I notice that RS blows off Ravena, Modena and Bologna while Michellin gives them four stars. ???????
Rick tends to focus on selected destinations that he thinks are likely to be most appealing to the typical American tourist with limited vacation time. My guess is that Ravenna's location (not along a major rail line) makes it seem less likely to be on short itineraries. The same would apply to Modena.
It has been stated here that the publisher has insisted that no pages be added to the Italy guide book.
When you're ready to range more widely, you need to consult additional information sources. There is, however, a Sicilian guide book being published very soon--more's the pity for those of us who'd rather be among the few American tourists there rather than among the many.
Ravenna is covered in Rick's separate Venice guidebook. And the Michelin Green Guide to Italy gives Bologna 2 stars out of a maximum 3.
I'm a big michelin guide fan. 3 stars being the highest and an absolute must see, Ravenna totally deserves the 3 stars, because of those incredible byzantine mosaics in 5-6 different locations. Both Modena and bologna are 2 stars. I haven't been to Modena but went to bologna, which I found less appealing than Ravenna. From bologna I did a day trip to Ravenna ans San Marino, and I absolutely loved both.
Ravenna is beautiful, not only for its mosaics, but for the city itself. It's a good size, flat and perfect for bikes. Plus the people we've met are terrific, fun to talk to and full of suggestions for things to do and places to eat. But okay, Rick, leave it out of your books so that we can enjoy it--the city's a straight run up the superstrada from where we live.
[Edited!]
Before you ask for more coverage of unexplored gems, I have two letters for you: CT.
What is CT ? Try not be cute.
CT in Cinque Terre and partly because of its recommendation by Rick Steves, tourism there has exploded and it is now overly crowded.
Ravenna is a wow. Besides the incredibly beautiful and well-preserved early Byzantine churches and mosaics, there are some other interesting sights and a very pleasant, walkable town. Well worth at least 1 night.
Opinions on Bologna are divided. I liked it a lot. It is a very good base for day trips to surrounding towns, like Modena and Ravenna, but also Ferrara, Padua.