As part of a school assignment for my Writing for Digital Media course, two classmates and I interviewed the creator and one of the professors...
Florence University of the Arts is pleased to introduce its Cinque Terre Riviera Program in La Spezia. Applications are now open to apply for the launch semester in Spring, 2026 & beyond! Located on Italy’s northern coast, students study in a working port city surrounded by the Alps and Mediterranean. Nearby are the famous Cinque Terre villages and the “Gulf of Poets,” made famous by writers such as Shelley and Byron.
Academic Focus
Choose between a three-week term, a full semester or a two-city option that combines La Spezia and Florence. All courses are taught in English by Italian and international faculty. You can mix and match up to six classes in areas such as Mediterranean studies, marine and environmental sciences, engineering, business and supply chain, writing and fine arts, digital media and design, or hospitality and wine studies. Local internships are available to put classroom theory into practice.
Experiential Learning
• Hands on projects and internships at industry hubs or local design studios
• On-site advisors, wellness workshops and a 24 hour emergency line to support you outside the classroom
Location Highlights
La Spezia is Liguria’s regional hub, with easy train and bus connections. Florence is two hours away, Genoa 75 minutes, and Pisa’s airport is 45 minutes by train. The pedestrianized center is home to the Naval Museum, CAMeC contemporary art center, and lively piazzas. Ferries run daily to Cinque Terre and nearby islands.
Housing & Student Life
Options include shared apartments, dormitories or host-family stays. All students receive an orientation, counseling and access to FUA’s 24 hour hotline. Expect a coastal lifestyle with local markets, fresh seafood and a close-knit international community.
Ready to study where the mountains meet the sea? Visit the Cinque Terre & Riviera Program page or contact FUA Admissions at admissions@fua.it for details on sessions, courses and how to apply.