Ravenna is a city that will make you fall in love. Once the capital of empires and home to some of the world's most breathtaking Byzantine mosaics, it's also a place that continues to inspire, from Dante Alighieri finishing Paradiso to Lord Byron writing in exile.

In this Amongst Romans special feature, I explore Ravenna's rich artistic and literary heritage while uncovering how the city is shaping the future of travel through the Ravenna Footprints initiative. From mosaic-covered churches to quiet cycling paths and creative workshops, this episode reveals how Ravenna blends history, culture and sustainability in a way that few destinations manage to do.

If you love Italy's quieter corners, meaningful travel and stories that go beyond the usual tourist trail, this episode will make you see Ravenna and cultural travel in a whole new light.

Resources:

• Full Ravenna blog post
• Ravenna Footprints initiative
• Check out 200+ phrases for tourists for your next trip
• Tips for Planning Your Trip to Italy
• Italy Travel Guide
• Find out where to stay in Italy
• Discover things to do in Italy

Disclaimer: This trip was supported by the Ravenna tourism board as part of the Footprints Project. All opinions are my own.

Love Italy? Check out the AmongstRomans blog and dream of Italy.

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As summer winds down and Italians head back to work and school, something magical happens: the crowds thin, the prices drop, and the weather is still glorious.

In this final episode of Italian Summer Shorts, I’m talking about why the end of August and the start of September might be the best time to visit Italy. You’ll hear:

– What changes in the vibe, the prices, and the crowds – Where to go for a more relaxed experience – What’s still open and summery, even as vacation season ends – Why this in-between moment is perfect for cultural travellers

If you’ve ever wondered when to visit Italy without the peak season chaos, this episode is your answer.

Resources:

• Check out 200+ phrases for tourists for your next trip
• Tips for Planning Your Trip to Italy
• Italy Travel Guide
• Find out where to stay in Italy
• Discover things to do in Italy

Love Italy? Check out the AmongstRomans blog and dream of Italy.

Subscribe to our mailing list and never miss an episode.

Join our adventures on TikTok and Instagram.

Don't forget to leave a review and share your thoughts with us!

Aperitivo isn’t just a drink before dinner. It’s a way of life. In Italy, it’s how people unwind, socialize, and ease into the evening with style. But if you’re visiting, you might be wondering how it works, what to order, and what’s expected.

In this episode of Italian Summer Shorts, I break down:

– What aperitivo really is (and what it’s not) – The difference between aperitivo and apericena – What to drink and what’s usually served – How it varies across Italy – Tips for doing aperitivo like a local, not a tourist

Whether you’re sipping a spritz in a piazza or discovering something regional and new, this episode will help you enjoy one of Italy’s best summer rituals. Listen now, and don’t forget the olives.

Resources:

• Check out 200+ phrases for tourists for your next trip
• Tips for Planning Your Trip to Italy
• Italy Travel Guide
• Find out where to stay in Italy
• Discover things to do in Italy

Love Italy? Check out the AmongstRomans blog and dream of Italy.

Subscribe to our mailing list and never miss an episode.

Join our adventures on TikTok and Instagram.

Don't forget to leave a review and share your thoughts with us!