Impressive nature, historic sites, gourmet experiences and wine tasting in an undiscovered part of Italy!

Italy is a world famous country for its history, art, natural beauty, food and wines, fashion and quality of life.

Cities rich in cultural heritage and art masterpieces are the joy of tourists, but we want to offer you the chance of visiting a region of Italy far from mass tourism and crowds but where one can enjoy the best aspects of Italy.

We, at Essential Tours, after many years of living in Italy, chose Friuli - Venezia Giulia as the place to visit for those who want to enjoy itineraries that can combine art and history from Roman through medieval times, and from the Venetian Republic to the Hasburg Empire, until the more recent incorporation into unified Italy.

In our "Specials" you will find some of the many historic celebrations that are organized every year and represent a real jump in the past. Historic sites regain the ancient atmosphere and lost traditions, from artisans work to public games, from religious celebrations to parades in costumes, history is magically revived.

The Dolomites that recently have been declared natural world heritage by Unesco, the Alps, environmentally preserved areas along the coast are natural highlights in the region.

There are 7 regional parks and 3 different ecosystems, from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea.

We have designed wonderful itineraries for birdwatchers, photographers, hikers and nature and wildlife lovers.

Our guides are expert naturalists, use binoculars and have many years of experience in the region and leading groups. Their knowledge and help in completing your checklist will make you learn a lot about the species of Friuli – Venezia Giulia and, being a territory of migratory routes, you will be amazed by the variety of birds you can see.

Please check our "Specials" to learn about our photography workshops or contact us for more information!

Choosing to visit Friuli - Venezia Giulia you will be in a region where quality of food and wines is at its best!

You might already know that in Italy foods and meals change often just by going from a region to another, which means driving less than 100 miles. In this region culinary can change just by driving to a different town. Culinary is closely linked to historic phases and geography and the many foreign peoples that established their domain in this territory through its history brought different ingredients and ways of cooking, which, together with the climate, natural resources and territory, shaped a variegated cuisine.

Being an area far from highly industrialized zones and where people are very conservative about their traditions – especially the Culinaric ones! – most of meals you will eat are made from locally grown products, many times organic and processed according to artisanal methods or even home made!

We will take you to eat one of the best hams in the world, Prosciutto di San Daniele, which can be produced in San Daniele only, thanks to the unique microclimate of the area and the historic experience in ham production.

The wines from the Collio, a small hilly area close to the Alps, can be tasted through the region but it will be a special treat to take a wineries tour.

There are many events, through the year and all over the region, that celebrate local products and that are a real gourmet party! Check our "Specials" section or contact us if you are interested in joining them and we will be happy to design your itinerary including your favorite event!

If you don’t find among our scheduled tours the ideal itinerary for you, please contact us and we will be happy to design the best itinerary you’re your needs.

Since one group can choose a custom designed tour we can combine several interests that can be well satisfied in this part of Italy.