Studying in Italy is an incredible adventure, but the experience is even better when you’re surrounded by friends in Italy.
Making connections in a new country can seem intimidating, but with the right approach, you can build a vibrant social life. Here are some practical tips to help you break the ice, bond with classmates, and join local activities while you’re studying in Italy.
Start with your classmates
Your language school classmates are the perfect starting point for building friendships. Since you’re all in the same boat, learning Italian and adapting to a new culture, you already have common ground.
- Strike up conversations during breaks. Chat about your experiences in Italy so far, ask for tips about the best places to eat, or simply share a funny moment from class. These small interactions can lead to lasting friends in Italy
- Suggest after-class meetups. Invite your classmates to grab a gelato, check out a local market, or take a casual walk around the city. These laid-back hangouts are great for getting to know each other better.
- Work together. Form study groups or plan homework sessions. Not only will you learn faster, but you’ll also bond over shared goals and challenges.
Participate in school-organized activities
Most language schools in Italy host events and activities to encourage interaction among students. These might include cooking classes, cultural workshops, or weekend trips. To find out more about Go! Go! Italia partner school activities, contact us!
- Join as many activities as you can. These events provide a relaxed and fun way to meet new people while learning about Italian culture.
- Volunteer to help organize an event. This is a great way to connect with others and show initiative. You’ll meet people who share your enthusiasm and creativity.
Explore local events
Italy is famous for its festivals, markets, and cultural events. Attending these gatherings can help you connect with locals and immerse yourself in Italian culture. Follow Go! Go! Italia’s social media to know the latest events and festivals in Italy.
- Check community boards or online platforms. Websites and social media pages often list upcoming events in your area.
- Be curious. Asking locals about the event or its history can spark conversations and help you make connections.
Try language exchanges and cultural meetups
Language exchanges and cultural meetups are fantastic ways to practice Italian and meet people from diverse backgrounds.
- Look for language exchange events. Many cities have regular meetups where locals and internationals gather to practice different languages. Apps like Meetup or platforms like Tandem often list these events.
- Join cultural groups like Internations. Groups like Internations or local expat networks host events for socializing, networking, and cultural sharing.
- Be proactive. If you can’t find a language exchange nearby, consider starting one yourself. You’ll be surprised how many people are looking for similar opportunities.
Embrace Italian social customs
Understanding and respecting Italian social norms can make it easier to connect with locals.
- Be warm and approachable. Italians appreciate friendliness and enthusiasm. A simple smile or Ciao! can go a long way.
- Show genuine interest. Asking about Italian culture, traditions, or recommendations shows that you value their perspective.
- Learn basic Italian phrases. Even a small effort to speak the language can break barriers and build rapport.
Visit popular hangouts
One of the best ways to meet new people in Italy is by experiencing the country’s vibrant bar culture. Italian bars are quite different from what many international students might expect—they’re more like casual cafes than nightlife spots.
- Understand the concept of a bar. In Italy, bars are social hubs where people gather for coffee, snacks, or aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks). Mornings are lively with locals grabbing a quick espresso and cornetto (croissant) before heading to work. Afternoons and evenings see people enjoying an aperitivo.
- Try the “stand and sip” culture. It’s common for Italians to drink their coffee standing at the bar, which can be a great opportunity to strike up a casual conversation with locals or regular patrons.
- Explore aperitivo hour. This is a quintessential Italian experience where you can enjoy drinks along with a buffet of snacks or small dishes for a set price. It’s a relaxed and social atmosphere, perfect for meeting new people.
- Become a regular. Visiting the same bar frequently can help you become familiar to the staff and patrons, making it easier to strike up conversations and build connections.
making friends in Italy takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. By engaging with classmates, participating in local events, and embracing Italian culture, you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by a supportive community.
Are you ready to start your journey? Go! Go! Italia is here to help you make the most of your time in Italy, from learning the language to creating lifelong memories with new friends in Italy.
