Whether you’re planning a summer road trip across Europe, or searching for your next holiday destination, travelling along the open road is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in and discover more of the country you’re visiting. One of the best places to do this is Italy.

According to recent research from Northgate Vehicle Hire, Italy holds the top spot for having the most expensive toll road in Europe. Drivers travelling from Milan to Bari (along A1, A14) are required to pay £56.88 one way, meaning a return journey will set holiday markers back over £100.

This incredible car journey spans over 548 miles and takes travellers pass some of Italy’s most famous cities. 

While the toll may seem steep, a road trip from Milan to Bari offers the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful spots along the way. 

The direct drive from Milan to Bari is around 882 kilometres and typically takes around 8 hours and 47 minutes but can take up to 15 hours, according to Google Maps data.

The Autostrada A1 or Autostrada del Sole (translating to “Sun Motorway”) is the longest spanning 760km, approximately 470 miles, and linking some of the largest cities of the country, including Milan, Bologna, Florence, Rome and Naples.

The Autostrada A14 or Autostrada Adriatica (translating to “Adriatic Motorway”) is the second-longest in Italy, spanning  approximately 743.4 km or 461.9 miles.

Along this route, you will pass and can stop off at some of Italy’s most alluring and historic cities such as Florence, Verona, Bologna, Lucca, Ravenna, Assisi, Rimini, Bergamo, Mantua, and Ferrara. 

Starting in Milan, one of the world’s biggest fashion and design capitals, you will first pass Bergamo, an Italian city in the Lombardy region, known for its charming Città Alta, where history whispers through its cobblestone streets and 16th-century Venetian walls. 

Next is Verona, a medieval old town built along the winding Adige River, famous for its association with Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”. Visitors can explore impressive attractions, including the Verona Arena, an enormous Roman amphitheatre from the 1st century.

You will then pass Mantua, Bologna, and Lucca, three cities in Northernern Italy characterised by their well-preserved Renaissance architectural heritage. They are also some of the most romantic places to visit. 

Ferrara is the next stop on the trip. Accredited as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its ancient palaces, wide streets, and culinary classics, this modern cultural landscape is a must-see, particularly if you would like to learn more about the Estensi dynasty.

As you reach the half-way point of your drive, you will see a large sign for Florence. Located just 3 hours from Milan and 6 hours from Bari, this Tuscan capital is renowned for its rich history, stunning renaissance architecture, and world-class artwork. Be sure to visit the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Uffizi gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio, if you are looking for a change of scenery.

Before you reach your final destination, you will drive by three more cities: Ravenna, Rimini, and Assisi, all of which individually offer their own unique charm and vibrant and stunning architectural landscapes.

Once you arrive in Bari, you will see why it has gained a reputation for seaside charm and historical appeal. This southern coastal city in the Puglia region offers beautiful beaches, a picturesque old town, a major Mediterranean cruise port, and delicious local cuisine. 

Explore the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants along the promenade. 

For Britons who are planning a driving holiday this summer, the experts from Northgate advise factoring in any tolls you may face while driving to your budget.

A road trip from Milan to Bari will definitely be an unforgettable travel experience — even if you would prefer to sit on a boring motorway.