Travel Podcasts, Discovered
Ciao friends and fellow travelers. Welcome to our travel podcast Untold Italy where we help you design an Italian journey that actually reflects what you want to experience - not just the standard tourist checklist.
Host Katy Clarke brings together local experts, longtime Italy residents, and travelers who have navigated everything from Cinque Terre's hiking trails to Venice's quieter neighborhoods and the ancient sites of Rome. Of course we also head to the lesser known "untold" regions where
100 most recent episodes displayed below
Visit website →Your Italy travel questions answered. In this Q&A episode, Katy covers choosing a base in Tuscany and for the Cinque Terre, getting around the northern lakes, electrical sockets, how not to get ripped off by taxis, and ordering in restaurants. Practi
A quick update from Katy on the heatwave currently hitting Italy and what it means for your trip, plus a note on today's Festa della Repubblica national holiday.
Summary: Italy is under Level 3 red heat alerts across Rome, Florence, Bologna and Turi
Local guide Francesca Ermini maps out a perfect day in Florence, starting early near the Duomo, crossing the Arno into Oltrarno, and ending at Piazzale Michelangelo as the afternoon light drops. From a 13th century church most visitors walk straight
A quick update from Katy on reports some visitors have been denied entry to the Colosseum recently.
Summary: Some visitors have been denied entry at the Colosseum because their tickets were purchased through operators not on the approved supplier li
Milan is the Italian city people most often skip. It does not look like the Italy most of us grew up dreaming about and that is exactly why it gets left off the itinerary. But it has something few Italian cities can match: a collision of tradition, d
A quick update from Katy on strikes in Italy. There was a nationwide general strike yesterday, Monday May 18, and another one is coming on May 29.
Summary: Strikes are frequent in Italy but they are almost always announced in advance. Katy covers wh
If 2027 is your year for Italy, this episode is where the planning starts. Not with a destination list and not with a Google search but with the questions that many travelers skip. These are the ones that can make a big difference to your trip.
Kat
A quick update from Katy on two things affecting Italy travelers right now: the jet fuel crisis and the new EES biometric entry system, recorded May 12, 2026.
Summary: Air France-KLM has raised fuel surcharges twice in five weeks however other airli
Italy has over 70 pilgrimage routes, thousands of kilometres of cycling paths, that offer a unique way of to see the countryside, and connect with local people. Monica Price joins Katy to open the door to active travel in Italy, from gentle walks in
A quick update from Katy about crowds in Italy. You may have seen huge crowds at popular tourist destinations like Rome, Florence and Cinque Terre last weekend. We have thought on this.
Summary: Last week was a long weekend for May Day in Europe plu
Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy with well documented challenges related to tourism. It's also one of the most expensive. What if when you visit, you could cut out some costs and make a positive impact on city in the process. Venet
A quick update from Katy about what we are seeing on the ground in Italy with respect to fuel due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
Summary: Fuel prices have increased in Italy and some short haul and low cost airlines are consolidating f
Your Italy travel questions answered. In this Q&A episode, Katy covers solo train travel safety, the real differences between Tuscany and Umbria, how to find live music in Italy, choosing a base in Puglia, keeping children engaged in Rome and Florenc
There is a neighborhood in Rome where locals call themselves Trasteverini before they call themselves Roman. In this episode, Katy sits down with food and travel writer Maria Pasquale, who lived in Trastevere for over a decade, to explore its markets
The coffee bar in Italy is not just somewhere you get coffee. It is where Italy actually happens. In this episode from the vault we explore the history, the rituals, and the unwritten rules of Italian coffee culture. From espresso to shakerato, the c
Milan in winter is a different city to the one most people remember. Add two young kids, the Olympics, and a ski trip to the Aosta Valley and you have a lot of moving parts. Startup founder Alex Tryon planned all of it, got stuck, asked for help, and
Ciao friends! We are doing a Q&A episode, and we want to hear from you. Planning your first trip? Going back and wanting to go deeper? Not sure which region is right for you or how to piece it all together? Send your questions to [email protected]
You have seen Tuscany in the movies. The golden light, the rolling vines, the dinner that seems to last forever. But many travelers arrive and find something is missing. The checklist gets ticked. The magic stays just out of reach.
In this episode,
Some people visit Italy. Others let it get under their skin. BJ and Chris Witkus are firmly in the second camp. In this episode they share the trips, the moments and the meals that made Italy their own.
Updated: Untold Italy podcast episode guide -
Alba is a pretty town in northern Italy that visitors from around the world flock to each autumn for prized white truffles. Compact, cobbled and full of history, it is nestled in the Langhe wine region and is a great base for the exploring the area.
What if you could see some of Italy's most popular places differently? Enjoy the highlights and secret spots, without the crowds and logistics chaos? Katy talks with Walks of Italy about a new style of trip that gets you deeper into some of Italy's c
You asked, and we have answers. In this Q and A episode Katy dives into a selection of your Italy travel questions, and as always, they are fantastic. We cover train travel with luggage, the best way to experience the Amalfi Coast, how to plan a seco
Ciao friends! We are doing a Q&A episode, and we want to hear from you. Planning your first trip? Going back and wanting to go deeper? Not sure which region is right for you or how to piece it all together? Send your questions to [email protected]
Italian cuisine is much more than pizza and pasta. In fact there really is no such thing as Italian cuisine. What you will find in Italy are many differenty micro cuisines driven by the landscapes, produce, seasonality and traditions. Join us as we b
Bologna deserves more than a day but if we only had one we would spend it with our friend Giulia - a local who knows the city streets and porticoes inside out. Spend a day in this food focused city at the markets and classic trattorie but our secret
It is high time the classic 10 day Italy itinerary was given a modern makeover and we are going to show you how to do it. Rome, Florence and Venice have been the route visitors have followed for centuries but travel has changed quite a bit since then
Puglia is having a moment but won't be long before big crowds arrive. Join us as we open the door to Puglia as we know and love it - from thousand-year-old olive groves and life-changing burrata to the whitewashed hilltop towns tourists haven't disco
You've seen the Sistine Chapel. But have you felt Italy's soul? Join us as we explore Assisi and beyond on the 800th anniversary of St Francis's death. Discover why a merchant's son who walked away from everything is one of the keys to understanding
Let's take a walk around Rome with local food tour guide and one of the most fun people we know - Manuela! This episode is for you if you have ever wondered how a local Roman would spend the day exploring the Eternal City if they were a visiting trav
Curious about your Italian heritage? Ancestry research in Italy is a wonderful way to connect with your family history and see more of the country. Listener Pam shares her story discovering her family's migration story from Marche to Ellis Island and
Touring Sicily is a dream for many - thanks to its unique energy, rich culture, food, wine, and history. With so many unforgettable moments from Palermo to Mount Etna it is easy to focus on the sightseeing. But, feeling part of the island and connect
Planning a trip to Italy in 2026? Listen in for our essential guide to Italy trip planning for the coming year. We cover trip planning steps, timing and must know dates and events for planning your ultimate Italian adventure.
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Christmas in Italy is magical - for the sights, sounds and most of all the community spirit. Join us as we take a trip around Italy's most Christmassy towns - from Rome’s glittering Christmas lights to snow-dusted Alpine villages, sharing insider tip
Writer Andrew Cotto grew up enjoying Sunday lunches around his nonna's table. Years later he found himself in Tuscany enjoying the same conviviality he missed from his childhood. He share the Italian meals and moments that shaped his writing and laun
La Dolce Vita on her mind always, Carol loves exploring Italy - from the snowy mountains of the Dolomites to the beaches of Puglia. Traveling Italy has become a passion that's taken her to private palazzi and the hills of Piedmont and she joins us to
Whether you've been dreaming of Italy forever or you're a regular visitor, no doubt you understand the pull of this remarkable place - its history, beauty, art and architecture, food, wine and friendly people. But did you know Italy has a magical way
Travel in Italy is more fun when you add in a stop at one of Italy's smaller towns, where life continues as it has for centuries. Presenting charming Orvieto in Italy's central Umbria region. Perched high on a hilltop, this delightful town is perfect
Love traveling off the beaten path in Italy? There's a special place near the shores of Lake Garda that you probably haven't heard of but it will charm you in a minute. Join us as we visit Palazzo Novello in the small town of Montichiari in Italy's L
Ready to discover your perfect way to travel Italy? Listen in and explore the pros and cons of independent travel versus tours with our expert team of travel planners and tour hosts. Learn about logistics and authentic experiences and discover how cu
Sicily in Spring is for the dreamers and curious. When the landscape bursts into life with wildflowers and towns pulse with new season energy, it's the perfect time to explore this island of infinite layers and context. Listen on to hear more about t
How many memorable meals have you enjoyed on your travels? We're sharing unforgettable food memories from over 30 years of travel in Italy. From mozzarella in Naples to seafood in Sicily, hear how food, company, and beautiful settings create lingerin
Dreaming of Northern Italy? Take a virtual journey with us from Venice to Torino exploring shimmering lakes, hidden towns, food, wine, and of course the people that are preserving long held traditions. We're taking you backstage on our newest Untold
Ready to skip the crowds and travel deep into regional Italy? Explore Abruzzo where mountain peaks meet the Adriatic and every village hosts memorable food festivals. Local expert Cassie Tresl spills insider secrets on rustic towns, amazing arrostici
Uncover the true secrets of the Cinque Terre with our friend, local food expert Enrica Monzani. Travel in this region of Italy has generally been defined by the landscapes and romantic villages clinging to cliffsides. But, in this epsiode, we uncover
Fall in Italy is a dream for travelers. It's a season of golden vineyards, festivals, and quiet piazzas where you can while away an hour or two. In this episode, we explore eight Italian towns that shine in autumn - from a hilltop town in Umbria to a
Balsamic vinegar ... but not as you know it. Let's uncover the centuries-old process behind this iconic Italian treasure. Discover why it’s a must-try for food lovers, how to spot the real deal, and delicious ways to enjoy authentic balsamic vinegar
Do you travel for food? Sicily is one of the best places for an Italian foodie adventure especially if you're a sweet tooth. Most of us know cannoli but what other sweet treats can you find in Sicily? Find out what to taste and where to find the most
Getting ready to travel to Italy in 2026? We're discussing the travel trends and ideas shaping future trips to Italy. From AI itineraries to slow travel principles, planning your vacation looks a little different than it has in the past.
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Following the vines through Umbria yields rich rewards. Discover the untold wines of this central Italian region and follow their stories through rolling hills home to medieval towns and long held traditions.
Read the full episode show notes here >
Love travel and history? Join us as anthropologist Dr. Monique Skidmore unveils the world of the Etruscans in Tuscany - the original Italians - revealing their unique culture, powerful women, and the incredible sites you can visit to walk in their fo
Traveli is all about experiences right? Imagine being alone in the Vatican Museums at sunrise, turning on the lights in the Sistine Chapel, or stepping into Florence’s Duomo to view Brunelleschi's dome with a handful of other travelers after hours.
Solo traveler Rebel shares her transformative journeys in Italy, from spontaneous friendships to joining a traditional flower festival in Umbria, and hear how you too can find magic, community, and adventure in "untold" Italy!
*Untold Italy Tours -
Curious what happens when you mix Roman rooftop bars, a Vespa sidecar adventure, medieval towns, and the Umbrian countryside? Join host Katy Clarke and travel to Italy with her latest trip report, revealing insider tips, plus unforgettable highlights
Attention travelers! The Dolomites region has an unfair advantage. Blessed with spectacular nature, it's also home to some of Italy's most celebrated small batch wine. Here grapes grow on vines clinging to mountainsides and are full of flavor. Discov
Brush up on some Italian cultural nuances before your trip with these essential travel tips for dining and eating when in Italy. Enjoy this favorite episode featuring Nesim Bekalti from Full Belly Tours while we take a short mid year break.
Read th
Go off the beaten path in Italy's northern Veneto region and discover Vicenza, a city bursting with Renaissance treasures. Enjoy this favorite episode while we take a short mid year break.
Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/279
Want to learn a little Italian for your trip? Enjoy this favorite episode featuring Michele Frolla from Intrepid Italian while we take a short mid year break.
Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/279
NEW! - the Untold Italy app
Venice has evolved and changed in response to many difficult circumstances over the centuries. Today the city faces environmental and overtourism pressures - how will it adapt? Katy chats with journalist Erica Hill about a a new film exploring local
Summer's here and it's time for la spiaggia (the beach)! Everyone knows the Amalfi Coast but if you're looking for sandy beaches and fewer crowds, head to the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines of the Puglia region where you'll find some of Europe's clea
Planning your first trip to Italy? Or even your fifth? Listen for essential tips, funny mishaps, and insider advice to help first-time visitors have a smooth, unforgettable Italian adventure - from handling cash and booking trains to finding the perf
Podcast lovers, today we're sharing our favorite pods to get you immersed in Italian history, culture and language before your trip. From exciting history to modern Italian culture and creative new ways to stay up to date with Italian news all while
Step into an Italy that few English speakers reach but a place that holds untold wonders. The Marche region is only 3 hours from Rome by car (the same distance as Florence) and it was the vacation of dreams for our friend, Glam Italia guide book auth
Apples and strudel, alpine cheeses and speck in Italy? Yes you can. Head to the northern region of South Tyrol with us and discover the traditional dishes and wine of the Dolomites mountains and beyond.
Read the full episode show notes here > untold
Want to know how to say thank you in Italian? Go beyond "grazie" and learn about the many different ways to express your appreciation in Italian language and culture. Plus we revisit tipping (again) with our friend Monica who gives you the Italian ho
Step into the world of Italian hotels where everything (except the hospitality) is smaller than what you're probably used to. In this episode we let you know the quirks and thrills when it comes to staying at a hotel in Italy.
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Sicily on your mind? If it's not, perhaps it should be. Hear the travel stories of exploring this wonderful island from our guest Brie, who listened to her heart and headed to Sicily for countless adventures on land and by sea.
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Ever wondered how you could take an extended trip to Italy and explore on your own terms? Our guests Kristen and Jason came up with a plan to do exactly that. Lucky for us they're sharing their tips and tricks for managing a working vacation in our b
Italy is home to many famous lakes but today we're visiting the quieter shores of Lake Bolsena in Lazio. This is definitely untold territory where you’ll find countless small villages, castles, deep volcanic lakes and stories for the ages. Our guest,
Take Italy with you wherever you go! Today we're announcing the Untold Italy app, your Italy travel companion we've been working on for months (but in reality many years). Katy explains what the app is all about and what you'll love inside - includin
Let's go deep into untold territory to the beautiful Murgia region in Puglia. Nestled between Bari and Matera, this is a land of deep historical significance, ancient grains and plants and resilient culture. Oh and they filmed some James Bond scenes
Traveling with extended family in Italy is a dream for many and our guest this week made that dream come true. Join us as we chat with our longtime listener Caroline Rausch about her family's incredible journey through the lesser-known regions of Cal
Train travel is often the most efficient way to get around Italy and it's really easy. Join us for a quick primer for using the train system in Italy. Learn how to book your tickets, what to do at the station and on board the train plus tips for mana
San Gimignano is an undisputed jewel of Tuscany. Join us as we chat with local expert Annarita Ferranti about the town's medieval atmosphere, unique festivals, and culture that make this charming town irresistible to visitors.
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Where can you find some of Italy's best beaches, a city as old as time, delicious healthy food and towns full of charm? Puglia and Basilicata in southern Italy have all this and more, especially when you take to the road and explore by car.
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Just off the coast of Naples, Ischia and Procida are islands in the sun beloved by Italians. While most English speaking travelers head straight for Capri, these treasures of the Tyrrhenian Sea have their own unique charm. Join us as we chat with Cap
In part two of our discussion about eating with dietary restrictions in Italy we discover what it's like to eat as a vegetarian and vegan and what foods to choose if you are lactose intolerant. Join us as we dive into a chat with our friend and culin
Wondering what it's like to travel to Italy in winter? Our host Katy reports back from her recent trip to Rome, the Dolomites and Venice and shares observations, what she loved and would do differently if she went back to Italy again in winter.
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Have dietary restrictions and wondering how you're going to manage in Italy? Join us as we dive into a chat with our friend and culinary expert Nesim Bekalti about navigating allergies and food preferences while dining in Italy. In part one of this d
Want to learn some Italian for your trip but are not sure where to start? Join us for a quick online Italian lesson where our host Katy learns the one Italian word that will get your conversations off to a quick start as soon as you land in Italy.
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Dreaming of an immersive Italian vacation but overwhelmed by the planning? Join us as we chat with Untold Italy's expert trip consultants Kristen, Carrie and Tyla, who share insider tips, their favorite secret spots, and the joy of crafting personali
Naples is one of Italy's most exciting cities. Raw, beautiful, intriguing and full of contradictions, this ancient city will tug deep at your heart strings long after your visit - if you make the effort to dig a little deeper than the obvious attract
Getting ready for a trip to Italy in 2025? There are some changes and large events happening in the coming year that are important to know about as you pull together your travel plans. We also share some timely reminders of how to make the most of yo
Christmas is a very special time in Italy with celebrations starting in December and finishing in early January. Learn what to expect if you spend the festive season in Italy and some traditions you can enjoy at home. Buon Natale friends! Have a love
Are you dreaming of hitting the Italian slopes? Join us as we chat about the best ski resorts, insider tips on renting gear, and the unique cultural experiences awaiting in the picturesque Dolomites and beyond. Discover the charm of Italy's ski dest
On today’s very special episode, we're hearing from travel legend Rick Steves in an interview that first appeared on friend and fellow travel journalist Jason Moore's podcast Zero to Travel. Many of you know Rick from his guidebooks, television show
Curious about what happens on tour with Untold Italy? Join Katy and tour hosts Olivia, Giulia, and Henna as we recap 2024's highlights and including surprise snow in the Dolomites and local experiences in Sicily that tapped into deep connections.
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Curious about Italian interior design? As you travel the country you notice many different styles. From the rustic elegance of Puglia to the opulent charm of Venice, each Italian region has its own spin on home decor. Discover the blend of tradition
There's no such thing as an Italian dish. Each region of Italy (and even each town) has its own favorite recipes based on the produce found in their area. Join us as we explore the highlights of eating your way around Italy with journalist Maria Pasq
There's an avalanche of information out there about traveling in Italy but how do you know what's good and up to date? Let's walk through your options and learn about a new and free online service from Untold Italy that can assist you with your trip
Curious about wines made from grapes grown on the slopes of an active volcano? Join us as we chat with wine experts Olivia Windsor and Andrea Mitti Rua about Sicily's Mount Etna and its exciting wine culture. We delve into the unique characteristics
Siena, a beautiful Medieval city in the heart of Tuscany, is a favorite day trip destination from Florence. But the truth is, you'll only scratch the surface if you're there for a few hours. Spend a day or two in this charming city and you'll uncover
When you're in Rome, eat like the locals do! Join Denyse Pantaleo from Devour Tours as we take a look at a typically Roman way to eat your way around the Eternal City. While restaurant bookings are necessary, there are some amazing local places to tr
Keeping yourself and your belongings safe is a topic that is raised frequently on our Italy Travel Planning Community. In general Italy is a very safe country to visit and travel around however petty theft is something you should be aware of and prep
Tuscany is at its magnificent best in Fall on Autumn in our opinion. With harvest underway for olives and grapes, fresh vegetables and delicious produce like truffles and chestnuts are in abundance. Hear from local cook Giulia Scarpaleggia about what
Parmigiano Reggiano, sometimes called parmesan, is one of the world's greatest cheeses - if not the very best. Learn about the precise processes and human talent that goes into making this delicious cheese from one of the official cheese testers and
Want to know how to pay for things in Italy? We share our best Italy travel tips on paying by card, when to use cash, and a quick recap on tipping (spoiler alert: it is not customary to tip large amounts in Italy).
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Undoubtedly one of the world's greatest art collections, the Uffizi Gallery is one of the most visited sites in Florence. Visitors from around the world flock to the gallery to admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Giotto, Michelangelo and Caravaggio am
Producing wine in Liguria requires passion and dedication. The rugged terrain requires ingenuity and persistence from local winemakers to achieve the standard they've been known for over the centuries. Join us as we learn about this predominantly whi
The summer holidays are in full swing in Italy so please enjoy this favorite episode from our archives about learning Italian for your trip to Italy. It's a great idea to learn some words of Italian so you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Y
We're taking a short break for the summer holidays so please enjoy this favorite episode from our archives about all the cheap and tasty bites you can try on your trip to Italy. We explore the street food of Italy from Naples to Rome, Venice and beyo