Blog by Taylor Deuel
Semester in Florence, Fall 2024
Global Outreach Leader Spring 2025
From the bustling piazzas to the quiet charm of a morning cappuccino, Florence leaves an unforgettable mark anyone who wanders its beautiful streets. Discover alumna Taylor Deuel's tips on everything from mastering the art of local grocery shopping to truly embracing the slower, more intentional Italian pace of life.
1. The walkability of the city
Florence is an extremely walkable city! Most destinations in the city center are just a 10-15 minute walk apart. Even from the outskirts of the center, you can cross the city in about 30 minutes. Be sure to venture across the Arno River to discover local favorite spots. While the center remains more touristy, it still retains its authentic Italian charm. Public transportation in Italy can be unpredictable, so consider downloading the Autolinee Toscane bus app (AT) or using tap-to-pay instead of purchasing tickets at a Tabaccheria. And don’t forget to validate your ticket to avoid a fine!
2. Differences in meal times and cafe culture
Meal times in Florence are quite different from those in the U.S. Coffee is an essential part of Italian culture, with cappuccinos typically enjoyed only before 11 AM—after that, locals opt for a quick espresso. Traditional 4-course meals can last up to 3 hours, as Italians cherish their time at the table. It’s considered impolite to rush a meal, so servers won’t check in frequently, and you’ll often need to request the check yourself. Aperitivo is a pre-dinner time with drinks and light snacks from 4-7 PM, while dinner usually begins around 8 PM. Many authentic osterias and trattorias close in the afternoon for siesta and reopen for dinner, unlike tourist-focused restaurants that remain open all day.
3. Getting by with English
Many locals in Florence speak English and are very welcoming to tourists and students. Many spots around the city have student deals and discounts as well. Learning a few basic Italian phrases—like ciao (hello), grazie mille (thank you very much), and prego (you’re welcome)—can help you connect with the culture and show appreciation in a place where greetings and gratitude are valued. While the language barrier isn’t something to stress about, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice Italian if you’d like!
4. Grocery shopping
Grocery shopping in Florence can be quite a surprise if you're used to large supermarkets in the U.S. Here, grocery stores tend to be much smaller, but they are packed with high-quality, fresh ingredients that are fairly inexpensive. Be sure to bring reusable tote bags to avoid the extra charge for plastic bags at checkout. If you're looking for the freshest produce, local markets like Mercato Centrale or Sant'Ambrogio are excellent alternatives!
5. Embracing the Italian pace of life
One of the things I cherished most about living in Italy was the pace of life. If I had to describe it in three words it would be authentic, genuine, and intentional. Adjusting to a new culture meant letting go of the convenience and accessibility I was used to in the U.S., but embracing a slower rhythm and deeply rooted traditions was a transformative experience. I’ll always treasure my days spent wandering through the city center, discovering hidden gems around every corner. There’s truly nothing quite like the simple, beautiful way of life in Italy—la dolce vita!
Interested in studying abroad in Italy? Check out all of our study abroad and intern abroad programs here!
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