Moving Around: Udine

Public Bus System

Udine's main public transit system comprises city buses, operated by SAF Autoservizi FVG under the broader TPL FVG (Trasporto Pubblico Locale Friuli Venezia Giulia) network. The system connects the city center with its neighborhoods and surrounding suburbs.

While not as extensive as a metro, it serves Udine effectively. Bus route maps are available at major stops, the main bus station (Autostazione Udine), and online via the official TPL FVG website.

Bus Hubs

Udine train station (Stazione Ferroviaria): A central point with numerous connecting bus lines.
Autostazione Udine: Main bus terminal, adjacent to the train station, for local and long-distance routes.
Piazza Libertà and Piazza Primo Maggio: Central squares acting as significant stops for many urban bus lines.
Single Tickets (Biglietto Urbano): Most common for single journeys. Purchase from 'tabaccherie' (tobacconists), newsstands ('edicole'), or ticket machines.

Fare Information

Fares for a single urban ticket range from €1.30 to €1.80. Onboard purchases (if available) may cost slightly more.

Ticket Validation

Tickets Must be validated immediately upon boarding the bus using the small validation machines near the doors. Insert your ticket until it prints a timestamp. Failure to validate results in fines.

Hours & Frequency

Buses operate generally from 5:30-6:00 AM until 9:00-10:00 PM. Frequency varies by route and time; major routes run more often during peak hours. Reduced service on Sundays and public holidays.

Accessibility & Tips

Accessibility Features

Newer buses often have ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
Older buses might still be in circulation; boarding assistance may be helpful.
Bus stops may or may not have raised platforms.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Use the official TPL FVG website for detailed route info, schedules, and real-time tracking.
Purchase tickets in advance from tabaccherie or newsstands for savings.
Plan Sunday or public holiday travel in advance due to less frequent service.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi ID

Licensed taxis are white cars with a 'TAXI' sign on the roof and a visible meter inside.

Hailing Taxis

Find taxis at designated stands (train station, Piazza Libertà) or call a radio taxi service (e.g., Radio Taxi Udine).

Fares & Payment

Fares are metered (initial €5-8, then per-kilometer). Surcharges for night, Sunday, holidays, or luggage. Cash (Euros) always accepted; increasing card acceptance.

Ride-Sharing

Uber partners with licensed cabs; Free Now (MyTaxi) books licensed taxis via app. Always confirm vehicle/driver details.

Rental Options & Driving Tips

Rental vehicles offer flexibility for exploring the broader Friuli Venezia Giulia region.

Car Rental

Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise at Trieste/Venice airports and Udine.
Requirements: Valid national driving license, International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU. Credit card in driver's name for deposit.
Age: Minimum 18 (rental companies often 21/25 with surcharges for under 25).
Booking: Advance booking advised for availability and better rates, especially peak season.

Motorcycle & Bicycle

Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common in Udine center; check specialized shops for rentals. Verify requirements and insurance.
Bicycle: Udine is flat, good for cycling. Shops offer rentals for city and surrounding countryside. Some dedicated bike paths exist.
Quiet secondary roads offer pleasant cycling routes to nearby towns/vineyards.
Cyclists should stay aware of traffic, especially outside dedicated lanes, and follow road rules.

Driving Laws & Parking

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Headlights are needed outside urban areas, even during the day.

ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones): Avoid driving into Udine's historic center during ZTL hours without permission.
Paid Parking: Blue lines ('parcheggio a pagamento'). Pay at machine, display ticket. Free Parking: White lines ('parcheggio gratuito').
Parking Garages: Use underground garages (Parcheggio Magrini, Moretti) for convenient parking without ZTL concerns.

Attractions & Special Transport

Attractions

Udine Castle Civic Museums: €5-8. Duomo/Churches: Free entry to main church nave (small fee for specific areas).

Special Transport

Udine does not feature unique or specialized transportation methods like gondolas or funiculars.

Local Movement

Standard public buses, taxis, and rental vehicles cover all transportation needs within and around the city.

Walking & Cycling

Udine's design makes walking and cycling enjoyable and effective ways to experience the city.

Pedestrian-Friendly

Udine's historic center is largely pedestrianized and compact.
Most main attractions are comfortably explored on foot.
Charming alleys and hidden courtyards invite leisurely exploration.
Self-guided walking tours are easy to follow with a map or navigation app.

Cycling Routes

Udine has some dedicated bike lanes, making cycling a pleasant option.
Cycle through residential areas or into the nearby countryside.
Quiet secondary roads offer enjoyable cycling routes, connecting to nearby towns and vineyards.
No specific 'no-go' areas for pedestrians or cyclists in terms of safety.

City Walks & Safety

City Walks

Piazza Libertà, Via Mercatovecchio, the Duomo area, and the approach to Udine Castle are best experienced by walking.

Bike Path Access

The city's relatively flat terrain supports cycling exploration.

Safety Note

Exercise caution on busy roads outside pedestrianized zones. Always be aware of your surroundings and traffic.

Navigating Udine: Summary

General Transit

Public bus system covers the city and suburbs.
Taxis are available at stands or by call, with metered fares.
Car rentals offer flexibility for regional trips, with IDP needed for non-EU.

Active Mobility

Historic center is highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.
Cycling is a pleasant way to see the city and surrounding countryside.
No specialized transport like gondolas or funiculars.

Important Considerations

Be mindful of ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones) in the historic center.
Bus service frequency changes on Sundays and public holidays.
Always validate bus tickets immediately upon boarding to avoid fines.
Italian driving style can be assertive; defensive driving is prudent.

Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit for driving.
Carry valid ID at all times, even within the Schengen Area.
Sea/river arrivals are via Trieste, not directly to inland Udine.
No specific exit fees or taxes upon departing Italy.

Final Tip for Navigating

Embrace walking to truly absorb Udine's charm. For longer journeys, the public bus network provides a reliable way to get around.

When planning regional excursions by car, be aware of driving regulations and parking zones to ensure a smooth trip.

Moving Around Udine