Grado: The Island of the Sun in Friuli Venezia Giulia

In the heart of the northern Adriatic, where the crystalline waters of the sea gently blend with the lagoon, lies Grado, the celebrated "Island of the Sun" of Friuli Venezia Giulia. This hidden gem offers a unique experience that combines the charm of an ancient fishing village with the comforts of a modern seaside resort, all wrapped in a magical atmosphere that speaks of salt, tradition, and wellness.

With its golden beaches stretching for kilometers, natural thermal springs with healing properties, and a lagoon that offers breathtaking sunsets, Grado represents the perfect destination for those seeking a vacation that nourishes both body and soul. Here, between the Venetian alleys of the historic center and the modern thermal facilities, time seems to flow more slowly, allowing you to rediscover the pleasure of simple things and authentic seaside life.

Grado's Golden Beaches: A Family Paradise

Grado's beaches are the island's true crown jewel, characterized by fine, golden sand that gently meets the sea with shallow, crystal-clear waters. This natural formation makes Grado the ideal destination for families with children, who can play safely in the warm, shallow waters of the Adriatic.

Main Beach and Costa Azzurra

The Main Beach, located in the heart of the seaside resort, offers all the services needed for a perfect day at the sea: equipped beach clubs, umbrella and lounge chair rentals, bars and restaurants directly overlooking the shoreline. Nearby, the Costa Azzurra represents the most exclusive area, with high-end accommodations and premium services for those who desire maximum comfort.

Free Beaches and Pine Forest

For those who prefer a wilder and more authentic experience, Grado's free beaches offer ample spaces to spread your towel and enjoy the sun in complete freedom. The proximity of the pine forest guarantees natural shade areas and the possibility of pleasant walks among the Mediterranean scents of maritime pines.

• Shallow waters ideal for children
• Fine, clean sand regularly monitored
• Beach clubs with all services
• Ample spaces for beach sports
• Accessible facilities for people with disabilities

Marine Thermal Spas: Natural Wellness Since Ancient Times

Grado boasts a millennial thermal tradition that dates back to Roman times, when the beneficial properties of its marine waters and lagoon mud were already known. Today, the Marine Thermal Spas of Grado represent one of Italy's most renowned wellness centers, where modern science combines with ancient wisdom to offer unique treatments.

Thalassotherapy and Specialized Treatments

The heart of Grado's thermal offering is thalassotherapy, which harnesses the healing properties of seawater, rich in essential mineral salts and trace elements. Treatments range from inhalation therapy for respiratory conditions, to therapeutic baths for rheumatic and dermatological disorders, to modern wellness programs that combine relaxation and regeneration.

• Inhalation therapy with marine water
• Mud therapy with lagoon mud
• Thermal baths and hydromassages
• Aesthetic and anti-aging treatments
• Wellness and spa programs

The Grado Lagoon: A Unique Ecosystem

The Grado lagoon represents one of the most important and best-preserved lagoon ecosystems in the Mediterranean. This unique environment, characterized by a delicate balance between fresh and salt water, hosts incredibly rich biodiversity and offers scenes of rare beauty that change with the seasons and tides.

Boat Excursions and Casoni

Navigating the Grado lagoon means immersing yourself in a world suspended in time, where ancient casoni (typical lagoon fishermen's dwellings) dot the aquatic landscape. Boat excursions allow you to discover hidden corners, observe the rich local birdlife, and understand the importance of this fragile ecosystem.

During these trips, you can visit Barbana Island, a small piece of land hosting an important Marian sanctuary, a pilgrimage destination and place of deep spirituality. The traditional "Perdon di Barbana," held on the first Sunday of July, represents one of the most characteristic and heartfelt events in Grado tradition.

Historic Center: Art Treasures and Tradition

Grado's historic center is an authentic open-air museum that tells centuries of history through its monuments, churches, and characteristic Venetian alleys. Walking through these lanes means taking a journey through time, from Roman domination to Byzantine influence, up to the Venetian era that left an indelible mark on local architecture and culture.

Basilica of Sant'Eufemia

The Basilica of Sant'Eufemia, dating back to the 6th century, represents one of the most important examples of early Christian architecture in the Upper Adriatic. With its splendid floor mosaics and intimate atmosphere, this church testifies to the religious and cultural importance that Grado held in antiquity.

Campo dei Patriarchi

The Campo dei Patriarchi constitutes the beating heart of the historic center, where the city's main monuments face each other. Here you can still breathe the atmosphere of ancient "Grado Patriarchina," when the city was the seat of the Patriarchate of Aquileia and played a leading role in Western Christianity.

Gastronomy: Authentic Flavors of the Sea

Grado cuisine is a celebration of marine flavors rooted in lagoon tradition and Central European culture. Traditional dishes celebrate the products of the sea and lagoon, interpreted with the simplicity and genuineness that characterize Friulian gastronomy.

Must-Try Local Specialties

Among the dishes not to be missed during a visit to Grado are boreto alla gradese, a fish soup prepared according to an ancient local recipe, and granzi alla gradesan, lagoon crabs cooked with a sauté of onion and tomato. Raw fish lovers will appreciate the marinated sardines and scampi alla busara, while those who prefer pasta dishes cannot resist bigoli with sardines or risotto with gò, typical lagoon fish.

• Boreto alla gradese (traditional fish soup)
• Granzi alla gradesan
• Marinated sardines
• Bigoli with sardines
• Risotto with gò
• Mixed Adriatic fried fish

Activities and Leisure: Between Sports and Relaxation

Grado offers a complete range of activities for all tastes and ages. Sports enthusiasts can practice sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing in the protected waters of the lagoon, while those who prefer quieter activities can enjoy bicycle rides along the numerous bike paths that cross the island.

For little ones, in addition to safe beaches and water games, equipped playgrounds and entertainment during the summer season are available. Nature enthusiasts can participate in birdwatching in the lagoon or guided excursions to discover local flora and fauna.

"Grado is not just a seaside destination, it's an experience that touches all the senses: the salty scent of the sea, the warmth of the sun on your skin, the authentic taste of traditional dishes, and the timeless beauty of its landscapes."

Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation at the thermal spas, carefree days on the beach with family, or an adventure discovering the lagoon's most hidden corners, Grado will win you over with its authenticity and unique charm. The Island of the Sun awaits you to give you unforgettable moments in one of the most magical places in Friuli Venezia Giulia, where every sunset over the lagoon is a promise to return.