Italy

This new, thoroughly updated second edition of Friuli Venezia Giulia continues Bradt's coverage of lesser-known but increasingly popular Italian regions. Forming much of the hinterland of Venice (but not - despite the name - including Venice itself), Friuli Venezia Giulia is a convenient and fascinating destination for relaxing after a trip to Venice by spending time on the beach or in the Alps and wider countryside. It is celebrated also for its wines and distinctive cuisine, which are attracting worldwide attention. Written by long-time travel authors and Italy specialists Dana Facaros and Michael Pauls, and updated by Mediterranean afficionado Julian McDonnell, detailed background and practical information about this ethnically and culturally diverse region are complemented by ten easy-to-follow chapters, providing in-depth city guides to Trieste and Udine, alongside covering the Trieste coast and the Carso, the Friuli coast, Gorizia and the Collio, Pordenone and Western Friuli, and the mountains: the Friulian Dolomites, Carnia and the Julian Alps. With Bradt's Friuli Venezia Giulia, explore this small but varied region in detail, from the Alps to coastal resorts, unspoiled wetlands and lagoons, and from medieval towns like Cividale del Friuli to the Magredi, a strange desert steppe, and the lovely wine region of Il Collio. Discover the regional capital, caffeine-mad Trieste, where there are 67 different ways of ordering a cup of coffee, and Gorizia, one of the biggest battle fronts of World War I, which survives almost intact, with miles of trenches and fortifications open for exploration. New elements of this edition include itineraries covering food, wine and culture - so prepare to eat authentic cured meats in San Daniele del Friuli or Montasio cheese in the natal region of celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich. For something different, enjoy antiquities such as the Lombards Temple, marvel at the Roman ruins of Aquileia, explore the karst caves and numerous villages of the Carso plateau, board a boat to go birdwatching on the Grado lagoon or ski in the Dolomites. Whatever floats your holiday boat, Bradt's Friuli Venezia Giulia offers everything you need for a successful trip.