Have you considered learning Italian? Do you want to broaden your experience in Italy and order your next espresso in the ultimate language of love? To learn Italian while you are in Italy could be as easy as visiting a website and spending some time reading through the online courses.
Learning the language will allow you to experience Italy in a new ways when you arrive, as you will be able to tour the sites, and learn about Italian Renaissance art history knowing more about the history of the language and it's context.
The best way to become thoroughly immersed in Italian culture and art is by learning Italian.
Understanding the native language allows you to more intimately understand the culture, the art, the people and even the food.
There are Italian language schools which provide online courses which will allow you to follow classes for a couple of hours a day or longer (depending on needs and availability).
This enables you to pick up the language quickly during your stay.
You could also get a jump on this ahead of time by starting your course before you leave.
If you begin a month or two prior to your anticipated departure, you will already understand the language at a basic level on arrival, and this will help with such simple tasks as being able to hail a cab and state your destination free from the fear that you sound like a tourist and so the taxi driver might take a special tourist route!.
Certain Italian language schools offer courses on Italian Renaissance art history, which is a major draw for students and art enthusiasts alike.
In the long run, you will be better educated because you are able to understand the art and culture on a native level.
The rich, vibrant culture of Italy has a much more detailed and lengthy history of art than in other areas of the world - Some of the best sculpture and architecture in the world is found in Florence.
Taking tours or art classes in Florence and knowing the Italian language, is a much more satisfying encounter than standing around dumbfounded while smaller phrases go over your head.
You don't want to miss out on the full experience, especially during a lengthy stay.
If you are a student spending time in Italy for a gap year or you are an exchange student, you will benefit by taking courses from Italian language schools.
Learning a second or third language will serve you well in life and sharpen your knowledge.
The same is true if you are a tourist and you simply enjoy learning new things.
If you are interested in learning Italian, add a course to your itinerary and view Italy in a whole new light!