Liberal Arts Study Abroad Programs in Florence, Italy

I absolutely loved my time in Florence with World Strides! I had never been out of the country and didn't know anyone else going, so I was terrified, but the experience was amazing. World strides was really easy to work with and offered a lot of free activities in Florence, such as a cooking class and a weekend trip to Lake Garda. The staff were all really kind and welcoming, and I made very good friends in the program. I could not recommend this program enough!

This is my second trip with this program I did the Japan last year and Italy this year also intend to go again next year and I loved the different classes there were I took cuisines and art history we made many different kinds of Italian food and went to different places almost every day there were also many different day trips on the weekends that were amazing to go on and ending in Rome and seeing the colosseum and learning about it was a great way to end the trip and the staff was really amazing and accommodating with the need of the students

I learned so much on this trip through the art history course and photography course. I wasn’t that interested in many of the art made in periods such as renaissance, but I learned so much about them and got quite good at identifying them. I similarly wasn’t that knowledgeable about Christianity and especially Catholicism (at least more than the average American) but I learned so much about it as well and really came to respect the ideas related to it. Finally I also knew literally nothing about photography but through this I learned a lot about different styles and the essentials of photography to the point that I think I’ll be taking better pictures for the rest of my life. This is all without saying the fun and incredible sights and art I got to see, yes we went to churches and art museums to learn about it but we also went to appreciate it and through that I got to see some beautiful art that might be some of my highlight pictures from the trip. Also the day trips to other prominent cities are so much fun and so different Florence is a great base to operate out of and through that base different cities especially Venice and Siena contrast very well, Venice being very tight and of course featuring water, and Siena being very hilly.

World class program is great because it’s more than just a summer program it is an absolute immersion into Ancient Rome; the renaissance in Florence, and amazing medieval art were extravagant and eye popping. Going into the different museums and churches was, like dunking yourself into a beautiful shining spring in Ancient Rome taking you back in time to the minds of Roman’s and what they were thinking while walking into grandiose church. The different day trips were amazing in total there were four day trips one to Lucca where we rode bikes around the city walls, and explored the city, one to cinque terre where we hiked across a mountain with a view of the Mediterranean and ended on the beach. One to siena where we explored the city on the mountain and saw the amazing views. My favorite day trip was the one to Venice where we saw Murano the glass making city and we took boats around to different locations. The pros of the program was the amount of stuff that we had easy access to because of the great connections and the staff. Another pro is the community all the people were easy to connect with and make good friends without any problems. The amount of free time to explore and shop in Florence was great you were able to get what ever lunch you wanted or go to what ever shop in all of old Florence. The cons weren’t many. The program was genuinely so amazing. The only one I can think of is the heat in Italy, but it wasn’t the programs fault it is Italy’s faults for not having good american a/c. The only other con I can think of is not being able to go longer.

My study abroad experience was truly unforgettable, largely because of the amazing and easy-going staff who made every day enjoyable. Their friendly nature and sense of humor created a welcoming atmosphere that helped me feel at home even when I was far away. I often found myself laughing with them, which made the whole experience not just educational but genuinely fun. Their support and kindness made a big difference, turning challenges into opportunities to grow. One of the most meaningful parts of my time abroad was the relationships I built. I connected with people from all over the world, and these friendships became an important part of my journey. Sharing experiences, learning about different cultures, and supporting each other made these bonds truly special. These relationships taught me the value of understanding and empathy, and I know they will continue to be important in my life long after the program ends. Beyond the social side, I learned so much academically and personally. The new environment pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and adapt in ways I hadn’t before. I gained knowledge in my field of study, but I also learned life skills like independence and problem-solving. This experience has not only enriched my education but also helped me grow into a more confident and open-minded person.

Everything about AIFS is organized so well! I loved all the planned trips and classes, sports, and volunteering you could do within the program. I think my favorite part about this program was the meal plan and my friends I met and became so close with. I also learned a lot about Italy and got to explore a lot of my interests in my classes. My only one issue was with the absence policy. I get that 3 absences is generous, but I didn't like how you couldn't get an excused absence with a doctor's note. Unfortunately I got sick a lot during the program because students would come to school sick as they had no other choice. This caused sickness to spread rapidly among students in the program. It was disappointing that when I was sick I couldn't rest even if I had gone to the doctor and provided a doctor's note. I feel like maybe it would even make sense to change it to 2 or 1 absence as long as students can get their absences excused with a doctor's note.

My study abroad experience was truly amazing. I felt safe, fully immersed in the culture, and it was honestly one of the best times of my life. One of my favorite parts was how the school made me feel excited to go to class and genuinely connected to what I was learning. All the staff members were extremely kind and helpful. My favorite classes were Italian Food Studies with Mario Bracci and Wine Marketing with Dario Parenti. The content in both courses was engaging, and the professors were hands down the best I have ever experienced in my academic career. Professor Bracci exceeded expectations by giving us extensive food recommendations and taking us to various places for different food experiences, which made the class incredibly memorable. Professor Parenti also went above and beyond by taking us to different locations to try Tuscan wines and even allowing us to experience wines he helped create. His expertise clearly translated into the way he led his class and engaged with students. Overall, I had an incredible experience. The program-led trips to Venice and Rome were very well organized and a lot of fun, adding even more to an unforgettable semester.

AIFS made sure I had the best experience abroad while keeping me safe and supporting me through each step. The meal plan and housing options were unmatched as you are living in the city eating at local restaurants every day! AIFS really supported my traveling ventures on the weekends and did not restrict me from having independence with that. The trips they took us on to Rome and Venice were all included at amazing hotels and the tours through the city were priceless. Also the weekly activities they offered such as wine tours, pasta classes, picnics, and more were so amazing! The classes personally were not challenging enough but the professors really cared about our learning.

I went abroad alone, which was very intimidating at first, considering I've never even been to Europe before! However The AIFS staff and students met me exactly where I was. I was immediately surrounded by new friends and an apartment that felt like home. This experience was the best thing I had ever done for myself. I was immersed into a entirely new culture that created the industry I want to pursue a career in. Physically exploring Italy forged a special connection between my personal experience and Italian history, that a textbook simply couldn't replicate. This semester showed my ability to explore, learn, be scared, take risks, and prove to myself that I can tackle the growing pains that come with adulting. I leave this experience with a gift too big for words!!!!!

AIFS Florence is genuinely one of the best study abroad programs in Florence. I was able to live in an apartment in the heart of the city, the food program was AMAZING and all the activities included the program was such a great perk. We got to eat at local restaurants and cafes everyday and go on field trips in the city daily. I was able to meet friends from all over the country I'm still best friends with and travel with them on weekends since there is no classes Fridays. The AIFS staff is so friendly and welcoming. They helped contact our landlord when our AC broke and had it fixed day of. Overall best summer of my life!

I truly had the best experience. Had random roommates where 2 of them became my lifelong best friends! I met so many amazing people & had so many cool travel experiences! Met people who lived in these countries and changed as a person. I truly grew and made my life better.

I enjoyed this program. I opted in to buying the flight through the program. I felt the instructions and process was easy. I enjoyed my living situation- it was almost an air bnb with four girls and two full bathrooms and a toilet in the laundry room. It was a longer walk to school than some and to get to the center of Florence but it was a nice living experience. I felt the class sometimes were almost too long. I took 5 class and on Mondays and Tuesday I was in class from 9 to almost 5. I did enjoy the class and some of the class offerings were interesting and you wouldn’t get that anywhere else. Overall it was a great experience, I felt the school was great at taking students to places like Venice and Rome and some classes had field trips. Very enjoyable experience

I studied in Florence, Italy during Fall 2024. I chose AIFS Abroad for a number of reasons. Having face to face interactions with AIFS staff during the application process made the steps to getting abroad much more manageable. Having the opportunity to take courses that not only worked toward my graduation goals, but also sparked interest in new areas was a huge asset to my time abroad. Through my courses, and connections at AIFS, I was able to build lifelong connections, friendships, and met with professionals who are continuing to help me achieve my goals. Beyond the academics, the accommodations and opportunities presented through AIFS positively contributed to my time abroad. Living around the corner from the Duomo, and crossing the Ponte Vecchio everyday to get to class was a unique cultural experience. AIFS provided field trips to better immerse students in Florentine culture, and excursions outside of Florence to see beyond common tourist attractions. As a student through AIFS, we had a meal plan to use at local restaurants, access to cooking classes, museum tours, and many other opportunities at our finger tips to embrace our time abroad. Moving across the world can be daunting, however, the friendships and connections I built through AIFS are ones I will cherish for the rest of my life. Those who share abroad experiences together with have a unique type of bond. I had the opportunity to live with five other girls who were also studying through AIFS. I never could have imagined the experienced we had together. But, now I cannot imagine living a life without them by my side. I truly feel indebted to AIFS for introducing me to my lifelong best friends. The AIFS community is one-of-a-kind and one that I knew undoubtedly would support me through my time abroad, and continues to show up for me even a year after! Thinking back to who I was a year ago when I was leaving the US to go abroad, compared to who I am now, is inspiring. I had no clue how much I would grow as an individual. I became more confident, outspoken, independent, and driven than I could have ever imagined. The experiences I had abroad shaped me into the person I am today. I recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking for a unique abroad experience. Fueled by individuals who are eager to see you succeed, and will be there to support you every step of the way.

The course itself was a wonderful mix of cultural immersion and learning about the history, art, historical figures who lived in Florence centuries ago. My one and only complaint can be summed up as, if you go on this trip, don’t expect everyone to be as into as you. I was deeply passionate about the history of Italy, and made a friend or two on the trip who was equally as passionate, but as a consumer of this tour, be aware that some are here to passively take in the sights, rather than eagerly devouring everything they can see.

I studied abroad this summer in Florence with WorldStrides and it was truly an amazing experience. I was able to immerse myself in a new culture, grow in unforeseen ways, make new friends and so many memories that I will forever cherish.

Studying abroad was the best experience of my life. I learned how to navigate life in a different country and discover myself while traveling the world. It was truly life changing and I encourage everyone to go while they are able and in college. I never had been outside of the United States before going abroad, and now I have been to 11 different countries. You are able to travel the world and see things you only dreamt of seeing. Studying abroad is so much more than just visiting a country, you have little to no obligations other than school so you are free to do whatever you want with your time. Whether you go alone or with friends... go. I never thought I would be able to experience something like this but truly this opportunity was the best decision I have made in my life. If I had one piece of advice to give, it would be to say yes to everything.

Studying abroad in Florence was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. From walking past the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio on my way to class, to exploring masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus at the Uffizi Gallery, every day felt like living in a museum. I spent afternoons wandering the narrow streets, tasting authentic gelato, and hiking up to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views of the city. On weekends, I traveled to different parts of Tuscany and beyond, experiencing the diversity of Italian culture firsthand. Living in such a vibrant city taught me independence, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation for global perspectives, and I’ll carry the memories and lessons from Florence with me forever.

Florence was an amazing city to study in! With a central location in Italy and ease of public transportation, I was able to visit major cities all over the country, while studying in the beautiful city center of Florence. From surrounding myself in local customs through food and live music to visiting centuries old sites I had the opportunity to live immersed in a new culture. I studied over summer for a shorter, 4-week term. As a psychology student, I decided to take the Psychology of Art and Creativity which gives me credit towards my major. My class took field trips throughout the city and completed a workshop with a local Florentine artist. One of my favorite parts of my experience was the walkability Florence offered. My class was two streets away from the Duomo and less than ten minutes from my apartment. Most afternoons I enjoyed exploring the city, all within walking distance. Florence has so much to offer and was definitely the best host city for me!

I had a great time in Florence with CIS Abroad! The support staff was awesome, my class (Magazine Editing and Publishing I) really immersed me in local culture, the activities planned for us were so fun, and the food was so delicious. You should definitely study abroad in Florence with CIS!

I chose AIFS Abroad because of its reputation for strong student support and the unique opportunity to study in Florence, a city full of history, art, and culture. From the very beginning, the staff made the process smooth by guiding me through applications, pre-departure steps, and any questions I had. In Florence, AIFS provided housing in a great location, along with excursions and cultural activities that made the experience so much richer. Exploring Tuscany and other parts of Italy with the group helped me connect with the culture in ways I never could have on my own. The community was one of my favorite parts, I made lifelong friends and always felt supported by the onsite staff, who were approachable and eager to help with academics or everyday life abroad. Studying abroad with AIFS in Florence gave me more confidence, independence, and appreciation for different perspectives. It shaped me personally and professionally, and I know the skills I gained will stay with me. I would recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone who wants a supportive, immersive, and life-changing experience in Florence.