Friuli Venezia Giulia

Friuli Venezia Giulia is a hidden gem in Italy, bursting with culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Let’s dive into a delightful 7-day itinerary that balances your love for food, culture, lakes and rivers, the beautiful Collio region, and relaxation. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Day 1: Arrival in Trieste

Morning: Arrive in Trieste, the capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon: Stroll around the historic city center. Don’t miss Piazza Unità d'Italia, one of the largest sea-facing squares in Europe. Grab a coffee at Caffè San Marco, a historic café.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria. Try some local seafood dishes, like “brodetto” (fish stew) or “sardoni” (sardines).

Day 2: Trieste and Castles

Morning: Visit the Castello di Miramare, a stunning castle overlooking the Gulf of Trieste. Explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy the views.

Afternoon: Head to the Museo Revoltella, dedicated to modern art. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade.

Evening: Dine at a local osteria and indulge in some “prosciutto di San Daniele” and local wines.

Day 3: The Collio Region

Morning: Drive to the Collio wine region, famous for its white wines. Start with a visit to a vineyard like Livio Felluga or Jermann for a wine tasting.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local agriturismo, where you can savor traditional dishes paired with local wines.

Evening: Explore the charming village of Cormons. Relax at a local wine bar and enjoy the sunset over the vineyards.

Day 4: Lakes and Nature

Morning: Head to Lago di Braies, one of the most picturesque lakes in the Dolomites. Take a leisurely walk around the lake or rent a rowboat.

Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic by the lake or have lunch at a nearby rifugio (mountain hut).

Evening: Return to your accommodation and unwind. Consider a light dinner at a local pizzeria.

Day 5: Udine and Cultural Exploration

Morning: Drive to Udine, a city rich in history and culture. Visit the Udine Castle for panoramic views and explore the museums inside.

Afternoon: Stroll through the historic center, visiting the Piazza della Libertà and the Loggia del Lionello. Grab lunch at a local café.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Friulian restaurant. Don’t miss trying “frico” (cheese and potato dish) and local wines.

Day 6: Gorizia and Nova Gorica

Morning: Visit Gorizia, a town that straddles the Italian-Slovenian border. Explore the castle and the charming old town.

Afternoon: Cross over to Nova Gorica in Slovenia. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and explore the beautiful gardens and parks.

Evening: Return to Gorizia for dinner. Try some local dishes and perhaps a dessert like “gubana,” a traditional sweet bread.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Morning: Spend your last day relaxing. Head to the Terme di Grado, a thermal spa, for some pampering and relaxation.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the spa or in Grado, a charming seaside town. Take a stroll along the beach or visit the historic basilica.

Evening: Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final dinner in Grado or Trieste, savoring the flavors of Friuli Venezia Giulia one last time.

Tips:

• Make sure to try local specialties like “cjarsons” (stuffed pasta) and “soppressa” (cured meat).
• Don’t forget to sample the local wines, especially the whites from Collio.
• Take your time to relax and soak in the beautiful landscapes and rich culture.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your week in Friuli Venezia Giulia! Enjoy every moment of your trip! 🍷🌄🍝