Learning Italian Beyond the Classroom in Milan

Learning Italian while exploring Milan is one of the most engaging ways to immerse yourself in the language and the culture. That’s exactly what happened when students from our Italian Language School for Foreigners joined Marco, an Italian teacher and art history expert, for a guided walk through Parco Sempione, one of Milan’s most fascinating green spaces.

Marco is not just an Italian language instructor. He’s also a true art history expert, with a deep knowledge of Milan’s artistic and cultural heritage. Every week, he takes our students on a different journey, showing them the city through the lens of history, architecture, and language.

Parco Sempione: Learn Italian in Milan’s Most Iconic Park

This week’s destination was Parco Sempione, Milan’s largest inner-city park and a place full of symbolism and stories. Located just behind the Castello Sforzesco, the park is a perfect blend of nature, art, and Milanese life.

As they walked among leafy paths and historic monuments, students learned about the origins of the park, built in the late 1800s on the site of a former military parade ground. Thanks to Marco’s storytelling skills, every bench, statue and fountain became a reason to speak and listen to Italian — truly a case of learning Italian while exploring Milan.

The Sirenette Bridge: A Hidden Gem That Teaches Vocabulary

One of the most charming stops was the Ponte delle Sirenette. Built in 1842, it was the first iron bridge in Milan and features four elegant cast-iron sirens. Legend says they bring good luck to lovers.

“I had never seen it, even though it was right there, huge, like a neon sign,” says Olivia, an American student. “Marco has this gift: he makes you slow down, he teaches you to see Milan like a poem — as if Alda Merini herself were telling you the story.”

Afternoon Discoveries: Learn New Words at Towers, Parrots and Elephant Races

In the afternoon, students explored Torre Branca, a 108-meter steel tower by Gio Ponti. On a clear day, the Alps are visible from the top! They also visited the Arena Civica, a neoclassical stadium where elephant races and grand shows were once held.

The day ended peacefully by the pond, surrounded by ducks, turtles, and green parrots – yes, in Milan! It was the perfect ending to a day of active immersion: walking, talking, laughing, and learning Italian while exploring Milan’s unique corners.

Why Learning Italian While Exploring Milan Works

Marco’s walks are immersive learning experiences. Students listen, speak, and connect with the city — all in Italian. Through real-world interaction, they gain fluency, cultural awareness, and confidence.

Each week brings a new discovery. Milan becomes part of the curriculum. That’s what makes learning Italian while exploring Milan so effective: it’s alive, authentic, and unforgettable.

📸 See more photos on our Instagram.