Siena, Italy

Summer - Tradition & Cuisine in Tuscany

Study Abroad
Length:
Summer
Siena's cityscape
a table set for a wine tasting in Siena in front of an open window with mountains
a corner store in Siena decorated with food and wine
a group of students on a tour in a Siena vineyard

At a glance

Housing:

Apartment

Credits:

6 per Semester

Language of Instruction:

English, Italian

Language Prerequisites:

None

Visa Required:

Maybe

About the Program

This program offers you an opportunity to get an insider’s view of the Palio—a famous horse race which occurs every summer in one of the most recognized piazzas in the world, Piazza del Campo. You’ll discover how the Palio is not simply a horse race, but a combination of rituals, rules, and traditions that have roots in the Middle Ages. 

Enroll in a course on the history and tradition of the Palio and Contrade of Siena or study Tuscan culture and cuisine. By combining coursework with study outside the classroom, you will experience the rich cultural heritage of Tuscany.

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Tuscany Will Be Your Classroom

Study the economic and socio-historic aspects of Tuscan food.

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Improve Your Italian Language Skills

Enroll in an Italian language course at beginner or intermediate level.

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Travel Throughout Italy

Travel to Naples, Pompeii, or Populonia.

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Study in the Heart of Siena

The Center is located in the famous Piazza del Campo.

Program Advisor

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Kellie Wallace

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@iesabroad.org

Siena under the stars at night

Why Siena?

Nestled in the Tuscan countryside, Siena is a beautiful medieval city located 35 miles southwest of Florence. Immerse yourself in Italian society, cuisine, and culture while enjoying easy access to the Tuscan capital, the sea, and the renowned Tuscan landscape. Prepare to get swept up in the excitement and passion the local people of Siena have for this event as they prepare and celebrate within their contradas, or local communities —who will ultimately compete for the win in the Palio horse race.

Learn More About Siena

Get to Know Your New City

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Explore the Region

Discover the Tuscan countryside.

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Wander Through the 17 Contrade

The 17 neighborhoods of Siena date back to the Middle Ages.

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Taste Traditional Tuscan Dishes

There’s plenty to taste throughout Tuscany.

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Enjoy the Sights in the Piazza Del Campo

The Piazza is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

The Student Experience

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Housing

A living room with pale yellow walls, a dining room table, and large windows.
  • Apartment

Apartment

Live with other IES Abroad students — and possibly local Italian students — in the historic center of town. Furnished apartments are single-sex and include fully-equipped kitchens. Meals are not included.

Academics