Udine
Udine
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Latest page update: 11 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The city of Udine is the capital city of the UTI del Friuli Centrale with a population of 99,377 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 113 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 56 km² and lies 77 kilometres north west of Trieste, the regional capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Udine dates back to Roman times when it was a frontier town of the empire but it wasn't until the 13th century that it started to grow in prominence. |
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What People Ask About Udine
What is Udine known for?
Is Udine worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Udine?
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Udine Overview
Sightseeing Udine: a legacy of the Venetian Republic
A brief period of rule by the Austrians in the 14th century was superceded by that of the Venetians who held it until the fall of their republic in 1797. That 400 year period of Venetian rule has left the most significant impact on the city's architecture; the most attractive square in Udine is Piazza della Libertà which has a Venetian style clock tower on one side. Another Venetian-style building on the same piazza is the Loggia del Lionello whose design was based on that of the Doge's Palace in Venice.
From Piazza della Libertà you can walk up the steps behind the clock tower towards another of the city's main sights: the 16th century Castello di Udine which is these days home to various museums and art galleries.
A brief period of rule by the Austrians in the 14th century was superceded by that of the Venetians who held it until the fall of their republic in 1797. That 400 year period of Venetian rule has left the most significant impact on the city's architecture; the most attractive square in Udine is Piazza della Libertà which has a Venetian style clock tower on one side. Another Venetian-style building on the same piazza is the Loggia del Lionello whose design was based on that of the Doge's Palace in Venice.
From Piazza della Libertà you can walk up the steps behind the clock tower towards another of the city's main sights: the 16th century Castello di Udine which is these days home to various museums and art galleries.
Udine's Cathedral and other main sights
Returning to the focal point of Piazza della Libertà, you can turn left on Via Vittorio Veneto and take the short walk to the Duomo: Udine's Cathedral. Originally built in the 13th century, the Romanesque cathedral was given a significant face lift in the 18th century. Among the works of art on display in the Baroque interior are a series of frescoes by Venetian artist Giambattista Tiepolo. Further frescoes by the same artist can be seen at the Gallerie del Tiepolo in the Palazzo Arcivescovile, a 5 minute walk from the cathedral.
Whereas Piazza della Libertà can be considered a central base from which to start your exploration of the city, it's another square that marks its real centre and is its most lively. Piazza Matteotti (or Piazza San Giacomo to some), is an historical market square and the setting for festivals and other events even now in modern times.
Returning to the focal point of Piazza della Libertà, you can turn left on Via Vittorio Veneto and take the short walk to the Duomo: Udine's Cathedral. Originally built in the 13th century, the Romanesque cathedral was given a significant face lift in the 18th century. Among the works of art on display in the Baroque interior are a series of frescoes by Venetian artist Giambattista Tiepolo. Further frescoes by the same artist can be seen at the Gallerie del Tiepolo in the Palazzo Arcivescovile, a 5 minute walk from the cathedral.
Whereas Piazza della Libertà can be considered a central base from which to start your exploration of the city, it's another square that marks its real centre and is its most lively. Piazza Matteotti (or Piazza San Giacomo to some), is an historical market square and the setting for festivals and other events even now in modern times.
Comune di Udine
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Territory: UTI del Friuli Centrale
Region: Friuli Venezia Giulia Population: 98,430 (in 2024 - source) Size: 56 km² Elevation: 113 metres Top sights: Piazza della Libertà, Udine Castle, Piazza Matteotti Close by: Cividale del Friuli, Palmanova, Codroipo, Spilimbergo |
My recommended accommodation options for Udine:
- Hotel Astoria Located near the historic centre of Udine, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving traditional Friulian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, excellent service, and proximity to Udine’s main attractions, including the Piazza Libertà and the Udine Castle. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Ai Tre Amici Set just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms with rustic touches, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to Udine’s historical sites and surrounding nature. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Friuli Situated near the train station, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with scenic views of the surrounding hills, a restaurant serving local dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the friendly service, good value for money, and the short walk to Udine’s cultural sites, including the Loggia del Lionello and the Museo Diocesano. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo La Stazione Located a short drive from Udine, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the Friulian countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests appreciate the rural setting, the authentic Friulian experience, and the short drive to Udine’s historical landmarks and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
- Relais Albertini Set in a tranquil location near Udine’s town centre, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, a wellness centre, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving high-quality Friulian cuisine. Guests enjoy the luxurious amenities, exceptional service, and proximity to Udine’s cultural landmarks. €€€ (high-end)
My recommended restaurants in Udine:
- Trattoria Alla Ghiacciaia: A cosy and traditional trattoria located in the heart of Udine, Trattoria Alla Ghiacciaia offers a menu focused on Friulian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its hearty dishes like frico (a Friulian cheese and potato dish), risotto with herbs, and various meat-based recipes. The rustic atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for enjoying local flavours. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Al Fogolar: Situated just outside the city centre, Ristorante Al Fogolar offers refined Friulian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features dishes such as risotto with wild mushrooms, grilled meats, and a selection of local cheeses and wines. The elegant setting and excellent service make it ideal for a more sophisticated dining experience. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria La Bionda: A charming and intimate restaurant, Osteria La Bionda combines traditional Friulian ingredients with contemporary cooking techniques. Known for its creative approach to local cuisine, the menu includes dishes like pasta with duck ragù, slow-cooked meats, and fresh seafood. The welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Tavernetta: Ristorante La Tavernetta offers a traditional dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and classic Friulian dishes. The menu includes specialties such as grilled meats, risotto, and local cheeses, along with a great selection of Friulian wines. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it an excellent choice for a casual yet delicious meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Locanda Al Castello: Located just outside Udine, Locanda Al Castello offers a more upscale dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Known for its elegant presentation and attention to detail, the menu includes dishes like risotto with saffron and mushrooms, as well as various meat and seafood options. The sophisticated setting and exceptional service make it perfect for special occasions. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
Udine Gallery
Close to Udine
- Cividale del Friuli (approx. 20 km north of Udine): A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cividale del Friuli is a town rich in history, known for its medieval architecture. Key highlights include the Lombard Temple, the Devil’s Bridge, and the historic centre, which is filled with charming streets and squares. Cividale is also known for its impressive museums, including the National Archaeological Museum.
- Palmanova (approx. 30 km southeast of Udine): A star-shaped fortress town built by the Venetians in the 16th century, Palmanova is a unique example of Renaissance military architecture. The town’s well-preserved fortifications and central piazza are perfect for exploring, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into military history.
- Aquileia (approx. 40 km south of Udine): Known for its Roman archaeological sites, Aquileia is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts ancient ruins, including a Roman forum, basilica, and stunning mosaics. The town offers a deep dive into its Roman past and is a great place for history enthusiasts to explore.
- Grado (approx. 45 km south of Udine): A coastal town on the Adriatic, Grado is known for its sandy beaches and clear waters, making it a popular summer destination. The town also features Roman ruins, such as the ancient basilica and mosaics, along with charming streets and piazzas that reflect its Venetian influence.
- Tarvisio (approx. 90 km north of Udine): Situated near the borders of Austria and Slovenia, Tarvisio is a mountain town known for its winter sports and outdoor activities. In the winter, it’s popular for skiing and snowboarding, while in the summer, the surrounding Alps offer excellent hiking and nature walks. The nearby Fusine Lakes add to the town’s scenic beauty.
Udine Travel
Udine's train station is situated at the edge of the city, one kilometre from Piazza della Libertà, a 13 minute walk or a 10 minute bus ride taking the number 1 bus. Trains from Udine run to Cividale del Friuli (20 mins), Gorizia (35 mins), Trieste (1 hour) or Venice in 2 hours.
The bus station is located on the opposite side of the road from the train station and from there you can take buses to the archaeological town of Aquileia in 40 minutes, San Daniele del Friuli also in 40 minutes or the seaside town of Grado in an hour.
By car you can reach Trieste in an hour and ten minutes (76 km), or the other major cities of Friuli Venezia Giulia: Gorizia in 44 minutes (56 km) or Pordenone in 57 minutes, a distance of 52 kilometres.
The most convenient airport for Udine is Trieste Airport which, despite its name is closer to the town of Monfalcone than Trieste. The 44 kilometre journey from Udine to the airport by car takes 35 minutes.
The bus station is located on the opposite side of the road from the train station and from there you can take buses to the archaeological town of Aquileia in 40 minutes, San Daniele del Friuli also in 40 minutes or the seaside town of Grado in an hour.
By car you can reach Trieste in an hour and ten minutes (76 km), or the other major cities of Friuli Venezia Giulia: Gorizia in 44 minutes (56 km) or Pordenone in 57 minutes, a distance of 52 kilometres.
The most convenient airport for Udine is Trieste Airport which, despite its name is closer to the town of Monfalcone than Trieste. The 44 kilometre journey from Udine to the airport by car takes 35 minutes.
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Fly to: Trieste Airport - 35 minutes by car (44 km)
By train: Cividale - 20 mins, Gorizia - 35 mins, Trieste - 1 hour |
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network
