Italy
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Imagine studying abroad in Italy, where you experience the past mingling with the present. You may pass Roman ruins, a medieval cathedral, and a Renaissance fountain, all on your way to a modern art expo.
When you study abroad, Italy becomes your classroom. Our programs offer the opportunity to explore not only your host city, but also some of the best sites that the country has to offer through our immersive cultural excursions.
Explore historic and modern intricacies in business, culture, design, and more when you study abroad in Italy. With programs like modern fashion in Milan, archaeology in Rome, or even vinicultural business in Siena, IES Abroad is here to help you have the experience of a lifetime.
Live at the cutting-edge of creativity, business, and finance in this cosmopolitan metropolis in Northern Italy.
Il Duomo & Piazza del Duomo
The chief piazza in Milan, Piazza del Duomo takes its name from the dominating Gothic cathedral, il Duomo di Milano. Often described as one of the greatest churches in the world, this Gothic cathedral took five centuries to complete and is the fourth largest church in the world.
Santa Maria delle Grazie
Santa Maria delle Grazie is probably most famous for the painting that lies within its walls - da Vinci's Last Supper (Il Cenacolo).
Via Montenapoleone
Milan is the fashion capital of the world, and many designers host fashion shows in the city during Fashion Week. Via Montenapoleone is home to all the top designers, including Versace, Gucci, Prada, Armani, and more.
Castello Sforzesco
This sprawling and impressive castle, constructed in the 14th century, is now home to several museums and famous art collections. It has undergone numerous restorations since its first destruction in 1477 and rebuilding by Francesco Sforzesco in 1450.
Pirelli Tower
Known in Italy as the Grattacielo Pirelli or Pirellone, the Pirelli Tower is the second tallest building in Milan. It was designed by architect Gio Ponti and built in 1956 upon orders from Alberto Pirelli, president of the Pierlli Company.
The past meets the present in Italy’s capital, a modern and vibrant city full of art, history, and culture.
Vatican City
Located entirely within the city of Rome, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world. Officially the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, Vatican City is also home to the colossal St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Pantheon
The Pantheon, meaning "to every god" in Greek, was built more than 1,800 years ago. Originally a temple for all pagan gods, it was converted into a church in 609.
Colosseum & Roman Forum
The Colosseum is the most recognizable structure in Rome. Once an ampitheatre for gladiator contests and spectacles, it could hold up to 50,000 people; truly an accomplishment for the time.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is the largest fountain in Rome and boasts a magnificent scene of Triton, the Greek god of the sea.
Escape to the Tuscan countryside in this small, historic city with a rich student population.
Piazza del Campo
Siena's large, shell-shaped principal piazza is a favorite of tourists and locals alike. Renowned worldwide for its beauty and architectural integrity, the Piazza del Campo also hosts the famous Palio di Siena horse races twice a year.
Duomo di Siena
Built during the 13th century, Siena's famous black and white marbled medieval cathedral houses valuable Italian sculpture works from Donatello, Bernini, and a young Michelangelo.
Palio di Siena
In July students experience the world-renowned horse race, the Palio di Siena.
The Latest from Italy
13 Students' Perspectives on the Study Abroad Courses Now Offered Online
We asked our Ambassadors (alums of IES Abroad programs who love to share their experiences with prospective students) what they enjoyed most about the courses they took abroad to help inform you about your course options for IES Abroad's Virtual World DiscoverIES program.
Memories of Rome
I knew my time studying abroad was going to go by fast, but no one told me it was going to go by this fast!
In all honesty, I really am grateful though to have been in Rome, studying and exploring the city and the country even if just for a short time. There are a lot of good memories I have from my time there, but I am sure I will have to return soon for some new memories.
A Short but Sweet Time in Rome
This certainly wasn't how I expected my semester abroad to end. It's surreal how we saw the situation of the coronavirus evolve in Italy right as we were in the country. Although I am glad to be home now with my family, there is so much I miss from my time in Rome. I will cherish the memories of the places, the people and the food of Rome.
Milan Fashion Week!
Hi everyone! This was such an exciting week because it was the beginning of fashion week. Although I am not as into fashion as some of my friends here, it was definitely an experience. IES Abroad sent us a list of fashion shows and events to all the students which was very helpful. It basically impossible to get into the fashion shows, but many people still dress up and go outside the venue to see people. It was truly an experience.
