Before studying abroad, all three of us were extreme iced coffee people. Big cups, lots of ice, and something we’d carry around all day between classes. Coming to Italy, we didn’t even think iced coffee existed here, and we were always baffled by the idea that we might have to drink hot coffee.

The day we arrived, we were desperate for some caffeine, so we decided to try our first Italian coffee. “Three cappuccinos please!” We immediately fell in love with cappuccinos and Italian cafes. Sitting there with a warm drink and talking about everything we were excited for made it the perfect first moment in Florence.

Some of our best conversations so far have happened over cups of coffee. There’s something really nice about sitting in a cafe, chatting, and relaxing. It’s such a simple moment, but one we often take for granted at home.

What we love most about the Italian coffee experience is how different it is. People stop at a cafe and enjoy their espresso or cappuccino. At first it felt strange not running out the door with a huge iced coffee, but we quickly embraced the slower routine.

After drinking many cappuccinos, we’ve decided our favorite in Florence is from Melaleuca, right next to our school building. Not only do they make a great cappuccino, but they also have the best cinnamon roll we’ve ever had. We even took our parents there for brunch this past week, which made it feel even more like our little go-to spot in Florence.

Studying abroad has somehow turned three iced coffee girls into hot coffee people… and honestly, we’re not mad about it. See more about our Italian coffee experience here!

Written by: Skyler Klein, Isabelle Fink, and Jordan Braxton