Espresso breaks between meetings. Downtime exploring iconic sights and discovering little local corners (like that charming piazza with the spot for homemade pasta). Interning in Italy gives you a window into Italian culture as you kick-start your career with practical experience and a global perspective.
Even better? You’ll have plenty of programs to choose from, which include compulsory or optional academic courses, language lessons, coursework-related trips, and weekend excursions. You can get up close and personal with Italian art in museums, learn business from the best, or go on a deep dive into Italy’s world-renowned cuisine—and that’s just the start.
Whether you’re looking to work in fashion, business, or tourism, Belpaese (beautiful country) provides a dynamic environment where you can gain hands-on experience while immersing yourself in its rich culture. Read on to discover some of the best internships in Italy, especially those delivering experiences that’ll stay with you long after your time abroad.
Why intern in Italy?
Once you know how to determine the best program for *you*, things will fall into place.
Italy offers more than just world-class art, cuisine, and history. It’s a hub for diverse industries, from fashion design in Milan to international business in Rome, making it an ideal destination for professional growth. The Italian work culture blends professionalism with an emphasis on personal relationships, helping interns build valuable networks. Plus, the chance to live in some of the world’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities adds an unforgettable layer to your internship experience.
And when you’re not interning, Italy offers countless free activities to explore and enjoy. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Rome, soak up the sun in Florence's public gardens, or marvel at the incredible architecture of Milan's cathedral. Many museums also offer free entry on certain days of the month, providing the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into rich history and culture without breaking the bank.
8 best internship programs in Italy
You can find great internship opportunities in every corner of Italy!
The best opportunities for interning in Italy combine cultural immersion with real-world, on-the-job growth. Here are some of our favorites to get you started:
1. World Endeavors Unique Internships in Florence
Why? Transform your resume and grow as a person with a placement in Firenze—what the locals call Tuscany’s capital. Explore your career interests while immersing yourself in Italian culture and language. World Endeavors’ internships in Florence, Italy, are available in a wide variety of professional fields, making it easy to gain practical, hands-on experience in a vibrant city you already have on your bucket list.
Where? Florence
Fields: Environmental Studies; Fashion Business; Food Science & Nutrition; Marketing, Advertising, & PR; Social Work; and more!
2. IES Abroad Summer Internships in Milan
Why? Spend your summer honing your professional skills and cross-cultural awareness alongside co-workers in the country’s fashion and financial hub. You’ll have personalized assistance with fine-tuning your resume and cover letter for a guaranteed placement. An academic internship seminar helps contextualize your time abroad. At the same time, field trips and an optional Italian course enrich your experience as you learn the local language and see even more of Italy.
Where? Milan
Fields: Art & Fine Arts; Business; Communications; Education; Fashion Business; Fashion Design; Finance; Marketing, Advertising, & PR
3. AIFS Abroad Summer Internships in Florence
Why? Like several other internships in Europe and all over the world, this AIFS Abroad program offers career development and the chance to see firsthand what living in a world-renowned Italian destination is like. Advisors take the time to get to know you, your career goals, and academic and language background to help match you with a perfect placement. On the other hand, cultural and social excursions let you truly connect with Florence (you know, the birthplace of the Renaissance!).
Where? Florence
Fields: Art & Fine Arts; Culinary Arts & Cooking; Interior Design; Journalism; Law; Museum Studies; Tourism; and more!
4. Institute for Global Studies Winery Internships in Multiple Italian Cities
Why? If you’ve ever dreamed of working in Italy’s famed wine regions, this internship program is your gateway to experiencing the heart of the wine industry. Whether you're interning in a vineyard or wine marketing firm, this program offers you the chance to dive deep into the world of wine production and distribution. Surrounded by Italy’s beautiful landscapes, you’ll also enjoy local wine tastings, cultural excursions, and the opportunity to explore a rich culinary scene!
Where? Florence, Rome, & Venice
Fields: Related to the wine industry, including Viticulture, Marketing, Events Organization
Read Institute for Global Studies reviews
5. Asia Internship Programme Internships in Multiple Italian Cities
Why? The best internships in Italy have it all, from skill enhancement to arranged logistics—just think, no more finding accommodation. Ensure that with Asia Internship Program’s (AIP) placements in major cities: Milan, Florence, Turin, and Bologna. You’ll have access to world-renowned companies in popular fields such as art, fashion, and business. You’ll gain professional experience and a relevant skill set during work hours. And then, explore Italy’s rich cultural heritage and way of life in your free time.
Where? Milan, Florence, Turin, and Bologna
Fields: Business, Marketing, Fashion, Communications, Hospitality, and more!
Read Asia Internship Program reviews
6. Intern Abroad HQ Affordable Internships in Rome
Why? Get work experience that works for you, thanks to Intern Abroad HQ’s tailored internships in Rome with flexible start dates. There’s so much to do and see in Italy’s capital city and cultural hub, making it the ideal setting for launching a global career. Language lessons at either the beginner or intermediate level improve your Italian language skills, and homestay accommodations enhance your intercultural learning even more. Other program perks, including the Experiential Learning Curriculum and 24/7 in-country support, help you seamlessly transition to the intern life in Rome.
Where? Rome
Fields: Architecture; Art & Fine Arts; Marketing, Advertising, & PR; Sales
7. Atlantis Medical Internships in Italy
Why? More than just winter and summer internships in Italy, this program offers pre-health and pre-med students the invaluable opportunity to shadow doctors in real-world medical settings. With 20 hours per week spent observing professionals in top hospitals, it allows a deep dive into the country’s healthcare system while gaining hands-on exposure. Alongside the clinical experience, you’ll enjoy cultural activities and excursions that enrich your understanding of Italian society.
Where? Rome, Milan, Turin, Venice, and other major cities in Italy
Fields: Pre-Med, Pre-Health, Medicine, Healthcare, Public Health
8. CEA CAPA Internships in Rome
Why? Imagine interning abroad in one of the world’s most iconic cities while gaining hands-on experience in your chosen field—sounds like a dream, right? CEA CAPA’s program in Rome can make that a reality. Whether you're diving into the world of art history, business, marketing, or sustainability, guarantee a personalized internship that matches your passions and career goals. Plus, it’s not just about work! You’ll also get to explore the Eternal City’s rich history, enjoy cultural excursions, and learn Italian through immersive language lessons.
Where? Rome
Fields: International Relations, Tourism, Journalism, IT, Education, and more!
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What makes these internship programs in Italy the best?
Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
Selecting the best internships in Italy requires numerous considerations, and finding the perfect program provider ultimately has to involve all your own personal preferences and interests. We’re here to help you sort through ideal placements by highlighting factors that can tailor your experience, enabling you to achieve your goals. Here are some things we considered when compiling our list of the best internship placements, which can also help you choose the best one for you:
- Location: We’ve rounded up programs in a variety of cities, so you can choose an opportunity in a place that fits your academic, career, and travel goals.
- Fields: You want to intern in an academic area you’re studying or pursuing a career in. We’ve got you covered with programs in a wide range of fields.
- Program inclusion: We looked for placements that include valuable perks like assistance, local support, Italian language classes, and excursions in and around your host city.
- Reviews: Interning in Italy? There’s no better insight into a program than advice from someone who’s already participated. The internships above boast great reviews from past participants—read about what other interns have enjoyed as you make your decision.
Intern in Italy, your next big career move awaits!
Fix your sights on Italy if you’re looking for internships abroad that will set you apart in a competitive job market, all while letting you grow as a person (and maybe figure out your future while you’re at it!). From Milan’s fashion scene to Rome’s business hubs, these programs can be tailored to suit your interests and career goals. Beyond the work experience, Italy’s unique blend of art, history, and cuisine makes it an unforgettable place to live and learn.
So, why wait? Start exploring your internship options and prepare for a life-changing experience. Your future career—and the adventure of a lifetime—is just around the corner.
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