International Finance Hotspots: Top 5 Cities for Finance Internships

29

Finance is an industry that transcends borders and connects people from around the world. To distinguish yourself and secure a top position in this highly competitive field, you can stand out by adding a finance internship in one of the world’s most iconic international cities to your resume. An AIFS Abroad internship will show future employers that you can effectively collaborate with partners and clients from various backgrounds.  

While you develop your finance career abroad, you can dive into new cultures and travel the world. Although we offer incredible internships in cities around the globe, we’ve curated a list of the top five destinations for international finance internships.  

Want to lay the groundwork for a future as a global finance leader? Explore AIFS Abroad’s top 5 global cities for finance internships! 

1. Dublin 

Due to its status as a major European and global business hub, along with its strong presence of financial services companies, Dublin is an excellent choice for finance interns looking to go abroad. Dublin is also a great option for finding your niche within the industry—you can explore options in banking, insurance, asset management, FinTech, private equity, and more. In this metropolitan, English-speaking city, you’ll have the chance to gain valuable professional experience while broadening your career horizons and expanding your global network. 

Not only will you benefit from Dublin’s opportunities for professional growth as a finance intern, but you’ll also be immersed in the city’s unique culture and deep-rooted history with access to the rest of Ireland and beyond. Whether you want to make the short journey to the rest of Europe, visit the idyllic Irish countryside, or discover every neighborhood in the city—in Dublin, you’ll never run out of activities or experiences to enjoy. 

2. Sydney 

Sydney is Australia’s financial capital—its central business district is the main financial vein in Australia, akin to America’s Wall Street. Sydney is home to finance organizations of all sizes from major investment firms and banks to startups and small insurance agencies. It’s also highly influential in the Asia Pacific region as a whole, making it a great destination for finance professionals who want exposure to Asian markets. For finance interns, Sydney offers the chance to gain hands-on experience in a globally connected city, develop skills in various financial sectors, and build a professional network in a city known for finance. 

The advantages of interning in Sydney for finance go beyond its outstanding professional development opportunities. Sydney is famous for its established music scene, sunny and moderate weather, and its dozens of stunning beaches. With a finance internship in Sydney, Australia, you can find wonderful work-life balance. 

3. Galway 

Ireland has become a global hotspot for business and finance, in part thanks to its business-friendly policies. While Dublin may seem like an obvious choice for some finance interns, Galway is another great option—it’s a mid-sized city replete with career opportunities and perfect for people who want to intern abroad in a destination with a slightly slower pace of life. Located on Ireland’s west coast, Galway is home to a booming finance sector with internship opportunities in banking, insurance, consulting, business administration, and beyond. Along with larger firms, Galway is home to many smaller, innovative firms, especially emerging FinTech companies. The city is a superb option for students and postgraduates looking to break into the field and gain valuable hands-on finance experience. 

Galway is a prime choice if you’re looking for an internship in an English-speaking location but still want the experience of going abroad. The city is built on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and positioned at the heart of Irish history and tradition—it’s often called the “cultural hub of Ireland,” as it’s a great place to immerse yourself in unique Irish traditions. 

4. Berlin 

Germany is the European Union’s (EU) largest economy, and as Germany’s political and business capital, Berlin is an excellent city for launching your finance career. While you can find finance opportunities of every kind in Berlin, the city is best known for its FinTech scene. Berlin is a growing hub for the industry, hosting roughly a third of all German FinTech companies. Additionally, Berlin is often seen as a global innovator, significantly contributing to the digitalization and growth of the financial sector. With a finance internship in Berlin, you can gain exposure to Germany’s international markets and build a professional network in a city known for its collaborative startup culture. 

Besides its wealth of advantages for aspiring finance professionals, Berlin is also an incredible city for traveling and enjoying a high quality of life. The city is positioned in the geographic center of Europe with easy access to international transportation hubs, making it an excellent location to explore the rest of Europe on the weekends or holidays. Furthermore, Berliners consistently report a high quality of life—the Happy City Index recently ranked Berlin as the third happiest city in the world for 2024. Grow your finance career, travel Europe, and enjoy life with a finance internship abroad in Berlin! 

5. Madrid 

Madrid is the capital and undisputed financial center of Spain. This central Spanish city is considered both a European and global hub for economic and financial activity, thanks to its booming job market, skilled workforce, and large presence of financial institutions from startups to international conglomerates and the Madrid Stock Exchange. Madrid offers plenty of opportunities for finance professionals and the chance to grow your network in a city with significant influence within the regional and global finance industry. A finance internship in Madrid will place you in one of the most financially influential cities in Europe, and thanks to the international diversity of the city, you’ll gain robust communication skills that will set you up for lasting success. 

In addition to its importance in the finance world, Madrid is also known as an exciting tourist destination overflowing with authentic Spanish culture, unique architecture, and deep-seated history. With a finance internship based in Madrid, you can explore world-renowned museums, taste delectable Spanish cuisine, and experience the exciting nightlife this city has to offer. Plus, you’ll be situated in the center of Spain, allowing you to explore other parts of the country or take a weekend trip to Portugal, France, or beyond. 

Looking to impress employers with an international finance internship? Connect with new cultures and develop your career simultaneously with AIFS Abroad! 

An international finance internship is an incredible way to gain hands-on experience while immersing yourself in diverse cultures across the globe. AIFS Abroad provides unparalleled opportunities for aspiring finance professionals in some of the world’s most exciting cities. With inclusions such as housing, insurance, career readiness programming, excursions and activities, on-site staff, and emergency support, you’ll have a stress-free global education and professional development experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to stand out in the competitive finance world with an internship abroad!