Subject related visits
The Uffizi Gallery
Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance and the Uffizi is the ideal place to study. The gallery allows students to trace the progress not only of Italian art but also the art of Western Europe from the 13th - 18th Century. Students will be able to see works by Boticelli, Michelangelo and da Vinci among many others.
Galleria Dell’Accademia
Second only to the Uffizi in its importance, and complementary in the range of works it covers, the highlight of this gallery has to be the original David, a milestone in sculpture and an important symbol of Florence. Students can reflect on the context and the importance of this sculpture to the people of the region.
Palazzo Vecchio
The workplace of Macchiavelli when he was Secretary of the Florentine Republic. The frescoes and staircases show the connection of patronage and power within art, as well as showing how art is made not only to be hung in galleries, but to be a part of everyday life.
Palazzo Pitti
Renaissance art is not the only art of Florence. The Palazzo Pitti's collection of later works shows students that the production of art in Florence has continued to flourish even in the wake of the most famous artists.
Church of San Lorenzo
Filled with devotional pieces by some of the great Renaissance artists, this church provides a fine example of artwork produced specifically to symbolise religion.
Il Mercato Neovo
Famous for local hand-crafted articles and "il Porcelino" the bronze statue of a boar that brings luck if you rub its nose.
Piazza Della Signoria
The main square of Florence and the home to many sculptures including a copy of Michelangelo's David
Fra Angelico Museum
This is a quiet and peaceful museum containing frescos painted by the friar and professional artist, Fra Angelico.
Piazza Del Duomo
This is one of the most visited places in Europe and home to a trio of iconic structures. The cathedral, bell tower and baptistery can all be visited in a morning and provide students with an insight into religious art & symbolism.
Basilica de Santa Maria del Fiore
A centrepiece for artists and photographers, the incredible neo-gothic façade is quite a sight and guided tours of the interior give students' access to impressive tombs, frescos and paintings.
Baptistery
This Romanesque, minor basilica, is one of the oldest buildings in Florence. The external imagery, particularly on the 3 bronze doors, is incredibly intricate and once inside students will discover an opulent, patterned décor.
Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio managed to dodge destruction during WWII and retains a parade of shops mainly selling gold. Medici family to Hitler this remarkable walk across the river is steeped in history and photo opportunities.
Pisa
Renowned for its leaning tower, Pisa is also home to plenty of other sites including: churches, cobbled piazzas and historic fortified walls. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes - perfect for a day trip.
Palatine Gallery
This vast Renaissance complex dates back to 1458 and is adjoined to the wonderful Boboli Gardens. Once a royal residence and now open to the public, visiting art and history groups will find everything from Medici treasures to theatrical costumes.
Further highlights
- Food Technology & Hospitality
Cookery School
We recommend the Scuola Toscana to teach our pupils how to cook the Tuscan way. This is a hands-on method of learning which enables pupils to make complete Italian meals from pasta to meats, from appetizers to desserts. All levels of catering skills will be taken into consideration and classes can be tailor-made for your group.
The Language of Italian Food
The more you find out about Italian food the more you realise the correlation with Italian language & culture. Your pupils can learn practical Italian while cooking in the classroom, shopping in the market and reading recipes for information. Our language courses start from the beginning of your tour and can be structured to allow learning through first-hand experiences.
The Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens are a wonderful area of open parkland set on a hillside overlooking Florence. The views, landscaped gardens and sculptures make for the perfect area to relax and enjoy the scenery within the very heart of the city. This is a great place to enjoy a packed lunch full of Italian meats, cheeses, olives, bread, and fruit.
- Modern Foreign Languages
Language lessons
Our Florentine language assignment combines lessons in a classroom with out and about activities. The schools that we use in Florence have native Italian teachers and all lessons are designed to promote practical learning experiences.
Young Reporter Course
Small groups can research, interview and present findings in a variety of mediums and this course comes complete with: a Dictaphone, teacher's CD ROM and a Travelbound representative.
