What are Cactus’ most popular Italian course destinations?

1. Florence

One of Italy’s most attractive and historic cities, it’s easy to see why Florence is such a popular destination amongst Italian learners. Boasting such fascinating sights and attractions as the Duomo, the Uffizi and of course the Ponte Vecchio, Florence is one of the most visited destinations in Italy, so it’s inevitable that you’ll be surrounded by other foreigners – that said, taking an Italian course is one of the best ways to really get ‘under the skin’ of a city. It enables you to meet native Italian speakers, to get an authentic insight into Italian culture, and to experience more than the usual tourist sights.  In tourist hubs like Florence, it also enables you to get great accommodation at a much more affordable price than normal!

There are a range of Italian courses on offer in Florence, including General Italian, Individual Italian, Intensive Italian, Italian and Culture, Italian & Gastronomy and City & Beach Italian (which encompasses a week’s lessons on the island of Elba).

2. Bologna

Situated in the region of Emilia Romagna, in the north of Italy, Bologna is a city that is sometimes overlooked in favour of more mainstream tourist destinations – something which in fact just adds to the appeal! It’s often referred to as ‘la rossa, la dotta, la grassa’ (red, educated and fat) and this trio of adjectives sums the city’s best-loved attributes up perfectly – the pretty red brick buildings, the prestigious university and what is widely regarded to be the finest food in Italy…whether you eat in local restaurants or with your host family, you won’t be disappointed with the offerings.

Students have a wide range of Italian courses to choose from in Bologna, including General, Individual, Combined, Mini-group Italian, along with the more specialist Italian & Cooking.

3. Rome

Italy’s grand capital was always going to feature in the top five, and rightly so… students who take Italian courses in Rome will quite simply never run out of things to see and do in their free time. There are beautiful and historic sights to see around every corner, and endless bars, cafes and restaurants where you can sit and watch the bustling city in action. Whilst the Rome of today is as modern and hectic and most European capital cities, taking a course there will certainly give you a glimpse of the Italy we’ve seen on film screens around the world for decades…

Italian courses on offer in Rome currently include General, Individual, Combined, Intensive and Business Italian. Also on offer are Young at Heart Italian, Italian and Culture, Italian & Theatre and Italian & Cooking. 

4. Sorrento/Venice

Joint fourth in the popularity stakes were Sorrento and Venice – two age-old favourites with foreign and domestic visitors alike. Both are iconic locations with plenty to offer, despite being located at opposite ends of the country. Sorrento lies in Campania, in the rustic south of the country and on the stunning Amalfi coast, whereas Venice is situated in the very north east corner in the affluent Veneto region. Whilst Venice is a fantastic choice for anyone who likes art and history in particular, Sorrento is a great option for anyone who enjoys the sunshine, the seaside and beautiful landscapes.

Italian courses available in Venice and Sorrento include General, Individual and Combined. Also on offer in Sorrento is Intensive Italian, Exam Preparation Italian and even an Italian & Singing course! 

5. Siena

This small Tuscan city is often cited as one of the most attractive in Italy. The historic centre has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and twice a year plays host to the famous Siena Palio, an inter-neighbourhood horse race that dates back centuries.  Siena is a lovely place to learn Italian, with a very Tuscan feel, plenty of history to explore and a conveniently modest size which makes most things accessible on foot. It’s no wonder it remains a popular year-round destination.

Courses in Siena currently include General, Intensive, Individual and Combined Italian, as well as Italian & Culture and Italian & Cookery.