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
Celebrating a Birthday Abroad
I’ve spent my birthday in a variety of places over the years, from birthday parties with family to the Mall of America to last year when I had to work on my birthday. This year, I was fortunate enough to get to celebrate my birthday on a weekend trip to Greece with a friend. I spent my birthday in Poros, Greece relaxing on the beaches of the island and experiencing Greek culture. Greece, a place I’ve always dreamed of going, was everything I hoped it would be.
My Experiences with European Stereotypes
Being human means having preconceived notions and ideas, it’s simply a part of life. This means that stereotypes and clichés are a real part of traveling and experiencing new cultures.
5 Tips I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Studied Abroad
As my time studying with IES Abroad has ended, I felt that I could shed light on my experience for others who plan to study abroad in the future. I wish someone had given me advice prior, so I thought I would in order to better equip others for their study abroad experiences. For context, I studied abroad in Rome, Italy during the spring of 2022.
Saying Goodbye
Therefore, after creating such strong connections to Rome, a part of me feels like I’m leaving something behind. The experiences I had were unforgettable because of how special they were to me. The people, food, and energy that I had experienced made leaving very difficult for me; I found myself in tears in the cab to the airport. However, since my first day when I threw a penny into the Trevi Fountain, I know that my return is guaranteed.
Overcoming Predeparture FOMO
While there are many fears associated with studying abroad, the fear of missing out can hit the hardest. Overcoming FOMO, while challenging, can lead to a whole new mentality and new memories that will make you smile while gone.
