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Study Abroad in Florence

College Study Abroad

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Explore Florence CIEE

Take your studies to the heart of the Renaissance when you study abroad in Florence, Italy. Start your day with a cappuccino at a neighborhood café, cross the Arno River on your way to class, and pause to admire the view of Pontevecchio framed by beautiful hilltops. Spend afternoons sketching in your favorite square, explore the Boboli Gardens, browse the leather markets near San Lorenzo, and watch the sunset behind the Duomo from Piazzale Michelangelo. From weekend trips through Tuscany to evenings filled with homemade pasta and local gelato, Florence study abroad promises an everyday connection to art, history, and the rhythm of Italian life.

While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in Florence, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience. 

EXPLORE FLORENCE PROGRAMS

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Top Activities in Florence with CIEE

Every CIEE semester program has frequent cultural excursions, and a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Florence, study tours and excursions may include:

  • Visits to significant Florence locations, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio  
  • A day trip to Siena, one of the most important cities of the European Middle Ages, to explore its well-preserved UNESCO-listed historic center  
  • Visit a traditional working vineyard and olive grove, with an in-depth description of wine and oil production, promotion, and distribution

About CIEE Florence

CIEE Florence is based at The Social Hub on Viale Belfiore, a vibrant and modern facility designed to support both learning and community. The space includes dedicated office areas and fully equipped classrooms, offering students a comfortable and professional setting for academic instruction and support.

Beyond the classroom, students have access to The Social Hub’s many amenities, including restaurants, cafés, co-working areas, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Florence. The lively atmosphere attracts Italian university students and young professionals, creating natural opportunities for cultural exchange and connection.

Located just outside the medieval Porta al Prato gate, The Social Hub is well connected to the historic center and only steps from the tram, making it both convenient to navigate and close to student housing. CIEE Florence offers the perfect balance of accessibility, modern comfort, and authentic Florentine energy. 

Florence Study Abroad Programs

Pocket Guide to Florence

Currency 
Euro

Spoken Languages 
Italian, English

Available Transportation 
Bus, tram, taxi

Famous Local 
Michelangelo – Italian sculptor, painter, and architect

Climate 
Warm, temperate climate with humid summers and cold, rainy winters

Local Attraction 
The Florence Duomo – a symbol of the city's Renaissance

Airport 
Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)

Social Norms 
It is important to dress neatly and respectfully, especially inside holy buildings

What to Pack 
Comfortable shoes – you’ll explore Florence almost entirely on foot

Frequently Asked Questions

Widely considered one of the most student-friendly cities in the world, Florence is an excellent place to live and learn abroad. From its renowned museums to its famed arts, astonishing architecture, and beloved culture, Florence has so much to offer you during your time abroad.

Florence is considered a very walkable city and is best appreciated on foot. Pack a pair (or two) of comfortable shoes and go on a walkabout to get a lay of the land. Take in the local culture, practice (or advance) your Italian language skills, indulge in the city’s authentic (and highly praised) cuisine, and take Florence in through an artistic and historic lens to fully appreciate its charm. Make the most of your time in Florence while this Italian gem is your classroom!

Boasting a mild climate and walkable city streets, there are a few must-pack essentials you’ll want to have handy while studying abroad in Florence, including:  

  • A comfortable pair of shoes 
  • A light, water-resistant jacket 
  • A reliable day bag 
  • A scarf, pair of gloves, and hat 
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses 
  • A sketchbook if artistic inspiration strikes 
  • Your appetite for authentic pizza, creamy gelato, and local chianti wine 

While the best study abroad programs in Florence is quite subjective, we can provide you with a list of some of our most popular Florence study abroad programs:

  1. Summer in Florence
  2. Semester in Florence
  3. January in Florence
  4. Arts, Architecture & Design

The cost of studying abroad in Florence varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Florence study abroad program page.

For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.  

Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?

Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Florence with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, architecture, marketing, and more!

Search our internship opportunities to get started!

Study Abroad Scholarships and Grants

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Apply in 1,2,3!

CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Florence to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program 
  2. Review all available funding opportunities 
  3. Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application 
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Study Abroad Scholarships

NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS 

Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.

MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS 

Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.

OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS 

Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.

VIEW OUR SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS

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