Learn Italian in Siena

Why take a Italian course in Siena?

The Middle Ages marked a fascinating period in Italian history, characterised by fierce competition among city-states vying for control of the peninsula. During this era, one dialect began its gradual evolution into one of the most poetic languages in the world. Siena, often referred to as the Gothic jewel of Italy, emerged as a powerful republic, creating a unique atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. If you have an interest in Italy’s history, art, and culture, there is no better place to learn Italian than Siena.

Siena is perhaps best known for the Palio, a biannual horse race held in the scallop-shaped Piazza del Campo, the city's heart. This spirited competition between the city’s contrade (districts) is celebrated with great pomp and pageantry, vividly bringing Siena’s rich history to life. In addition to hosting the Palio, the piazza is home to the Palazzo Pubblico, the centre of the city’s government, which features two stunning frescoes illustrating good and bad governance—just a glimpse of Siena’s artistic heritage.

Moreover, Siena offers a breathtaking backdrop for your Italian language course. The distinctive burnt orange architecture set against the rolling Tuscan countryside is truly captivating, especially at sunset. For the best views of the city, climb the Torre del Mangia, the bell tower built to rival Florence’s. The challenging ascent of its 500 steps is well worth the effort and is one of our top recommendations for your visit to Siena!

About our school in Siena

Our Italian school, located in the enchanting city of Siena, is situated within a magnificent palazzo that stands proudly in the historic district known as Castelvecchio. This prime location offers students unparalleled convenience, as it is merely a short 10-minute stroll to the iconic Piazza del Campo, a central hub of activity and culture in Siena. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in delivering high-quality, total immersion Italian courses, our institution has established a reputation for excellence in language education.

The first-class facilities we provide are designed to enhance the learning experience and include a total of 25 well-equipped classrooms, a self-study centre for independent learning, and a comprehensive library stocked with a variety of resources. Additionally, we offer a computer room with Internet access, ensuring that students can stay connected and make the most of their studies. Wireless Internet is available throughout the premises, allowing for seamless connectivity. Students can also enjoy relaxing coffee areas, vibrant common spaces for socialising, as well as two charming courtyards and three inviting terraces, perfect for unwinding after a day of learning and exploration.

Location of our school in Siena

Accommodation options in Siena

We offer two accommodation types in Siena. To really achieve ‘total immersion’ in Italian, we would always recommend students stay with a host family. This will allow you to practice your new language skills on kind, patient native speakers and really is the best way to increase your confidence in speaking.

Your host(s) will provide you with your own room (please note that shared rooms are only available for two students travelling together), as well as your breakfast and evening meal. Host families come in all shapes and sizes and most tend to be older couples or single ladies, as these are generally the kind of people who have the time and space to host students. Of course, if you have any special requirements regarding your accommodation, please do make us aware of these at the time of booking. We will then do our best to arrange this with our colleagues at the school (please note that this is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed).

We also offer shared apartment accommodation in Siena, which is usually most popular amongst students in their 20s (as this type of accommodation is usually comfortable but basic). This accommodation option would allow you to self-cater, as you would have access to a fully-equipped kitchen. You will share the kitchen, bathroom and general living area with your flatmates, although you will have your own private bedroom.

Available activities in Siena

In order to enrich your experience of Siena, our colleagues at the school regularly offer optional activities. These will give you unique insights into the very best that Siena has to offer, whilst allowing you even more opportunities to develop your Italian! Examples of typical activities include: guided tours of Siena; Italian film screenings; visits to museums, historic sites and neighbouring cities and towns; trips to see the beautiful Tuscan countryside; wine tasting and discovery of the local cuisine.

When you arrive at the school, you will be informed by our colleagues as to the activities that will be offered whilst you are there. You can then choose which you take part in. Of course, if there is anything that you wish to do that is not offered as part of the activities programme whilst you are there, our colleagues should be able to advise you on how to arrange this yourself. Please note that most activities will incur a small additional charge to cover costs.

How to get to our school in Siena

Most students fly into Pisa or Florence and then take a train to Siena. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours from Florence and 2 hours from Pisa. Airport transfers can also be arranged upon request, at an additional charge.

School statistics

Student stories on our blog

The Siena time machine!

Siena has to be one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen! Arriving in Siena was like stepping into a time-machine then exiting it into this amazing place where the streets are cobbled, the town is still surrounded by a fortressed wall, everyone still walks everywhere, there are no cars, no pollution, only the smells of delicious food and the gorgeous rolling Tuscan hills on every side... I’d half expected a horse drawn cart to clip-clop around the corner carrying hay! Yet, the awesome thing is, Siena still has everything you need. You can totally lose yourself in the winding medieval streets, the unspoilt views over the countryside, and the relaxed pace of life, but then pop into the internet café on the corner to chat on gmail with friends at home. I could spend an afternoon soaking up the sunshine out on the roof terrace of the historic building of the Italian school where I studied, wander out to meet a friend for a slice of Panforte made from a centuries old recipe and then grab a coca-cola and watch a game of football on television at one of the local bars. Ha ha, just like John Mortimer wrote in the novel Summer’s Lease; Siena has “all the delights of the Middle Ages without the stink and the fear of plague.”! Read more...

 

Ten reasons to go to Siena

History Dripping with history, you could be mistaken for thinking you have taken a trip back in time to a medieval city when visiting Siena! Legend has it that Senius, son of Remus, who was in turn the brother of Romulus, founded Siena. With the first settlements in 900 to 400 BC and the cathedral being built in the 1100s you cannot fail to be impressed by the history of this fascinating city. Piazza del Campo Shaped like a medieval Roman amphitheatre, the Piazza del Campo is regarded as one of the most beautiful public spaces in Europe. Unmissable in the centre of the city you have to make your way down one of the many steps and alleyways that lead to it. At night you can buy ice cream at one of the 'Gelaterias' before entering the square. Alternatively, for a little more money there are many competing restaurants with front row seats surrounding the square. Read more...