Exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia: A Family Adventure in Italy

Day 1: Trieste's Treasures Unveiled

Our Italian adventure has officially begun, and what a start it was! Leaving the crisp Canadian air behind, we landed in Venice and hopped on a train to Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The anticipation was palpable as we embarked on this 12-day exploration with my family. With no hotels booked, we were ready to embrace the spontaneity of the journey. Today, we immersed ourselves in the enchanting beauty of Miramare Castle and descended into the awe-inspiring Grotta Gigante, two jewels in Trieste's crown.

Our first stop was the magnificent Miramare Castle. As we approached, the castle's white façade gleamed against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, a sight straight out of a fairytale. The crisp December air carried the scent of pine and sea salt as we strolled through the castle grounds. Even though it's December, the park maintains its charm, with well-manicured gardens offering a tranquil escape.


Discover the enchanting Miramare Castle, a historical gem on the Adriatic coast, where opulence meets breathtaking natural beauty.

Inside, the castle was even more breathtaking. Each room told a story of Archduke Maximilian and his wife Charlotte, their dreams, and their tragic fate. The audio guide brought history to life as we wandered through the red-silk-lined salons and the throne room. Emily was particularly captivated by the ship-inspired bedroom, a testament to Maximilian's naval interests. David, ever the history buff, was engrossed in the details of the Habsburgs' reign.

To walk through Miramare Castle is to step back in time, to imagine the lives of those who once called this fairytale palace home.

After exploring the castle, we strolled through the park, enjoying the panoramic views of the Gulf of Trieste. The park's diverse flora, planted by Maximilian himself, was a testament to his passion for botany. Despite the winter chill, the park was alive with the colors of evergreens and the sounds of birds.

For lunch, we decided on Ristorante La Pergola, drawn in by its reputation for authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm ambiance that made us feel right at home. I ordered the risotto, while David opted for the seafood pasta, and Emily, ever adventurous, chose the truffle dish. Each dish was a burst of flavor, a testament to the region's culinary prowess. The friendly staff added to the experience, making us feel like we were dining with family.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante La Pergola in San Daniele del Friuli – where every dish tells a story.

Our afternoon took us to a completely different world – the Grotta Gigante, or Giant Cave. Just a short drive from Trieste, this natural wonder holds the Guinness World Record for the largest tourist cave with a single cavern. As we descended the 500 steps into the earth, the temperature dropped, and a sense of mystery filled the air.


Explore the stunning Grotta Gigante, one of the world's largest caves, featuring breathtaking stalactites, guided tours, and a unique underground experience near Trieste.

The cave was immense, a cathedral of stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. The sheer scale of the cavern was humbling, a reminder of the power and artistry of nature. Emily, always fascinated by geology, peppered our guide with questions about the cave's formation and the unique mineral deposits. Even David, usually more interested in historical sites, was awestruck by the cave's grandeur.

Emerging from the depths of Grotta Gigante, we felt as though we'd traveled to another planet. The experience was both exhilarating and educational, a perfect blend of adventure and discovery.

Before heading back to Trieste, we made a detour to Palmanova Outlet Village for a bit of shopping. The outlet village was bustling with activity, with holiday decorations adding to the festive atmosphere. I found a beautiful scarf at a discounted price, while Emily snagged a new pair of boots. David, ever practical, picked up a warm jacket for our upcoming mountain adventures.


Discover unbeatable fashion deals and delicious dining at Palmanova Outlet Village, your ultimate shopping destination in Italy.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Gran Caffè Friuli in Trieste, a charming spot known for its exceptional coffee and pastries. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as we sipped our espressos and savored delicious vegan brioches. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration, soaking in the local atmosphere and reflecting on our incredible experiences.


Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Gran Caffè Friuli, where exquisite coffee and local wines create a perfect blend of culture and taste.

For dinner, we chose Antica Osteria Al Ponte, a restaurant and wine bar known for its traditional Friulian cuisine. The osteria was warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel like we were stepping back in time. We indulged in local specialties, savoring the flavors of the region and washing it down with a bottle of Friulano wine. The perfect end to a perfect day.


Savor authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional local wines at Antica Osteria Al Ponte in San Daniele del Friuli.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Friuli-Venezia Giulia has already captured our hearts with its beauty, history, and culinary delights. Tomorrow, we're heading to Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane and Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, eager to explore more of this enchanting region. I’m also hoping we’ll have time to visit Città Fiera, as Emily is keen to do some more shopping. Until then, arrivederci!

I’m so glad we remembered to pack our travel guidebooks, but I do wish I hadn’t forgotten the power adapter. It's a scramble to charge everything tonight! Also, with the weather being a bit unpredictable, I regret not bringing an umbrella. Note to self: buy one tomorrow!

One thing I’m certain of is that I'll sleep well tonight, dreaming of castles, caves, and culinary adventures. What a start to our Italian family trip!