Florence vs. Rome: Which is Better for Study Abroad?

Picture this: You’re scrolling through TikTok, and every other video is some study abroad student living their best life in Italy. Now it’s your turn – but wait, do you pick Rome vs. Florence study abroad? Florence is like that effortlessly cool friend who’s always sketching in a café and knows every hidden gelato spot. Rome, on the other hand, is the life of the party – bold, historic, and buzzing with energy 24/7. Both cities promise epic adventures, but which one is calling your name? 

Grab a cappuccino, and let’s break down this Rome vs. Florence showdown! 

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Italy 

Florence vs. Rome: An Overview  

Studying abroad in Italy means living in a country filled with art, history, and mouthwatering food – but where should you call home: Florence vs. Rome? Here’s a breakdown of both cities to help you figure out which one is the perfect match for your adventure. 

Florence, covering about 40 square miles with a population of approximately 368,000 people, is a walkable, artsy city where history feels personal. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, it’s surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, making weekend getaways to nearby towns like Siena or Pisa a breeze. Rome, sprawling across 496 square miles with more than 2.9 million residents, is Italy’s energetic capital – a massive, fast-paced city packed with ancient ruins, iconic landmarks, and endless adventure. 

Language won’t be a barrier in either city. Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and universities. Still, learning a few Italian phrases can go a long way – plus, it’s fun to order gelato or espresso like a pro! 

When it comes to cuisine, do we even need to say much? Both cities are a food lover’s paradise, offering unforgettable dishes that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds). Florence is known for its delicious Tuscan specialties like bistecca alla Fiorentina, truffle pasta, and exquisite wines, while Rome offers its own iconic dishes, including cacio e pepe, carbonara, and crispy supplì.  

Both cities are considered safe for students, but as with any city, it’s always important to take regular precautions. Be mindful of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid risky areas, especially at night. That way, you can enjoy all the magic these cities have to offer with peace of mind. 

Study Abroad in Florence  

Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence offers a unique blend of academic opportunities and cultural exploration. Whether you’re studying art history, education, or something in between, Florence provides an inspiring environment to enhance your studies while living the Italian way. 

Fast Facts About Florence  

What better way to learn more about Florence than with a few fun facts?    

• Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters 
• Location: In the Tuscany region of central Italy, surrounded by rolling hills 
• Currency: Euro (€) 
• Language: Italian  
• Airport: Florence Airport (Peretola) 
• Local Attraction: The Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli 
• Bonus Fact: Florence is known for its iconic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with shops, and one of the most photographed spots in Italy 

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Florence 

Best Study Abroad Programs in Florence 

Florence offers a range of study abroad programs that combine academic excellence with the city’s rich cultural heritage. Let’s take at some of the top study abroad programs in Florence. 

Featured Program #1: Semester in Florence 

Spend your semester living and learning in the birthplace of the Renaissance! Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, the Semester in Florence program is the perfect chance to earn credits toward your degree while immersing yourself in Italian culture. 

• Program Length: 16 weeks  
• Credit: 12-16 semester hours/18-24 quarter hours  
• Eligibility: 2.8 overall GPA  
• Featured Course: Italian Cinema 
• Featured Excursion: Visit smaller historical cities in Tuscany such as Lucca, Siena or Volterra 

Featured Program #2: Arts, Architecture and Design 

Designed for art, architecture, design, urban studies, and sustainability studies majors, this hybrid discipline-based semester-long program offers you the opportunity to access courses aligned with your interests in the historic, world-renowned city of Florence. 

• Program Length: 16 weeks  
• Credit: 12-16 semester hours/18-24 quarter hours  
• Eligibility: 2.8 overall GPA  
• Featured Course: Culture and Cuisine in Italy 
• Featured Excursion: Enjoy excursions to significant Florentine locations, such as the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio and many more  

Featured Program #3: January in Florence 

This three-week January program is tailor-made for students from all academic backgrounds who will be awed and inspired in the birthplace of artistic genius. 

• Program Length: 3 weeks  
• Credit: 3 semester hours/4.5 quarter hours  
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA  
• Featured Course: The Great Renaissance Artists of Florence 
• Featured Excursion: Learn to prepare a typical, seasonal Florentine dish 

EXPLORE FLORENCE PROGRAMS  

Study Abroad in Rome  

Rome is a city where ancient history meets modern life, offering a rich blend of academic and cultural experiences. Whether you’re studying health science, sociology, or business, Rome provides a dynamic environment that will enhance your studies while allowing you to live the Italian lifestyle. 

Fast Facts About Rome  

Get to know Rome better with these fun facts about the city! 

• Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters 
• Location: Located in central Italy, along the Tiber River 
• Currency: Euro (€) 
• Language: Italian  
• Airport: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino) 
• Local Attraction: The Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world 
• Bonus Fact: Rome is home to Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state and the center of the Roman Catholic Church 

Read More: The Ultimate Study Abroad Guide to Rome 

Best Study Abroad Programs in Rome  

Rome is home to a range of study abroad programs that offer a perfect mix of academic excellence and cultural immersion. Let’s take a look at some of the top programs that will help you make the most of your time in the Eternal City. 

Read More: Best Study Abroad Programs in Rome 

Featured Program #1: Business + Culture 

Take your studies to Rome where your time in Italy’s capital will quickly become filled with strolling narrow, cobble-stoned streets, appreciating century-old buildings, and immersing yourself in the local culture. When class is in session, you’ll have the opportunity to enroll in courses at CIEE Rome and CIEE’s renowned partner institution, Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali (LUISS). 

• Program Length: 16 weeks  
• Credit: 15-18 semester hours/22.5-27 quarter hours  
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA  
• Featured Course: Mythology and Architecture in Rome 
• Featured Excursion: Participate in overnight excursions or day trips to some of the most iconic places in Italy, such as Florence, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast 

Featured Program #2: Open Campus Block 

Experience Rome on your terms by customizing your study abroad experience on the Open Campus Block program. Take one, two, or three six-week blocks, and select your courses from various subject areas. Whether you spend one six-week block in The Eternal City – or up to 18 – you're sure to have an unforgettable time. 

• Program Length: 6,12, or 18 weeks  
• Credit: 6-7 semester hours/9-10.5 quarter hours  
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA  
• Featured Course: Exploring Rome, the Birthplace of the Modern Museum 
• Featured Excursion: Visits world-famous sites, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums 

Featured Program #3: Summer in Rome 

Spend one six-week block (or up to two blocks) exploring some of the world's most breathtaking cultural landmarks in "The Eternal City." During this epic summer abroad, you'll take advantage of Rome's academic strengths by studying food, nutrition, art, architecture, cinema, history, sociology, politics, and more. Explore what marvels other Italian cities have in store for you on organized day trips to places like Florence, Pompei, or Tivoli! 

• Program Length: 6 or 12 weeks  
• Credit: 6-7 semester hours/9-10.5 quarter hours  
• Eligibility: 2.5 overall GPA  
• Featured Course: Economics of Wine 
• Featured Excursion: Visit Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and salute Michelangelo’s “David” after a shopping spree at the local leather market 

EXPLORE ROME PROGRAMS  

Which is Better for You? Florence vs. Rome 

Ultimately, the choice between Rome vs. Florence depends on what kind of study abroad experience you're looking for. If you're drawn to a smaller, more intimate city with a rich artistic history and a slower pace, Florence might be your perfect fit. On the other hand, if you're seeking the excitement of a bustling metropolis steeped in ancient history and modern culture, Rome offers a dynamic backdrop for your studies.  

The only wrong choice? Not going abroad at all! 

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