Studying abroad is one of the most exciting and unique decisions you can make—and if you’re considering Florence, Italy, you’re already on the right track. This iconic Renaissance city is more than just a place of art and history—it’s a vibrant, student-friendly destination that offers unforgettable experiences. Rather than seeing things in a textbook, you can experience them firsthand. From buzzing nightlife and incredible food to a warm social atmosphere and a prime location in the heart of Europe, here’s why Florence should be your study abroad location.
1. A City That Comes Alive at Night
Florence’s nightlife is one of its best-kept secrets. While it might be known for historic cathedrals and world-class museums, the city transforms at night into a hub of energy and excitement. With bars that serve home university shots, wine windows, and rooftop lounges with views of the Duomo, there are so many places for you to get a delicious drink. Students from around the world gather in the beautiful Piazza Santo Spirito or dance the night away in clubs like Space or XO. Whether you prefer laid-back conversations at a local bar or dancing until dawn, Florence offers it all.
2. A Perfect Base for Exploring Europe
Florence’s central location in Italy makes it an ideal home base for weekend travel. Hop on a train, and within two hours, you could be sipping coffee in Rome, traveling on a Vesba in the Tuscan countryside, or enjoying the canals of Venice. And with just a short and affordable flight away you could see Barcelona, Paris, Malta, and London. Living in Florence gives you the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Italian culture while also exploring the broader European landscape. With easy-to-navigate transportation the places you can visit are endless.
3. A Social Scene That Welcomes You In
Moving to a new country can be intimidating, but Florence makes it easy to feel at home. With a large international student community and a welcoming local culture, making new friends happens naturally. Specifically, the Internation Study Institute has allowed students enrolled to be prepared yet immerse themselves into each of their own unique experiences. Whether you’re bonding with classmates over group projects, meeting fellow travelers on the train, or talking over a cup of espresso, you’ll quickly build a network of friends from all over the world. Florence’s warm and open social atmosphere helps students feel connected—whether you’re here for a semester or to live.
4. Universities with Unbeatable Views
ISI in Florence is located in two historic and beautiful locations with the Arno right outside of the window. Imagine attending class in a former palace or library, then stepping outside to see the Arno River or the famous red dome of the Florence Cathedral. The city is essentially an open-air classroom, especially for students of art, history, architecture, and literature. Plus, being located in central Florence means being close to delicious cafes next door.
5. Affordable, Delicious, and Diverse Food
Food is a big part of life in Florence—and fortunately, it’s both delicious and budget-friendly. While the city is famous for its traditional Tuscan dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and Florentine steak, you’ll also find a surprising variety of international cuisine. Craving sushi, Mexican, or Middle Eastern food? Florence has it. Plus, grocery shopping is reasonably priced, and fresh markets like Mercato Centrale offer local produce, cheeses, and prepared foods that make eating well easy and affordable. And of couse who wouldn’t want to end the day with a scoop of traditional gelato?
Studying abroad in Florence isn’t just about academics—it’s about expanding your world, making lifelong memories, and experiencing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. With an unbeatable location, a thriving social scene, exciting nightlife, and some of the best food in the world, Florence offers everything you need for an enriching, unforgettable, inclusive study abroad adventure. So pack your bags and don’t look back on embarking on the best experience of your life.
Don’t debate any longer… experience this unforgettable experience for yourself! Sign up to study abroad today by visiting isiflorence.org!! #Florence#StudyAbroad @ISI Florence @Study Abroad Programs in Italy Posted by: Isabella Arena and Meredith Vautier
