Why learn Italian in Siena?
A language stay in Siena takes you to a hilltop city whose historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Much of it is closed to traffic, and life revolves around the Piazza del Campo and the seventeen contrade, or districts, each with its own flag, church and fierce loyalties. Tuscany is where standard Italian has its roots, and you'll hear it all around you.
Siena suits learners who prefer a human-sized city to a big capital, students who want to focus without distractions, and adults drawn to art, wine and the Tuscan countryside. General and intensive courses cover every level, and a placement test on your first day puts you in the right class straight away.
- Accredited partner schools in Siena's historic centre
- Host family or student residence - both vetted and close to your school
- Placement test on arrival, complete beginners included
- Insurance and transfer from Florence or Pisa airport organised
Your stay at a glance
Siena highlights
Make the most of your time beyond the classroom: the places worth seeing, and the city at its best.
The events that bring Siena to life
From major festivals to once-a-year traditions, these are the moments that give the city its own rhythm.
Palio di Siena
July and August
The legendary bareback horse race around Piazza del Campo, run on 2 July and 16 August.
Chigiana International Festival
Summer
The Accademia Chigiana's summer classical music festival, with concerts in Siena's historic venues.
Wine&Siena
Late January to early February
A food and wine event with tastings and masterclasses at Santa Maria della Scala.
Frequently asked questions
Siena offers true immersion in a city small enough to feel at home within days. Life moves at a gentle pace and conversations start easily, so you use Italian from morning to evening. A language stay in Siena also brings medieval and Renaissance art, Tuscan food and easy trips into the countryside.
You can start from zero. Our partner schools in Siena teach every level, from complete beginners to advanced learners. A placement test on your first morning ensures you join a suitable group, and your teachers follow your progress throughout your stay.
Yes, and Siena is a natural place to do it: the CILS certificate is awarded by a university based in the city. Many of our partner schools also prepare students for CELI and PLIDA. Tell us which exam and session you're targeting and we'll plan the right course length.
It can be. A vetted host family lets you share Tuscan home life and practise Italian at dinner, while a student residence offers more independence. Siena's centre is compact, so your school is usually within walking distance. We confirm every detail before you leave Brussels.
Spring and early autumn are ideal, with mild weather and the countryside at its best. Summer is hot and lively, especially around the Palio on 2 July and 16 August, when the city fills with visitors. Winters on the hilltop can be chilly but quiet, which suits adults who want to focus on their studies.
Siena can suit teenagers well: the city is compact and calm, and a host family provides a reassuring base. Supervision and activities depend on the programme you choose. Minimum ages vary by school, and some courses are for adults only. Contact us and we'll advise you on the best option for your teenager.
