By Caylee Brand
One of the trickiest parts about being an international student in Florence is balancing classwork with experiencing the city. There’s just so much to do! But who says you can’t do both at the same time? Here are my top three favorite spots to study in Florence that allow you to get all your work done while still taking in all this incredible city has to offer.
1. Biblioteca delle Oblate
My personal favorite spot to study is at the Biblioteca delle Oblate, located only a three-minute walk from the Duomo. Originally a convent built upon the commission of Folco Portinari in 1288, this library can be viewed as a snapshot of architectural history in the modern day that is completely free to the public. Biblioteca delle Oblate boasts beautiful architecture and lively greenery in its multiple courtyards. If you require more of a traditional study setting, make a reservation for a study table through the front desk or via phone to sit inside at one of their community desks, each equipped with power outlets. As a quiet space filled with productive students hard at work, I found it to be a very motivating place to work. However, if you like to study with some background noise and study snacks, the library cafe is a perfect choice. Or take your coffee and brioche outside onto their wraparound balcony, find a seat, and enjoy the sunlight.
Pros: free wifi, outdoor and indoor options, delicious snacks and coffee, access to power outlets, central location
Cons: reservations are quick to fill up for study tables
2. Fedora
As a student at Florence University of the Arts, I of course have to mention Fedora, our school cafe, completely open to the public. With somewhat limited indoor seating, it may not be an ideal choice in inclement weather, however, when the sun is out, grab a cappuccino and make your way to the gorgeous patio seating area. With birds chirping among the gardens and greenery combined with the dainty outdoor decor, you will feel relaxed and ready to work.
Pros: free wifi, outdoor and indoor options, delicious snacks and coffee, central location
Cons: limited indoor seating
3. La Ménagère
Looking for a classier, more sophisticated place to study? Perhaps with a jazzy and floral vibe? Then you simply must check out La Ménagère. A spacious bistro, restaurant, cafe, bookstore, and flower shop all in one, there are plenty of indoor or outdoor spaces to sit down and crack open your laptop or one of their many classic novels! Another fun note about this snazzy cafe – your cappuccino just might come with a cool image within the foam.
Pros: free wifi, outdoor and indoor options, creative coffee options, unique ambience, central location
Cons: pricey coffee
There are many other wonderful places to study around Florence – the above are only three that I enjoy. I encourage you to check these spots out or try out any others you stumble upon. Pro tip if you’re here for a while: become a regular somewhere! Getting to know the owner or baristas at your local cafe can be a great way to make Florence feel more like home.