San Vito al Tagliamento
Latest page update: 23 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The pretty town of San Vito al Tagliamento is situated in the former Province of Pordenone which recently changed to the UTI del Tagliamento, of which it is now the main town.
San Vito can boast one of the most picturesque squares in the whole region: Piazza del Popolo. The medieval square is dominated by the Cathedral and Torre Scaramuccia bell tower. |
What People Ask About San Vito al Tagliamento
Where is San Vito al Tagliamento located?
San Vito al Tagliamento is located in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, in the province of Pordenone. It lies in the lowlands near the River Tagliamento, roughly 25 km southeast of Pordenone and 90 km northwest of Trieste.
What is San Vito al Tagliamento known for?
San Vito al Tagliamento is known for its medieval walls, historic towers, and elegant town centre. It has a well-preserved castle complex, Renaissance architecture, and several churches with notable frescoes and artworks.
Is San Vito al Tagliamento worth visiting?
Yes, San Vito al Tagliamento is worth visiting for its blend of history, art, and small-town atmosphere. It’s a pleasant destination for a day trip, with architectural highlights, cultural events, and nearby countryside routes to explore.
What can you see in San Vito al Tagliamento?
Main sights include the Castello di San Vito, the Church of Santa Maria dei Battuti with its fresco cycle, and the central Piazza del Popolo. The town also has several museums, art galleries, and sections of the original defensive walls.
How do you get to San Vito al Tagliamento?
San Vito al Tagliamento has its own train station with direct connections to Pordenone, Udine, and Venice. It’s also easily accessible by road via the SS463, with parking available near the town centre.
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Discover
Discover San Vito al Tagliamento
Town centre frescoes
One of the prettiest towns in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, San Vito al Tagliamento makes the greatest impression with the Piazza del Popolo. Some of the historic buildings that edge the square are decorated with beautiful frescoes and everything leads the eye to the magnificent bell tower and cathedral at its eastern extreme.
There are further graceful touches all around the town; you enter via one of the monumental city gates to be met with brightly-coloured buildings and expansive public spaces.
Standing at an elevation of just 30 metres above sea level, San Vito lies in a largely flat area of terrain. It takes the second half of its name from the River Tagliamento which flows a few kilometres to its east. The river runs south to eventually empty-out into the Adriatic Sea close to the beach resort of Lignano Sabbiadoro.
There are further graceful touches all around the town; you enter via one of the monumental city gates to be met with brightly-coloured buildings and expansive public spaces.
Standing at an elevation of just 30 metres above sea level, San Vito lies in a largely flat area of terrain. It takes the second half of its name from the River Tagliamento which flows a few kilometres to its east. The river runs south to eventually empty-out into the Adriatic Sea close to the beach resort of Lignano Sabbiadoro.
Things to Do
Things to Do in San Vito al Tagliamento
- Castle complex and Torre Raimonda mark the historical heart of the town, with parts of the original medieval fortifications still intact. The tower, once a defensive lookout, now serves as a symbol of San Vito. The surrounding castle area includes landscaped gardens and public spaces. Occasional events and exhibitions are held in the restored buildings.
- Cathedral of San Vito Martire stands on the main square and features a striking bell tower and neoclassical façade. Inside are works by Pomponio Amalteo and other local painters of the Venetian school. The cathedral remains an active religious centre and hosts musical performances. Its location beside Piazza del Popolo makes it a key landmark.
- Antico Teatro Arrigoni is an 18th-century theatre with a richly decorated interior and wooden gallery seating. It remains in use for concerts, plays and cultural programmes. Restoration has preserved its original charm while improving acoustics and accessibility. The theatre forms part of the town’s broader cultural itinerary.
- Riverside walking and cycling paths follow the Tagliamento River and connect with nearby natural areas and villages. Routes pass through fields, woodlands and small chapels, offering a mix of scenery. Some trails are part of longer regional cycling networks. They are suitable for all fitness levels and popular in spring and summer.
- Local festivals and historical events are held throughout the year, often centred in the old town. Celebrations include food fairs, medieval reenactments and open-air concerts. The Festa di San Vito in June combines processions, markets and performances. Artisan stalls and regional specialities feature prominently during festival weekends.
San Vito al Tagliamento Tours and Activities
Comune di San Vito al Tagliamento
Territory: UTI del Tagliamento
Region: Friuli Venezia Giulia Population: 15,231 (in 2024 - source) Size: 61 km² Elevation: 30 metres Highlights: Torre Scaramuccia, Piazza del Popolo, building frescoes Close by: Valvasone, Gradisca d'Isonzo, Latisana, Spilimbergo |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
1 of 4 in Friuli Venezia Giulia listed by Touring Club Italiano
1 of 4 in Friuli Venezia Giulia listed by Touring Club Italiano
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in San Vito al Tagliamento
- Hotel Patriarca Located in the heart of San Vito al Tagliamento, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving traditional Friulian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the friendly service, and the proximity to the town’s historic centre and local attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Casa Chiarelli Situated just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful surroundings, and the easy access to San Vito al Tagliamento’s cultural sites. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Tenuta Regina Set in the tranquil countryside near San Vito al Tagliamento, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests value the rural setting, the authentic Friulian experience, and the short drive to the town’s attractions and nearby vineyards. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Duca D’Aosta Located a short distance from the historic centre, this well-regarded hotel offers bright rooms, a restaurant with local dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the good value for money, the clean facilities, and the convenient location close to San Vito al Tagliamento’s attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Villa Flora Situated just outside the town centre, this elegant bed and breakfast features spacious rooms, a beautiful garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the peaceful setting, the personal service from the hosts, and the short drive to local historical sites and attractions. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in San Vito al Tagliamento
- Ristorante Al Posta: Situated in the heart of the historic centre, Al Posta is known for its elegant setting and refined Friulian cuisine. The menu features dishes such as tagliolini with duck ragù, veal medallions, and seasonal vegetable flans. The carefully curated wine list focuses on regional producers. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria da Nando: A short walk from the central square, this long-standing trattoria offers generous portions of traditional fare including frico, gnocchi, and grilled meats. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, with many ingredients sourced locally. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria alle Risorgive: Located just outside the town in a quiet, green area (about 2 km from the centre), this osteria blends a rustic atmosphere with carefully prepared dishes. Expect homemade pasta, seasonal mushrooms, and classic desserts. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Pizzeria Da Pino: Found near the town’s edge, Da Pino serves both wood-fired pizzas and a variety of pasta and meat dishes. It’s a reliable option for a casual meal with a spacious dining room and quick service. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Locanda La Torre: Located in the historic part of town near the medieval walls, La Torre offers a small but well-crafted menu focusing on seasonal produce and local tradition. With a charming interior and a quiet setting, it’s ideal for a relaxed evening out. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
San Vito al Tagliamento Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to San Vito al Tagliamento
There are two towns directly above and below San Vito that merit a visit: to the north is the historic town of Spilimbergo where you'll find a greater number of frescoes on building walls, while to the south is the town of Portogruaro, across the regional border in Veneto and boasting a dramatically leaning tower.
You can reach Portogruaro by train in 21 minutes but there is a greater degree of flexibility enjoyed with a car as the number of destinations you can reach by train is limited and bus services can be slow.
You can reach Portogruaro by train in 21 minutes but there is a greater degree of flexibility enjoyed with a car as the number of destinations you can reach by train is limited and bus services can be slow.
Friuli-Venezia Giulia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Trieste
2. Lakes of Fusine
3. Udine
4. Grado
5. Cividale del Friuli
6. Spilimbergo
7. Palmanova
8. Aquileia
9. Sacile
10. Muggia
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
1. Trieste
2. Lakes of Fusine
3. Udine
4. Grado
5. Cividale del Friuli
6. Spilimbergo
7. Palmanova
8. Aquileia
9. Sacile
10. Muggia
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to San Vito al Tagliamento
By Rail: San Vito al Tagliamento has its own train station on the Venice–Udine railway line, served by Trenitalia regional trains. Regular services connect the town with Venice, Treviso, Pordenone, and Udine. Journey times are approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to Venice, 50 minutes to Treviso, and 35 minutes to Udine. The station is located about 2 kilometres from the historic centre and can be reached by local bus or taxi.
By Road: San Vito al Tagliamento is situated in the province of Pordenone, in western Friuli Venezia Giulia, around 30 kilometres south-east of Pordenone and 40 kilometres west of Udine. It is accessible via the A28 motorway, with the nearest exit at Villotta about 10 minutes away. The drive from Venice takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Parking is available in and around the town centre, including near the historic walls and piazzas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: San Vito al Tagliamento is situated in the province of Pordenone, in western Friuli Venezia Giulia, around 30 kilometres south-east of Pordenone and 40 kilometres west of Udine. It is accessible via the A28 motorway, with the nearest exit at Villotta about 10 minutes away. The drive from Venice takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Parking is available in and around the town centre, including near the historic walls and piazzas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Trieste Airport (Aeroporto di Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia): Located approximately 75 kilometres east of San Vito al Tagliamento, the drive takes around 1 hour. The airport offers domestic and international flights, mainly to central and eastern Europe.
- Venice Airport (Aeroporto di Venezia Marco Polo): Situated about 85 kilometres south-west, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes by car. This is the region’s main international airport, offering a wide range of European and intercontinental connections.
- Treviso Airport (Aeroporto di Treviso Antonio Canova): Located roughly 65 kilometres to the west, the drive takes just over 1 hour. It mainly serves low-cost airlines with routes across Europe.