Ciao. Marco here. Today we are driving to the far northeastern corner of Italy, to a place where borders aren’t walls, but bridges. I’m talking about Gorizia, a city that has spent centuries at the crossroads of Latin, Slavic, and Germanic cultures. Update: I’ve since written a guide to driving Italy’s legendary Stelvio Pass, and I can tell you that this journey to Gorizia is just as exciting, and I’m eager to share it with you.
Update: My colleague Alessandro recently published a guide to L’Aquila 2026: A Journey Through the Rebirth of Italy’s Next Capital of Culture, offering valuable insights into the impact of being named a capital of culture, which is particularly relevant as we consider how this title can shape a city’s future, such as Gorizia’s, and the profound impact it can have on its rebirth and growth.
Update: My colleague Luca recently published a guide to Marettimo, the Wild Secret Heart of the Mediterranean, a hidden gem that embodies the authentic spirit of Italy, which I highly recommend reading for those seeking to escape the crowds and connect with the country’s true heart.
The most fascinating part of Gorizia is Piazza della Transalpina (Europe Square). For years, a fence divided this square—one side Italy, the other Yugoslavia (now Slovenia). Today, you can stand with one foot in each country. There is no passport check, just a mosaic on the floor. It is a powerful symbol of unity and a must-visit for anyone interested in 20th-century history. Update: I’ve since written a guide to exploring charming Italian towns off the beaten path, and I can assure you that this unique spot in Gorizia is an experience you won’t want to miss.
The “Austrian Nice”#
Gorizia was once a favorite holiday spot for the Habsburg aristocracy, earning it the nickname “The Austrian Nice.” You can still see this elegance in its wide avenues and neoclassical villas.
- Gorizia Castle: Perched on a hill, this 11th-century fortress offers a panoramic view over the city and the Isonzo valley. The walk up through the Borgo Castello is steep but incredibly atmospheric.
- Palazzo Coronini Cronberg: Visit this villa to see how the nobility lived. It’s surrounded by a magnificent five-hectare park where exotic plants from the Habsburg era still thrive.
- The Great War History: The nearby Mount Sabotino and the Oslavia Ossuary are somber reminders that these beautiful hills were once the front lines of World War I. For history buffs, the tunnels of Sabotino are a hidden and haunting gem.
Marco’s Driving and Food Tips#
- The Collio Wine Region: Just a few kilometers from the city center, you’ll find the Collio Goriziano. These are some of the best white wine hills in the world. I recommend driving the Strada del Vino del Collio toward Cormòns. The roads are winding, quiet, and perfect for an afternoon cruise.
- What to Eat: The food here is a delicious blend of Italian and Central European. You must try the Gubana (a nut-filled sweet bread) and the Jota (a hearty soup made of sauerkraut and beans).
- Aperitivo: Order a Friulano (formerly known as Tocai). It’s the local white wine, crisp and perfect with some San Daniele ham.
GO! 2025: What to Expect#
The 2025 festivities will include hundreds of concerts, art installations, and “borderless” food festivals. The city is currently undergoing a beautiful restoration of its piazzas and historic buildings. My advice? Visit now, before the secret is completely out.
Gorizia is a city that teaches you that borders are just lines on a map, but history and culture flow through them like the Isonzo river.
Buon viaggio,
Marco