Untold Italy travel podcast

Untold Italy travel podcast

By Katy Clarke

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

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Episodes

43:42 Ep. 319

319. The Ritual of the Bar: Coffee Culture in Italy [From the Vault]

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

59:12 Ep. 318

318. Italy in Winter: Milan, the Olympics, and Getting Unstuck

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

1:37

Send us your Italy trip planning questions

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]

42:09 Ep. 317

317. The Tuscany You Dreamed Of (and How to Find It)

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,

43:58 Ep. 315

315. A Perfect Day in Alba with a Local

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.

35:54 Ep. 314

314. A New Way to Experience Italy (And Why It Works)

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

1:37

Got Italy Questions? We Want to Hear Them.

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]

1:00:30 Ep. 312

312. Beyond Pizza and Pasta: Regional Italian Cuisine

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

36:40 Ep. 311

311. A Perfect Day in Bologna with a local

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

31:37 Ep. 310

310. How to Modernize the Classic 10 Day Italy Itinerary

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

42:38 Ep. 309

309. Puglia Before Everyone Else Gets There

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

46:31 Ep. 308

308. Travelers Guide to the Legacy of St Francis of Assisi

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

37:44 Ep. 307

307. A Perfect Day in Rome with a Local

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

45:55 Ep. 306

306. Italy Ancestry Research Tips and Travel Stories

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

35:46 Ep. 305

305. How to Tour Sicily: Beyond Sightseeing to the Heart of the Island

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

35:42 Ep. 304

304. Essential Tips for Your 2026 Trip to Italy

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. 

Read the full episode

26:59 Ep. 303

303. The most Christmassy Towns in Italy

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

42:58 Ep. 301

301. Italian Travel Stories - How Carol Embraced La Dolce Vita

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

31:26 Ep. 300

300. How Italy changed me

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

55:39 Ep. 299

299. Orvieto: City of Understated Charm

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

45:22 Ep. 298

298. Palazzo Novello: Off the Beaten Path in Lombardy

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

56:01 Ep. 297

297. How to Travel Italy Your Way: Insights From Our Experts

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

43:21 Ep. 296

296. Sicily in Spring: An Italy Travel Dream For the Ages

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

48:14 Ep. 294

294. Journey Across Northern Italy: Lakes, vineyards and truffle country

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

44:09 Ep. 292

292. Secrets of the Cinque Terre - Slow Travel Insights with a Local

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

15:57 Ep. 291

291. 8 Enchanting Italian Towns to Visit in Autumn

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

43:54 Ep. 290

290. Modena's Black Gold: The Art of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

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

43:44 Ep. 289

289. Beyond Cannoli: Sweets to Seek out in Sicily

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

40:05 Ep. 288

288. Italy Travel Trends for 2026 and Beyond

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.

Read the fu

41:28 Ep. 287

287. The Perfect Vine: Wine Adventures in Umbria

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 >

42:01 Ep. 285

285. VIP Travel Experiences in Italy: Special Access to Iconic Sites

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. 

1:00:22 Ep. 281

281. Favorites: Italian Dining and Eating Etiquette

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

37:28 Ep. 280

280. Favorites: Vicenza: Renaissance Beauty near Venice

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

37:44 Ep. 280

279. Favorites: Phrases you need to know before your trip to Italy

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

35:52 Ep. 282

278. Saving Venice - What does the Future Hold for the Lagoon City?

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

28:54 Ep. 276

277. Favorite Beaches of Puglia: Adriatic and Ionian Coasts

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

1:01:40 Ep. 274

274. Sea, soul and sunshine: An Adriatic adventure in Le Marche

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

42:05 Ep. 273

273. South Tyrol: Tastes of the Mountain

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

36:54 Ep. 272

272. Grazie! And more: How to express your appreciation in Italian

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

40:54 Ep. 271

271. What to expect at an Italian hotel

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.

Read the full episode

49:41 Ep. 270

270. Exploring Sicily: Adventures by car, train and boat!

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. 

Read the full episod

42:23 Ep. 269

269. Extended stay in Italy? Tips for a Working Vacation

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

44:02 Ep. 268

268. Lake Bolsena: Nature, history, and tradition

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,

10:21 Ep. 267

267. Italy in your pocket!

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

49:03 Ep. 266

266. Murgia - Bread, burrata and Bond!

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

30:15 Ep. 264

264. Italy by Train: Travel tips for booking to boarding and more

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

33:27 Ep. 263

263. Secrets of San Gimignano: Tuscany's Medieval Manhattan

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.

Read the full episode

43:41 Ep. 262

262. Road tripping Puglia and Basilicata

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.

Read the

42:55 Ep. 261

261. Ischia and Procida: Italian Islands in the Sun

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

43:40 Ep. 260

260. Eating in Italy with Dietary Needs - Part 2

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

42:38 Ep. 259

259. Winter in Italy: A Trip Report

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.

Incl

36:00 Ep. 258

258. Strategies for Traveling with Dietary Needs in Italy

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

38:36 Ep. 257

257. The one Italian Word you Need to Know

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.

R

1:11:38 Ep. 255

255. Beyond Pizza: Unforgettable Naples and her many Treasures

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

28:44 Ep. 254

254. 2025 Italy Trip Planning: Important Changes and Tips to Know

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

17:58 Ep. 230

253. Buon Natale! Italian Christmas Traditions

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

45:23 Ep. 252

252. Let's go skiing in Italy: The Dolomites, Alps, and Beyond

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

1:25:55 Ep. 251

251. Special Episode: An Interview with travel legend Rick Steves

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

52:00 Ep. 250

250. On Tour with Untold Italy: Our Hosts' Highlights Revealed

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. 

R

38:23 Ep. 249

249. Italy's Unique Interior Styles and Where to Find Treasures

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

36:57 Ep. 248

248. Mangia! How to Eat Your Way Through Italy with Maria Pasquale

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

28:57 Ep. 247

247. New Ways to Research Your Trip to Italy

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

28:34 Ep. 246

246. Exploring Sicily's Volcanic Vineyards: Mount Etna Wines

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

36:50 Ep. 342

245. Siena: Medieval Wonders, the Famous Palio, and Sweet Treats

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

50:12 Ep. 244

244. How to Eat like a Roman

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

27:48 Ep. 243

243. Staying Safe in Italy: Tips and Tricks for Avoiding Scams and Theft

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

41:56 Ep. 333

242. Tastes of Tuscany in Fall

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

48:13 Ep. 241

241. Parmigiano Reggiano: A Story of Precision and Passion

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

17:47 Ep. 214

240. Money Matters: Italy travel tips on cards, cash and more

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). 

Read the full episode show notes

29:00 Ep. 238

238. Liguria: A Small But Mighty Wine Region

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

40:24 Ep. 237

237. Encore: Learning Italian for your Trip

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

26:54 Ep. 236

236. Encore: Tasty Street Foods to Try in Italy

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

38:06 Ep. 235

235. Visiting the Colosseum: A Slow Travel Guide with LivTours

Let's go to the Colosseum! Undoubtedly one of the world's most iconic buildings, stepping inside the arena is a favorite activity for most visitors to Rome. But with up to 30,0000 tickets sold for the Colosseum a day, how do you make the most of your

54:18 Ep. 234

234. Savor Italy: Important Tips for Mindful Travel

Italy is a dream to be savored slowly. Find out how you can travel through the big cities and tourist areas, avoid huge crowds and experience la dolce vita for yourself. As travelers if we take charge of our own trips and make a few adjustments, we c

54:09 Ep. 233

233. A Taste of Puglia: Local Dishes and Flavors to Try

Want to know what to eat in Puglia? The region at the heel of Italy's boot is a treasure trove of tastes - from antipasto to main courses and desserts. And who could forget the delicious focaccia and incredible cheese. In other words, Puglia is a foo

43:12 Ep. 232

232. Secrets of Milan Shared by a Local

We love Milano but it's often misunderstood. So we asked our friend tour guide and passionate Milan resident Inge de Boer to share with us the missing pieces that can help you understand this city beyond its obvious attractions - the Duomo and Last S

47:38 Ep. 231

231. Roman Pizza: Get the lowdown on what to try and where to taste

Move over Naples, Rome has some delicious pizza too. Listen along to discover the different types of pizza you can try in the Eternal City, what makes them delicious in their own way and of course where you can try the perfect slice or round.. depend

18:27 Ep. 230

230. Vatican Jubilee 2025 - What to expect in Rome and Italy

Thinking of traveling to Italy in 2025. Make sure to tune in and hear all about what to expect when you visit Rome and beyond during the Vatican Jubilee year. Many pilgrims are expected to visit Rome throughout the year so we give you tips and advice

1:36

Welcome to Untold Italy

Welcome to Untold Italy travel podcast, the show that brings you captivating Italy travel, culture, food and wine stories and ideas for your Italian adventures 

Support the show

Join our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist -

27:15 Ep. 229

229. From Grit to Grapes: How Puglia is Redefining its Wine Culture

Wines from Puglia are on the ascendancy. Once the workhorse of the Italian wine industry, providing bulk wines to cut with other varieties, today the Pugliese wine industry champions indigenous grapes and is forging a bright future based on local tec

24:17 Ep. 228

228. Top 5 Experiences to Have in Florence

Florence is one of Italy's most favorite destinations with a long list of must dos for many travelers. In this episode we suggest a different approach and identify our favorite Florentine experiences and where to go for them - both classic and off th

35:49 Ep. 227

227. Pesto Perfection: A Local's Guide to Italy's Favorite Green Sauce

Pesto is a zingy basil based sauce that is served throughout the region of Liguria. It's one of our favorite sauces of all time and our guest Enrica Monzani is here to share what makes it so delicious. The local variety of basil is a key ingredient o

45:17 Ep. 225

225. Top Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Your Italy Trip #2

We noticed a few little mistakes creeping into the trip planning of our online community so today we're sharing some tips on how to plan your Italy travels to avoid this trip ups. Travel has changed a lot since before the pandemic so it's worthwhile

43:14 Ep. 224

224. Brilliant Bari - Puglia's Bustling Capital

Buongiorno Bari! We love this port city, Puglia's capital. From the historic old town to the elegant boulevards, Bari has risen like a phoenix from a troubled past. In Bari you can roll pasta on the street with some expert ladies who love to laugh ch

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