Italy is more than just the home of traditional pasta and pizza. It is a grand and diverse city of rich history, culture, and the arts. Each country’s provinces and cities offer a different flavor of life—from buzzing city life to rolling hills and Mediterranean-style coastlines. Many also offer museums and galleries for a slice of history, so walk the streets of some of the oldest towns in Italy and immerse yourself in a piece of history.
Whether you’re in it for the food, fashion, or being at the center of it all, an Italian higher education will take you places. This article will discuss the top cities to study in Italy for international students, so check out the information below:
Top Cities to Study in Italy for International Students
1. Rome
As the capital of Italy, Rome is among the best cities for international students to study in. It is the center of government, business, sciences, and global organizations, making it well-connected internationally. It is also a shopping haven, a top fashion destination worldwide, and a buzzing nightlife scene frequented by locals and neighbors alike.
But what truly sets the Eternal City apart is the richness of its culture and how it has preserved a living history so well. The Roman Empire is a superpower that has long graced our history books, and students who choose to pursue an education in Rome can walk among the ruins of this great past.
The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, it features grand cathedrals such as the Sistine Chapel, ornate monuments, the Roman Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the iconic Trevi Fountain for those who wish upon a lucky coin. One can never run out of history to discover more than 50 museums in Rome or stroll along the area’s cobbled streets.
As the center of Christianity, the Renaissance, politics, and even modern technology today, students will always be at the center of it all in Rome. The city’s internationally acclaimed universities are Sapienza University of Rome, Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, and Roma Tre University.
2. Florence
As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is another favorite destination for international students. Don’t let this small city fool you, as its influence on the world stage packs quite the punch. This place is one of Europe’s major cultural and commercial centers. It rose to fame internationally as a top fashion capital and has many historical sites. Artistic creations are also nothing new for Florence, as it is the birthplace of creative geniuses Donatello, Brunelleschi, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Michelangelo, among others.
With much Italian culture to preserve, UNESCO deemed the historic center of Florence as one of its World Heritage Sites. It is also a place that loves to eat, drink and be merry. Many traditional Italian eateries continue to exist in this city, so have the patience to find those hole-in-the-wall gems, especially their gelato! Check out the city’s vineyards in the stunning Italian countryside for local wines from the Chianti region.
Florence also loves to throw festivals – be sure to catch the Cavalcade of the Three Kings in January, the Scoppio del Carro on Easter Sunday, and the Maggio Musicale in the springtime. Advancing at breakneck speed while keeping its small-town charm, this “small big city” is one to be a part of. Here, its roster of top universities are the University of Florence, the European University Institute, and New York University – Florence.
3. Milan
When it comes to fashion capitals, Milan takes the cake. The city ranks among the top five fashion destinations worldwide, along with New York and Paris. For fashion lovers, Milan Fashion Week is something you don’t want to miss, and the Quadrilatero dell Moda district is a haven you’ll gladly get lost in. But its artistic side goes beyond fashion. The area is also a known wine destination, with a wide range of local wineries.
Milan is also proud of its well-preserved classical gothic architecture, evidenced by the Milan cathedral, The Royal Palace, Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio and Castello Sforza, its love for music and theatrical performances in the city’s noteworthy theaters, as well as paintings from renowned artists, such as Leonardo Da Vinci in the city’s museums and art galleries.
Arts students will never run out of inspiration in Milan, as it is also one of the top cities for international students to study in Italy. These schools are one of the best in Milan: Bocconi University, Catholic University of Sacro Cuore, and University of Milan.
4. Bologna
This city, located in the north of Italy, isn’t a tourist destination, but it’s a must-go for students looking for an enriching academic experience. Often referred to as “the learned one,” Bologna is home to the oldest university in the world, which sets the foundation for how we learn today. The city landscape can draw in students interested in learning about Italian history, language, and arts, as well as global courses such as business, politics, economics, and finance.
Aside from world-class education, Bologna is also home to a quaint city rich in tradition and history. Enjoy traditional Italian cuisine with the city’s original Bolognese and Parmigiano Reggiano, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio and other medieval towers. Moreover, those looking for adventure can hike up San Luca, immerse themselves in the buzzing shopping street of Via dell’Indipendenza, and dance the night away under the twinkling lights of Piazza Maggiore.
Get ready for one of the most academically and culturally enriching experiences when studying in Bologna through these universities: University of Bologna and Accademia di Belle Arti di Bologna.
5. Padua
If Bologna is the pioneer of the current Bologna process, Padua is the city that followed in its mighty footsteps. It is one of the friendliest in the world, with its strong sense of community lending itself well to the town proper. Rows of cafes and bars provide their trademark Aperol Spritz to newcomers, and restaurants and boutiques cater to the young student population.
Padua is also a perfect destination for fans of culture and the arts. Music enthusiasts flock to the city’s concerts and festivals, which feature music ranging from rap to opera to jazz to pop. Artists also get inspiration from the area’s over twenty museums and the first university botanical garden, Orto Botanico Di Padova.
Moreover, those who enjoy classic architectural sights can visit the St. Anthony of Padua Church, the city’s 800-year-old market, and the largest piazza in the country, Prato Della Valle. International students can get the full academic experience when studying at some of Padua’s excellent institutions, such as the University of Padua and Boston University—Padua.
If you want to study in a place where art, fashion, and history all come together, consider some of Italy’s cities, from Rome and Florence to Milan. Students worldwide can meet different kinds of people and immerse themselves in a vibrant blend of modern comforts and historical culture in these locations. So, grab the opportunity and enroll in an Italian university as soon as possible!
We hope you found this article on the best cities to study in Italy for international students informative and helpful. Also, make sure to check out the Italy Page and Available Programs in Europe for more information about studying in this European country!
