I seriously can’t believe more people aren’t talking about Friuli Venezia Giulia. This slice of northeastern Italy took me completely by surprise. Standing in Trieste’s massive Piazza Unità, with grand Habsburg buildings behind me and the sea ahead, I realized this wasn’t the Italy I thought I knew. The moment I sipped my first orange wine in a tiny Collio vineyard, with hills rolling into Slovenia, I was hooked.
From the jaw-dropping Dolomites to the beautiful places in Friuli Venezia Giulia that blend Italian, Austrian, and Slavic flavors, here are 12 spots that showed me why this region is so special. Trust me, this is Italy like you’ve never seen it before!
Best Places to Visit in Friuli Venezia Giulia
Visiting Friuli Venezia Giulia? Spend the day in Aprilia Marittima, a paradise for boating enthusiasts, explore the ancient ruins of Aquileia, or discover the medieval charm of Cividale del Friuli. Stroll through the alpine beauty of Forni di Sopra, enjoy local cuisine, or take in the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or cultural heritage, Friuli Venezia Giulia has plenty to offer!
1. Aprilia Marittima
Aprilia Marittima isn’t just another marina – it’s actually Europe’s largest nautical complex, and honestly, most people have no idea this place exists. I was blown away when I discovered it has over 2,500 berths spread across three separate marinas, all sitting pretty in the Marano Lagoon between Venice and Trieste.
The setup here is pretty genius. You’ve got three distinct areas: Darsena Centrale (the original marina celebrating its 50th anniversary), Marina Capo Nord, and Marina Punta Gabbiani. What’s cool is that many of the waterfront houses come with their own private moorings right at your doorstep – think Port Grimaud vibes but way more affordable.
The boating here is incredible. You can explore the protected lagoon waters, which are perfect for families since they’re calm and easily navigable. I spent hours just cruising through the maze of channels and small islands. Fair warning though – the channel to the open Adriatic can get silty, so check your tide charts and don’t attempt it in the dark unless you really know what you’re doing.
Beyond the boats, there’s decent stuff to keep you busy on land. You’ve got pools, tennis courts, and golf courses all within reach. Lignano Sabbiadoro is just 4 miles away when you need proper beach time and nightlife. The area’s also a solid jumping-off point for exploring the wider Friuli-Venezia Giulia region – just don’t expect tons of bars and restaurants in the marina itself.
2. Aquileia
Walking through Aquileia feels like time travel, except the history here is actually mind-blowing. This UNESCO World Heritage site was once one of the Roman Empire’s biggest cities with over 100,000 people – now it’s this peaceful little town where you can literally walk on 2,000-year-old streets.
The Patriarchal Basilica is absolutely nuts. I’m talking about 760 square meters of 4th-century mosaic floors that’ll make your jaw drop. It’s the largest paleochristian mosaic floor in the Western world, and seeing it in person is completely different from photos. The bell tower climb (73 steps) gives you killer views over the whole archaeological area. Entry to the basilica complex costs €5, but trust me, it’s worth every cent.
Here’s what’s cool about Aquileia in 2025 – they’ve really stepped up the visitor experience. You can get an FVGCardAquileia for €15 (€7 for kids 12-18) that gets you into everything: the basilica, Domus of Tito Macro (this massive 1,700-square-meter Roman house), the National Archaeological Museum, and all the excavation sites. The forum and river port areas are free to explore, which is awesome because you can spend hours just wandering around.
I loved the Domus of Tito Macro – it’s one of the largest reconstructed Roman houses in northern Italy. You can walk through actual Roman rooms with original mosaic floors and see how wealthy Romans lived. The whole experience really brings the ancient city to life, especially when you realize most of ancient Aquileia is still buried underground waiting to be discovered.
3. Cividale del Friuli
Cividale del Friuli is one of those places that just hits different. This UNESCO-protected medieval town founded by Julius Caesar has this incredible mix of Italian, Austrian, and Slavic influences that you can actually feel walking through the streets.
The Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge) is the town’s showstopper, and the legend behind it is pretty great. Locals say the devil built it in exchange for the first soul to cross, but they outsmarted him by sending a dog across first. Standing on that bridge looking down at the emerald Natisone River is definitely one of those “wow” moments. Pro tip: hit it early morning or late afternoon to avoid the tour groups.
The Tempietto Longobardo is seriously impressive – some of Europe’s finest early medieval art packed into this small space. The Christian Museum in the cathedral has incredible artifacts including the famous Ratchis Altar. Entry fees vary by site, but you can visit most places for under €10 each.
What I really love about Cividale is how walkable everything is. You can cover all the main sights in a few hours, then spend the rest of your time in the atmospheric restaurants trying local specialties like frico (this amazing potato and cheese dish) paired with local Friulian wines. The Collio wine region is right next door if you want to do some serious wine tasting.
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The town feels authentic in a way that’s getting harder to find in Italy. Sure, it gets busy during peak season, but it’s nothing compared to more famous destinations. I actually enjoyed chatting with locals who were genuinely excited to share stories about their town’s history.
4. Forni di Sopra
Forni di Sopra is this hidden gem in the Dolomites that somehow stays under the radar despite being absolutely gorgeous. It’s about 1.5 hours from Udine, tucked into the Friulian Dolomites Natural Park, and it’s perfect if you want the Dolomites experience without the crazy crowds and prices.
Winter here is fantastic – the ski area has about 15km of well-groomed runs that are perfect for families and intermediate skiers. What’s awesome is that you don’t have to deal with the lift lines and insane prices you get at places like Cortina. I spent way more time actually skiing than waiting around, and the mountain restaurants serve proper local food instead of overpriced tourist garbage.
Summer is when this place really shines though. The hiking in the Friulian Dolomites Natural Park is incredible – you’ve got everything from easy family walks in Val di Suola to serious challenging routes up peaks like Cima Varmost. The alpine lakes up there are crystal clear, and the flower meadows in spring are just ridiculous.
Forni di Sopra has that authentic mountain town feel that’s getting harder to find. The locals are genuinely friendly, not just putting on a show for tourists. I stayed at Hotel Posta which is basic but comfortable and perfectly located for accessing both the ski lifts and hiking trails. The food scene is focused on hearty mountain cuisine – think polenta, game, and local cheeses that actually taste like something.
The town works as a great base for exploring the wider Dolomites region too. You’re close enough to do day trips to more famous spots, but you get to come back to somewhere peaceful and affordable at night.
5. Gorizia
Gorizia is probably the weirdest border town you’ll ever visit, and I mean that in the best way possible. This place literally straddles the Italian-Slovenian border, and there’s this surreal square called Piazza Transalpina where you can hop between countries with a single step.
The Gorizia Castle dominates the skyline and offers incredible views across both countries. It’s a solid medieval fortress with well-preserved rooms and informative displays about the region’s complex history. The walk up is easy, and the views from the top show you just how intertwined these border communities really are.
What’s fascinating about Gorizia is how it wears its history. The city was literally divided by the Iron Curtain after WWII, with part of it becoming Nova Gorica in Slovenia. You can still see remnants of that division, but now it’s become this symbol of European unity. In 2025, both cities are serving as the European Capital of Culture, which has brought some great exhibitions and events.
The Rose Gardens are stunning, especially in late spring when over 1,500 varieties are in bloom. It’s this beautifully maintained space that feels very Habsburg – formal but welcoming. The surrounding Collio wine region produces some of Italy’s best white wines, and you can easily cross into Slovenia to continue wine tasting in what’s essentially the same geographic region.
I spent a day just walking between the two sides of the border, having lunch in Slovenia and dinner back in Italy. The architecture, food, and even the languages shift subtly as you move around. It’s like a living museum of Central European cultural mixing that somehow actually works really well.
6. Grado Pineta
Grado Pineta is this perfect blend of beach resort and nature preserve that feels completely different from Italy’s more famous coastal destinations. The beach here is all golden sand and shallow, warm Adriatic waters, but what sets it apart is the maritime pine forest that comes right down to the shore.
The trees provide natural shade and this amazing fresh scent that mixes with the sea air. I loved how you could go from sunbathing on the beach to walking through cool forest paths in just a few minutes. The bike paths that wind through the pine forests and along the lagoon are fantastic – you can rent bikes right in town and explore for hours.
Grado Lagoon is a protected wetland that’s incredible for bird watching. I saw flamingos, herons, and tons of other species just hanging out in their natural habitat. There are boat tours that take you deeper into the lagoon system, but honestly, just walking the shoreline paths gives you great wildlife viewing.
The thermal spas here have been a thing since Roman times, and they’re still pretty great. The mineral-rich waters are supposed to be good for all sorts of health issues, but I just found them relaxing after long days on the beach. The spa facilities are modern and well-maintained.
What I really appreciated about Grado Pineta is how family-friendly it is without being overwhelmed by kids’ clubs and loud entertainment. The beaches slope gently into the water, making them perfect for small children, but there’s still plenty of space to find your own quiet spot. The seafood restaurants along the lagoon serve incredibly fresh fish – I had some of the best crudo of my life there.
7. La Sorgente del Gorgazzo
La Sorgente del Gorgazzo is hands down one of the most beautiful natural sights in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and barely anyone knows about it. This turquoise spring bubbles up from deep inside Mt. Cavallo, creating this pool of water that changes color depending on the light and time of day.
The spring is crazy deep – divers have gone down over 440 feet without finding the bottom. The water comes from an underground river system that extends deep into the mountain, which explains why it’s so crystal clear and maintains a constant temperature. Swimming isn’t allowed, but there’s a wooden walkway that gets you right up close to the water.
I visited in late morning when the sunlight was hitting the pool just right, and the colors were absolutely insane – like someone had dumped blue food coloring into the clearest water you’ve ever seen. The intensity of the blue and turquoise shifts as you walk around the perimeter, and I probably spent an hour just taking photos from different angles.
The surrounding area has some nice hiking trails through lush vegetation, and the medieval village of Polcenigo is worth exploring too. The whole area feels very peaceful and unspoiled – there aren’t any big tourist facilities, just a small parking area and the walkway to the spring.
For photography, the best light is definitely between 10am and 2pm when the sun is high enough to really illuminate the water. The colors are most vivid in spring and early summer when there’s more water flow. I stayed at Hotel Villa Luppis nearby, which is this elegant converted villa with beautiful grounds and excellent dining.
8. Lignano Sabbiadoro
Lignano Sabbiadoro is Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s answer to a proper beach resort, and it actually delivers. The beach here stretches for over 5 miles of fine golden sand along the Adriatic, and the water slopes so gradually that you can walk out pretty far before it gets deep.
The town is split into three areas that each have their own vibe. Sabbiadoro is the main tourist center with all the hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. Pineta is surrounded by pine forests and feels more peaceful. Riviera is where you’ll find the marina and upscale accommodations. I liked being able to choose different atmospheres depending on my mood.
The Blue Flag certification here isn’t just for show – the water quality is genuinely excellent, and the beaches are well-maintained. The promenade is perfect for evening walks, with tons of gelaterias, cafes, and shops. The nightlife scene is pretty active during summer, with bars and clubs that stay open late.
Parco Junior is this family theme park that’s actually pretty fun even for adults. The Laguna di Marano boat tours are worth doing if you want to see some nature – the wetland ecosystem is beautiful and you’ll spot lots of birds. Parco Zoo Punta Verde has a good selection of animals and is well-maintained.
What surprised me about Lignano is how it manages to be a proper resort destination without feeling completely artificial. Yes, it gets busy in summer, but the Italians really know how to do beach culture right. The restaurants serve excellent seafood, the bars make proper cocktails, and there’s this relaxed Mediterranean energy that’s hard not to love. Just don’t expect to find any hidden gems – this is mainstream Italian beach tourism at its best.
9. Miramare Castle
Miramare Castle is straight out of a fairy tale, and I’m not exaggerating. This white 19th-century palace sits on a cliff jutting into the Gulf of Trieste, surrounded by 54 acres of botanical gardens that feel like something from a romance novel.
The castle was built by Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Habsburg before he went off to become Emperor of Mexico (spoiler alert: that didn’t end well). The rooms are preserved exactly as they were when the royal couple lived there, complete with original furnishings, artwork, and personal belongings. Walking through feels like they just stepped out for a moment.
The botanical gardens are incredible – rare plants from around the world, precisely manicured Italian-style landscaping, hidden grottos, and ponds scattered throughout. The paths wind down to the sea, giving you constant views of the Adriatic. I spent hours just wandering around discovering new corners and viewpoints.
The best photo opportunities are definitely at sunset when the white stone takes on these golden and pink hues against the darkening water. The contrast between the formal gardens and the wild Adriatic coastline is stunning. Entry costs are reasonable (around €14 for adults), and you can easily spend half a day here.
Getting there from Trieste is super easy – local buses run regularly, or you can drive in about 15 minutes. The parking can fill up during peak season, so arrive early if you’re driving. I actually preferred taking the bus because the route along the coast gives you great views of the castle from a distance first.
The gift shop has some nice books about the castle’s history, and there’s a decent cafe on the grounds. Don’t miss the basement rooms that show how the castle was built and maintained – the engineering is pretty impressive for the 1850s.
10. Pordenone
Pordenone is one of those Italian cities that feels completely authentic because it doesn’t really depend on tourism. This elegant small city has this beautiful Corso Vittorio Emanuele II lined with porticoed palaces featuring frescoed facades from the 14th-16th centuries.
The architecture here is this fascinating blend of Venetian and Austrian influences that reflects the region’s complex history. Walking the historic center feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting, but with actual Italian life happening around you – locals doing their shopping, kids playing in the squares, old men arguing about football.
The food scene is fantastic because it’s focused on locals rather than tourists. You get authentic Friulian specialties like pitina (these amazing smoked meatballs) paired with excellent regional wines. The restaurants along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II serve food that represents the cultural crossroads this area has always been.
September is an incredible time to visit because of the Pordenone Silent Film Festival, which is one of the world’s most important events dedicated to early cinema. The whole city gets involved, with outdoor screenings and events happening throughout the historic center. Even if you’re not a film buff, the atmosphere during the festival is really special.
Pordenone works great as a base for exploring the wider region. You’re close to the mountains, the coast, and the wine regions, but you get to stay somewhere that feels like real Italy rather than a tourist destination. The Best Western Plus Park Hotel is comfortable and well-located, and there are plenty of smaller hotels and B&Bs in the historic center.
I really enjoyed just wandering the streets and people-watching from the cafes. The pace of life feels very Italian – unhurried but purposeful. It’s the kind of place where you can practice your Italian with locals who are genuinely friendly rather than just professionally polite.
11. The Predil Lake
Predil Lake is this stunning alpine jewel tucked away in the Julian Alps near Tarvisio, right where Italy, Slovenia, and Austria meet. At 3,300 feet elevation, the glacial lake reflects the dramatic limestone peaks that surround it like a postcard you can’t believe is real.
The hiking here is incredible. There are well-marked trails that circle the lake and climb into the surrounding peaks, giving you increasingly spectacular views with each step up. The water is this amazing emerald color that changes throughout the day as the light shifts. I spent hours just sitting by the shore watching the mountains reflect in the crystal-clear water.
You can rent kayaks to paddle around the lake, which gives you a completely different perspective on the surrounding peaks. The water is pretty cold even in summer, but the views from the middle of the lake are worth it. There’s something really peaceful about being on the water surrounded by those massive mountains.
The area has interesting mining history – there used to be significant lead and zinc operations here, and you can still see some of the old infrastructure. The educational trail to Fort Predil, a 19th-century military fortress, gives you insights into the strategic importance this area had throughout history. The fort itself offers another excellent vantage point for photos.
Predil Lake works well as a day trip from Tarvisio or as part of a longer exploration of the Julian Alps. Hotel Il Cervo in Tarvisio is a good base – it’s cozy mountain accommodation that’s about 20 minutes from the lake. The drive up is scenic, winding through forests and alpine meadows.
Best time to visit is definitely June through September when the hiking trails are clear and the weather is most reliable. Early October can be beautiful for fall colors, but weather gets unpredictable quickly up there.
12. Trieste
Trieste is Italy’s most underrated major city, and I honestly can’t figure out why more people don’t know about it. This port city where Latin, Slavic, and Germanic cultures crash together has created something completely unique in Italy.
The coffee culture here is legendary – Trieste is literally considered Italy’s coffee capital. Illy has its headquarters here, and the historic cafes like Caffè San Marco and Caffè degli Specchi have been serving coffee since the Habsburg era. Ordering “un caffè” gets you an espresso, and locals drink “capo in B” (basically a mini cappuccino). The coffee scene alone is worth the trip.
Piazza Unità d’Italia is probably Italy’s most spectacular seafront square. This massive open space lined with imposing Habsburg buildings opens directly onto the Adriatic, and sitting at one of the outdoor cafes watching the sunset is pure magic. The architecture tells the story of Trieste’s unique position as the main port of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
San Giusto Castle and Cathedral offer incredible views over the city and gulf. The Roman Theater from the 1st century AD is still used for performances, which is pretty cool. Miramare Castle (covered separately) is a short bus ride away and absolutely not to be missed.
The food here reflects the cultural mixing – you’ll find Italian classics alongside Austrian influences and Slavic flavors. Jota (bean and sauerkraut soup) might not sound appetizing, but it’s actually delicious. The local cuisine is hearty and satisfying, perfect after walking around this hilly city.
Trieste feels like a secret that Italians are keeping to themselves. Even in summer it doesn’t get the crowds that hit Venice or Florence, but the quality of life and cultural offerings are incredible. I loved how you can walk everywhere in the compact historic center, but you’re always discovering new corners and viewpoints.
The city works great as a base for exploring Slovenia and Croatia too – Ljubljana is just 100km away, and the Istrian Peninsula is right next door. But honestly, Trieste itself deserves at least a few days to really appreciate everything it offers.
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