Not sure if this is the best section to post this, but it seemed the most logical place.

I am currently researching language schools in Italy for potential students who want to study Italian and I'd like to check out schools in Florence and in Rome at opposite ends of the scale - something upmarket and special vs something more modestly priced that is nonetheless a reputable school.

If you happen to have any suggestions or recommendations, I'd be interested to hear them. Thanks.

I would recommend the Societa Dante Aligieri in Rome as a lower cost option. Very professional, students from all around the world, run by the Italian government. It's housed in an amazing palazzo in the center of Rome - the Palazzo Firenze on Piazza Firenze. Only downside is that the classes can be quite large.

Societa Dante Alighieri

There is a free course in Rome that I have been attending since the beginning of February. It will not be available during the summer but starts back up in the Fall. Classes are across the street from Chiesa S. Maria in Maggiore. It is 3 days a week, 2 hours a day.

Thanks for the replies. Much appreciated.

I'd heard about the SDA and it looks very good value for money. But a free course! That's hard to beat.

What levels are the classes, Elaine? Do you have any contact details?

I am intending to move to Italy myself in the Fall and am still unsure what I will do and where I shall live.

There are at least 3 levels. When I enrolled they assigned me to a level based on my ability. Enrollment is only held on certain days a few weeks before the new courses start and I will post that as soon as I can get it.

Grazie, Elaine. I've just noticed a new thread about the SDA here
http://expattalk.com/groupee/forums/a/tpc/f/4600050704/m/8780024784
which has some more feedback.