Itinerary for 8 day trip to Friuli Venezia Giulia

Friuli Venezia Giulia is a hidden gem in northeastern Italy, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With 8 days to explore, you can take your time and really soak in the beauty of the region. Here’s a relaxed itinerary that balances sightseeing, nature, and culinary delights.

Day 1: Arrival in

Morning: Arrive in , the capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Check into your hotel and take a moment to freshen up.

Afternoon: Stroll around the historic city center. Visit , one of the largest sea-facing squares in Europe. Grab a coffee at , a historic café.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria. Try some local seafood dishes, as is known for its fresh catch.

Day 2: Explore

Morning: Visit the , a stunning castle overlooking the Gulf of . Take your time exploring the gardens and the views.

Afternoon: Head to the , a modern art museum. Afterward, wander through the old town and visit the .

Evening: Dine at a restaurant in the old town. Don’t miss trying the local specialty, jota, a hearty soup made with sauerkraut and beans.

Day 3: Day Trip to and

Morning: Take a short drive or train ride to , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient Roman ruins and the stunning basilica.

Afternoon: Head to , a charming seaside town. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside café and take a stroll along the promenade.

Evening: Return to for dinner. Perhaps try a local wine from the Collio region to accompany your meal.

Day 4:

Morning: Travel to , the region's cultural hub. Start your day at the beautiful , often considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy.

Afternoon: Visit the for panoramic views of the city. Explore the local museums, like the and the .

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local osteria. Sample some frico, a traditional cheese dish from the region.

Day 5:

Morning: Head to , a picturesque town with a rich history. Visit the and the .

Afternoon: Explore the charming streets and perhaps visit the . Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café.

Evening: Dine in Cividale, trying local specialties like gnocchi or polenta.

Day 6: Collio Wine Region

Morning: Take a scenic drive through the . Stop at a vineyard for a wine tasting and learn about the local winemaking process.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, pairing your meal with local wines.

Evening: Return to your base ( or ) and have a relaxed dinner.

Day 7: Nature Day in the Julian Alps

Morning: Head to the Julian Alps for a day of nature. Visit the picturesque town of and take a short hike in the surrounding mountains.

Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a short hike to one of the nearby lakes, like .

Evening: Return to your accommodation and enjoy a quiet dinner, perhaps trying some local game dishes.

Day 8: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps do some last-minute shopping for local products like prosciutto di San Daniele or local wines.

Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you might have a chance to visit any sights you missed in or .

Evening: Depart from , taking with you wonderful memories of Friuli Venezia Giulia!

This itinerary allows you to explore the highlights of Friuli Venezia Giulia at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy the local culture, food, and stunning landscapes. Enjoy your trip!