Live like a local and enjoy a variety of activities with like minded people in Florence, Italy.
Florence is a city that has something to offer everyone. Art lovers will be amazed by the city’s world-class museums, which house masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and other Renaissance masters. Foodies will delight in the city’s delicious Tuscan cuisine, which includes everything from bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) to ribollita (Tuscan bread soup). And history buffs will be fascinated by the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. But living in Florence for a couple of months is more than just a vacation. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Italian culture and experience firsthand the Italian way of life. You’ll learn to speak Italian, make new friends, and discover new passions.
Your experiences always includes
Live on the opposite side of the Arno River - away from the tourist frenzy. Experience local life, steps away from authentic shops, cafes, and restaurants. All private apartments are located within restored palaces, or palazzos.
Your local host who organizes community activities and connects you to local events. Whether you want to study Italian, volunteer, learn cooking, or just connect with locals, our Community Manager can guide you.
Your Community Manager curates the best local events in Florence that only locals know. Access the undiscovered side of this historic city. All scheduled community activities, meals, and happy hours are included in the program fee.
Travel medical insurance included in program fee. Community Manager can connect you to optional activities such as yoga classes, gyms, and nearby hikes and excursions to beautiful places near Florence.
Your Home in Florence, Italy
While most tourists congregate on the north side of the river Arno, the Oltrarno neighborhood on the south side of the river is here where local Florentines still live. Oltrarno was rebuilt once the Medici family settled there during the renaissance. Today, our members live in apartments located within restored Italian palazzos that maintain their historical charm, but provide modern amenities such as dishwashers, washing machines, high speed internet, and fully equipped kitchen, living room, and bedroom. When you walk outside, you can still admire traditional artisans working in their shops, or you can savor famous Italian aperitifs in one of the many wine bars nearby. Best of all, you’re only a short walk across the bridge to all the tourist attractions on the north side of the river.
All apartments are located within a restored historical palazzo, and include the following:
- Fully equipped kitchen
- High speed internet
- Weekly cleanings
- Queen sized beds
- Dining area
- Walking distance from everything
- Living room
- 1 or 2 Bathroom with shower stall
Authentic Florence Experiences
As part of The Good Life Abroad community in Florence, Italy, you will experience a wide variety of activities to immerse you into the local culture. In addition to our weekly Tuesday Lunch Club, weekly happy hours, and fitness events, we also bring you local professors to illuminate you on Florentine history, art, and architecture, as well as cooking classes and wine tastings. We’ll even venture to the countryside of Tuscany with hikes and walks. Your Community Manager is also able to connect you to local events that you are personally interested in, such as language lessons, art classes, or concerts and festivals.
Some of the experiences you'll enjoy in Florence and Tuscany include:
- Welcome reception & farewell party
- Tuscan traditional cooking class
- Architectural walking tour
- Weekly “Tuesday Lunch Club” in different restaurants
- Italian language workshop
- Lectures on Florentine History by local historians
- Wines of Tuscany tasting
- Weekly “Happy (to be 55+) Hour”
- Medieval Art Workshop
Additional Experience Options:
Unique personal experiences that can be arranged at an additional cost with your Community Manager
- Excursion to town of Siena
- Private Wine Tour with Local Sommelier
- Advanced Classical Italian
- Gym or yoga studio membership
Getaway with Day & Weekend Trips
Make Florence your home base and delve into the charm of nearby Tuscan towns and cities, all within 1-2 hours by train or car. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend retreat, you’ll find countless opportunities to experience the rich culture, history, and flavors of Tuscany.
Florence Community Managers
In Florence, you’ll be supported by our duo of Community Managers, Martina and Giacomo.
Martina grew up in Tuscany’s Siena province but moved to Florence to pursue degrees in Languages, Literature, and International Studies. She became a licensed tour guide with the goal to share her love for Florence and Tuscany. Martina’s narratives traverse the city’s streets, unraveling tales of old families, historical events, and the influential figures behind iconic structures or stunning art pieces. Beyond history, Martina introduces clients to Florence’s contemporary life, exploring markets, artisan enclaves, modern art exhibitions, and fashion boutiques. With expertise in oenology and viticulture, she’s sure to give you the best wine recs.
Giacomo is an Italian-German born and raised Florentine. He is known as the go-to person for quirky Florence-facts and anecdotes. After pursuing a Master’s degree in Architecture, he decided to follow his passion for storytelling and become a licensed local tour guide. He loves and knows the ins-and-outs of his city’s streets, monuments, and history. When he’s not busy planning his next trip or learning about the Byzantine Empire, Giacomo enjoys working on personal creative projects and taking walks in the Tuscan countryside.
Your 1-3 Month Florence Experience
More than just a vacation, immerse yourself in Italian culture and experience firsthand the Italian way of life. You’ll learn to speak Italian, make new friends, and discover new passions.
Your Tailored Experience Includes:
- 30 nights stay
- Fully furnished upscale apartment
- Weekly ‘Tuesday Lunch Club’
- Weekly Happy Hour
- Weekly activities
Included Extras
- Tuscan cooking class
- Wines of Tuscany tasting
- Walking tour of Florence
- Florentine history lecture
- Italian language crash course
- Day trip to Siena
Get Florence Details
Request a digital brochure with dates, prices, housing, and activities for our experience in Florence, Italy.
What Our Community is Saying
I loved the activities, they were really unique and different. We did belt making, a cooking class, and we went to a lunch that was clearly filled with people from Florence and not full of tourists.
Mindy D. Experienced Florence, Italy
“I loved the group activities, like our picnic in the Rose Garden and making belts at a leather shop. The people are amazing, and I would definitely recommend it to friends. Italia is fantastico!”
Theresa V. Experienced Florence, Italy
“As a solo traveler, I expected to explore venues and dine alone, trying to connect with people around me. However, having this group with us was so unexpected and the best part about it. It felt like a built-in community.”
Nada S. Experienced Florence, Italy
Frequently Asked Questions About Florence
Spring and fall offer ideal weather for exploring the city’s famous landmarks and scenic streets. Winter is quieter, providing a peaceful environment to enjoy Florence’s art and history.
Florence is compact and best explored on foot, with most attractions located near the city center. For longer distances, taxis are a convenient option, as public transport within the city is limited.
The Uffizi Gallery and Florence Cathedral are must-visit landmarks showcasing Renaissance art and architecture. Outdoor attractions like Piazzale Michelangelo offer breathtaking views of the city.
Florence has a mix of casual trattorias and upscale restaurants offering authentic Tuscan cuisine. Many have outdoor seating and easy access for older adults.
The historic center is ideal for its proximity to major sites, shopping, and dining. Accommodations near the Arno River often provide quieter options with stunning views.
Siena, Pisa, and the Chianti wine region are excellent options for history, culture, and scenic beauty. Trains and guided tours make these destinations easily accessible.
Florence is generally safe, though crowded areas like the Ponte Vecchio may require extra caution with personal belongings. Enjoy exploring the city’s charming streets with confidence.
Your best life awaits you.
Your dream of international living is within reach.
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