Italy’s north easternmost region, Friuli Venezia Giulia, borders Austria and Slovenia. With a diverse landscape spanning from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea, it is also one of Italy’s least-visited parts. That’s why it’s a perfect place to spend several days enjoying “la dolce vita”. The capital, Trieste, is also worth a visit, although I have deliberately chosen to focus on other towns.
Best Places to Visit:
Check out San Daniele. This charming town is perfect for anyone who loves history, culture and beautiful scenery. Italy’s most famous cured prosciutto hails from San Daniele. That’s why you need to pick up a few packs to take home with you after you’ve tried it. In fact, the locals are so proud of their prosciutto that they host the annual “Aria di Festa” festival each June to celebrate it! Marvellous.
Tania’s tip: make sure to visit the Biblioteca Guarneriana, one of Italy’s oldest libraries. It contains more than 12,000 books including a rare manuscript of Dante’s “Inferno”.
Visit Udine, one of Italy’s quaintest cities. Its distinct Friulian culture – a unique blend of Italian, Austrian and Slovene influences, can be seen in its architecture and in its food. Its Renaissance squares and Venetian villas, also attest to its rich artistic heritage. Besides its beautiful city centre, and the impressive Piazza della Liberta, be sure to check out its world-class Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. It hosts the likes of Picasso, Braque and Chagall.
Tania’s tip: If you like “calcio”, why not buy tickets to watch the local team, Udinese? An excellent opportunity to see one of Italy’s top teams in action – and my father supports them!
Go up to Monte Santo di Lussari. This ski resort is one of the region’s treasures and is very close to the border town of Tarvisio. It offers spectacular views over the surrounding mountains. You can reach it via cable car or hiking. With a tiny village at the top, and a church dating back to the 16th century, it is one of the most beautiful spots in the region. Highly recommended.
Tania’s tip: discover the Lagi di Fusine, two of my favourite lakes. Only locals know about them as they’re really off the beaten track. I promise you’ll fall in love with them as soon as you arrive. The spectacular Alps in the background just add to an already perfect setting.
Drive to Cividale del Friuli. Arguably Friuli Venezia Giulia’s most beautiful town, it was founded by Julius Caesar. Spend a few hours walking around. Don’t miss the Tempietto Longobardo, a unique religious building from the 8th century, and the Ponte del Diavolo.
Have a drink in:
Enoteca la Trappola in San Daniele. Make sure to try the delicious prosciutto platters with a wide selection of beer and wine.
Sit outside at the Bar Gelateria Artigianale Gianni Macoratti in Tarvisio. Enjoy the lovely square with an Aperol Spritz in your hand, or indulge in their homemade ice cream.
Friuli Venezia Giulia Food:
Restaurant Rododendro in Monte Lussari. The owner, Alfredo, will greet you with local specialities. Couple that with the spectacular views over the mountains, and you’ll see why this is a perfect place to enjoy a sunny afternoon.
On a sunny day, check out Alla Ghiacciaia in Udine. This trattoria is framed by weeping willows and sits on a canal. Try the cjarsons: a type of Friuliano ravioli stuffed with potato, smoked ricotta, herbs, raisins and cinnamon.
Bar Ristorante Tschurwald in Tarvisio. This down-to-earth place serves a range of Italian classics for a very reasonable price. Don’t be surprised that they have fresh seafood on the menu, as the sea is not far away. Try the fried squid – simply scrumptious.
Sleep in:
Castello di Buttrio offers country-style rooms decorated with wood furnishings. A mix of rustic charm and elegance, it has a stunning location in the middle of the vineyards. The breakfast is also plentiful – not to mention the selection!
Agriturismo Ronchi Di Sant’ Egidio is a working farm from the 13th century. Set atop a hill, it boasts views over Grado and the Alps. Savour the local Friulian dishes and wine, which is produced on the farm in their restaurant.