City Life

“One of my favorite things was going out in Florence on my own and exploring, trying foods, shopping, looking at all the monuments, having the time to be with the culture on my own.” -Program Participant

Florence’s entire downtown is a Unesco World Heritage Site, yet don’t be fooled by its enchanting Renaissance past, it is much more than just a pretty face. While the city and its most famous sites draw thousands of visitors, scholars, and students from all over the globe, it is an innovative and ever-evolving modern Italian city with international flair and appeal.

Since the downtown area draws so many tourists, students are encouraged to explore nearby neighborhoods, such as the one where your dorm is located, to escape the multitudes that come to enjoy the beauty of the city.  Living in an authentic Florentine neighborhood greatly increases students' contact with locals, fosters a sense of community and belonging, and facilitates language and culture acquisition.