From history-soaked cities to world-class winegrowing regions, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a captivating corner of Italy. Explore the cosmopolitan capital of Trieste or escape to a sun-soaked Adriatic resort. Rolling vineyards and rugged peaks dominate the region’s mountainous interior.
Things to do in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Trieste, the region’s enchanting capital, is a gateway to Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Set on the Adriatic Sea, the port city is elegant yet down-to-earth. Stroll around the atmospheric old quarter filled with Art Nouveau buildings and relax in Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, the city’s impressive waterfront plaza. Grand cafes with mirrored walls, sparkling chandeliers and ornate furniture recall the city’s Austrian heritage.
Tour world-class growing regions like Collio Goriziano and Colli Orientale, both with DOC status. From herbaceous Friulano to peppery Ribolla Gialla, you’ll love sampling the region’s signature wines. The best estates feature fine-dining restaurants with beautiful vineyard views. Carso has a more casual vibe and is famous for “osmize” family-run taverns, where you’ll dine at wooden picnic tables set beneath leafy olive trees. Sip wine made with ancient varietals like Vitovska and fill up on platters loaded with cheese, prosciutto and crusty bread.
Whether you prefer scenic strolls or challenging alpine summits, Friuli-Venezia Giulia offers some of the best hiking in Italy. Walk through wildflower-strewn meadows in the Carnic Alps and tackle high-altitude trails in the dramatic Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane. There’s a chance to see chamois mountain goats, ibex and golden eagles as you hike beneath the soaring limestone peaks.
The long, golden sand beach is the main draw at Lignano Sabbiadoro. Perched on a sun-drenched peninsula, the family-friendly resort is packed with cafes, gelaterias and beachfront lidos. Across the lagoon is Grado, a historic beach resort fringed by silver sand. Relax on the beach, stroll along the waterfront promenade and explore the medieval centre filled with beautiful Belle Epoque buildings.
Getting around Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Friuli Venezia Giulia is in north-east Italy and shares a border with Austria and Slovenia. Trains are a fast and affordable way to travel between major cities and towns in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore Friuli Venezia Giulia at your own pace.