Things To Do
in Udine
Udine is the capital of the Friuli region in northeastern Italy, perched between the Alps and the Adriatic and famed for its refined historic center. The city center unfolds around Piazza della Libertà, with arcaded streets and a hilltop castle offering panoramic views. Udine serves as a gateway to the Friuli wine country and the ancient towns of Cividale and Grado, all within easy reach.
Its refined yet relaxed atmosphere blends Italian charm with Friulian culture and hearty regional cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring a fresh pastry and a rich Italian coffee. After your meal, stroll through the Piazza della Libertà, admiring the stunning architecture and the iconic Loggia del Lionello. Be sure to visit the nearby Udine Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its hilltop perch.
Head to the Museo di Storia Naturale for an engaging exploration of the region’s natural history, featuring a diverse array of exhibits. Afterward, take a scenic walk along the Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, lined with charming shops and boutiques, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Stop for lunch at a traditional trattoria to enjoy local dishes such as frico and prosciutto di San Daniele.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local wine bar to indulge in a wine tasting of Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s renowned wines. Afterward, enjoy a delightful dinner at a restaurant that offers a farm-to-table experience with seasonal ingredients. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the romantic atmosphere of Udine at night.
Begin the day with a visit to the Galleria d'Arte Antica, where you can appreciate a fine collection of Renaissance art and artifacts. Afterward, stop by the nearby Cathedral of Udine to marvel at its stunning frescoes and intricate architecture. A quick coffee break at a nearby café will recharge you for the afternoon ahead.
Spend the afternoon at the Museo del Castello, where you can delve into the history of Udine and its surrounding regions through engaging exhibits. Take some time to explore the castle grounds, enjoying the beautiful gardens and the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. For lunch, try a local favorite, gnocchi, at a nearby restaurant.
In the evening, attend a performance at the Teatro Giovanni da Udine, an architectural gem that hosts a variety of cultural events. After the show, enjoy dinner at a traditional osteria, sampling local specialties paired with regional wines. Wind down your evening with a leisurely walk through the enchanting streets of the historic center.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧃Lunch for two | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $90-150 |
| 🚆Public transport single ride | $1.5-2.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location in Friuli with easy access to wine regions and the Alps
- Beautiful medieval center with pedestrian-friendly streets
- Strong food culture featuring Montasio cheese and San Daniele ham
- Good-value travel with manageable crowds
- Rich day-trip options to nearby towns like Cividale and Grado
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger Italian cities
- Limited direct international flight options from Udine's airport
- Can be crowded in peak summer and on market days
- Municipal parking can be challenging in the historic center
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due" - I would like a table for two
- "Il conto, per favore" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Udine
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic fortress offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding hills; ideal for sunset and panorama shots.
A grand square framed by arcades and the ornate Loggia; perfect for architectural photography and people shots.
Medieval cathedral with striking façade and interior details for artistic photos.
Iconic city clock tower with central location and views from nearby streets and stairways.
Lush botanical garden with winding paths, ideal for nature and macro photography.
Food in Udine
Udine Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cheese and potato wafer, often made with Montasio; served as a snack or side dish.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with sauerkraut, beans, potatoes, and pork fat or smoked meat.
Herbed stuffed pasta (sometimes with raisins and ricotta) often served with browned butter and grated cheese.
Renowned cured ham from nearby hills; typically enjoyed with bread, cheese, and a glass of regional wine.
A versatile alpine cheese used in baking, gratins, and eaten with polenta or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market featuring fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, bread, and regional specialties.
Casual stalls offering panini with local fillings, fried seafood snacks, and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; close friends may greet with a light kiss on both cheeks.
Dine with a relaxed pace; keep hands visible on the table; wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Italian is widely spoken; Friulian is common in some areas; English is increasingly understood in tourist spots.
Safety
Tipping in Udine
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included (servizio) in bills; tipping is optional but appreciated for exceptional service. Rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is common in cafes and bars.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; smaller establishments may prefer cash; many places accept contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often 25-32°C). Expect dry spells with occasional thunderstorms; carry water, wear light clothing, and enjoy evening aperitifs in outdoor plazas.
Mild to cool air with colorful foliage; ideal for wine tastings in the Colli Friulani and harvest festivals.
Cold with possible snow in the hills; many museums and cafes provide warm refuge; Christmas markets appear in December.
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; perfect for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Udine at Night
Hiking in Udine
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills with vineyard paths and panoramic views, ideal for half- to full-day hikes.
Gentle trails along the Natisone River and historic sites; good for a half-day hike.
Short hikes to viewpoints overlooking Udine and the surrounding plains.
Airports
How to reach Udine by plane.
Closest international gateway, about 110-120 km from Udine; good connections to central Europe and Italy.
Major international hub, about 140-170 km from Udine; many airlines and connections.
Low-cost carrier hub, roughly 100-140 km from Udine; easy rail or road transfer.
Slovenia’s international airport, around 150-180 km away; convenient for travel into Friuli and Trieste corridor.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Italian with a Friulian linguistic heritage; a smaller Slovenian-speaking minority exists in some areas.
Udine hosts universities and colleges; a youthful energy alongside long-standing local traditions.
Visitors come for food, wine, and cultural heritage, especially in spring and fall.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport; local teams and matches draw crowds in the fall and spring.
Cycling tours and road races are common, thanks to gentle hills in the region.
Basketball is a popular indoor sport with local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Udine.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian diners will find polenta dishes, mushroom risotto, jota without meat, and seasonal vegetable plates; most places can adapt dishes on request.