Bordano: Butterfly House Entry Ticket
Location: Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
Country: Italy
Price: $14 per person
Supplier: Casa delle Farfalle di Bordano
A Journey into the World of Butterflies and Insects
If you’re seeking a peaceful yet fascinating escape into nature’s most delicate miracles, the Bordano Butterfly House offers a unique experience. For just $14, you get access to three lush greenhouses mimicking the habitats of Africa, Asia, and the Amazon — full of fluttering butterflies, exotic plants, and a gentle hum of life. And that’s just the beginning. The tour goes beyond butterflies, showcasing captivating insects, a dedicated museum, and a pollinator-friendly garden.
What we love most about this experience is how accessible and engaging it is. The greenhouses are carefully curated to replicate natural environments, making it easy to forget you’re just a short drive from busy Udine. Plus, the ‘4 Lives, 1,000 Stories’ exhibit offers a fascinating peek into the butterfly’s lifecycle, perfect for families or anyone curious about nature. A second highlight is the ‘6-legged Jewellery’ exhibit, which displays insects like sparkling gems—ideal for anyone who appreciates the artistry of nature.
A potential consideration is that the greenhouses maintain a temperature of around 35°C with 38% humidity, which is warm enough to feel like a tropical day. While this makes the environment authentic, it might be uncomfortable for visitors sensitive to heat or humidity. Also, since guided tours aren’t included, those wanting a more in-depth experience may want to consider hiring a guide or doing some extra reading beforehand.
This experience is best suited for nature lovers, families with children, or anyone seeking a relaxed, educational outing. It’s a gentle, visually stunning way to spend a few hours, especially if you’re traveling through the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region.
Key Points
- Affordable Entry: At $14, this tour offers excellent value for a full sensory experience.
- Immersive Greenhouses: Carefully designed environments transport visitors to Africa, Asia, and the Amazon.
- Educational Exhibits: Learn about butterfly life cycles and see exotic insects displayed as jewelry.
- Museum and Garden: The MUFFFA museum and PolliNation garden add depth to the visit, mixing science and ecology.
- Warm Environment: Expect a tropical climate inside the greenhouses—great for butterflies, possibly less so for sensitive visitors.
- Convenient Location: Located just north of Udine, it’s easy to reach and offers a peaceful escape from city life.
Exploring the Butterfly House in Detail
Arriving and Starting Your Visit
The Butterfly House is located about ten minutes from the Gemona Osoppo motorway exit, on the banks of the Tagliamento river, and close to Lake Cavazzo. It’s an ideal stop if you’re exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia and looking for a family-friendly activity that combines education and nature. The visit starts with your ticket, which grants access to the greenhouses, exhibits, museum, and garden.
The Greenhouses: Africa, Asia, and the Amazon
Once inside, you’ll find yourself in three separate lush environments — each designed to resemble its native habitat. Expect exotic plants, lush foliage, and warm temperatures. As you walk, you’ll see a diversity of butterflies more than 1,000 in number, fluttering around and resting on leaves, offering countless photo opportunities. The design is well thought out; the ecosystems are authentic enough that you feel transported to distant lands.
What’s special about these greenhouses? Their careful design allows you to observe butterflies feeding, resting, and interacting with their environment up close. We loved the way the bright colors of wings contrasted with the greenery — a true feast for the eyes. One visitor shared, “It’s like walking through a living, breathing painting.” The warmth and humidity simulate their natural climates, making it a comfortable environment for the insects and plants alike.
The ‘4 Lives, 1,000 Stories’ Exhibit
Moving on, the exhibit about butterflies’ life cycles offers a detailed, visual story. It covers everything from eggs, caterpillars, chrysalises, and finally, the adult butterfly. This part is especially engaging for children and curious adults. You’ll learn fascinating facts such as the legend of wing powder and the incredible transformations these creatures undergo.
Some visitors remarked on how “educational yet accessible” the display was, which makes it a great stop for families or anyone who loves science. We appreciated the way the exhibit demystifies the butterfly’s metamorphosis, making it easy to understand why these insects are so beloved worldwide.
Exotic Insects as Jewelry
Next, step into the ‘6-legged Jewellery’ exhibit, where insects are displayed like shimmering gemstones. It’s a striking collection that highlights the artistry of nature’s design. From scarabs to beetles, the specimens are carefully curated and mounted, revealing intricate patterns and iridescent colors.
This exhibit adds a fun, tactile dimension to the visit. It’s a reminder that insects aren’t just beautiful—they’re also vital pollinators and part of the natural world’s delicate balance. For those who appreciate craftsmanship, the way these insects are presented showcases nature’s ingenuity.
The MUFFFA Museum
A highlight for us was visiting the Museo delle Farfalle e delle Falene (MUFFFA), Italy’s first museum dedicated solely to butterflies and moths. Here, curated collections of Italian and exotic species are displayed alongside stories about where and how they’re collected and preserved.
Reviewers have called MUFFFA “a treasure trove for butterfly enthusiasts,” noting the rotating exhibits and detailed labels. It’s an excellent place to deepen your understanding of insect diversity and conservation efforts. The collections also serve as a reminder of Italy’s rich natural heritage.
PolliNation Garden: Urban Biodiversity
Finally, a walk through the PolliNation garden offers a different perspective—seeing pollinator-friendly plants in a designed landscape. Each section highlights the relationship between specific flowers and their pollinators.
Visitors often remark how this part of the visit changes their perspective on city life. It’s a living lesson in urban biodiversity and the importance of creating habitats for insects and birds in our everyday environments. The garden also provides a peaceful spot to reflect and enjoy the outdoors.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Timing: The last entry is one hour before closing, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Climate: Prepare for warm, humid conditions inside the greenhouses—light clothing and water are advisable.
- Food Options: There are two renovated kiosks offering quality local products, perfect for a snack or light meal.
- Accessibility: The site is easily accessible by car, making it convenient for those exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
- Guides and Extras: Guided tours aren’t included but could add depth if you’re interested in a more detailed experience. Consider purchasing a guidebook if available.
Cost-wise, $14 per person covers a lot—greenhouses, exhibits, museum, and garden—which makes it a worthwhile investment, especially for families or curious travelers.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re traveling with children or are simply interested in learning about the natural world in a relaxed setting, this tour hits the mark. Nature lovers will enjoy the lush environments and close encounters with butterflies and insects, while those curious about ecology will appreciate the educational exhibits and PolliNation garden. It’s a gentle, engaging activity that offers a lot of value for the price, and it’s suitable even in a tight travel schedule.
Final thoughts
The Bordano Butterfly House delivers a beautifully curated glimpse into the life of butterflies and insects, set in environments that feel both authentic and inviting. The combination of lush greenhouses, educational exhibits, and a garden focused on urban biodiversity makes it a compelling stop in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. It’s a place where nature’s artistry shines and offers an inspiring lesson on the importance of pollinators.
For travelers seeking a peaceful, visually stunning, and educational experience—especially those with a penchant for wildlife or family outings—this visit provides genuine value. It’s not just about looking at pretty insects but understanding their role in our ecosystems and enjoying the simple pleasure of watching them flutter in a carefully crafted setting.
More Great Tours NearbyFrequently Asked Questions
Is the Butterfly House suitable for children?
Yes, the exhibits and greenhouses are engaging for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
How long does the visit typically take?
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the greenhouses, exhibits, and garden at a relaxed pace.
Can I buy food there?
Yes, there are two renovated kiosks offering quality local products and typical recipes if you wish to eat on-site.
Is the environment inside the greenhouses comfortable?
The greenhouses are kept at about 35°C with 38% humidity, replicating tropical conditions, so dress accordingly.
Are guided tours available?
Not included in the standard ticket, but you can arrange for a guided experience if desired, likely at an additional cost.
What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers entry to all greenhouses, the butterfly lifecycle exhibit, the jewelry insect collection, the MUFFFA museum, and the PolliNation garden.
Can I purchase a guidebook or additional information?
It’s optional; a guidebook may be available as an add-on, which can enrich your visit with detailed explanations.
Is the location accessible by car?
Yes, it’s just north of Udine, easily reachable by car, and close to other attractions like Lake Cavazzo.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and perhaps a camera for capturing colorful butterflies. Remember to be respectful of the environment.
Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s a peaceful, self-guided activity where you can enjoy nature and learn at your own pace.
This tour balances education, beauty, and relaxation, making it an authentic and affordable way to connect with the natural world in Italy. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or traveling with family, the Butterfly House in Bordano offers a memorable glimpse into nature’s delicate artistry—well worth a visit.
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