Exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia: A Family Adventure in Italy

Embracing Friuli's Beauty

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of nature's grandeur and spiritual serenity. Friuli-Venezia Giulia continues to surprise and enchant me with its diverse offerings. From the rugged peaks of the Dolomites to the ancient echoes of a basilica, it was a day filled with exploration and reflection. David and Emily were just as excited as I was to see what Friuli had in store for us.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Trattoria Al Teatro. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee was the perfect start to our day. David enjoyed a cappuccino, while Emily and I opted for strong espressos, fueling up for our adventures in the Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane.


Savor authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Al Teatro in San Daniele del Friuli - a culinary experience not to be missed!

Awe-Inspiring Heights: Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane

The drive to Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane was nothing short of spectacular. As we wound our way through the foothills, the towering peaks came into view, their snow-dusted caps piercing the clear blue sky. The park itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The landscape is dramatic, with rugged mountains, deep valleys, and pristine forests stretching as far as the eye can see.


Discover the stunning beauty of Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane, a natural paradise filled with breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.

We spent hours exploring the park, hiking along well-marked trails and simply soaking in the breathtaking views. Emily, ever the adventurous one, was particularly thrilled to spot a golden eagle soaring overhead. David, with his love for geology, was fascinated by the unique rock formations and the stories they told of the earth's history.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

The crisp mountain air invigorated us as we walked further into the park. I tried to capture the beauty with my camera, but no photograph could truly do justice to the sheer scale and majesty of the Dolomites. It reminded me of the landscapes back in Hong Kong, but with a unique Italian charm.

Lunch in San Daniele: A Prosciutto Paradise

After our invigorating hike, we drove to San Daniele del Friuli, a town famous for its prosciutto. We had lunch at Ristorante Farroni San Daniele, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Friulian cuisine. Of course, we had to try the prosciutto, and it was simply divine – thinly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. We also sampled some local cheeses and a glass of Friulano wine, a perfect complement to the meal.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Farroni San Daniele - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

The restaurant had a lovely terrace overlooking the town square, and we enjoyed watching the locals go about their day as we savored our lunch. It was a perfect moment of immersion into the Friulian culture, a welcome change from the tourist hotspots.

Ancient Echoes: Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta

In the afternoon, we visited the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta in Aquileia, one of the most important early Christian churches in the region. The basilica's history dates back to the 4th century, and it has been expanded and renovated over the centuries. The interior is adorned with stunning mosaics, some of the earliest examples of Christian art in the area.


Explore the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta in Aquileia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and breathtaking mosaics.

As I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the sense of peace and reverence that permeated the space. The mosaics, depicting biblical scenes and symbols, were incredibly well-preserved, their vibrant colors still shining after centuries. David, a history buff, was in his element, pointing out the various architectural styles and historical details. Emily, always drawn to art, was captivated by the beauty and intricacy of the mosaics.

I found myself reflecting on the history of this place, on the generations of people who had come here to worship and find solace. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

Retail Therapy and Evening Drinks

Before dinner, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Città Fiera, a large shopping center near Udine. It was a welcome change of pace after a day of exploring historical and natural landmarks. Emily was excited to check out the latest fashion trends, while David was on the hunt for a new book. I enjoyed browsing the local artisan shops, picking up a few souvenirs for friends and family back home.


Discover Città Fiera: A vibrant shopping mall in Martignacco with a mix of trendy stores and delicious dining options for the perfect day out.

After our shopping spree, we stopped for a quick drink at Bar giangio, a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and good selection of drinks. We enjoyed a round of Aperol spritzes, toasting to a wonderful day of exploration and discovery. It was a perfect way to unwind and recharge before dinner.


Discover the charm of Bar Giangio, a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Udine offering an exquisite selection of wines and delicious Italian cuisine.

A Culinary Finale: Vitello d'Oro

For dinner, we chose Vitello d'Oro, a restaurant in Udine known for its traditional Friulian cuisine and warm ambiance. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a convivial atmosphere. We started with a selection of local appetizers, including frico (a crispy cheese dish) and salumi. For our main courses, David opted for the gnocchi with ragu, Emily chose the grilled seafood, and I decided to try the traditional jota, a hearty bean and sauerkraut soup.


Discover Vitello d'Oro in Udine for exquisite Italian seafood cuisine that combines tradition with modern flair.

The food was delicious, each dish bursting with flavor and showcasing the region's culinary heritage. The service was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we head to Trieste to explore the Castello di San Giusto and Unity of Italy Square. I'm excited to see what adventures await us in this historic city. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, of the majestic Dolomites and the serene basilica, of the delicious prosciutto and the warm hospitality of the Friulian people.

“Travel is more than seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” - Miriam Beard. This trip is certainly changing me, one delicious meal and stunning vista at a time.

Goodnight from Friuli!