Florence attracts students from around the globe with its rich cultural heritage, renowned educational institutions, and welcoming atmosphere. The city offers a fun and stylish lifestyle with a student-friendly environment. Student life in Florence is especially enjoyed by internationals, such as Americans and Erasmus students.
While the city is renowned for its focus on the arts and humanities, it also offers a wide array of graduate and postgraduate degrees at affordable prices. Additionally, there are many internships and study abroad programs, making Florence an attractive study destination for many.
With its picture-perfect historic charm and modern amenities, Florence caters to plenty of different types of student housing with various student-friendly neighbourhoods. You can choose from student residences, shared apartments, and studio flats. As of April 2025, students can expect to pay between €400-€700 per month for a rented room, while studio apartments start at €700.
Novoli
Furthest from the city centre, Novoli is a modern and residential, non-touristy area. It is one of the best student neighbourhoods in Florence due to its excellent value for money.
Highlights: Novoli is away from the tourist traps and offers attractions like the Cascine riverfront park and Visarno Arena, as well as an outdoor swimming pool.
Transport: it is well-served by tram links, making the journey into the city centre just 30 minutes or a 20-minute bike ride.
Proximity to universities: the neighbourhood is conveniently located near many of the University of Florence’s faculties, with direct tram lines providing easy access to American universities in the centre.
Sant' Ambrogio
With its village-like feel, Sant' Ambrogio is known for its cobbled pavements and vibrant markets, slightly away from the centre and less crowded.
Highlights: the area boasts a popular fresh food market and the cultural hub, Teatro del Sale.
Transport: it’s within walking distance of the city centre and offers a 20-minute tram connection to the main train station for convenient day trips.
Proximity to universities: many universities are located within a 20-minute walk, making Sant' Ambrogio an ideal choice for students.
- Rooms for rent in Sant' Ambrogio
- Studio apartments in Sant' Ambrogio
- Short-term rentals in Sant' Ambrogio
Piazza del Duomo
Situated in the city centre, Piazza del Duomo is perfect for those wanting nightlife on their doorstep. As one of the nicest neighbourhoods in Florence, it can be more expensive and quite touristy.
Highlights: the area is surrounded by historic sites, offering a unique and inspiring atmosphere for students.
Transport: only 15 minutes from Santa Maria Novella train station, with regular buses servicing all parts of the city.
Proximity to universities: most universities are accessible within a 30-minute walk or cycle ride.
- Rooms for rent in Piazza del Duomo
- Studio apartments in Piazza del Duomo
- Short-term rentals in Piazza del Duomo
Santa Maria Novella
Known for its excellent transport links, Santa Maria Novella is a family-oriented area surrounded by restaurants, shops, and markets.
Highlights: this neighbourhood is home to the iconic Santa Maria Novella church and bustling local markets.
Transport: located adjacent to the main train station, students can easily travel beyond the city limits.
Proximity to universities: its prime location makes commuting to universities straightforward and efficient.
- Rooms for rent in Santa Maria Novella
- Studio apartments in Santa Maria Novella
- Short-term rentals in Santa Maria Novella
Rifredi
Rifredi is a burgeoning district popular among students due to its proximity to the University of Florence. Arguably the coolest neighbourhood in Florence, it has a mix of older homes and newer constructions.
Highlights: Rifredi offers a variety of entertainment and leisure options, making it a lively place to live.
Transport: the second tram line runs through Rifredi, providing excellent connectivity.
Proximity to universities: it's near the Faculty of Medicine and Engineering at the University of Florence and close to Careggi University Hospital, making it especially convenient for medical students.
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