Welcome to an ongoing story about Italy told with depth, heart, and a bit of edge because you need real insight, not “influencing”. Each episode blends storytelling, lived experience, and practical tips for thoughtful travelers who want more than a checklist.
About Danielle
I’m an art historian, travel advisor, and writer. All my work comes from genuine relationships, rigorous research, and a deep connection to Italy through both sides of my family.
I’ve studied, traveled, and worked in Italy for two decades and have never stopped discovering new places that leave me filled with awe and wonder. I studied graphic design in New York and Florence, then returned to Florence for an MA in art history. I was a Lecturer at The Cloisters, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s medieval branch, for 16 years. I wrote a piece for The Paris Review about my years spent studying the Unicorn Tapestries with an unlikely mentor.
I’ve also written for BBC Travel, Condè Nast Traveler, and the UK Independent.
Barron’s named me a Worldwise Entrepreneur.
I’m also the founder of Arthur Avenue Food Tours.
Want to chat? Send me an email at danielle@danielleoteri.com
Why Subscribe to Danielle Oteri’s Italy?
If you’re into history, music, myth, poetry, and stories of fascinating people, you’re in the right spot.
Free Subscribers
New podcast episodes and articles
Access to the comments section
Paid Subscribers – $8/month or $80/year
Monthly Ask Me Anything About Italy Zoom meeting. This is extremely useful for those planning a trip who want to ask questions and get new ideas and resources.
Monthly Destination Deep Dives where I share practical advice and insider knowledge about well-known Italian destinations and then give you detailed itineraries to adapt my best ideas and resources to your travel dates
One-On-One Travel Services (via danielleoteri-italy.com)
Planning a specific trip and want dedicated time on your itinerary? Here are the services I offer:
Trip Consultations $295
Bring your ideas, questions, or dilemmas. I’ll bring expert advice, clarity, and curated recommendations you can trust. During a one-hour Zoom call, I answer your questions and guide you with honest advice and a detailed list of resources to help you make informed choices and book your preferred options.
Custom Itinerary Design $995
This personalized planning service is designed for travelers who want a thoughtfully curated trip, crafted just for them. Your journey begins with a 45‑minute Zoom call to discuss your ideal itinerary, travel style, budget, and timing. From there, we design a customized day‑by‑day plan that reflects your pace, interests, and priorities. Every itinerary includes restaurant suggestions, optional experiences, and curated recommendations delivered through a custom mobile app for easy on‑the‑go access. Once the first draft is ready, we’ll email it to you for review. If it feels right, we’ll share direct booking links so you can confirm each experience at your own pace. For travelers who prefer private experiences over group tours, we can book expert local guides from our personal network and invoice those services à la carte. After you've completed your bookings, we’ll meet again for a 45-minute follow-up call to finalize details, review daily logistics, and address any last-minute questions. The result is a seamless, personalized itinerary that leaves room for discovery while keeping every travel day beautifully organized.
Bespoke Trip Planning (Quoted based on your trip)
For travelers who want a completely custom itinerary that reflects their style, interests, and values. These trips are layered, beautiful, and one of a kind. I design the itineraries, while my cousin and business partner, Arianna Scariati, plans and coordinates them with our network of trusted partners on the ground in Italy.
You can read all the details here.
