Not Another Volunteer Program: Why Our Internship Hits Different

So, you’re Googling volunteer programs in Italy hoping for something fun, real, and unforgettable—and voilà, you land here. But let’s get something straight right away: this is not another volunteer program.

At YellowSquare, we call it an internship, and for good reasons. Our program isn’t about “volunteering for a free bed.” It’s about bringing your energy, ideas, and personality into our spaces—and leaving with real experiences, real friends, and a deeper understanding of what hospitality means when it’s powered by community.

Whether you’re looking to intern in Florence, Milan, Rome, or soon Athens, you’re in for something wild (in the best way).

What You’ll Actually Do

Forget spreadsheets and boring coffee runs. Our internship is 50% connection, 50% chaos, and 100% unforgettable. Here’s what a typical week might look like:

• Co-hosting karaoke nights or themed dinners
• Helping run city tours and events
• Supporting guest check-ins or welcome briefings
• Collaborating with YellowSquare team members
• Bringing your own flair (yes, your salsa class idea is welcome)

Our interns aren’t just sidekicks—they’re a vital part of the vibe we build every day. And no, you don’t need to be a hospitality pro. You just need to be curious, friendly, and open to the YellowSquare madness.

Why We Call It an Internship (And Not a Volunteer Program)

We get it. The word “volunteer” brings clicks. But for us, that label just doesn’t fit.

While volunteering often means helping out in exchange for free lodging, our approach at Yellow is much more intentional. What we offer is a structured internship—a meaningful experience where you’re not just giving your time, but also gaining something valuable in return.

Yes, it’s a cultural exchange. But it’s also a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and immerse yourself in a new environment in a truly enriching way.

And guess what? Some of our amazing team members started out just like you—as interns! They were travelers with open minds and useful skills, ready to contribute to the Yellow world. And we noticed!

Take Kate, now our Square Experiencer in Rome, or Enrico, our Creative Deputy in Athens. They both began their journeys as interns.

That means:

• A clear schedule (so you can still explore the city and more)
• A welcome briefing and continuous mentoring
• An agreement signed with us before you start
• And yes, some pretty solid perks (see below)

The Perks

Let’s talk about the good stuff.

• Free accommodation in a shared intern dorm
• Two meals per day
• Free laundry, common kitchen and coworking access
• Priority spots on our internal events and trips
• A wild, inspiring, international team with strong community values
• A certificate of attendance at the end of your internship

And the best perk? You’ll be in the heart of one of the coolest cities in Europe, surrounded by people who know how to make every day count.

Who This Is For

Are you:

• A backpacker with a curiosity for behind-the-scenes hospitality?
• A student looking for a travel-based internship?
• A people-person who gets a kick out of shared dinners and themed nights?
• Someone who doesn’t mind a bit of mess, a lot of laughs, and a few late nights?

If you answered yes to at least two of those, you’re probably one of us.

Bonus points if you:

• Speak more than one language
• Have experience in art, events, music, food, or digital content
• Want to learn how hostels work from the inside-out

How to Apply

Our selection process is friendly, fast, and human.

1. Fill out the application form.
2. If your application stands out, you’ll be invited for a video chat.
3. If you’re selected, we’ll guide you through the paperwork.
4. Then you sign the agreement and get ready to join our team!

A Few Notes Before You Apply

• The internship is unpaid—but includes accommodation, food, and experiences.
• Minimum stay: 6 weeks.
• EU citizens: free to apply. Non-EU citizens: need a visa that allows interning/volunteering in Italy.
• You’ll need a Codice Fiscale (we help with that).
• You must be 18+, friendly, and able to live in a dorm setting.

A Real Slice of the YellowSquare Life

From rooftop sunsets in Florence to Milan’s wild events and Roman bar nights, YellowSquare is anything but static. Interns become part of that magic. You’ll meet digital nomads, solo travelers, artists, and locals—all while playing a part in something special.

So if you’re tired of scrolling through the same old volunteer in Italy listings, maybe it’s time to switch lanes and be part of our internship program.

That sounds good?

👉 Fill out this application and we’ll reply to you shortly.