoy a quiet meal near your accommodation.

Modena's historic center is a joy to explore on foot. Find a restaurant offering traditional Emilian dishes.

Traditional Balsamic Tasting

Visit a traditional Acetaia (balsamic vinegar producer) in the Modena region for a tour and tasting.

Learn about the ancient process of making Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP.

Many Acetaie are dog-friendly for outdoor areas but check if the tasting room allows pets. This is a must-do culinary experience in Modena! Book your tour in advance.

Modena Duomo & Piazza Grande

Explore Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the adjacent Piazza Grande.

Admire the stunning Romanesque architecture and the Ghirlandina Tower. The piazza is perfect for your dog to stretch its legs.

Dogs are allowed in the Piazza Grande but not inside the Cathedral or Ghirlandina Tower. Take turns or enjoy the exterior views. Free to explore the piazza.

Traditional Modenese Lunch

Savor a leisurely lunch in Modena.

Try gnocco fritto and tigelle with cold cuts and cheese, or a rich pasta dish like tortelloni with pumpkin filling.

Look for restaurants with outdoor seating options for comfort with your dog. This is a chance to truly experience the local gastronomy.

Galleria Estense

Visit the Galleria Estense, a prominent art gallery showcasing works from the Este family's collection, including masterpieces by Bernini, Velázquez, and El Greco.

Dogs are not allowed inside the gallery. This could be a good activity for half the family while the other enjoys a coffee break or walks the dog, then switch. Free entry to the museum building, but the gallery itself has a fee.

Evening Walk & Dinner

Enjoy a final evening walk through Modena's illuminated streets.

Perhaps a gelato or aperitivo before dinner.

The Logge Medievali (Corso Canalchiaro, 21) are a charming spot for an evening stroll. Your dog will enjoy the fresh air. Find a lively trattoria for your last dinner in Modena.

Leisurely Modena Morning

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel or a local café.

Take a final stroll through a part of Modena you particularly enjoyed, perhaps picking up some local souvenirs.

Grab some Parmigiano Reggiano or more traditional balsamic vinegar to take home. Let your dog have a good run in a nearby park before the next drive.

Drive from Modena to Pisa

Begin your journey southwest towards Pisa.

This drive will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, crossing from Emilia-Romagna into Tuscany. Enjoy the changing landscapes.

Plan for a rest stop along the way. This drive sets you up perfectly for exploring Pisa on your final full day. Ensure your pet is comfortable during the drive.

Pisa Hotel Check-in

Check into your dog-friendly hotel in Pisa.

Settle in and prepare for tomorrow's exploration of the iconic Leaning Tower.

Choose a hotel with good access to the city center and suitable for your dog. Consider locations slightly outside the most tourist-heavy areas for easier dog walks. Always confirm pet policies when booking.

Pisa Evening Stroll

Take an evening stroll along the Arno River or explore some of Pisa's charming, less-trafficked streets.

Get a feel for the city before tomorrow's main sights.

Pisa is lovely in the evening. Keep your dog on a leash and enjoy the atmosphere. You might spot the illuminated Leaning Tower from a distance.

Dinner in Pisa

Enjoy dinner at a local Trattoria in Pisa, sampling Tuscan cuisine.

Look for dishes with local ingredients.

Many restaurants around the Arno River offer pleasant dining experiences. Ask for recommendations for dog-friendly options.

Drive to Pisa

Start your day with a scenic drive from the Modena area towards Pisa, allowing your small dog to enjoy the car ride.

This leg will take approximately 2 hours.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of Italy's most famous landmarks.

Marvel at its tilt and enjoy the unique architecture of the Piazza dei Miracoli complex.

While climbing the tower is an option, consider the children's ages and the dog. The complex itself is beautiful to walk around. Dogs are not allowed inside the tower or cathedral, but can be in the outdoor areas on a leash.

Pisa Cathedral

Explore the magnificent Duomo di Pisa, the medieval cathedral dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, located within the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Entry to the Duomo is often free with a ticket to other monuments or a small fee. Check current entry requirements. Dogs are generally not allowed inside.

Lunch in Pisa

Enjoy a casual Italian lunch at a local trattoria or pizzeria in Pisa before beginning your journey back home.

Look for places with outdoor seating to accommodate your dog.

Many restaurants around Piazza dei Miracoli cater to tourists. Venture a bit further for more authentic and potentially dog-friendly options.

Drive Towards Split

Begin the long drive back to Split from Pisa.

This is a substantial drive (approx. 9-10 hours without significant stops), so plan for breaks, snacks, and an overnight stop if preferred to complete the journey.