Family Adventures in Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Trieste's Treasures: A Day of Discovery

Today marked the start of our family adventure in Friuli-Venezia Giulia! Leaving the familiar streets of Bielefeld behind, we embarked on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of this Italian region. Our first day was packed with exploration, from the depths of a giant cave to the heights of a majestic castle, and, of course, indulging in the local cuisine. It's amazing how much you can experience in just one day!

Our day began bright and early with a flight from Germany to Venice. The journey was smooth, and Elena was an absolute star, her eyes wide with excitement as she gazed out of the window. Maximilian, as always, ensured everything went according to plan. From Venice, we picked up our rental car and drove towards Trieste, the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The drive itself was picturesque, with rolling hills and charming Italian villages dotting the landscape.

Our first stop was the Grotta Gigante, or Giant Cave, and it certainly lived up to its name! I've always been fascinated by caves; there's something so mysterious and awe-inspiring about the subterranean world. As we approached, the weather was slightly overcast, but that only added to the dramatic atmosphere. Before entering, I realized I had forgotten Elena’s favorite stuffed animal, which was a bit of a drama, but we managed to distract her with the promise of adventure.

Descending into the cave was like entering another world. The sheer scale of the main cavern was breathtaking; it’s no wonder it held the Guinness World Record for the world's largest single-chamber tourist cave for a time. The air was cool and damp, a welcome respite from the warmth outside. Elena was mesmerized by the stalactites and stalagmites, formations created over millions of years. Our guide was excellent, explaining the geological processes behind the cave's formation and pointing out interesting features. I was particularly impressed by the 'Altar Room' and the view from the 'Carlo Finocchiaro' path, a panoramic staircase offering a spectacular view of the entire cavity.


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 earth has music for those who listen.

After our subterranean adventure, we were all feeling a bit peckish, so we headed to Ristorante La Pergola for breakfast. It was conveniently located and came highly recommended. The restaurant had a lovely, relaxing atmosphere, and we enjoyed a delightful breakfast of Italian pastries and strong coffee, fueling up for the rest of our day. Elena devoured her croissant, and Maximilian appreciated the excellent espresso.

Next on our itinerary was the Miramare Castle, a stunning 19th-century castle perched on the Gulf of Trieste. The weather had cleared up by then, and the castle gleamed white against the azure sea. The castle was built by Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg and his wife, Charlotte of Belgium. The story goes that Maximilian sought shelter in Grignano's harbor during a storm and was so taken by the area that he chose it as the site for his home. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the castle and its inhabitants, especially the tragic story of Maximilian's brief reign as Emperor of Mexico.

The castle's interior was opulent, with lavishly decorated rooms and stunning views from every window. Elena was particularly enchanted by the Throne Room and the Chinese and Japanese drawing-rooms. The park surrounding the castle was equally impressive, with meticulously landscaped gardens and exotic plants. We spent a leisurely hour strolling through the park, enjoying the sea breeze and the beautiful scenery. The castle offered a perfect synthesis of art and nature, a testament to Maximilian's vision.


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

For lunch, we chose Trattoria Al Teatro, a charming restaurant in Trieste known for its traditional Friulian dishes. The trattoria had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We started with some local prosciutto and cheese, followed by homemade pasta with seafood. The food was delicious, and we savored every bite. I especially appreciated the authentic flavors and the use of fresh, local ingredients. Maximilian enjoyed a glass of local wine, while Elena was thrilled with her plate of pasta. It was the perfect place to relax and recharge after a busy morning.


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

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Palmanova Outlet Village. I realized then that I had forgotten to pack an adapter for the Italian power outlets! Palmanova is designed like a charming Italian village, with cobblestone streets and a spacious square. Elena was delighted to find a playground where she could burn off some energy while Maximilian and I explored the shops. I ended up finding a beautiful Italian leather handbag at a great price, and Maximilian picked up a new jacket. We also managed to find an adapter, so we were all set for the rest of our trip. The outlet village offered a holistic experience, combining shopping with relaxation and enjoyment.


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

As evening approached, we made our way back to Trieste for dinner at Al Monastero. This restaurant, located in Cividale del Friuli, serves traditional Friulian cuisine in a building that was once a fraternity house. The ambiance was enchanting, and the food was exceptional. We dined in the charming courtyard, surrounded by ancient stone walls and twinkling candlelight. The menu featured a variety of local specialties, and we opted for the tasting menu to sample a bit of everything. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the rich flavors and traditions of the region. I particularly enjoyed the gnocchi with truffle sauce, while Maximilian raved about the roasted pork. Elena, surprisingly, loved the polenta. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Northern Italian cuisine at Al Monastero in Cividale del Friuli—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Reflecting on our first day in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, I am filled with excitement for what lies ahead. This region is truly a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane and the House of Bordano Butterfly. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you!

“The best journey always takes us home, in some way.” It's true, isn't it? Even though we're far from our physical home in Bielefeld, each new experience, each shared meal, and each discovery brings us closer together as a family. And that, to me, is what travel is all about.

Until tomorrow,
Sofia.