Top 5 Language Schools to Study Italian in Florence and Shape Your Language Skills
Michelangelo was like the Michael Jordan of his time.
Both were among the top artists that was ever existed, both were legends in their time and both were able to hit a throw a dunk from their free throw line. Perhaps Michelangelo was unable to achieve that feat but we'll never be able to say for certain.
However, there's one thing Michelangelo was able to do that Jordan did not, and that's the city of Florence. It was his home town (he's from outside from the center of Florence) and it was the location that ignited his love for the arts and language.
It's easy to understand the reasons.
Even now, Florence captures the hearts and minds of those who pass through its marble streets. The experience of being in Florence is like being in the streets of a Renaissance masterpiece and taking classes in Italian in Florence will open the mind to the dynamism of generations of geniuses who have made Florence its home. A little Chianti can also help.
It doesn't matter if you're trying to make your Italian language skills in the form of an Italian capolavoro (masterpiece) as well as learn a few Italian words during your vacation, we'll help you to get the most out of your stay in the city of art of Italy.
Study Italian or Sightsee in Florence? Get the Best of Both Worlds
If you're looking for improving the quality of your Italian skills while having a wonderful vacation, you won't find better than Florence.
Is it the most ideal place to experience the complete, intense Italian adventure? It's probably not. For those who aren't in search of a gruelling experience, or who have only just a few days (a week or two) each year for holidays, studying Italian within Florence will be a most suitable option. Here are some reasons for why:
Many languages schools: Florence is full of top Italian schools offering the vast array of courses. The majority of them let you pick your own level or private lessons, so that you get all the free time you require. Schools also arrange excursions, tours and cultural lessons that are based on eating, art, music and other things. Take a look at our top picks below.
Florence is extremely well-connected: Florence is the central point of commerce and tourism in Italy. It's quite convenient for travelers to get between Florence to other regions of Italy. Italy's high-speed trains are excellent day excursions and, from Florence you can travel to cities such as Rome, Venice or Milan within a couple of hours.
A flurry in culture: Florence has a plethora of Italian culture, art, food, wine and music and more. In your spare time go to at the Uffizi art museum; the paintings and drawings in florence itself is a lifetime experience. Watch the classical music show in the Basilica di San Marco or enjoy the local cuisine that include the famous pappardelle pasta as well as the famous lampredotto which is a sandwich made from the stomach of a beef!
The chance to talk with genuine Italians. There are lots of tourists in Florence, however the locals are still enthused to speak Italian and they feel great when you speak their language. It will be possible to take the lessons you learned in the classroom and put it into practice in real life right away. There's no better way to acquire knowledge than by doing it through experience!
5 Best Language Schools to Study Italian in Florence
As we've mentioned earlier, there are many places to learn Italian within Florence. Being able to choose from a variety of options is always a plus, isn't it? There are plenty of top-quality institutions in Florence to choose from but there are those that are not that much reputable and others that are just plain scams.
For a non-native, It's sometimes difficult to distinguish these schools, so we've conducted our research and identified five excellent Italian language schools located in Florence which you can count on. They are certain to provide fair prices with qualified teachers, great accommodation options , and plenty of extracurricular activities.
Ready, now? Let's learn!
1. Lorenzo de' Medici
The name is derived from an important member of the noble family, Lorenzo de' Medici is one of the schools that is as sophisticated as the name suggests.
It has more than 500 courses across more than 38 fields of studies (Italian is just an aspect of what they provide). It's certified through authorities such as the Italian Ministry of Education, as well as the US government, and was granted with the European Quality Certification by the EU.
What does Lorenzo de'Medici offer students studying Italian? Actually, it's all. The main campus and the housing are situated within San Lorenzo. San Lorenzo neighborhood, a vibrant and gorgeous part of the city with plenty of opportunities for students to take on Italian and enjoy the tradition. Many course options are offered and the instructors are all certified and accredited.
Lorenzo de'Medici understands that learning doesn't always take place in the classroom. Therefore, prepare to go to the markets or shops, read newspapers, watch movies and be exposed to modern Italian culture during your class.
2. Centro Machiavelli
It is located just a short distance from The Ponte Vecchio (a famous bridge that was built in the past), Centro Machiavelli is located at piazza santo spirito (Holy Spirit Square). If you're looking for a smaller classroom as well as a familial environment within the heart of the city's bustle, and you're searching for a place to do it, then Centro Machiavelli is the right destination.
This school adheres to the method of teaching through communication that means that you'll be learning grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary by engaging in conversations. The authentic Italian instructors guide the learning course, taking form in groups of small students.
The typical school day runs around 4 hours, which allows students ample time to wander around the city. If you're looking for guided tours, Centro Machiavelli provides many cultural activities including tours, history classes, visit to local artisan shops, excursions and more.
Are you not interested in languages? Maybe you've always wanted Italian, however your spouse isn't keen on it. In Centro Machiavelli, those looking to learn something different can choose between cooking classes, music classes and art history courses as well as other options.
3. Centro Koine
If you're interested in Italian art history, you might want to take a course at Centro Koine. The institution is situated in the historic Borgo Santa Croce, it's just few minutes away from the resting places of Michelangelo, Rossini, Galileo and Machiavelli.
Centro Koine itself is accredited by the Italian ministry of education. The company has been awarded four consecutive awards for customer satisfaction from Language Course.
The school is a believer in small sized classes and employing as much culture and instruction in their language courses. Koine does not operate as like a traditional schoolroom. Students are encouraged to lead the class and pursue their own passions within the Italian context. It is not limited to the use of paper and books but also to look into music, art, culture, and the current news that are in Italian.
Centro Koine's standard program includes 20 hours of classes every week, along with a variety of cultural additions. If you're looking for an adventure of a lifetime, Koine also provides <strong>instruction in countryside during hikes or on boats to explore costal islands in the ocean!
4. Accademia Europa di Firenze
The Accademia Europa di Firenze (AEF) is an institution that is a hub of Italian culture and language in Florence. They offer a range of professionally-taught classes covering all aspects of Italian culture such as music, dance, arts, and, of course speaking the Italian language. The range of courses available at one place makes this school the ideal option for a family or group vacation.
AEF is also a great option for people who prefer to <strong>learn at their own speed, since they provide various tracks to select from. For those who prefer more spare time can opt for the light course, which is 16 lessons every week. Other students can choose the standard 20 lessons, or opt for an intensive course that includes 26 lessons per week.
AEF assures at least 10 hours a week of afternoon (post-lesson) activities that students can take part in for free. This includes museum visits, movie screenings, and river rafting excursions.
5. ABC School
It is the ABC School that is located in the classical Renaissance-era building in central Florence. It is almost a museum in itself, the nine classrooms within the Palazzo Malvisi are covered with the original frescos of the time.
However, it's not the most unique thing about this school. ABC is a school that's geared towards students. ABC school is among the most focused schools for students we've seen. The school limits their class size to only eight students, while the majority of other schools with a reputation limit their students to 12. They also edit and write every single one of their curriculum materials. If this doesn't demonstrate commitment, then we don't know what it is.
ABC School is also the only school we've seen which offers Italian holiday classes. The courses are designed for students who are looking to learn and have a relaxing vacation. The course consists of 10 classes every week, and five meals with a tutor in the traditional Tuscan trattoria. There is also a honeymoon package. Another one is specifically designed to cater for families with children.
Students taking any class can also choose to be part of any of the cultural events that the school arranges throughout the course in the afternoon.
You Italian will blossom within the city that is full of Lilies. Don't let your time in Florence be wasted. If you're in a position to do so, make an effort to explore Florence the way the people do. Take a bite of a 1kg Fiorentina (Florentine) steak, purchase purple scarves and attend an Fiorentina football game and lastly, go to the countryside and build an appetite for Chianti!
Even if it's just an unplanned vacation, if you are studying Italian in Florence, it is certain that you will be able to feel the effects of the immersion. These don't only include better proficiency in Italian, but also a deep impact of Florence that has become part of you even if only for a short period of time.