Buttrio is best known for its wines, and its rolling hills make a lovely backdrop to a holiday. With a car rental in Buttrio, it's easy to explore Northeast Italy. Start at the nearby city of Udine, just 10 km away. While Buttrio is a quiet town, Udine is a large settlement with a fascinating history.
The 16th-century Udine Castle is a highlight for most visitors. Stroll around the exterior, admiring its ornate arches, or go inside to visit the art museum. The cathedral is even older, dating back to the 13th century, and has incredibly ornate decorations inside. However, the most famous building in the city is undoubtedly the Loggia, which has become an icon of Udine. With its pink and white marble exterior and decorative tiles, this old trading hall is definitely worth a visit.
Another city worth visiting in the area is Trieste. This historic port town has long been a centre for fishing, and charming little boats can still be seen docked in the harbour. There are buildings here from many different eras, from the ancient Roman theatre to the grand Piazza Unita d'Italia. Trieste was once the main port of the Austro-Hungarian empire, and it has a fascinating vibe with an intriguing blend of cultures.
This part of Italy has a distinctive cuisine. There are some of the Italian dishes you already know and love, of course, but you'll also find influence from nearby Austria and Croatia, both of which ruled over the area at different times. Try the strucolo de pomi, the local version of apple strudel, or the Croatian-inspired squid ink risotto. This dramatic, jet-black dish is a local favourite – just brush your teeth afterwards, as the ink can stain!
Many visitors come to Italy to admire the country's spectacular architecture and artwork, but car or van rental in Buttrio will also let you see the splendour of nature. Lignano Sabbiadoro is about an hour's drive away. This coastal town has a glorious beach stretching for 7 km along the Adriatic Sea. Kids will be delighted by the aqua park, while adults can relax on the golden sand or take a long stroll along the seafront.
Alternatively, if you visit the area in winter, you will be able to try skiing or snowboarding. There are 107 km of slopes in the province of Udine, with some at an altitude of over 2,000 m. Family-friendly zones allow young children to experience winter sports for the first time, while there are slopes to keep seasoned skiers happy.