Living in Italy

Fulfill your dream of living abroad during one of our three-week immersion programs, and become immersed in the culture, history, and language of your chosen destination. You’ll explore many of the must-see sites as well as off-the-beatenpath treasures with a local expert, and enjoy time on your own (or with new friends!) to pursue personal interests. Local Experts: Enjoy learning from local experts who share their knowledge of art, history, and culture and join you on select excursions. Resident Director: An engaging and resourceful resident director handles logistics and helps you plan your free time. Special Enrichment Tracks: Personalize your experience with special enrichment tracks (at an additional cost). Take one or all three: Language Lessons or Cuisine (all destinations), Art and Architecture (France/Italy), or Hiking Adventures (Spain). Social Connection: In addition to group activities, you’ll enjoy the camaraderie of convivial gatherings of Smithsonian Journeys travelers, as well as many group meals. Accommodations: Stay in a residential hotel located near the historic city center. Studio and one-bedroom apartments offer convenient amenities, plus hotel services such as friendly, helpful staff.

Each departure is limited to 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about these special programs on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys offered a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their Living in France program. The resident director was exceptional and excursions were hosted by knowledgeable local experts. Plus, the accommodations were perfect for a long stay. I will be going on another Smithsonian tour! – Deborah W.

Duomo of Florence

A Three-Week Stay in Florence

23 days from $5,890 Includes $250 special savings Special air rates available Oct. 28–Nov. 19, 2022 & Apr. 21–May 13, June 9–July 1, Sept. 1–23, Sept. 29–Oct. 21, 2023

Florence—the city where Brunelleschi, Leonardo, and Michelangelo all lived for a time—boasts a wealth of Renaissance splendors, yet many of its riches elude all but the most experienced travelers. During our threeweek immersive cultural stay, you’ll soon feel at home and enjoy the time and opportunity to reach new depths of understanding into Italy’s arts, history, and culture. Walking tours and museum visits plus day trips into greater Tuscany provide insight into this favorite Italian destination. Yet you’ll also enjoy la dolce vita (the sweet life) as you meet new friends and find yourself irresistibly lulled into the unhurried pace of daily life, sipping espresso at a local bar, getting to know vendors at the market, and savoring the cuisine at neighborhood restaurants. Reside in a renovated, modern apartment at the PopArtment, located near the heart of the city’s historic center.

Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Take an indepth walking tour of Florence led by an expert guide and enjoy tours of the Uffizi and Accademia galleries. Learn more about Tuscany during day trips to Chianti, Lucca, Siena, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and Cortona. Attend sessions by a local expert on Renaissance art and contemporary life, and enjoy a wine tasting.