We are looking for a language school in Italy, in a town with ocean front. Would prefer along the Ligurian coast, but are open to places on the Adriatic, and also the Mediterranean. We’re thinking about starting with just 1 week to try it out, then returning if we like it. Any experience with in person language schools? Not interested in lodging, or the extra activities. We think we can do the hiking, culinary, and cultural activities on our own.
Posted by
6404 posts
I stayed in Orbetello (southern Tuscany) years ago and would pass folks from a language school sitting at a cafe every day. I’ve always said I’d go back one day and take a class there!
https://www.orbitlingua.it/
You are on a lagoon in Orbetello, but there are plenty of places in the vicinity where you could be on the seaside, and the views are really marvelous. Since you mentioned hiking, it is really well positioned for that, with hiking on the promontory, nearby islands, and Maremma park.
Posted by
new york
1085 posts
I've also heard about that school in Orbetello, from a person on another travel forum who wrote about taking classes there. It sounded wonderful! I'd like to go myself. The name is TERRAMARE; they also have a school on Sardinia, which also sounds tempting!
Valadelphia, do I recognize you (not your name) from another travel forum?
Posted by
6404 posts
Hi Eks, yes we’ve been traveling in the same circles both online and in reality! I think I read about the Orbetello school on Fodors. I picked one from the new part of Orbetello where I stayed but don’t know anything about the school.
I second the Sardinia rec—I finally made it this year and will be back!
Posted by
San Diego, California, USA
1846 posts
Closest I can get is Lucca. There are several Italian schools in Lucca but generally the most respected from the people I have spoken to is Lucca Italian School: https://www.luccaitalianschool.com/lucca-italian-school/who-we-are.html
They do an informal Italian discussion to assess your level and needs and then go from there. They also have several courses that mix instruction with activities such as cooking, the market, hiking etc.
It's not Ligurian coast but it's 20 minutes by train from the Tuscan coast and 1:15 from La Spezia.
Good luck with your search,
=Tod
Posted by
Portland, OR
19 posts
Although I don't have any experience with coastal language schools, I have attended a language school annually since 2022 in Italy. My first time was just for a week - and I wouldn't be likely to go for that short of a time again. It took me a few days to get my bearings and I felt like I just got into the rhythm and the week was over. The following year I went for 2 weeks which was a better experience - although 1 week is absolutely better than no weeks. Have a great trip!
Posted by
OP
12 posts
Thanks for all the suggestions and ideas you’ve given me so far. Andrea where do you go and what’s the name of the school?