Udine is at the centre of Friuli, which offers a captivating landscape that combines maritime and mountain elements. The Adriatic coastline features sandy beaches, cliffs, and charming coastal towns. The area is also renowned for its lagoons, which are rich in biodiversity. The hills at the north and west of Udine feature charming villages, where local wineries offer both internationally acclaimed and native wines. Further north the majestic Alps provide breathtaking mountain sceneries with towering peaks, green valleys, and alpine lakes. Besides winter sports, there is a vast network of hiking trails for exploring the local flora and fauna. Moreover, a number of must-see iconic and historical cities, which can be easily reached from Udine by car, train or bus, are listed below.

Aquileia is an ancient town located in the province of Udine that holds significant cultural and archaeological importance: it was an important city in the Roman Empire, later a primary center for the spread of Christianity in Northern and Eastern Europe, and nowadays it is a UNESCO site since 1998 due to the significance of its archaeological area and the beauty of the floor mosaics it preserves.

Palmanova is one of the most significant models of modern military architecture and the only example of a star-shaped city still fully intact in its nine-pointed form. This layout was meticulously designed in the late 16th century as a military fortress. The town is surrounded by massive defensive walls with nine arrow-shaped bastions radiating from a central piazza, creating a stunning geometric pattern when viewed from above. Since July 9, 2017, Palmanova has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and since 2018 it has also been recognized as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages" in Italy.

Trieste, located near the Slovenian border, is a culturally diverse and historically significant city with a unique character. It is the capital of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region and was once an important port of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It features a picturesque waterfront and a bustling harbor due to its maritime tradition. The city showcases a blend of architectural styles, including neoclassical and Habsburg-era buildings, and boasts landmarks such as Miramare Castle and Piazza Unità d'Italia. Trieste has a rich literary heritage, a thriving cultural scene, and a deep-rooted coffee culture. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere is enriched by its diverse population, and the city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.

Venice, often called "La Serenissima," is a world-renowned city known for its enchanting canals, rich architectural heritage, and historical importance. Its picturesque canals and grand buildings, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, make it an architectural marvel. St. Mark's Square is at its heart, and gondolas offer a classic Venetian experience. Venice is a hub of art and culture, hosting the prestigious Venice Biennale and the famous Venice Carnival. The city's history as a maritime republic has left a profound impact on art, culture, and politics. Venice's unique charm, enriched by islands like Murano and Burano, make it an iconic and beloved destination.