Summer Study Abroad in Florence Programs offer the opportunity to study in the capital city of the Italian region of Tuscany. Known for its picturesque landscapes, wines and influence on fashion, amongst other things, Tuscany itself is often considered a “nation within a nation”[i] Studying abroad in Florence could give you a fantastic home base to explore the surroundings as well as placing you in a large metropolitan area famous in its own right – and for undergraduate credit at the same time. According to a recent report[ii], Italy is considered the top country for Study Abroad, and with all that Florence has going for it, summer in Florence should be at the top yours.
Why Consider a Summer Study Abroad in Florence?
Studying abroad in Florence, Firenze, means actually being in the birthplace of the Renaissance, center of medieval European trade and finance, and just flat out one of the wealthiest and most beautiful cities of all time.[iii] Studying overseas means you are more than a tourist; the potential for discovering a favorite café, making lasting friendships, learning to be self sufficient, are some potential side benefits to your education.
FUN FACT: Ciao: Hello or goodbye. A very informal greeting. Until 4 P.M you could also say Buongiorno: Good morning
Art and Architecture
Florence is considered a cultural and architectural hub. Could this be because of neoclassical architecture or renaissance artworks, numerous museums, galleries, and monuments? Things to see – The Leonardo da Vinci statue outside the Uffizi Gallery, he Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge), the Medici chapel, Michelangelo's David. Definitely visit the Galleria dell’Accademia because seeing and experiencing art is way more interesting than reading about it.
Piazzas and Palazzos
Florence is famous its city squares (piazzas), and as it happens Florence is known for the Piazza della Signoria where you can literally spend a day looking at the outdoor sculptures, or venture into the Palazza Vecchio. Or just eat at one of the many ristorantes and people watch with a glass of chianti. Your call. By the way, the Piazzele Michelangelo is in your backyard too and gives some panoramic views of the city…
Parks and Picturesque
Need some quiet time? If you crave some green space, check out the Boboli gardens; statues like Giambologna’s Bathing Venus dot the landscaped paths.
Fun in Florence
While Florence has tons of culture, history and art, it is also a great place, and reputedly safe, to just get out and have a good time. Chat with friends at a café, go dancing at a club, watch a soccer game at a local bar, or enjoy a glass of wine (you are in the home of Chianti wine). From cafes to gelato shops to restaurants, trattorias, chances are you will get out and enjoy.
Foodie
Tuscany is known for its earthy regional cuisine, like white beans with sage and olive oil but you will also find yummy stuff at food trucks, new and retro restaurants, coffee bars, panino, antipasti and pizza….if you aren’t studying culinary arts you might want to learn how to cook there.
Fashion in Firenze
Florence is the birthplace of a few luxury designers – think: Emilio Pucci, Roberto Cavalli, Gucci, Ermanno Scervino, and Salvatore Ferragamo. It is fast-becoming a top destination for Fashion and Technology conventions, and considered an important city for Italian fashion[iv]
Find a Summer Study Abroad in Florence Program
Choosing a Summer Study Abroad in Florence program will expose you an elegant city with the charm and history of the Renaissance mixed with contemporary elements of a modern metropolis. To initiate a search for undergraduate summer programs in Florence, Italy use the ‘select a specialty’ tab. You can look for a specific type of program (Italian language, Baking & Pastry, Humanities). Or just browse through the listings, depending on whether you are looking into an elective or a required course. Whatever your major or minor, a summer study abroad in Florence is likely to be an experience you will cherish forever. Continued success as you enjoy many impressionable moments in Firenze!
