✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Cividale del Friuli.
Set your heart racing and feed your adventurous soul in the charming medieval town of Cividale del Friuli, where the winding cobblestone streets and tapering alleys lead you to an enchanting blend of history, cultural richness, and natural beauty waiting to be explored.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Cividale del Friuli:
1. Ponte del Diavolo
Ponte del Diavolo, also known as the Devil’s Bridge, is a medieval bridge located in Cividale del Friuli, Italy.
What to see or do: The bridge offers a stunning view of the Natisone River and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can walk across the bridge and explore the area, taking in the historic architecture and natural beauty.
Don’t miss: The legend behind the bridge’s name states that it was built by the devil himself in exchange for the soul of the first living being to cross it.
However, a clever old woman tricked the devil by throwing a dog across the bridge first. Keeping this legend in mind while walking across the bridge gives it an added sense of intrigue and fascination.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, try to visit the bridge during the early morning or late afternoon.
The nearby town of Cividale del Friuli is also worth exploring, with its ancient Roman ruins and charming streets lined with cafes and shops.
For those interested in history, the town’s Archaeological Museum offers a fascinating look at the area’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Tempietto Longobardo
A Lombard-style small temple in Cividale del Friuli, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the unique architecture of the Tempietto Longobardo, also known as the Lombard Temple, which stands as a symbol of the fusion of Lombard and Romanesque styles.
Don’t miss: The intricate stone carvings, graffiti, and inscriptions on the walls of the temple, which showcase the rich history of the region.
Insider travel tips: The Tempietto Longobardo is located within the UNESCO World Heritage site in Cividale del Friuli and is easily accessible on foot.
Visit in the early morning or evening to avoid crowds and get the best light for photographs.
3. Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta
Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Cividale del Friuli, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the remarkable Gothic architecture of the cathedral which dates back to the 15th century.
Observe the beautiful frescoes and paintings within the interiors of the cathedral, including the stunning depiction of the assumption of the Virgin Mary on the main altar.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a closer look at the cathedral’s impressive rose window – a magnificent piece of stained glass artwork that dominates the southern facade.
Insider travel tips: Visitors must be appropriately dressed and should avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, and short dresses while visiting the cathedral.
It’s also worth noting that the cathedral is closed during lunch hours, so be sure to check the opening hours before visiting.
4. Museo Cristiano
A museum dedicated to early Christian art and artifacts in Cividale del Friuli, Italy.
What to see or do: View an impressive collection of early Christian art and artifacts including mosaics, sarcophagi, and rare liturgical objects. The museum is divided into three sections, showcasing different eras of Christian art and history.
Don’t miss: The stunning Byzantine baptistery, located in the basement of the museum. It features beautiful 6th-century mosaics and is one of the most important examples of early Christian architecture in Italy.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum in the morning to avoid crowds, and consider purchasing a combined ticket with the nearby Tempietto Longobardo for a more comprehensive cultural experience.
5. Palazzo dei Provveditori Veneti
Palazzo dei Provveditori Veneti is a historic palace located in the charming town of Cividale del Friuli in northeastern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and frescoes in the palace’s various rooms, including the Sala della Ragione, which was once the town’s courthouse.
Exhibitions on local history and art are also held in the palace.
Don’t miss: The stunning 16th century frescoes by Pomponio Amalteo in the palace’s main hall are a must-see, as is the intricately carved wooden ceiling.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the opening hours of the palace in advance, as it is not always open to the public.
When in Cividale del Friuli, take the time to stroll through the town’s well-preserved medieval streets and try some of the delicious local cuisine.
6. Casa Medievale di Via Cacciatore
Casa Medievale di Via Cacciatore is a well-preserved medieval house located in the heart of Cividale del Friuli, a town in the northeast region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the house to get a glimpse of what life was like during the Middle Ages.
The rooms are furnished and decorated with original period pieces, giving a unique insight into the daily routine of a medieval family.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Casa Medievale is the stunning frescoed ceiling of the main room, depicting a celestial map with astrological symbols.
Insider travel tips: The guided tours are available in Italian, English, and German, and it’s recommended to book in advance.
The house is located in the historic center of Cividale, so it’s easy to combine a visit with a stroll through the charming town streets.
7. Galleria d’Arte Moderna
The Galleria d’Arte Moderna is a contemporary art gallery located in the historic town of Cividale del Friuli in northeastern Italy.
What to see or do: The gallery features an impressive collection of contemporary Italian art from the 20th and 21st centuries, including works by famous artists such as Giorgio Morandi, Lucio Fontana, and Emilio Vedova.
Visitors can admire a broad range of art genres, from paintings and sculptures to installations and video art.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the museum’s beautiful surroundings in the charming town of Cividale del Friuli, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visitors can stroll along the Natisone River, admire the ancient Lombard architecture of the town, and visit the nearby archeological site of the first Longobard duchy in Italy.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and events.
8. Parco Fluviale del Natisone
The Parco Fluviale del Natisone is a beautiful natural park located near the town of Cividale del Friuli in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy.
It covers an area of over 1600 hectares and is characterized by its impressive canyons, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike, following the numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through the area.
There are also several picnic areas where visitors can relax and take in the stunning views. Those who love water sports can go rafting, canyoning, and kayaking in the Natisone River.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the Canyon of Runc, which is a beautiful gorge with high cliffs and stunning waterfalls.
Other attractions include the picturesque medieval town of Cividale and the nearby vineyards, where visitors can taste some of the region’s famous wines.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the park in the fall when the foliage is at its most colorful.
9. Cripta di Santa Maria in Valle
Cripta di Santa Maria in Valle is an ancient underground chapel in Cividale del Friuli, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the well-preserved frescoes of early Christian art that adorn the walls of the crypt. Learn about the history of the site and its significance in the religious traditions of the area.
Don’t miss: The intricate ceiling frescoes depicting the life of Christ and the Roman Martyrs.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays.
10. Monastero di Santa Maria in Valle
A beautiful 8th-century Benedictine monastery, located in the charming town of Cividale del Friuli in northeastern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive Lombard architecture and the ancient frescoes that decorate the walls of the monastery’s two churches. Take a walk in the peaceful, flower-filled cloister and explore the small museum showcasing sacred artifacts.
Don’t miss: The stunning mosaic floor of the Tempietto Longobardo, a small building near the monastery that was originally used as a pagan temple and later converted into a Christian oratory.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the monastery early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
11. Museo Archeologico Nazionale
Museo Archeologico Nazionale is a national archaeological museum located in the town of Cividale del Friuli, northeastern Italy.
What to see or do: The museum houses a wide range of archaeological artifacts from the area surrounding Cividale del Friuli, including prehistoric, Roman, Lombard, and medieval artifacts.
Visitors can admire a vast collection of ancient jewelry, ceramics, and sculptures.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Museo Archeologico Nazionale is the Lombard Temple Altar, one of the most important Lombardic artifacts in Italy.
Also, don’t miss the chance to see the ancient mosaics from the Christian basilica of Aquileia.
Insider travel tips: If you plan on visiting the museum, make sure to check out its website for opening hours and admission fees. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and families with children.
It is also recommended to take a guided tour to learn more about the history and importance of the artifacts on display.
12. Casa Leopoldina
Casa Leopoldina is a historic house located in the charming town of Cividale del Friuli, Italy.
What to see or do: The house has been beautifully preserved and restored, with its elegant furnishings and stunning frescoes dating back to the 18th century.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its rich history.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of the town and surrounding countryside from the house’s terrace.
Insider travel tips: – The house is only open for tours during certain hours, so be sure to check the schedule before visiting.
13. Piazza Paolo Diacono
A historic square in the heart of the charming town of Cividale del Friuli in northeastern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning medieval architecture that surrounds the square, including the Palazzo dei Provveditori Veneti and the 11th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Take a stroll along the charming narrow streets that radiate out from the square, and explore the many shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Don’t miss: The stunning Lombard Temple, one of the most important early medieval buildings in Italy, located just a short walk from Piazza Paolo Diacono.
The temple boasts a unique mix of Roman, Byzantine, and Lombard architectural styles.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and soak up the local atmosphere.
Make sure to try the famous local dish of frico, a delicious cheese and potato pancake that is a specialty of the Friuli region.
14. Chiesa di San Giovanni in Valle
Chiesa di San Giovanni in Valle is an ancient church located in Cividale del Friuli, a picturesque town in the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
What to see or do: The church boasts impressive Lombard architecture and holds some beautiful frescoes, particularly the one behind the altar that depicts the crucifixion.
Take in the ornate details of the woodwork and marble elements in the interior.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the crypt under the church, which contains ancient relics and artifacts, including the thrones of the Lombard kings who once ruled the area.
Also, the view of the Natisone river from the church is breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in Lombard history, hire a local guide who can give you a detailed explanation of the church and its historical significance.
The best times to visit are during the weekdays when you’re likely to have the church all to yourself.
15. Santa Maria dei Battuti
Santa Maria dei Battuti is a beautiful church located in the historic town of Cividale del Friuli in northeastern Italy.
What to see or do: Marvel at the fantastic Gothic architecture, frescoes and beautifully carved wooden choir stalls of this stunning church. Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and the ornate altars that add to the grandeur of the church.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the church is the beautiful painting titled “The Annunciation” by the famous painter Martino da Udine.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the church on a sunny day to see the stained glass windows in their full glory.