Apr 25 - Jun 8, 2025
Italy
Living and Learning in Florence: Independent Stay and Language Study
Program No. 2174360MEADV-1116-60
Live in an apartment in this iconic city, learn to speak Italian during daily language classes and get to know Florence like a Florentine on this independent living adventure.
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We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
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45 days
44 nights
13 meals
4B 6L 3D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
3
Orientation to Florence
Florence
7
Italian Language Class
Florence
10
Weekend at Leisure
Florence
14
Italian Language Class
Florence
16
Weekend at Leisure
Florence
17
Weekend at Leisure
Florence
20
Italian Language Class
Florence
21
Italian Language Class
Florence
22
Depart to Weekend in Tuscany
Tuscany
At a Glance
Inspired by Florence’s timeless beauty and youthful energy, become a Renaissance man or woman on this immersive six-week adventure. Live in an apartment in this fashionable city, learn to speak Italian through daily language classes and get to know Florence like a Florentine. While you experience living in a new country independently, you’ll be supported by a Road Scholar Group Leader who’s always on call to help.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Florence is a walking city; the best, and sometimes only, way to get around is on foot. You must be able to walk at least 2.5 miles per day as you will need to walk to school, get grocery, to go anywhere. Uneven terrain, cobblestone streets, and many unavoidable stairs. On field trips, walking up to two miles.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Live like a Florentine as you move into your own well-located city apartment and discover nearby cafés, shops and more.
- Up your Italian at a renowned language school whether you're a beginner or speak "un po'."
- Join your Group Leader and fellow participants for weekly field trips and a weekend excursion to Tuscan hill towns.
General Notes
Our “Living and Learning” programs give you the experience of living in a foreign country independently. Included: an apartment; a local, full-time Group Leader to support you; a few meals; choice of language classes; a weekly expert-led field trip; a weekly café social; one weekend-long excursion to Tuscany, including hotel; and a city handbook. Due to the special nature of this program, we regret that we are unable to match solo participants with roommates. Because of the special nature of this program, we request that you call us to enroll. Please call toll free at (800) 454-5768, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. ET
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Elisabetta Falaschi
Elisabetta Falaschi was born in the south of Tuscany into a family that is half Florentine and half Sienese. She later moved to Florence to study art and history at the University of Firenze. After completing her degree, Elisabetta became a licensed local expert. Her true passion is learning, discovering, experiencing, and — above all — sharing her knowledge and love of Tuscan food, wine, art, history, and fashion with Road Scholar participants.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Elisabetta Falaschi
View biography
Elisabetta Falaschi was born in the south of Tuscany into a family that is half Florentine and half Sienese. She later moved to Florence to study art and history at the University of Firenze. After completing her degree, Elisabetta became a licensed local expert. Her true passion is learning, discovering, experiencing, and — above all — sharing her knowledge and love of Tuscan food, wine, art, history, and fashion with Road Scholar participants.
Suggested Reading List
(27 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Living and Learning in Florence: Independent Stay and Language Study
Program Number: 21743
The House of Medici, Its Rise and Fall
A well-written, entertaining history of the Medicis in Renaissance Florence. Great to read before going to Florence, where the influence of the Medicis and the artists they supported is still very much in evidence.
The Renaissance, A Short History
The history, background, literature, sculpture, paintings and architecture of the Renaissance in just over 200 lively, thought-provoking pages.
Saving Italy, The Race to Rescue a Nation's Treasures from the Nazis
In this intense history, Edsel brings readers into WWII-era Milan, the Vatican and beyond, discussing the near destruction of The Last Supper and other timeless works at the hands of the fascists.
La Dolce Vita
As his distraught girlfriend commits suicide and he becomes enamored with a film star (played by the beautiful Anita Ekberg), columnist-playboy Marcello searches for meaning. An enduring classic, set in Rome. Originally released in 1960.
Florence Map
A detailed, plastic-covered city map of Florence at a scale of 1:7,000.
D.H. Lawrence and Italy
This omnibus Penguin Classics edition includes Lawrence's three travel tales, each very different in tone and all wonderful: Sea and Sardinia is a nostalgic look at traditional ways of life; Twilight in Italy, an evocation of Lawrence's memorable stay on Lake Garda; and Etruscan Places, his musings on ancient sites, including the painted tombs of Tarquinia.
The Agony and the Ecstasy, A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo
An overheated, page-turning fictionalized account of the life of master painter and sculptor Michelangelo -- and a good introduction to Renaissance Florence and Rome.
La Bella Figura, A Field Guide to the Italian Mind
Italians themselves love this guide to the Italian character, which addresses their never-ending passion for beauty, disorder and high emotion. The book opens with a snapshot of Malpensa Airport, then moves on to Tuscany, Rome, Naples and Sardinia.
Fodor's Florence's 25 Best
This shirt-pocket guide includes an excellent map and essential information on the city's highlights, including sightseeing, restaurants and shopping.
Brunelleschi's Dome
The story of the design and construction of the dome in the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, a tale rife with politics, cut-throat competition and mighty inspiration.
The Italians
Italy correspondent for The Economist Hooper explores Italy -- its baffling contradictions, unique character and contemporary culture -- in this illuminating portrait.
The Art of the Renaissance
A classic, illustrated survey of the world of the Renaissance and its art. With chapters on Florence and its artists, the Netherlands, early illustrated books and many individual artists.
8 1/2
Widely believed to be his finest work, Federico Fellini's semi-autobiographical look at a director who's lost his inspiration is a gorgeous and surrealistic masterpiece that dreamily blurs the line between reality and fantasy. Blu-ray edition.
The Great Beauty
After his 65th birthday, witty and arrogant novelist Jep Gambardella is blindsided by an ex-lover’s secret. He begins re-examining his lavish lifestyle (nightclubs, parties and cafes) and looking for a different side of Rome. Originally released in 2013.
Architecture of the Renaissance, From Brunelleschi to Palladio
Originating in Florence, the flowering of architecture in 15th-century Italy revolutionized the look of European cities and the mindsets of their citizens. This lavishly illustrated pocket book presents the people, the time and its monuments in hundreds of color photographs and engravings.
Survival Kit for Overseas Living
With chapters on cultural baggage, stereotypes and common complaints of American expats, this intercultural classic is perfect for study abroad.
La Bella Lingua
Inebriated with the sounds of Italian, lovesick for its phrases and enamored of its earthy idioms, Hales, "a sensible woman of sturdy Polish stock," dives into the Italian of the piazza, literature, movies and streets in this charming memoir.
Toscanelli's Ray
Wilde-Menozzi’s critically acclaimed novel explores traditional themes of expatriation, immigration and evil within the microcosm of late-20th century Florence and within the span of 15 hours.
Eyewitness Guide Florence & Tuscany
Superbly illustrated, this compact guide shows the neighborhoods, museums, shops and sites of Florence and surroundings in full color.
The Art of Travel
A digressive riff on desire, happiness and how best to experience travel by the Proust scholar and philosopher Alain de Botton who asks: "What is the point of traveling?"
Bicycle Thieves
When Antonio Ricci is unable to find work and his bicycle is stolen, the man becomes desperate to support himself and his son. Set in Rome. Winner of the Oscar for Best Foreign Film.
Tea With Mussolini
Zeffirelli's enchanting autobiographical film about a boy in Florence in the years before World War II, with a cast of great English and American actresses.
The Food Lover's Guide to Florence, With Culinary Excursions in Tuscany
Miller polled neighbors, friends, cooks and ordinary folk for this delectable guide to 125 eateries, organized by neighborhood.
In Other Words
In this complex memoir, award-winning author Jhumpa Lahiri moves to Rome and immerses herself in Italian. Her dual-language book chronicles her courtship with the language, the Italian culture and the difficulties of linguistic exile.
The Birth of Venus, A Novel
A rich novel of art, passion and patronage, memorably set in late 15th-century Florence and prominently featuring the famously pious reformer Savonarola.
The City of Florence, Historical Vistas and Personal Sightings
A vivid tour of the city and its riches by the fine biographer of Edith Wharton and Henry James. Lewis has written what he calls "a partial biography of Florence," beautifully interweaving the personal and the historical.
Compact Oxford Italian Dictionary
This hefty companion covers more than 90,000 words and phrases with helpful sections on grammar and culture to better prepare the traveler for a visit to Italy.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
45 days
Program Begins
Florence
Program Concludes
Florence
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
13
| 4B |
6L |
3D |
Activity Level
Inspired by Florence’s timeless beauty and youthful energy, become a Renaissance man or woman on this immersive six-week adventure. Live in an apartment in this fashionable city, learn to speak Italian through daily language classes and get to know Florence like a Florentine. While you experience living in a new country independently, you’ll be supported by a Road Scholar Group Leader who’s always on call to help.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Live like a Florentine as you move into your own well-located city apartment and discover nearby cafés, shops and more.
- Up your Italian at a renowned language school whether you're a beginner or speak "un po'."
- Join your Group Leader and fellow participants for weekly field trips and a weekend excursion to Tuscan hill towns.
General Notes
Our “Living and Learning” programs give you the experience of living in a foreign country independently. Included: an apartment; a local, full-time Group Leader to support you; a few meals; choice of language classes; a weekly expert-led field trip; a weekly café social; one weekend-long excursion to Tuscany, including hotel; and a city handbook. Due to the special nature of this program, we regret that we are unable to match solo participants with roommates. Because of the special nature of this program, we request that you call us to enroll. Please call toll free at (800) 454-5768, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. ET
Featured Expert
Elisabetta Falaschi
Elisabetta Falaschi was born in the south of Tuscany into a family that is half Florentine and half Sienese. She later moved to Florence to study art and history at the University of Firenze. After completing her degree, Elisabetta became a licensed local expert. Her true passion is learning, discovering, experiencing, and — above all — sharing her knowledge and love of Tuscan food, wine, art, history, and fashion with Road Scholar participants.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Florence is a walking city; the best, and sometimes only, way to get around is on foot. You must be able to walk at least 2.5 miles per day as you will need to walk to school, get grocery, to go anywhere. Uneven terrain, cobblestone streets, and many unavoidable stairs. On field trips, walking up to two miles.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(27 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
45 days
44 nights
What's Included
13 meals | 4B | 6L | 3D |
38 expert-led lectures
11 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
43 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Florence
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel Firenze Pitti Palace
Activity Note
Hotel check-in is at 3:00 PM. On this Living and Learning program, you will walk daily over cobblestones. While buses are available, bus routes are often not convenient and it is usually faster and more direct to walk. Please note that orientation walks may exceed the expected 2.5 miles per day for this program.
Afternoon:
Meet in the hotel lobby at 5:00 PM. The program starts with the welcome orientation and group introductions. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions throughout the orientation weekend. We will review the program theme, the up-to-date Daily Schedule and any changes, discuss safety guidelines, emergency procedures, roles and responsibilities, and answer any questions you may have. Indicated times are approximate. Program activities, schedules, and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
Welcome Happy Hour with drinks and snacks.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
3
Orientation to Florence
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Firenze Pitti Palace
Activity Note
Walking approximately 4 miles.
Breakfast:
At the hotel restaurant. On this program, included breakfasts will offer a typical European style breakfast buffet with breads, cheeses, cold-cuts, yogurt, fruit, cereals, juice, milk, coffee, tea and water.
Morning:
Meet in the hotel lobby and walk to the language school. While we walk, enjoy a short guided introduction to the history of Firenze. Continue the orientation to the program, language school and group activities.
Lunch:
Enjoy the Italian cultural tradition of a long and leisurely Welcome Sunday lunch with the group.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we continue with the orientation of the program, you will receive information on the language school group activities, and receive your apartment assignments.
Dinner:
Dinner at leisure.
Day
4
Italian Language Class Induction, Move in to your apartment
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school, additional walking of up to 1.5 miles during orientation walk; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
At the hotel restaurant.
Morning:
Meet at your language school for your first session, which will include an assessment, placement and introduction to the course.
Lunch:
Plated meal at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, you will move into your individual apartment. Once checked-in you will receive an orientation to your apartment with the apartment agency staff.
Dinner:
Dinner at leisure.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Italian Language Class, Introduction to Florence
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
This morning, our Group Leader will give us an introduction to living abroad, culture shock, local customs and dealing with everyday life.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Italian Language Class, Italian Body Language
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet at the language school for a group event on Italian body language. Italians are masters of non-verbal communication: they say more with the body than with the mouth. More specifically, Italians often use their hands to accentuate what they’re saying. And when people say Italians talk with their hands, they’re not kidding: A New York Times article determined that Italians use an average of 250 hand gestures to speak—every day! And honestly, that may be a light assessment. Using the proper body language and hand gestures will elevate your Italian language skills and infuse your words with even more meaning. Don’t believe it? Consider the scene in the blockbuster movie “Eat, Pray, Love.” The Italians in this clip explain to the American woman played by Julia Roberts that speaking Italian is more than using words. The language must be spoken with i gesti.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language Class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Italian Language Class, Group Cafe Get-Together
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school, plus additional walking to cafe for happy hour; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Classical Language Course: language class. Beginners Italian Course: On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most. Meet for a happy hour to share your experiences and ask questions of your local Group Leader. Your Group Leader will be able to give suggestions in planning your free time and individual weekend excursions.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Weekend at Leisure, Evening at the Opera**
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference. Additional walking to performance
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
This evening we will attend an opera performance. **Please note that this event is subject to change and your Group Leader will confirm dates at the welcome meeting.
Day
10
Weekend at Leisure
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Introduction to Italian Cuisine, Cooking Class Group 1
Location:
Florence
Meals:
L,D
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 3.5 miles round trip to the language school, plus walking to market and cooking class for those in group 1; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests youMeet at your language school. The theme for this week's in-depth cultural learning session is "Introduction to Italian Cuisine." Learn about the most important products in the local dishes and discover how Italian food and culture go hand in hand. An excursion to the market teaches all you need to know to prepare your meals. Enjoy the beautiful selection of vegetables, fruit, fish, meat, olive oil, herbs, and more. most.
Lunch:
Enjoy a group lunch
Afternoon:
Attend a cooking class. For the cooking class, you will be split into 3 smaller groups. In the late afternoon, Group 1 will meet to learn the ins and outs of Italian cooking. Group 2/3, on your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Group 1 Enjoy what you have prepared. Groups 2/3 Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Italian Language Class, Cooking Class Group 2
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 3.5 miles round trip to the language school, plus walking to market and cooking class for those in group 2; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language Class
Lunch:
At leisure
Afternoon:
Group 2 will meet to learn the ins and outs of Italian cooking. Groups 1/3, on your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Group 2 Enjoy what you have prepared. Group 1/3 Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Italian Language Class, Italian Cooking Class Group 3
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 3.5 miles round trip to the language school, plus walking to market and cooking class for those in group 3; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language Class
Lunch:
At leisure
Afternoon:
In the late afternoon, Group 3 will meet to learn the ins and outs of Italian cooking. Groups 1/2 , on your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Group 3 Enjoy what you have prepared. Groups 1/2 Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
14
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
15
Italian Language Class, Group Cafe Get-together
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school, plus walking round trip for group get-together; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Classical Language Course: language class. Beginners Italian Course: On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most. Meet for a happy hour to share your experiences and ask questions of your local Group Leader. Your Group Leader will be able to give suggestions in planning your free time and individual weekend excursions.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
16
Weekend at Leisure
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
17
Weekend at Leisure
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
18
Language Class, Florence - The City of Dante
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles round trip to language school for class and lecture; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet at your language school for a group event on Dante Alighieri. We have come to understand “the Dark Ages"—another name for the Middle Ages—as a time of cultural and economic deterioration in Western Europe following the decline of the Roman Empire, but today we will explore the Dark Ages through a different lens: the genius of Dante Alighieri, “the father of the Italian language.”
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
19
Language Class - Medieval Florence, Santa Croce Church
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to language school, plus additional walking on the field trip; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class in the morning.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet with your group leader and go on a walking excursion through the narrow streets of Florence. This afternoon we will visit Santa Croce Church, which offers a deep dive into Florence's artistic and cultural heritage.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
20
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
21
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
At leisure to prepare for our weekend away.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
22
Depart to Weekend in Tuscany
Location:
Tuscany
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel San Lino
Activity Note
Ride in motor coach approximately 1.5 hours, with 4-5 steps getting in and out of coach; Walking up to 3 miles; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
On your own.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Depart via private bus to Volterra in the Tuscan countryside. We will enjoy an orientation walk after checking in to the hotel.
Dinner:
Plated meal at a Volterra restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
23
Weekend in Tuscany
Location:
Tuscany
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel San Lino
Activity Note
Walking up to 2.5 miles; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
At the hotel restaurant.
Morning:
This morning a local expert will lead us on a walk through the hill town of Volterra, a city of stone and wind. Its narrow streets, looming towers, majestic palaces and fortifications are made of yellow-grey sandstone, effused with fossils of rare beauty.
Lunch:
Your main meal today will be a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most. Your Group Leader will provide information and assistance.
Dinner:
Explore local fare on your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
24
Weekend in Tuscany
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2.5 miles; Ride in motor coach approximately 1.5 hours, with 4-5 steps getting in and out of coach
Breakfast:
At the hotel restaurant.
Morning:
Check out of the hotel. Enjoy a morning at leisure in Volterra, before heading with your Group Leader to a local winery.
Lunch:
Light lunch and wine tasting at the winery.
Afternoon:
Transfer back to Florence via private coach.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
25
Italian Language Class, Italian Renaissance
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles round trip to language school for class and lecture; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet at your language school for a group event on the Italian Renaissance. Hear a short introduction to the Renaissance in Florence. Florence is known all over the world as the cradle of Renaissance, a cultural "rebirth" that occurred in the Italian city from the beginning of the 15th century, when Florence was Italy's leading cultural and economic center.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
26
Italian Language Class, Italian Renaissance
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles round trip to language school for class and field trip, plus additional walking on field trip; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet at your language school for an educational walk through the city center. Winding through the streets of the legendary "jewel of the Renaissance," it is possible to discover the history of the most important family of the city, the Medici family. Patrons of philosophers, intellectuals, and artists, the Medici restyled and transformed the medieval town into the "new Athens." Florence was the birthplace of famed artists such as Brunelleschi, Donatello, and Botticelli; Leonardo studied here and Michelangelo grew up in the Medici family palace. Exploring the city, you will discover the unparalleled richness of the culture and the staggering beauty they created. An open-air lecture will focus on the most representative monuments and masterpieces of the Renaissance: the Medici palace, the Duomo with Brunelleschi's Dome, the Gate of Paradise, the Signoria Square, and Pitti Palace.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
27
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
28
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
29
Italian Language Class, Group Cafe Get-together
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking approximately 2 miles round trip to the language school, plus additional walking to the cafe for happy hour; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Classical Language Course: language class. Beginners Italian Course: On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most. Meet for a happy hour to share your experiences and ask questions of your local Group Leader. Your Group Leader will be able to give suggestions in planning your free time and individual weekend excursions.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
30
Walking the Beautiful Chianti Countryside
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Riding in motorcoach approximately 2 hours today, with 4-5 steps on and off the coach; today's excursion includes walking approximately 1.5 hours up and down hill.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Depart with your group via local bus to Greve in Chianti. Pay a visit to the weekly market and then enjoy a hike through the beautiful Chianti landscape to Montefioralle.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Walk back to Greve in Chianti and transfer back to Florence by private bus.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
31
Weekend at Leisure
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
32
Italian Language Class, Italian History
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking approximately 4 miles round trip to the language school for class, and lecture; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet at your language school for an afternoon dedicated to Contemporary Italian History. Hear a lecture entitled "Italy's Political Landscape." A local expert will introduce you to this young nation, unified only since 1861, with little sense of national direction. You will learn about the period of Italian Fascism, the creation of the first republic and its short successful economic growth right after the war. The lecture will also cover contemporary Italian history, including the rise of populism and the extreme right, and the challenges and opportunities faced by Italians today.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
33
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
34
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
35
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to language school; ; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
36
Italian Language Class, Group Cafe Get-together
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to class, plus additional walking to the cafe for happy hour; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Classical Language Course: language class. Beginners Italian Course: On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most. Meet for a happy hour to share your experiences and ask questions of your local Group Leader. Your Group Leader will be able to give suggestions and assistance in planning your free time and individual weekend excursions.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
37
Weekend at Leisure. National Holiday.
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
38
Weekend at Leisure
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
39
Italian Language Class, Musical Life of Florence
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; walking approximately 3.5 miles to Palazzo Budini Gattai; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet at Palazzo Budini Gattai for an afternoon of group activities that will focus on the musical life of Florence. Music has had a fundamental role in Florence's cultural life since the late 16th century, when, from the intellectual and artistic experiences of the Camerata dei Bardi, melodrama was born. Even more, it is the birthplace of the fortepiano, invented by harpsichord maker Bartolomeo Cristofori around the turn of the 18th century. Today's center for music and melodramatic art is the Theater of the Orchestra Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, which since 1933 has organized the Maggio Musicale Festival, one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in Europe, with Zubin Mehta as the principal conductor since 1985.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
40
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to class; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
41
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to class; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
42
Italian Language Class,
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Meet in the language school for a last group session to share your experiences of 6 weeks living and learning in Florence.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure
Day
43
Italian Language Class
Location:
Florence
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles round trip to the language school; extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Classical Language Course: language class. Beginners Italian Course: On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most. Prepare for your departure home the next day.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
44
Weekend at leisure, Farewell Gathering
Location:
Florence
Meals:
L
Stay:
Individual Apartments in Florence
Activity Note
Extent and duration of free time activities dependent on personal preference.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most.
Lunch:
Farewell Lunch at a local restaurant. This concludes our program.
Afternoon:
On your own to see and do more of what interests you most. Prepare for your departure home the next day.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
45
Departures
Location:
In Flight
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
13 Meals
4 Breakfasts
6 Lunches
3 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Sep 26, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
- Apr 25, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
- Sep 26, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 6 Reviews
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Take the leap of travel abroad for a lengthy stay with Road Scholar !
You will be too busy to be homesick ! The best experience ever !
— Review left June 13, 2024
This was a fabulous trip! I got to see David, Birth of Venus, and Primavera in real life. Florence is a beautiful city and living in an authentic Italian apartment made it even better. A couple of things to be ready for: the apartments may not have air conditioning so be prepared for street noise and mosquitoes. There are lots of tourists and they like to make noise all night. And the Arno River is shallow and moves slowly enough that it breeds mosquitoes. Uffizi Galleries is not included in the Road Scholar itinerary. We bought annual passes for 70 euros and were able to cut the ticket line and go visit as much as we wanted. The passes are also good for Pitti Palace, Bardini Gardens, and Boboli Gardens. I took the classical Italian class which was immersive (I'm a beginner). I did sometimes feel like I was spending a lot of time on my language studies class and missing out on exploring the art and architecture that is Florence. You might prefer to take the survival Italian class if you don't have any Italian language skills. And the food is, of course, incredible even if it is a bit heavy on cheese, salami, and red wine!
— Review left December 1, 2023
"Living and Learning in Firenze" was a great experience! The language school in Florence was just excellent. We participated in interesting and fun field trips, lectures, tours. Our apartment was just right and close to the school. Be prepared to do a lot of walking!! To spend six weeks in an Italian city -- it was the opportunity of a lifetime for me!
— Review left June 9, 2023
In addition to learning Italian I enjoyed getting to know my immediate neighborhood and having a favorite coffee bar and gelato cafe.
— Review left November 17, 2022
This was my first trip with Road Scholar, and I was very impressed by the professionalism of their U.S. based staff and their staff during the program. I would recommend Road Scholar to anyone interested in a travel/ learning experience.
— Review left May 30, 2022
Great program, great language class!
— Review left November 7, 2019
