Pordenone Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Pordenone, Italy with this informative travel guide.


Introduction to Pordenone

Pordenone is a charming city situated in the northeastern part of Italy and boasts a rich history and culture. Nestled in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, it is a beautiful city that has everything to offer, from ancient architecture to green parks and outdoor activities to scrumptious food and wine.

The city is known for its many cultural events, such as the international silent film festival, jazz festival, and much more. You will fall in love with the stunning architecture, and the peaceful atmosphere of Pordenone.

List of Places to Visit in Pordenone

Pordenone is a city that has something to offer for everyone, and tourists will enjoy exploring the following must-see attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cattedrale di San Marco
  • Museo Civico
  • Palazzo Ricchieri
  • Palazzo Mantica
  • Chiesetta di Santa Maria del Grazie

Natural Attractions of Pordenone: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parco Galvani
  • Parco della Resistenza
  • Parco del Tagliamento
  • Bosco del Boscoverde
  • Alture di Polcenigo

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pordenone

For outdoor enthusiasts, Pordenone offers a wealth of options for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Strada del Prosecco
  • Sentiero delle Farfalle
  • Valcellina Bike Trail
  • Pordenone-Fiume Noncello Cycle Path

Best Things to Do in Pordenone: Activities and Tours

  • Visit local vineyards and try the Prosecco Wine
  • Enjoy a hot air balloon ride
  • Attend the annual silent film festival
  • Take a guided tour of the city
  • Join a cooking class to learn the local cuisine

Week-Long Itinerary for Pordenone

If you are planning on spending a week in Pordenone, here is a sample itinerary to make the most out of your stay:

Day 1: Explore downtown Pordenone, visit Palazzo Ricchieri and Cattedrale di San Marco.

Day 2: Discover the Parco del Tagliamento and the Alture di Polcenigo, famous for scenic views.

Day 3: Go on a day trip to Venice. Take a train from Pordenone to Venice.

Day 4: Hike Valcellina Bike Trail or Sentiero delle Farfalle.

Day 5: Visit the Museo Civico and Palazzo Mantica.

Day 6: Join a cooking class or discover the local vineyards, and enjoy the wine tastings.

Day 7: Attend a live show at Palazzo Ricchieri or a classical concert held at Museo Civico.

Food and Drink Scene of Pordenone

Pordenone is known for its delicious cuisine, which is unique and different from other Italian regions.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Frico: A dish made of potatoes, onions, and melted cheese.
  • Polenta e osei: a specialty dish with game birds and cornmeal.
  • Espresso: strong coffee served in a small cup.

Local Beverages

  • Prosecco: A sparkling wine made from Glera grapes.
  • Refosco dal peduncolo rosso: A red wine made from the Refosco grape variety.
  • Grappa: An alcoholic drink made from pomace.

Where to Stay in Pordenone: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pordenone has various accommodation options to suit every budget.

  • The Best Western Plus Park Hotel Pordenone
  • Agriturismo Casa Rossa ai Colli
  • Hotel Santin
  • Hotel Minerva

What to Buy in Pordenone: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Pordenone produces many artisanal products. Here are some of the local products and souvenirs that you can purchase:

  • Gourmet food items like truffles, olive oil, and honey
  • Handcrafted souvenirs such as textiles and pottery
  • Wine and spirits like Refosco dal peduncolo rosso and Grappa.

Local Culture and Customs of Pordenone

The people of Pordenone are known for their friendly nature and the way they enjoy their food and wine. They are also proud of their dialect, Friulian, which is spoken in the region.

Best Time to Visit Pordenone

The best time to visit Pordenone is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. However, If you are particularly keen on attending the silent film festival, plan your visit around it.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pordenone

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the Prosecco wine and other local delicacies
  • Enjoy the city’s peaceful atmosphere

Don’t:

  • Litter or cause disturbances in public places
  • Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing while visiting religious sites and churches
  • Drink and drive

Safety and Health

Safety in Pordenone

Pordenone is a relatively safe city with very few incidences of violent crimes. However, travelers should exercise the usual caution and take proper care of their belongings.

Health in Pordenone

Pordenone has a good healthcare system, and hospitals and clinics offer excellent medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance before visiting the city.

Getting to Pordenone: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pordenone

The nearest airport to Pordenone is Venice Marco Polo Airport, located about 61 km away from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Pordenone

Pordenone has a main bus station which provides direct bus services to nearby destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Pordenone by train. There are frequent and fast trains connecting to Venice, Trieste, and Udine.

How to Get Around in Pordenone

Getting around Pordenone is easy, and the city is well connected with public transportation like buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Pordenone: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Trieste, the coastal city famous for its cafés and architectural landmarks.
  • Udine, another charming city of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region.
  • Cortina D’Ampezzo, a famous ski destination in the Dolomites.

Conclusion

Pordenone is a remarkable city that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of Italy. With its excellent outdoor activities, stunning architecture, and delightful cuisine, it is a must-visit destination for any tourist. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of Pordenone!