Exploring a week in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy's intricate mosaic

Nestled in the far northeastern tip of Italy, Friuli Venezia Giulia has served as a crossroads for centuries. With Austria and Slovenia as its neighbors, this region spans from the Alps and Dolomites in the north to the Adriatic Sea, just an hour's drive south. Its cultural and artistic heritage bears the influences of diverse populations, from Romans to Austro-Hungarians.

The interplay of these varied landscapes and cultural legacies results in a rich mosaic of experiences—everything that travelers adore about Italy, all within a compact and easily navigable region. Join us as we embark on a week-long journey through this hidden gem, discovering its natural wonders, historical treasures, and culinary delights.

Day 1 – Splendor of the Capital

Begin your adventure in the capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trieste, located along the Adriatic Sea. Here, grand neoclassical structures and the expansive Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia showcase the region's Austro-Hungarian heritage.

Today, Trieste is a vibrant blend of influences from its neighboring regions, shaped by centuries of Hapsburg history. Stroll through the city, admiring the diverse architecture, exploring numerous antique and second-hand bookstores, and enjoying breathtaking vistas from Castello di San Giusto.

When you’re ready to relax, head to a café. Take your time – unlike other regions in Italy with a quick, stand-at-the-counter coffee scene, Triestini savor their coffee breaks. In fact, locals here are known to consume more coffee than any other Italians.

In the afternoon, catch a bus to Castello Miramare, a 19th-century Hapsburg palace set in a breathtaking seaside locale, adorned with intricate decor and beautifully maintained gardens.

Day 2 – Exploring Roman History & Beach Bliss

Rent a car and head west to Aquileia, once a major hub of the Roman Empire and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Much of ancient Aquileia remains unexcavated, but you can still see the ruins of the Forum, river port, and cemetery. The Museo Archeologico Nazionale provides an in-depth look at the city’s history and insights into Roman life.

Aquileia’s crown jewel is the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, home to one of the largest mosaic floors dating back to Roman times. As you walk across the elevated glass walkway above the original mosaics, you’ll be able to admire early Christian art depicting intricate human faces, marine life, and Old Testament narratives.

After your visit to Aquileia, escape to one of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s beautiful beaches along the Adriatic. Near Aquileia, Grado is a charming spa town featuring vast sandy beaches, nearby nature reserves, and a lovely promenade perfect for a passeggiata – an evening stroll.

Another sun-soaked destination is Lignano Sabbiadoro, a beloved resort town featuring a large marina and numerous sun umbrellas for a leisurely afternoon. This expansive golden peninsula, nestled between the Adriatic Sea, the Tagliamento River, and a lagoon, boasts over 1.2 million trees, earning it recognition from the prestigious “Tree Cities of the World.”

Day 3 – Exploring Wine Country

Depart from the beach and head towards Friuli Venezia Giulia’s renowned Collio wine region. Along the way, make a stop at Palmanova, a star-shaped fortress city from the Venetian Republic era. A stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site will bring you to the central Piazza Grande, showcasing its impressive symmetry and design.

As you journey east from Palmanova, you’ll find yourself in the enchanting Collio wine region, one of Italy’s hidden treasures. The landscape is alive with vineyards from numerous small producers crafting exceptional white wines, thanks to the area’s unique microclimate. With lower production volumes, these wines have become sought-after gems in the market. Savor a chilled glass of Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, or Istrian Malvasia while enjoying the picturesque views of the vines.

For a true taste of Collio’s charm, consider staying at a countryside agriturismo or B&B near Cormons, the heart of this winemaking region. Alternatively, Gorizia offers a delightful blend of Austro-Hungarian charm on the Slovenian border. In 2025, Gorizia, alongside Nova Gorica, will be honored as the European Capital of Culture by the EU.

Day 4 – Discovering Historic Cities and Culinary Treasures

Begin your day in Udine, a vibrant center of culinary and cultural experiences. Once part of the Venetian Republic, Udine is home to stunning frescoes by the Venetian artist Tiepolo, located in the Museo Diocesano e Gallerie del Tiepolo and Oratorio della Purità. The city’s main square, Piazza della Libertà, showcases its rich Venetian architectural influences.

In Udine, indulge in authentic Friulian dishes such as frico, a delectable blend of crispy melted cheese and potatoes, or cjarsons, a stuffed pasta filled with ricotta, spices, and dried fruit. Don't forget to seek out the renowned prosciutto from the nearby town of San Daniele, where many producers welcome visitors for tastings.

In the afternoon, head to Cividale del Friuli, a charming town featuring a beautifully preserved medieval center just 15km east of Udine. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cividale del Friuli showcases significant Lombard art and architecture. Be sure to visit the Museo Cristiano, home to remarkable 8th-century Lombard artworks, and the Tempietto Longobardo, a stunning example of surviving Lombard architecture.

No trip to Cividale del Friuli would be complete without crossing the Ponte del Diavolo, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the town.

Day 5 – A Journey through Medieval & Renaissance Artistry

Italy boasts a rich heritage of mosaic artistry, and the Scuola Mosaicisti del Friuli in Spilimbergo, located in Pordenone province, proudly carries on this tradition. Established over a century ago, it attracts students from around the globe who study Roman and Byzantine mosaic techniques, applying their expertise in restoration and contemporary art projects worldwide.

Visitors can explore the school and admire the artistic creations on display. The institution itself serves as a canvas for the students’ talent, with every floor, staircase, bathroom, wall, and pillar showcasing various mosaic styles.

In addition to its mosaics, Spilimbergo features remarkable Renaissance art, including the beautifully frescoed facade of Palazzo Dipinta and the intricate frescoes found within the Duomo.

In the afternoon, take a short drive to Valvasone, a charming walled medieval village recognized as one of Italy’s most beautiful small towns. At the heart of the town lies a 12th-century castle. Each September, the village comes alive with its annual medieval festival, featuring knights, squires, artisans, and minstrels.

Day 6 – Embracing Nature's Adventures

The northern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia is adorned with majestic mountain peaks and serene lakes, making the final day of your itinerary (or even longer, if you have the time!) a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in this breathtaking natural landscape. Travelers can choose from various adventures across three distinct mountain areas.

The Friulian Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are home to the Friulian Dolomites Regional Nature Park, a true paradise for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. In this stunning landscape, mountain huts provide access to diverse wildlife and sparkling turquoise rivers, including the Cellina, Medua, and the breathtaking alpine Tagliamento.

The Carnic Alps boast some of the region's most iconic villages and peaks. Sauris, an alpine village nestled in a verdant valley, was nominated as one of the best tourism villages by the UN World Tourism Organization in 2022. It's celebrated for its production of speck (cured pork), cheese, and craft beer.

Monte Zoncolan is a famous alpine peak known for summer cycling and trekking, as well as winter skiing, accessible via tram from the village of Ravascletto, ensuring stunning panoramic views for all. Additionally, the Carnic Alps feature the Malga and Alm Desired Experience (MADE) routes—a nine-stage trekking path and a seven-stage cycling route connecting mountain huts and historical sites, showcasing the region's natural beauty.

At the easternmost edge, the Julian Pre-Alps are part of the Julian Pre-Alps Regional Natural Park, a region that encompasses biogeographical zones ranging from the Mediterranean to the Alpine, creating a vibrant mosaic of biodiversity. The 43-stage Alpe Adria Trail, which begins in Austria and stretches to the Adriatic Sea, traverses the Julian Pre-Alps, offering fantastic options for both single and multi-day trekking.

The northern part of Friuli Venezia Giulia is a haven for summer sports enthusiasts, but it also shines in winter, with its mountainous areas featuring numerous alpine ski resorts.

Like a beautiful mosaic, each aspect of Friuli Venezia Giulia stands out individually, yet together they create a stunning composite of experiences and opportunities. This region's diverse landscapes and rich history blend to form a magical, unique destination with something for every traveler.