Mosaic And Masterpieces Of Aquileia And Friuli Tour

From Roman ground to painted vaults, the region’s quiet towns reveal a history written in devotion and stone. Explore the gallery in Udine, where Tiepolo’s brush exemplifies the Rococo movement. In Aquileia, stand before mosaics and columns that once marked the edge of Rome. From Cividale to Grado, each visit uncovers layers of belief, power and artistry in Italy’s lesser-told northeast. Art historian Clare Ford-Wille will provide her expert commentary throughout the tour, including two engaging lectures.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Venice to Udine
Fly to Venice then transfer to Udine, stopping en route at the Abbey of Santa Maria in in Sylvis, which dates back to the 8th century. This Benedictine abbey is decorated with frescoes and has a large collection of sculptures. Welcome drink, talk from Clare, and dinner at the hotel.

Day 2: Full day in Udine
Full day on foot to explore Udine including the Duomo with its Romanesque-Gothic exterior, and Baroque interior richly decorated with artworks. The Museum has displays preserving frescoes, decorative arts, and sacred relics and textiles dating from the 13^th century. We also visit the Venetian-Gothic style town hall and clock tower. Later we view frescoes dating back to the late 14th century at the Civic Museum of History and Art. Evening talk from Clare.

Day 3: Grado and Aquileia
Full day tour to Grado and the ancient city of Aquileia, starting with the Basilica of Sant’Eufemia – a stunning example of early Christian architecture with religious art including a 13th century Gothic fresco, and well-preserved 6th century floor mosaic. We then walk to nearby Santa Maria delle Grazie, and spend some time in the Old Town. Drive to Aquileia, which was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1998, and was one of the largest and most wealthy cities of the Early Roman Empire. Much of the ancient city remains unexcavated. We visit the Basilica with an exceptional 4th century mosaic floor, and 12th century frescoes covering the walls of the crypt. We also walk to the Roman Forum, archaeological museum and Early Christian museum.

Day 4: Friuli, then return to Venice 
Full day tour to Cividale del Friuli to visit museums which preserves some  important examples of early medieval and Lombard art and architecture. The Lombard Temple was built in the 8th century as a palace chapel for the royal court, before becoming a monastery church of the Benedictine nuns. The interior is richly decorated with marble, motifs, and frescoes depicting Madonna and Child, and Christ with Archangels Michael and Gabriel. Afternoon transfer to the airport for return flight to London Heathrow.

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 25 passengers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as demanding due to the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. Day 2 is on foot. At some attractions, flooring may be slippery or uneven, and have steps without handrails. Please visit the mobility page of our website, or call our team for further information prior to booking.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Heathrow to Venice
• Three nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Ambassador Palace, Udine, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Two dinners with wine 
• Two lectures at the hotel
• Transfers, tours and entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Clare Ford-Wille throughout
• Tour manager throughout
  
  

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £165
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Ambassador Palace, Udine 

Centrally located four-star hotel, in the heart of Udine, in a quiet area near to the historic centre. This charming hotel offers a bar, restaurant, and fitness centre. Bedrooms are comfortable with classic decor and en-suite bathrooms with toiletries, TV, WIFI, safe, air-conditioning, minibar, and hairdryer. 

Hotel Website

MORE INFO 

YOUR EXPERT TOUR LECTURER

Clare Ford-Wille

Clare has taught art history for over 35 years and continues to lecture at the University of London, Morley College, the City Lit, the V&A, and for NADFAS across Britain and abroad.

A Birkbeck graduate, she brings vast experience and enthusiasm to every tour she leads. Her deep knowledge and passion for art and history enrich each journey with insight, making her tours both engaging and illuminating.