Close
Close
Search this website

From Plate to Identity: A Taste of Europe

May 18 - June 7, 2026

From Plate to Identity: A Taste of Europe is a three-week undergraduate study abroad program that explores the rich intersections of food, culture, and identity in Europe. Traveling through Porto, Lyon, and Palermo, students will experience how culinary traditions reflect history, community, and regional diversity. Through site visits, tastings, and discussions with local experts, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how cuisine shapes cultural identity while immersing themselves in three of Europe’s most vibrant gastronomic landscapes.

LOCATION DESCRIPTION

Porto – A coastal gem in northern Portugal, Porto is renowned for its historic riverfront, vibrant markets, and world-famous port wine cellars. Its blend of tradition and modern creativity makes it a perfect place to explore food and identity. Lyon – Often called the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon offers a rich culinary heritage with its bouchons, fresh markets, and deep-rooted food culture. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage city, where history and cuisine meet at every corner. Palermo – The heart of Sicily, Palermo is a crossroads of cultures where Mediterranean, Arab, and European influences converge. Its bustling street food scene and layered history offer a unique perspective on how identity is shaped through cuisine.

HOUSING

During the program students will share double rooms in a 3 stars hotel situated in the historic city center of each city. Breakfast and most meals are included.

SEMESTER

Summer A

DATES

May 18 - June 7, 2026

COURSES & CREDITS

Students register for a total of 3 credits:

  • FOL 3930 - Special Topics (3 credits)

PROGRAM COST

The price per student is $3934 and includes: Hotel accommodations, breakfast, most meals, cooking classes, field trips, guided walking tours, lectures, classroom material, pre-departure and in-country orientation sessions, International Health Insurance. The program cost does not include the non-refundable Study Abroad Fee ($195), FIU tuition for three academic credits, travel between USA and Europe, travel within each of the 3 cities (Porto/Lyon/Palermo) and some meals.

Payment Dates

Angers, France Program fee - $3,934.00 (see table for deadlines)

Cancellation and/or Refund Policy

$500 deposit is non-refundable

$195 OEA fee is non-refundable

All payments are non-refundable.

For cancellation policy of FIU tuition and fees, please click here.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Participants concerned about the level of physical activity should contact the faculty director of the program.

APPLICATION THROUGH THE OFFICE OF STUDY ABROAD

Office of Study Abroad Online Application

Apply here →

Deadline January 15, 2026

Non-FIU students must apply to FIU as a Non-Degree seeking student as well.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

There are additional scholarships available to students, such as OEA scholarships, National Prestigious Scholarships, and country and discipline-specific national scholarships. We highly encourage students to apply to as many scholarships as they qualify for. Learn about additional scholarships at Funding - Scholarships.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Eugênia Fernandes 
Faculty Director, Porto
Email: eufernan@fiu.edu 

Magda Novelli Pearson 
Faculty Director, Palermo
Email: pearsonm@fiu.edu

Olivier Salès 
Faculty Director, Lyon
Email: osales@fiu.edu 

Department of Modern Languages
T: 305-348-2852

Scholarships available. Contact the FIU Office of Study Abroad for more information:
Email: edabroad@fiu.edu    Phone#: 305-348-1913

Note: FIU is not responsible for delays, changes in itinerary, changes in the content and cost of the program or other matters that are beyond their control.