Obviously the best place to go to immerse yourself in the Italian language is Italy itself! However, what are the best schools and locations to book classes? How much do they cost? What are courses like? Find out more information and book your trip to study Italian in Italy today.
Why Should I Learn Italian?
An obvious reason to learn Italian is if you want to live, work, travel or spend a gap year in Italy. However you may have just simply fallen in love with language. Italian is the official language of Italy, San Marino and parts of Switzerland, but is also spoken by people in the Vatican City and Malta, as well as parts of Slovenia and Croatia. Italian immigrants have moved far across the globe and there are large Italian speaking migrant communities in the USA, Luxembourg, Argentina, Brazil and Australia.
Best Places to Study Italian in Italy
There are many different Italian dialects, almost one per city, so it’s important to choose the right region if you want to learn classic Italian. Many of the dialects are quite similar, but others, such as Sicilian, which is still strong today is almost considered to be a separate language.
The Italian people say that the best Italian is spoken with a ‘Tuscan tongue in a Roman mouth’. You can conclude from this that the two best places to go to learn Italian would be Tuscany and Rome, but you could find classic Italian language schools in many cities throughout the country.
If you are open to other destinations, you could also try other language schools in Europe. The Italian speaking part of Switzerland or even Malta are recommended, as there are lots of Italian language schools there, however, since most people speak Maltese, which is primarily a mixture between Italian and Sicilian, with a bit of English thrown in, you might end up getting a bit confused!
Best Language Schools in Italy
Italy is home to some of the most established and successful schools in Europe with most being located in beautiful locations like Florence, Milan, Siena, Genoa, Rome, Bologna and Naples. Most schools have modern facilities, cafeterias, courtyards, recreation room, study rooms, and a library. Schools welcome students from all over the world of every background and age.
Classes
Italian language courses can be taken all year round, with a minimum of 1 week to a maximum of 18 months. The maximum classroom size is 12 students (unless otherwise specified) and lessons are 60 minutes each. Teachers are qualified and experienced native speakers with some level of English for beginners.
Standard:
This course permits students to study general Italian language in the morning and leaves afternoons free for you to take part in the school’s social activity programs or to study independently. The last hour of each morning is dedicated to workshops in which students study two of the four basic language skills in greater depth – either speaking and listening or reading and writing.
Intensive:
This class is ideal for those who wish to combine their studies of the language with Italian cultural classes. Availability of the various cultural classes depends on the student’s level and on there being a minimum of 5 students per class. Possible options are: Applied Language (from beginners to level 3); Art, Art History, or the Performing Arts (from level 2 upwards); Literature, Etruscan Studies (from level 3 upwards).
Basic:
This is the best program for those who wish to have as much free time as possible. Students will study a mixture of grammar and conversation.
Combinations:
This course is suited for those who wish to study intensively and on specific topics, but have little time available. The morning language lessons concentrate on general grammar and conversation. The afternoon is for individual lessons. Students can choose to specialize in a particular area of the language. For example, students can study business Italian, journalism, politics, literature, conversation, history, art, etc.
Program Highlights and Benefits
Learning Italian in Italy offers:
• Practical experience learning Italian through native and professional Italian teachers
• An amazing opportunity to speak and practice Italian with locals in everyday situations
• An opportunity to broaden your perspective and worldview
• An opportunity to participate in and learn Italian cultural activities (e.g.: language, cooking, crafts)
• Memorable travel experiences with the chance to see exotic sites you have always dreamed about
• The ability to make lifelong friends from around the globe
• A great way to develop and support your self-confidence and interpersonal skills
Schools Offer
Guaranteed Class Placement Prior to Departure
Cultural Embrace pre-arranges your class enrollment before you leave home. In addition, schools can pre-arrange any other cultural activity that may interest you (e.g. culinary skills, arts & crafts, theatre).
Housing Assistance
For an additional fee, schools can pre-arrange your accommodations before you arrive. Three main styles of accommodations are available: Homestays, Shared Student Apartments, and Residence Hotel-Apartments. Schools can also make reservations at local hostels and hotels or find an apartment for you to rent. One of the best ways of immersing yourself in the language is to stay with an Italian family in a homestay, many language schools will help organise this for you.
Arrival Assistance
An optional airport pick-up and transfer is available. An orientation introduces the local community and prepares you for your stay.
Police Registration Assistance
All foreigners must register with the police upon arrival in Italy. Schools can help guide you through this process.
Classroom Materials
Most classroom materials are provided.
Social Activities and Excursions
Social activities and excursions are available. Participant is responsible for transportation fees, meals, and entrance tickets.
Certificate of Attendance
Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate of attendance.