Enrichment

Your Enrichment Program

Living in Italy is designed to offer you increased choice and personalized experiences while you are in residence in vibrant and historic Florence. Select one, two, or all three of our optional enrichment tracks, which are scheduled so that you can participate in all of them if you wish! (2024) Enrichment Tracks are each purchased separately, 5% discount if you purchase all three! (2025) One Enrichment Track of your choice is included in the program price, additional enrichment tracks may be purchased separately. Each track is staffed by a local expert who knows the topic and the area intimately in order to provide you with the most insightful experience. You’ll also enjoy many included cultural excursions, within and beyond Florence, each accompanied by a local expert with specialized knowledge for that excursion. Plus, you’ll have the expertise and support of your Smithsonian Journeys Resident Director who will tend to all the logistical details so that you have a smooth, stress-free in-residence experience.

Included Excursions

Explore Tuscany on several included day trips led by a local expert eager to share their knowledge. Tour the remarkable city of Florence, the Chianti region, as well as San Gimignano, Lucca, Siena, Colle di Val d'Elsa, and Cortona.

Optional Enrichment Tracks

Each track features activities and/or classes that meet at specific times. Travelers will be given detailed information on when and where to meet during orientation. Travelers can purchase any of these tracks separately or as part of a full package; (2024) All enrichment tracks at an additional price, for those purchasing all three Enrichment Tracks, receive a 5% discount. (2025) Choose one enrichment track as part of your program price, purchase additional enrichment tracks to enhance your stay.

Track 1 – Language Lessons: This track includes nine three-hour Italian-language classes that are small and tailored to your skill level, guaranteeing individual attention and a comfortable progression through the lessons. Pricing: $990 per person (2024 departure dates). $750 per person (2025 dates)

Track 2 – Culinary: In this track, the region’s cuisine takes center stage. Discover the local flavors of Tuscany through three cooking demonstrations. Pricing: $640 per person (2024 departure dates).$650 per person (2025 dates)

Track 3 – Art and Architecture: Go beyond the most visited sites of Florence to explore additional museums and architectural gems with an expert, including the Duomo and Baptistry, the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, and the Archaeological Museum in Fiesole. Pricing: $590 per person (2024 departure dates). $750 per person (2025 dates)

More about your Smithsonian Journeys Resident Director

Although this three-week immersion program is geared for the traveler desiring independence and flexibility, our Resident Director is present to provide support with practical advice and information. In addition, the Resident Director provides a wealth of cultural insights and knows the area intimately, and will help you tailor your experience with creative ideas for leisure time, restaurant suggestions, and more. The end result … you’ll know your way around, understand the culture, and feel like you’re a true resident in no time!