Travel GuideFriuli Venezia Giulia

Friuli Venezia Giulia

Known as the region of contrasts, Friuli Venezia Giulia stretches from the top of the Alps to the beaches of the northern Adriatic, from blankets of snow to white beaches, from the prettiest landscapes to the most beautiful lakes. This semi-autonomous region was once dominated by the Romans, by the Republic of Venice and by Austria, which it currently borders along with Slovenia. It was only in 1954, after the end of the Second World War, that it was established as an autonomous region. Fruili Venezia Giulia may be divided into two parts: on the northern side, the Alps which occupy almost half the territory, on the other, the Adriatic coast. Its natural landscapes, lakes and numerous trails are the main attractions of this region but are far from being the only ones. Trieste is the capital, situated on a strip of land with the Adriatic Sea on one side and Slovenia on the other, and has its own culture and wealth that still derive from the wealth created during the times of Austrian rule. On the other hand, Aquileia is the region’s hidden gem, with its magnificent Roman ruins, imposing basilica and some of the most beautiful works of art from the beginnings of Catholicism. Then there is the hill-top town of Udine, with its majestic castle and fantastic works of art by Tiepolo.
Friuli Venezia Giulia has a rainy climate, which is more intense in the northern region, making it famous for its agriculture and, consequently, its cuisine. This is also where you can taste a delicious polenta or indulge in a cheese and some sausages from the Alps. If you go down to the coast, the seafood and fresh fish are the celebrities, presented in a delicious soup called boreto to graisana. Make the most of the coast to take a trip on a sailing boat: you’ll be taking part in one of the region’s traditions, while also admiring the coast from a completely different perspective.