Discover Italy: Where Ancient Empires Meet Modern Life.
Echoes of ancient empires, magnificent art and architecture, and stunning scenery have long lured travelers to Rome. Study abroad with IFSA, and you will get the chance to go deeper, sifting through the political, economic, and social challenges faced today by this EU founding member.
With access to respected universities such as LUISS in Rome, our expert team is ready to help you find the ideal academic fit and ensure an enriching experience, in and out of the classroom.
Why study abroad in Italy?
Education style. Italian universities traditionally balance lectures, research, and independent study.
Cultural orientation. Italy鈥檚 mix of Roman history, Catholic influence, and modern European identity is visible everywhere, from architecture and festivals to food and daily traditions.
Student lifestyle. Students enjoy a vibrant caf茅 culture, lively piazzas, and easy access to travel within Italy and across Europe, with high-speed trains connecting major cities in just a few hours.
Italian cities study abroad students live in:
Rome is Italy鈥檚 capital, where ancient history, Renaissance art, Baroque fountains, lively piazzas, neighborhood caf茅s, and world-famous landmarks create a city layered with culture, energy, and daily life.
Italian cities popular among study abroad students to visit:
Cinque Terre is a coastal area made up of five colorful villages along the Ligurian Sea. Known for cliffside paths, terraced hillsides, and train-linked towns, it is a popular.
Florence is a Renaissance city known for its art, architecture, historic piazzas, river views, artisan traditions, and lively student atmosphere.
Milan is a modern, cosmopolitan city known for fashion, design, business, contemporary culture, historic landmarks, and fast-paced urban life.
Naples is a southern Italian city known for historic streets, coastal views, vibrant neighborhoods, and a celebrated food culture. Its proximity to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast makes it a strong base for exploring the region鈥檚 history and landscapes.
Venice is known for canals, bridges, palaces, and centuries of maritime history. Students often visit for its distinctive architecture, art museums, and walkable islands connected by waterways instead of streets.
Verona is a northern Italian city known for Roman ruins and medieval streets. Its historic arena, piazzas, and riverfront setting give students a quieter but culturally rich alternative to larger Italian cities.
Italy study abroad highlights
Language spoken
Italian
Capitals
Rome
Common housing types
Residence halls, shared flats, homestays
Known for
Ancient ruins, Renaissance art, Mediterranean cuisine, Catholic heritage, and vibrant city life
Time zone
CET (UTC +1)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Fun facts
Parts of Rome鈥檚 aqueduct network鈥攂uilt 2,000 years ago鈥攁re still in use. High-speed trains connect Rome to Milan in 3 hours, Florence in 1.5 hours, and Naples in 1 hour. Vatican City, the world鈥檚 smallest country at just 121 acres, sits within Rome.
IFSA programs in Italy
Find the perfect program that blends your academic studies with the adventure of living in Italy.
“Taking a humanities course in Rome was unlike anything I have experienced. In this city, art and history aren鈥檛 confined to textbooks鈥攖hey鈥檙e everywhere. Walking in and around landmarks like St. Peter鈥檚 Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Capuchin Crypt made the material tangible and engaging.”
“Make friends with locals (if you鈥檙e worried about a language barrier, most of the youth in Rome know English very well)! It can be hard to step out of your comfort zone and seek out friends other than the fellow IFSA students, however, locals are key to finding what you need! They鈥檙e from that area and know it well. My Italian friends have shown me the best sights to see and hang out spots that aren鈥檛 tourist traps. No matter where you go, finding your community can make your trip so much more enjoyable and fulfilling. Don鈥檛 be afraid to meet new people and seek out spaces where you feel comfortable.”
