Italy is a country where even a little Italian goes a long way. While many Italians speak English, especially in tourist areas, making an effort with the local language can transform your trip. Here’s a no-nonsense guide to the phrases you’ll actually need.
Basic Greetings and Polite Phrases
- Ciao – Hello / Goodbye (informal)
- Buongiorno – Good morning / Good day (formal)
- Buonasera – Good evening (formal)
- Grazie – Thank you
- Per favore – Please
- Scusi – Excuse me / Sorry (formal)
Tip: Italians appreciate formal greetings (buongiorno, buonasera) when entering shops or restaurants. Save ciao for friends.
Navigating the Basics
Dov'è il bagno?
/doˈvɛ il ˈbaɲɲo/“Where is the bathroom?”
The universal traveller’s question. Pronounce it right, and you’ll avoid awkward miming.
- Quanto costa? – How much does it cost?
- Parla inglese? – Do you speak English?
- Non capisco – I don’t understand
- Mi sono perso/a – I’m lost (perso for men, persa for women)
Dining Out Like a Local
Italian meals are sacred. Mess this up, and you risk side-eye from waiters.
- Un tavolo per due, per favore – A table for two, please
- Il conto, per favore – The bill, please
- Senza glutine – Gluten-free (if you need it)
- Posso avere…? – Can I have…?
Never ask for a cappuccino after 11 AM unless you want to out yourself as a tourist. Italians drink them strictly at breakfast.
Emergency Phrases (Just in Case)
- Aiuto! – Help!
- Chiamate un’ambulanza! – Call an ambulance!
- Ho perso il mio passaporto – I’ve lost my passport
For more travel-friendly language guides, check out our articles on Estonian for travellers or French phrases for sounding sophisticated.
