Ciclovia Alpe Adria – Udine-Cividale del Friuli – Finanziato dal Fondo europeo di sviluppo regionale e Interreg V-A Italia-Austria 2014-2020 progetto BIKE NAT – Nicola Brollo TFF017412 and Alessandro Michelazzi – AAT 3,4,5 – Fusine

THE HIGHLIGHTS

I’m just back from an unforgettable and genuinely inspiring visit to a region of Italy that captured my heart and palate: Friuli-Venezia Giulia (also know as FVG). It’s tucked in where the Alps meet the Adriatic, just above Veneto (Venice!), just under Austria, and Slovenia is to the East. It has mountains and the seaside, art and culture, food and wine, history galore (complete with UNESCO Heritage Sites) and everything in between. This truly off-the-tourist-path haven offers a blend of culture, cuisine, and breathtaking natural beauty, far from the over-trodden routes of Venice, Florence, Rome and now, Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre.

Imagine yourself strolling through charming medieval villages, savoring world-class wines in rolling vineyards, and indulging in culinary experiences that celebrate the region’s rich heritage. (Think Prosciutto San di Daniele DOP!) This is Friuli-Venezia Giulia – a place where slow travel is really just a way of life and where every moment is an opportunity to have a true connection with its people, the land, and, of course, the flavors traditional to this amazing place. If you feel like you want to experience “real” (or what we dream it is) Italy, this is for you.

HISTORY & CULTURE

My journey through Friuli-Venezia Giulia was a true immersion into Italian culture. From exploring the fascinating mosaic school and museum to strolling slowly along the seaside, to the beautiful city of Trieste and the charming village of Cividale del Friuli, each diverse encounter revealed the warmth and genuine hospitality of the people who call this region home. And in the end it really is all about the people.

CULINARY DELIGHTS

Prepare to be truly tantalized by the unique culinary offerings of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. I had the great pleasure to try dishes like frico (a comfort food for sure) made from potatoes and cheese , impossibly fresh local seafood dishes, and the famed Prosciutto di San Daniele DOP (now my favorite prosciutto!) The region’s cuisine is a reflection of its diverse influences, blending Alpine and Mediterranean flavors with a touch of Slavic inspiration. Each meal was a delicious blend of fresh, local ingredients, time-honored recipes and innovative fusions, all prepared with genuine passion and artistry.

Gianpaolo Scognamiglio and Venica & Venica Cellars – Gianpaolo Scognamiglio – TFF035435.jpg

WINE LOVER’S PARADISE

For those who appreciate fine wines, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a true paradise. The region is renowned for producing some of Italy’s most exceptional white wines, including pinot grigio and friulano (the queens of the region) and local varieties like refosco, ribolla gialla and schioppettino I had the pleasure of visiting Venica & Venica, a family run winery, where I learned about their mix of time-honored and modern winemaking processes and, of course, had the opportunity to taste several of their wines. The fact that I purchased 3 bottles on the spot with absolutely nowhere to put them is a testament to their deliciousness!

Beach Near Trieste and Miramare Castle Photo by Raelinn Doty

AVOID OVERTOURISM

One of the greatest joys of traveling is discovering hidden treasures and off-the-beaten-path experiences.  I was charmed by the small village of Cividale del Friuli along with the beautiful grounds of Castello di Miramare with its long history, beautiful gardens, and lovely shaded walk by the sea. I also had the opportunity to walk through the incredible production area of the Casa del Prosciutto in San Daniele (still a family run business since 1906!) an experience I won’t soon forget. And I got to eat it! That’s the best part.

La Casa del Prosciutto – San Daniele – Raelinn Doty and La Casa del Prosciutto – San Daniele – Raelinn Doty

Photo Credits below

CRAFTING YOUR OWN UNIQUE FRIULI-VENEZIA GIULIA EXPERIENCE

I’m thoroughly inspired by my journey and excited to create personalized itineraries for you to Friuli-Venezia Giulia, as always, tailored to your unique interests and preferences. Whether you’re considering a friends group trip, a family vacation, a corporate team retreat, romantic getaway, culinary or wine adventure, or immersive cultural exploration—whatever you dream of, I’ll work with you to craft an unforgettable experience that helps you truly discover what makes this region so wonderful.

Ready to discover the magic of Friuli-Venezia Giulia? 

Let’s begin planning your Italian escape.

Until next time…

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1. Castello di Miramare – Marco Milani TFF002390 2. Udine, Piazza Libertà – Luigi Vitale TFF003127 3. Castello di Gorizia – Marco Milani TFF002368 4. Castello di Gorizia – Marco Milani TFF002368 5. Udine – Piazza San Giacomo – TFF013048.jpg-Ulderica Da Pozzo 6. Aquileia – Massimo Crivellari – TFF001290.jpg 7. Monte Lussari – Ulderica Da Pozzo TFF013532 8. Basilica di Aquileia – Gianluca Baronchelli TFF014619 9. Gorizia, Piazza della Transalpina – Luigi Vitale TFF003031. Used with permission from Promoturismo FVG – FVG.47.10/06/2025