italian phrases for travel printable pdf

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Best Italian Phrases for Travel (With FREE Printable)

Looking for the best Italian phrases for travel? Well, you have come to the right place!

It’s always good to learn some important phrases when travelling to a new country. It not only shows respect, but trust me when I say, locals will treat you better if you are at least attempting to speak their language!

Both John and I were raised in Italian-speaking families and have been to Italy several times. So we absolutely know what we are talking about.

Hubby is completely fluent. However, I could definitely use some brushing up. So, I can speak from experience when I say that it is important to learn at least the basics.

So we have put together a list of the most important, and most used phrases that you will need to know before travelling to Italy.

Essential Italian Phrases

Unlike many places in Europe, there aren’t a lot of people who speak English in some parts of Italy.

As such, I would have struggled to communicate, if not for learning at least a few basic phrases.

These phrases should give you a great starting point for communicating in Italian.

They cover basic greetings, essential questions, and polite expressions that are useful in everyday interactions.

Good morning Buongiorno (bwon-jor-no)

Good evening Buonasera (bwon-ah-seh-rah)

Please Per favore (pehr fah-voh-reh)

Thank you Grazie (grah-tsee-eh)

Excuse me (to get someone’s attention) Mi scusi (mee skoo-zee)

Excuse me (to navigate through) Permesso (per-mess-so)

Where is the bathroom? Dove il bagno? (doh-veh eel bahn-yo)

How much does it cost? Quanto costa? (kwahn-toh koh-stah)

Do you speak English? Parla inglese? (par-lah een-gleh-zeh)

Can I have the menu? Posso avere il menu? (pohs-soh ah-veh-reh eel meh-noo)

A ticket to [destination], please Un biglietto per [destination], per favore (oon beel-yet-toh pehr [destination], pehr fah-voh-reh)

I don’t understand Non capisco (nohn kah-pees-koh)

Can you help me? Può aiutarmi? (pwaw ah-yoo-tar-mee)

Common Greetings in Italian

This list covers a range of common Italian greetings that you can use in various social contexts, from casual to formal.

From meeting new friends to addressing a tour guide, or meeting up with family, the following greetings are perfect for getting started with basic Italian communication.

Hello / Hi Ciao (chow)

Good afternoon Buon pomeriggio (bwon po-meh-ree-joh)

Good night Buonanotte (bwon-ah-not-teh)

See you later A dopo (ah doh-poh)

See you soon A presto (ah preh-stoh)

Goodbye (formal) Arrivederci (ah-ree-veh-der-chee)

Goodbye (informal) Ciao (chow)

Nice to meet you Piacere (pyah-cheh-reh)

How are you? (formal) Come sta? (coh-meh stah)

How are you? (informal) Come stai? (coh-meh sty)

I’m fine, thanks. And you? Sto bene, grazie. E tu? (stoh beh-neh, grah-tsee-eh. eh too?)

Making Small Talk in Italian

Making small talk is a great way for you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

From talking to a store clerk to exchanging pleasantries with someone I met while eating gelato in the local park, being friendly was a great way to practice my language skills while on vacation.

My name is [your name]. And you? Mi chiamo [your name]. E tu? (mee kyah-moh [your name]. eh too?)

Where are you from? Di dove sei? (dee doh-veh seh-ee)

The weather is nice today. Il tempo è bello oggi. (eel tem-poh eh bel-loh oh-jee)

I like Italy. Mi piace l’Italia. (mee pee-ah-cheh l’ee-tal-ya)

What is your favorite Italian food? Quale è il tuo cibo italiano preferito? (kwah-leh eh eel too-oh chee-boh ee-tal-ee-ah-no preh-feh-ree-toh)

Do you have any recommendations on places to visit? Hai qualche consiglio su posti da visitare? (eye kwal-keh kohn-seel-yoh soo poh-stee dah vee-see-tah-reh)

I visited [place] and I liked it a lot. Ho visitato [place] e mi è piaciuto molto. (oh vee-zee-tah-toh [place] eh mee eh pee-ah-choo-toh mohl-toh)

Hope to see you again soon! Spero di rivederti presto! (speh-roh dee ree-veh-dehr-tee preh-stoh)

Asking for Directions in Italian

Some Italian cities and small towns are like a maze! And with a poor signal on your phone, you may need to ask for directions.

I can’t even tell you how many times we got turned around when walking the small alleyways in Venice!

Anyway, these phrases will assist you in finding your way around Italy.

Where is [place]? Dove si trova [place]? (doh-veh see troh-vah [place])

Can you tell me how to get to [place]? Mi può dire come arrivare a [place]? (mee pwoh dee-reh koh-meh ah-ree-vah-reh ah [place])

Is it far from here? È lontano da qui? (eh lon-tah-no dah kwee)

Can I walk there? Posso andare a piedi? (pohs-soh an-dah-reh ah pee-eh-dee)

Which bus should I take for [place]? Quale autobus devo prendere per [place]? (kwah-leh ow-toh-boos deh-voh pren-deh-reh pehr [place])

Where is the train station? Dove si trova la stazione ferroviaria? (doh-veh see troh-vah lah stah-tsee-oh-neh fehr-roh-vyah-ree-ah)

Where can I find a taxi? Dove posso trovare un taxi? (doh-veh pohs-soh troh-vah-reh oon tahk-see)

Does this road go to [place]? Questa strada va a [place]? (kweh-stah strah-dah vah ah [place])

What time does the bus come? A che ora passa l’autobus? (ah keh oh-rah pahs-sah low-toh-boos)

How do I get back to [your hotel/street]? Come faccio a tornare a [your hotel/street]? (koh-meh fah-cho ah tor-nah-reh ah [your hotel/street])

Is this the right way to [place]? È questa la direzione giusta per [place]? (eh kweh-stah lah dee-rek-tsee-oh-neh joo-stah pehr [place])

Excuse me, I’m lost. Can you help me? Scusi, sono perso/a. Mi può aiutare? (skoo-zee, soh-noh pehr-soh/ah. mee pwoh ah-yoo-tah-reh)

Italian Question Words

I was always taught that asking questions is the best way to learn. This also applies when you are trying to navigate around a new place.

These question words form the basis of many essential inquiries and will be incredibly useful as you travel around Italian-speaking regions.

With these words, you can ask about places, times, people, and reasons, making your travel experience a little less stressful.

Who? Chi? (kee)

What? Che cosa? / Cosa? (keh koh-sah / koh-sah)

Where? Dove? (doh-veh)

When? Quando? (kwahn-doh)

Why? Perché? (pehr-keh)

How? Come? (koh-meh)

Which? / Which ones? Quale? / Quali? (kwah-leh / kwah-lee)

How much? / How many? (masculine) Quanto? (kwahn-toh)

How much? / How many? (feminine) Quanta? (kwahn-tah)

How many? (masculine plural) Quanti? (kwahn-tee)

How many? (feminine plural) Quante? (kwahn-teh)

Useful Phrases at Restaurants

Good food is definitely synonymous with Italy. And trust me when I say, we didn’t hesitate to dive right in!

From seafood to pasta, gelato to cannoli, we tried it all.

However, since both John and I suffer from food allergies (he has a bad shellfish allergy), it was really important that we were able to confirm the ingredients in many of the new dishes we tried.

So, these phrases will really come in handy when you’re dining out in Italy.

It’ll help you order food, ask about dishes, and express your dietary preferences or restrictions. Buon appetito!

A table for [number of people], please. Un tavolo per [number of people], per favore. (oon tah-voh-loh pehr [number], pehr fah-voh-reh)

The menu, please. Il menu, per favore. (eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh)

What do you recommend? Cosa consiglia? (koh-sah kohn-see-lyah)

I am allergic to [allergen]. Sono allergico/a a [allergen]. (soh-noh al-ler-jee-koh/ah ah [allergen])

Dairy / Gluten / Fish Latticini / Glutine / Pesce. (laht-tee-chee-nee / gloo-tee-neh / peh-she)

I am vegetarian Sono vegetariano/a. (so-no veh-je-ta-ree-ah-no/na)

Can I have the bill? Posso avere il conto? (pohs-soh ah-veh-reh eel kohn-toh)

Can I pay by card? Posso pagare con la carta? (pohs-so pah-gah-re kon lah kahr-ta)

Still/sparkling water, please. Acqua naturale/frizzante, per favore. (ahk-wah nah-too-rah-leh/free-zahn-teh, pehr fah-voh-reh)

Can I taste the wine? Posso assaggiare il vino? (pohs-soh ah-sah-jyah-reh eel vee-noh)

I would like [dish], please. Vorrei [dish], per favore. (vohr-ray [dish], pehr fah-voh-reh)

How is this dish prepared? Come è preparato questo piatto? (koh-meh eh preh-pah-rah-toh kweh-stoh pee-ah-toh)

Is it spicy? È piccante? (eh pee-kan-teh)

Could I have more [ingredient/utensil]? Potrei avere più [ingredient/utensil]? (poh-treh-ee ah-veh-reh pee-oo [ingredient/utensil])

Thank you, it was delicious! Grazie, è stato delizioso! (grah-tsee-eh, eh stah-toh deh-lee-tsyoh-zoh)

Where’s the bathroom? Dov’è il bagno? (doh-veh eel bah-nyoh)

Shopping Words in Italian

When in Rome or Milan, you will want to shop! From incredible leather shoes to designer clothes, purses, and cologne, you will be tempted at every turn!

I practically had to put blinders on Hubby! Ha!

This list will be pretty helpful for you when you go shopping in Italy. It will give you the basic vocabulary needed for a smooth shopping experience.

Shop / Store Negozio (neh-go-tsyoh)

Market Mercato (mehr-kah-toh)

Supermarket Supermercato (soo-pehr-mehr-kah-toh)

Shopping Shopping (shohp-ping)

Price Prezzo (pret-tsoh)

Sale Saldi (sal-dee)

Discount Sconto (skohn-toh)

Cash Contanti (kohn-tahn-tee)

Credit card Carta di credito (kar-tah dee kreh-dee-toh)

Receipt Scontrino (skohn-tree-no)

Size Taglia (tah-lyah)

Large Grande (grahn-deh)

Medium Medio (meh-dyoh)

Small Piccolo (peek-koh-loh)

Fitting room Camerino (kah-meh-ree-noh)

Open Aperto (ah-pehr-toh)

Closed Chiuso (kyoo-soh)

Entrance Entrata (ehn-trah-tah)

Exit Uscita (ooh-shee-tah)

How much is this? Quanto costa questo? (kwahn-toh koh-stah kweh-stoh)

Can I pay with a credit card? Posso pagare con la carta di credito? (pohs-soh pah-gah-reh kohn lah kar-tah dee kreh-dee-toh)

Words to Know When You Are Visiting Attractions

Italy is an absolutely gorgeous place to visit.

With amazing architecture, jaw-dropping landscapes, and interesting attractions, you will have a difficult time deciding where to go first.

These words and phrases will be very useful when you explore various attractions in Italy. They will help you to navigate and enjoy your experiences to the fullest.

Ticket Biglietto (bee-lyet-toh)

Opening hours Orario di apertura (oh-rah-ryo dee ah-per-too-rah)

Closing hours Orario di chiusura (oh-rah-ryo dee kyoo-soo-rah)

Guide Guida (gwee-dah)

Tour Tour (toor)

Map Mappa (mah-pah)

Information Informazioni (een-for-mah-tsyoh-nee)

Audio guide Audioguida (ow-dee-oh-gwee-dah)

Museum Museo (moo-seh-oh)

Gallery Galleria (gahl-leh-ree-ah)

Church Chiesa (kyeh-sah)

Restroom / Bathroom Bagno (bahn-yo)

Do not touch Non toccare (nohn tok-kah-reh)

Photography allowed Fotografia permessa (foh-toh-grah-fee-ah pehr-mehs-sah)

No photography Vietato fotografare (vyeh-tah-toh foh-toh-grah-fah-reh)

Gift shop Negozio di souvenir (neh-go-tsyoh dee soo-veh-neer)

Where is the [attraction]? Dove si trova [attraction]? (doh-veh see troh-vah [attraction])

Is there a guided tour? C’è un tour guidato? (cheh oon toor gwee-dah-toh)

Kids-Related Phrases in Italian

If like us, you are planning to visit Italy with kids in tow, then you may be interested in learning some child-specific vocabulary.

Most travellers don’t give this a second thought (us included) until they are in a foreign country with kids and don’t know the word for “diapers” or “playground”!

Where is the playground? Dove si trova il parco giochi? (doh-veh see troh-vah eel par-koh joh-kee)

I have a child/children. Ho un bambino/bambini. (oh oon bam-bee-no/bam-bee-nee)

Can my child try this? Mio figlio può provare questo? (mee-oh fee-lyoh pwoh proh-vah-reh kweh-stoh)

Is there a children’s menu? C’è un menu per bambini? (cheh oon meh-noo pehr bam-bee-nee)

We need a high chair. Abbiamo bisogno di una seggiolone. (ahb-byah-moh bee-zoh-nyoh dee oo-nah sej-joh-loh-neh)

Where is the nearest bathroom? Dove è il bagno più vicino? (doh-veh eh eel bahn-yo pyoo vee-chee-noh)

Is this place child-friendly? Questo posto è adatto ai bambini? (kweh-stoh poh-stoh eh ah-dah-toh eye bam-bee-nee)

My child is allergic to [allergen]. Mio figlio è allergico a [allergen]. (mee-oh fee-lyoh eh al-ler-jee-koh ah [allergen])

Can we get a discount for children? Possiamo avere uno sconto per bambini? (pohs-syah-moh ah-veh-reh oo-noh skohn-toh pehr bam-bee-nee)

Do you have any activities for children? Avete attività per bambini? (ah-veh-teh at-tee-vi-tah pehr bam-bee-nee)

We need a baby cot/crib. Abbiamo bisogno di una culla. (ahb-byah-moh bee-zoh-nyoh dee oo-nah cool-lah)

Where can I change my baby’s diapers?? Dove posso cambiare i pannolini del mio bambino? (doh-veh pohs-soh cahm-byah-reh ee pahn-noh-lee-nee del mee-oh bam-bee-noh)

Where can I find diapers? Dove posso trovare i pannolini? (doh-veh pohs-soh troh-vah-reh ee pahn-noh-lee-nee)

Asking for Help in Italian

Sometimes things don’t always go our way when we travel. Whether it’s getting lost, or worse, getting sick or hurt.

In cases like this, it’s always a good idea to at least know how to ask for help.

This list will be very helpful if you ever need assistance in Italy. It covers a range of situations where asking for help is necessary.

Can you help me? Mi può aiutare? (mee pwoh ah-yoo-tah-reh)

I need help. Ho bisogno di aiuto. (oh bee-zoh-nyoh dee ah-yoo-toh)

I’m lost. Mi sono perso/a. (mee soh-noh pehr-soh/ah)

Can you call a doctor? Può chiamare un medico? (pwoh kyah-mah-reh oon meh-dee-koh)

Where is the nearest hospital? Dove è l’ospedale più vicino? (doh-veh eh los-peh-dah-leh pyoo vee-chee-noh)

I need a pharmacy. Ho bisogno di una farmacia. (oh bee-zoh-nyoh dee oo-nah fahr-mah-chyah)

Can you call the police? Può chiamare la polizia? (pwoh kyah-mah-reh lah poh-lee-tsyah)

Is there someone here who speaks English? C’è qualcuno qui che parla inglese? (cheh kwahl-koo-noh kwee keh par-lah een-gleh-zeh)

I need a taxi. Ho bisogno di un taxi. (oh bee-zoh-nyoh dee oon tahk-see)

I lost my bag/wallet. Ho perso la mia borsa/il mio portafoglio. (oh pehr-soh lah mee-ah bor-sah/eel mee-oh por-tah-foh-lyoh)

Can you show me on the map? Può mostrarmi sulla mappa? (pwoh moh-strahr-mee sool-lah mah-pah)

I don’t understand. Non capisco. (nohn kah-pees-koh)

How to Say Numbers in Italian

This list covers the basic numbers which can be important in a variety of situations like shopping, telling time, booking tickets, or even giving directions.

I’m telling you, the below chart will come in very handy during your travels in Italy!

Telling the Time in Italian

Many people don’t consider learning how to tell time in another language to be very important. But it is!

If you need to ask someone about the bus or train schedule, when to meet up with a tour group, or when an attraction or restaurant opens or closes, you will need to know the basics.

What time is it? Che ore sono? (keh oh-reh soh-no)

It’s 1 o’clock. È l’una. (eh loo-nah)

It’s 2 o’clock. Sono le due. (soh-no leh doo-eh)

It’s 3:15. Sono le tre e un quarto. (soh-no leh treh eh oon kwar-toh)

It’s 4:30. Sono le quattro e mezza. (soh-no leh kwah-troh eh met-tsah)

It’s 5:45. Sono le cinque meno un quarto. (soh-no leh cheen-kweh meh-no oon kwar-toh)

It’s noon. È mezzogiorno. (eh met-zoh-jor-no)

It’s midnight. È mezzanotte. (eh met-za-not-teh)

AM (in the morning) Di mattina (dee mah-tee-nah)

PM (in the afternoon/evening) Di pomeriggio / Di sera (dee po-meh-ree-joh / dee seh-rah)

Days of the Week in Italian

Learning the days of the week is just as important as learning to tell time and for exactly the same reasons.

Whether you are checking the bus or train schedule, or wondering what days an attraction is open or closed, know these Italian words will come in pretty handy.

Monday Lunedì (loo-neh-dee)

Tuesday Martedì (mar-teh-dee)

Wednesday Mercoledì (mer-koh-leh-dee)

Thursday Giovedì (joh-veh-dee)

Friday Venerdì (veh-neh-dee)

Saturday Sabato (sah-bah-toh)

Sunday Domenica (do-men-ee-kah)

Useful Words for Transport and Getting Around

Unless you are travelling on a guided tour (which we have also done), learning some words and phrases related to transportation and getting around while in Italy is one of my important travel tips.

The below phrases cover various modes of transport, directions, and general terms that are useful in travel.

Train Treno (treh-noh)

Bus Autobus (ow-toh-boos)

Tram Tram (trahm)

Subway / Metro Metropolitana (meh-troh-poh-lee-tah-nah)

Taxi Taxi (tahk-see)

Airport Aeroporto (ah-eh-roh-por-toh)

Station Stazione (stah-tsyoh-neh)

Timetable Orario (oh-rah-ryoh)

Platform Binario (bee-nah-ryoh)

Car rental Noleggio auto (noh-leh-joh ow-toh)

Bicycle Bicicletta (bee-chee-klet-tah)

Road Strada (strah-dah)

Highway Autostrada (ow-toh-strah-dah)

Traffic Traffico (trahf-fee-koh)

Direction Direzione (dee-rek-tsyoh-neh)

Left Sinistra (see-nee-strah)

Right Destra (deh-strah)

Straight ahead Dritto (dreet-toh)

Roundabout Rotonda (roh-ton-dah)

Stop (on a sign) Stop (stop)

Crosswalk Attraversamento pedonale (ah-trah-ver-sah-men-toh peh-doh-nah-leh)

Where is the nearest…? Dove si trova il/la più vicino/a…? (doh-veh see troh-vah eel/la pyoo vee-chee-noh/ah)

Tips for Learning Italian Phrases

The following are some tips and tricks that the kids and I used to learn some Italian before our trip to Sicily:

1. Read the Italian Travel Phrases We Provided Out Loud

When I’m trying to learn Italian phrases, I always find it helpful to read them out loud. Try to work your way through our post (or use the free cheat sheet) to start out.

I found that this not only helped with pronunciation but also boosted my confidence in speaking (which is my biggest problem).

I make it a point to repeat each phrase several times, focusing on the nuances of how each word sounds. It’s a great way to get a feel for the rhythm and melody of the language.

Not to mention, it’s a fun way to practice, especially when you start getting the hang of rolling those Rs!

2. Use a Language App. to Practice

I highly recommend using a language app to practice Italian. It’s a convenient way to learn common Italian phrases, especially when I’m on the go.

Our younger daughter, Miss Somersault, has her own Duolingo account which she uses daily to practice her language skills.

These apps often come with interactive lessons, quizzes, and sometimes even games, which make learning less of a chore and more of an engaging activity.

Whether it’s during a coffee break or while waiting to pick the kids up at school, I squeeze in a quick lesson.

It’s amazing how much progress you can make with just a few minutes of daily practice.

3. Listen to Italian Podcasts, Radio, or Television

Immersing myself in the language is key, and what better way than listening to Italian podcasts, radio, or watching Italian TV shows?

This approach helps me get accustomed to the speed and flow of the language as it’s spoken by natives.

I usually don’t understand everything, but it’s about getting my ears used to the sounds and rhythms.

Plus, it’s a great way to pick up on cultural nuances and contemporary usage that textbooks might not cover.

I learned this technique from my Nonna, who learned English from watching Soap Operas on TV! It is a little difficult at first, but if you are also using the above tips, it will get easier.

4. Practice with a Native Speaker

There’s no substitute for practicing with a native Italian speaker. This is where John came in! He was our family’s go-to language partner!

Honestly, I still found it to be a bit intimidating at first. But it’s incredibly effective.

Conversing with a native speaker can challenge you to use what you’ve learned in real-life situations. This helps you to become fluent faster.

Plus, when practicing with a native speaker, they can offer instant feedback and tips on pronunciation and colloquialisms that you wouldn’t learn otherwise.

5. Use Flashcards

Flashcards are my go-to for helping the kids memorize basic Italian words. They’re simple, versatile, and incredibly effective.

Our youngest son, Mr. Bump, found this to be the easiest way to learn some vocabulary quickly.

Both Berlitz and Usborne make awesome sets of flashcards. They are also perfect for younger children (Mr. Bump was 9 the first time we went to Italy).

Flashcards can also be paired with workbooks or even colouring books for younger kids. They make learning a new language more like a game and less like a chore.

Italian Phrases for Travel – FAQs

With regular practice, you can learn basic Italian phrases in a few weeks. Consistency is key, so even dedicating a few minutes daily can make a big difference.

While it’s not necessary, speaking some Italian will make things easier during your travels. It also shows respect for the local culture and helps in better connecting with locals.

Using language learning apps, listening to Italian music, podcasts, and practicing speaking with native speakers or language exchange partners are effective methods.

Italians generally appreciate the effort and are quite patient and encouraging with travellers trying to speak their language.

Good pronunciation helps in being better understood. However, Italians are usually forgiving of mistakes and can often understand you from the context.

Basic Italian is sufficient for most travellers. Regional dialects vary, but standard Italian is widely understood and spoken throughout the country.

In major cities and tourist areas, many people speak English, especially in hotels, restaurants, and popular attractions. However, knowing Italian is beneficial in less touristy areas.

Italians value politeness, so always use “please” (per favore) and “thank you” (grazie). Also, be mindful of using the formal “Lei” in polite or formal situations.

It’s okay! You can always use gestures, or most Italians will try to help you out, especially if they see you’re making an effort. Carrying a phrasebook or a translation app can also be handy.

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Final Thoughts on Useful Italian Phrases for Travel

Wrapping up, I really hope you’ve found this guide handy. It’s amazing how just a few phrases can transform your travel experience.

Speaking the local language, even just a little, can open so many doors. And don’t worry about getting every word perfect – it’s the effort that counts.

Besides, Italians are known for their warmth and hospitality, and they’ll appreciate your attempts to speak their language.

Plus, it’s a great icebreaker and can lead to some of the most memorable moments of your trip. So, go ahead and give these phrases a shot.

Happy travels! Or Buon viaggio !

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Related Posts:

• Best Italian Phrases For Travel (With FREE Printable)
• 37 Best Souvenirs from Italy to Take Home
• What Not To Do In Italy – 21 Things To Avoid As A Tourist

Marianne Giordano is the founder and writer for Galavanting the Globe. Together with her husband, John, and their children, the family has travelled to 15 countries, including 27 states in the US, and all over their home country of Canada. Marianne is responsible for planning all of her family's travel itineraries and dreaming up new adventures. A Canadian native, Marianne shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do while travelling the world.

135 Basic Italian Phrases for Travel: PDF Cheat Sheet

Hello, fellow travelers, and welcome to your comprehensive guide on basic Italian phrases for travel .

With my experience as a native Italian language teacher, I’ve crafted this guide using insights gleaned from interacting with hundreds of international tourists.

My objective is to tackle the unique challenges you may encounter when immersing yourself in a new language during your travels in Italy . I aim to provide the best way to navigate these language hurdles for a smoother experience.

Planning a trip to Italy? Discover the 35 best travel guide books for Italy to enhance your adventure.

Certainly, Google Translate is handy, but learning basic Italian words and local phrases adds a special touch to your trip. Communicating in the local language can deepen connections with native speakers and unlock experiences that English alone may miss.

I’ve created a basic Italian travel phrases PDF to assist your journey. Accessible and user-friendly, it’s a good idea to download the PDF and make it your ideal companion for swift reference while on the move.

Are you ready to dive into the linguistic delights of Italian and elevate your travel experience? Let’s embark on this enriching journey together!

Basic Italian Phrases and Words

Let’s kick things off with a handful of essential Italian phrases and words that will prove invaluable in daily interactions with native Italian speakers. 

These simple Italian phrases, which represent the essential Italian vocabulary, will showcase your attempts to connect with locals in their language, enriching your Italian adventure.

Recommended Reading : Discover the 21 safest cities in Italy for an unforgettable experience, whether you’re a traveler or an expat.

Common Italian Greetings

Italians are known for their warm and animated nature. Here are some Italian greetings to get you off to a fantastic start. Tossing out a heartfelt “buon giorno!” with a bright smile can go a long way. 

To help you nail these greetings, we’ve listed the most popular key phrases, useful Italian words , and their appropriate use cases.

Formality is typically reserved for strangers and elders, while casual greetings are shared among friends.

Want to learn more about Italian verbs? Explore our comprehensive guide: Italian Verb Conjugation Made Easy with a handy PDF. chart.

Days of the Week and Times of the Day in Italian

Knowing the days of the week and how to tell time in Italian can enhance your travel experience . 

This knowledge comes in handy while booking tours, checking opening times, or even planning your daily itinerary.

Here are the days of the week and some useful phrases related to time.

Recommended Reading : Learn how to count in Italian in no time.

Useful Italian Phrases at the Restaurant

Immerse yourself in Italy’s famed gastronomy with these common phrases designed to enhance your dining experiences. 

If your Italian escapade includes savoring local cuisines or sampling delectable gelato (which it definitely should!), these essential basic phrases will be your greatest ally.

Useful Italian Phrases at the Hotel

Your hotel serves as your sanctuary while you traverse the landscapes of Italy. Here’s a list of Italian phrases with their English equivalent to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.

Useful Italian Phrases When Visiting Attractions

Italy’s rich culture and legendary landmarks are a significant part of any travel itinerary. 

We’ve gathered some of the most important phrases to help you secure tickets and ask common questions at attractions to aid you.

How to Ask for Directions in Italian

Avoid getting disoriented in Italy’s labyrinth-like cities with these phrases designed to guide you through your journey.

Shopping Related Italian Phrases and Words

Shopping in Italy is an absolute treat, whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion, unique food items, or charming souvenirs. Here are some phrases to aid you on your shopping spree .

Kids Related Phrases in Italian

Venturing through Italy with your little ones? These phrases will prove immensely helpful in expressing their needs and ensuring they’re catered to.

How to Ask for Help in Italian

Should you require aid while exploring Italy, these phrases will be lifesavers in emergency situations.

While we hope you never have to use them, it’s always wise to remember the old saying, “ better safe than sorry .”

Basic Italian Phrases and Words for Travel FAQ

Answers to commonly asked questions about basic Italian phrases and words for travel.

Why should I learn basic Italian phrases before traveling to Italy?

Learning key Italian phrases demonstrates respect for Italian culture and makes your interactions with locals more meaningful. It can also enhance your overall travel experience.

Suggested Reading : Dive into the world of language learning with our top picks for the best 10 websites and apps to learn Italian through games .

How should I practice these phrases?

Regular practice is key. Try repeating the phrases aloud, writing them down, or using them in conversation. The provided PDF can be a handy resource for practice.

Where can I find a handy reference for basic Italian phrases with PDF?

Within this article, you can download our Basic Italian Phrases PDF cheat sheet, ideal for travelers. This extensive guide is designed to assist you in communicating with ease throughout your adventures in Italy.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up this guide, remember that language is a beautiful gateway to culture. 

By learning and using these essential Italian travel phrases, you’re set to make your Italian adventure even more enriching and memorable. So, embrace the language, enjoy the journey to this beautiful country, and buon viaggio—have a great trip!

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Free Italian Travel Phrasebook

Table of contents

Get your free italian phrasebook sent right to your inbox, what’s inside your free italian travel guide, 🙋‍♀️  the basics, 🏠  accommodation, 🚃  transportation, 🛍  shopping, 🏀  hobbies/fun, 🥂  socializing, 🗣  conversation aids, 🌤  time and weather, 💻  telecommunications, 🚨  emergencies, download our free english-to-italian phrasebook, take your italian a step further.

To get your free Italian phrasebook PDF and start learning essential Italian vocabulary for travel and other common scenarios, please enter your info below and be sure to click “I want my free kit.” (Why a kit? Our Italian conversation guide is just one of the resources in the free MosaLingua Language Learning Kit, a complete set of goodies for independent learners. You’ll love the rest of the resources in the kit, too, and it’s all free of charge! 😉):

This eBook contains 45 pages and 10 00+ words and phrases in Italian, with English translations of course. It is organized by travel – related themes and ordered according to frequency of use (from the most commonly used vocabulary to more specialized terms).

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, or if you simply want to improve your conversational Italian, you’ll want to have this Italian phrasebook by your side!

Topics in Your Italian Travel Guide

To give you an idea of the themes covered in our phrasebook, here are some of the topics you’ll be able to talk about with the help of this Italian travel guide :

• Polite phrases
• The essentials
• Starting a conversation
• Eating out, going to restaurants
• Meat and fish
• At a hostel
• Household chores
• Daily life at home
• Asking for things
• Going camping
• Public transportation
• Asking for directions
• The cardinal points
• Traveling by car
• At the airport
• Buying and negotiating
• Buying food
• Going shopping
• Arts and crafts
• Banking and dealing with money
• Outdoor activities
• Cultural and religious differences
• At the beach
• Meeting new people
• Going out, nightlife
• Feelings and opinions
• Common mistakes and difficulties
• Expressing agreement and disagreement
• Ending a conversation
• Talking about your love life
• Personality traits
• The human body
• Physical appearance
• At the barbershop or hair salon
• Occupations
• Talking about the future
• Temporal phrases
• Making phone calls
• Electronic devices
• Road accidents
• Important signs

All of the Italian content above and more is available to you for free! To download your phrasebook, just click the “I want my free kit” button below. Then, keep an eye on your inbox for your free Italian Travel Phrasebook PDF  (we promise not to send you any spam, you have our word!):

If you want to learn more about the Italian language, its vocabulary, grammar, culture, and more, have a look around our blog . If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few popular articles and guides our readers love:

• Tips and tools to learn Italian, fast
• To find tools to help you with other important skills, check out our guide to the best online Italian resources
• And for much, much more vocabulary, and a scientifically proven method for learning it, download the MosaLingua Learn Italian app .

Happy learning and hope to see you again soon!

Italian Phrases for Travel Printable

Exploring the beauty of Italy and immersing oneself in the local culture requires some knowledge of the Italian language. A printable guide of essential Italian phrases will come in handy for travelers who want to navigate through the country with ease.

Italy is a country renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. From wandering through ancient ruins in Rome to sipping on cappuccinos at a café in Florence, there is so much to see and experience. However, without some basic understanding of Italian phrases, travelers may find themselves struggling to communicate their needs or fully appreciate all that Italy has to offer.

Learning a few key Italian phrases not only makes it easier to navigate through Italian cities and towns but also shows respect for the local culture. By making an effort to learn greetings, pleasantries, and simple phrases, travelers can connect with Italians on a deeper level and create memorable experiences.

With this article, we aim to provide travelers with a comprehensive printable guide of Italian phrases that are essential for travel. Whether it’s ordering food at a trattoria, asking for directions to famous landmarks, or seeking help in an emergency situation, this guide will equip readers with the necessary language skills to confidently communicate throughout their journey. So grab your notebook and pen because it’s time to dive into these invaluable Italian phrases for travel.

Table of Contents

Must-Know Greetings and Basic Phrases

Ciao, grazie, per favore: Start your journey by mastering these basic Italian greetings and courteous expressions. Learning these essential phrases will not only help you navigate through Italy with ease, but it will also allow you to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the country.

When approaching locals in Italy, a warm greeting can go a long way. The most common and versatile Italian greeting is “Ciao,” which can be used both as a hello and goodbye. If you want to be more formal or polite, you can use “Buongiorno” for good morning/afternoon or “Buonasera” for good evening.

Expressing gratitude is an important aspect of Italian culture, so mastering the phrase “Grazie” (thank you) is essential. To add even more appreciation to your thank-you, you can say “Grazie mille” (thank you very much) or “Molte grazie” (many thanks).

Additionally, it’s crucial to know how to say “Per favore” (please) when making requests or asking for assistance. This polite phrase shows respect and courtesy to those helping you along the way.

With these basic greetings and expressions under your belt, you’ll be able to confidently approach locals, order food at restaurants, and ask for directions during your travels in Italy.

Learning these basic Italian phrases will not only benefit your travel experience, but it will also show respect for the local culture and people. Italians appreciate when visitors make an effort to communicate in their language, even if it’s just a few simple phrases. So, take some time to practice these greetings and basic expressions before your trip to Italy, and you’ll surely make meaningful connections along the way.

Useful Vocabulary for Transportation and Navigation

Italy is known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient cities, and vibrant culture, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. However, getting around Italy can be challenging if you don’t speak the language. This section will provide useful vocabulary for transportation and navigation to help travelers navigate through the country with ease.

In addition to knowing how to ask for directions and book tickets, it’s also important to understand how public transportation works in Italy. Familiarize yourself with common terms such as “fermata dell’autobus” (bus stop), “biglietteria” (ticket office), and “orario” (schedule). This will help you navigate public transportation effectively and ensure that you reach your destinations on time.

It’s worth noting that Italy has an extensive and efficient train system, making it a popular mode of transportation for both locals and tourists. If you plan on traveling between cities, learning key phrases such as “partenza” (departure), “arrivo” (arrival), and “binario” (platform) will be extremely useful. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the names of major train stations in different cities.

By equipping yourself with these essential Italian phrases related to transportation and navigation, you can confidently explore Italy’s beautiful cities and landscapes. Whether you’re taking a scenic train ride through Tuscany or hopping on a bus to visit ancient ruins, knowing the language will give you the confidence to navigate through Italy like a local.

Food and Dining

When traveling to Italy, indulging in the country’s delicious cuisine is a must. However, navigating Italian menus and ordering food can be a bit challenging if you don’t speak the language. In this section, we will provide you with some essential Italian phrases for food and dining, allowing you to order like a pro and fully immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Italy.

Mastering Basic Food Ordering Phrases

To start your culinary adventure in Italy, it’s important to familiarize yourself with basic food ordering phrases. Here are some essential phrases that will come in handy when dining out:

• “Un tavolo per due/per quattro” (A table for two/four): Use this phrase to request a table for the number of people in your party.
• “Posso avere il menu?” (Can I have the menu?): When seated at a restaurant, use this phrase to ask for the menu. Alternatively, you can also say “Mi può portare il menu?”, which means “Can you bring me the menu?”.
• “Consigliere cosa è buono?” (Recommend something that is good): If you’re feeling adventurous or unsure about what to order, use this phrase to ask for recommendations from the waiter.

Understanding Menus and Expressing Preferences

Italian menus can sometimes be overwhelming with their variety of dishes. Here are some useful phrases that will help you navigate through the menu and express your preferences:

• “Che cosa consigli di primo/secondo piatto?” (What do you recommend for first course/second course?): Use this phrase when seeking suggestions for both appetizers and main courses.
• “Senza glutine/lattosio/noci” (Gluten-free/lactose-free/nut-free): If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, make sure to mention them using these phrases so that your server can assist you accordingly.
• “Posso avere l’acqua del rubinetto?” (Can I have tap water?): In some restaurants, ordering bottled water can be expensive. If you prefer tap water, use this phrase to request it.

Understanding Italian Dining Etiquette

Italian dining etiquette differs from other cultures, and knowing a few key customs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tips:

• “Coppetta per il gelato” (Cup for the ice cream): In Italy, it is common to serve gelato in cups rather than cones. Use this phrase if you prefer a cup instead of a cone.
• “Non si lascia la mancia in Italia” (You don’t leave a tip in Italy): Unlike in many other countries, tipping is not customary in Italy. However, leaving some loose change or rounding up the bill as a gesture of appreciation is always welcome.

By familiarizing yourself with these phrases and customs related to food and dining in Italy, you will be able to order like a pro and fully enjoy the culinary delights that the country has to offer.

Emergency Situations

Seeking medical assistance.

In case of a medical emergency while traveling in Italy, it is crucial to know how to seek medical assistance and communicate your needs effectively. Include phrases such as “Ho bisogno di un dottore” (I need a doctor), “Mi fa male” (I’m in pain), and “Per favore, chiami un’ambulanza” (Please call an ambulance). Additionally, encourage travelers to carry important medical information, such as allergies or pre-existing conditions, written down in Italian to facilitate communication with healthcare professionals.

Reporting a Crime

While nobody hopes to encounter a crime during their trip, it is essential to be prepared and know how to report an incident to the authorities. Provide useful phrases such as “Ho subito un furto” (I’ve been robbed) or “Dove posso denunciare un crimine?” (Where can I report a crime?). Advise readers to immediately contact the local police (“chiamare la polizia”) if they find themselves in an emergency situation or need assistance related to criminal activity.

Dealing with Lost Belongings

Losing personal belongings can be distressing while traveling abroad. Help readers navigate this unfortunate situation by providing them with key phrases for communicating about lost items. Include expressions such as “Ho perso il mio passaporto” (I’ve lost my passport) or “Mi è stato rubato il portafoglio” (My wallet has been stolen). Encourage readers to notify the respective authorities promptly and ask for assistance from their hotel staff or the nearest embassy.

By equipping travelers with these important Italian phrases for emergency situations, they will feel more confident and prepared should an unforeseen event occur during their trip. Remind readers of the importance of staying calm in emergencies and seeking help from locals when needed.

Cultural Etiquette and Conversational Phrases

Italy is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant social interactions. To fully immerse yourself in the Italian way of life, it’s important to understand the country’s unwritten rules and engage in polite conversations with locals. This section will provide readers with valuable insights into cultural etiquette and conversational phrases that will help them navigate social situations more confidently during their travels.

Cultural Etiquette

To avoid any cultural misunderstandings or offending locals unintentionally, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Italian cultural etiquette. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Greetings: Italians value warm greetings when meeting someone, so be sure to make eye contact, smile, and offer a friendly “Buongiorno” (Good morning) or “Buonasera” (Good evening) when entering a shop or restaurant.
• Personal Space: Italians tend to stand close together during conversations and have physical interactions like handshakes, hugs, and kisses on the cheek. However, it’s always best to follow the lead of the person you are interacting with to ensure you don’t invade their personal space unintentionally.
• Table Manners: When dining out or visiting someone’s home for a meal, it’s customary to wait for the host or hostess to start eating before beginning your own meal. Additionally, using utensils instead of hands while eating is considered respectful.

Conversational Phrases

Engaging in conversations with locals can be a rewarding experience that allows you to learn more about Italian culture firsthand. Here are some useful phrases that will help you strike up conversations:

• “Come stai?” – This phrase means “How are you?”, and is a common greeting in Italy. It shows that you’re genuinely interested in the person’s well-being.
• “Mi scusi” – If you need to get someone’s attention or apologize for something, this phrase is incredibly useful. It translates to “Excuse me” and can be used in various social situations.
• “Mi potresti consigliare un ristorante tipico?” – If you’re looking for recommendations for a traditional restaurant, use this phrase that means “Could you recommend a typical restaurant to me?”. Locals will appreciate your interest in experiencing authentic Italian cuisine.

By respecting cultural etiquette and engaging in polite conversations with locals, travelers can deepen their understanding of Italian culture and forge meaningful connections. These conversational phrases will help readers interact confidently with Italians and create memorable experiences during their travels.

Shopping and Bargaining

When visiting Italy, one cannot miss the opportunity to indulge in the country’s renowned shopping scene. From high-end fashion boutiques to bustling street markets, Italy offers a diverse range of shopping experiences for every type of traveler. However, navigating the Italian shopping culture and achieving the best deals can be challenging without knowledge of the local language. In this section, we will explore essential phrases for shopping and bargaining in Italy.

First and foremost, it is important to learn basic greetings and expressions when entering a shop. A friendly “Buongiorno” (good morning) or “Buonasera” (good evening) accompanied by a smile sets a positive tone for your interaction with the shopkeeper. When browsing through items, you might want to ask questions or inquire about prices. The phrase “Quanto costa?” (How much does it cost?)

will come in handy in these situations. It is also common practice to ask if there are any discounts available by saying “C’è posto per un sconto?” (Is there room for a discount?). Politeness goes a long way in Italian culture, so make sure to say “Grazie” (thank you) regardless of whether you make a purchase or not.

One important aspect of shopping in Italy is bargaining, especially in markets and smaller establishments. Bargaining is an art that can lead to significant savings if done correctly. Start by politely asking if there is any flexibility on the price with phrases like “Possiamo trattare?” (Can we negotiate?)

or “Posso avere uno sconto?” (Can I have a discount?). Keep in mind that bargaining may not always be accepted, particularly in larger retail stores where fixed prices are more common. However, in local markets known for their vibrant atmosphere and haggling culture, don’t be afraid to engage in friendly negotiation.

In addition to learning useful phrases for shopping and bargaining, familiarizing yourself with some essential vocabulary related to clothes, sizes, and styles is also helpful. Knowing the Italian words for common clothing items such as “scarpe” (shoes), “camicia” (shirt), or “vestito” (dress) will enable you to navigate through stores more confidently. Moreover, understanding Italian sizes can help you find the perfect fit.

For example, if you need a small size, ask for “una taglia piccola.” Lastly, it’s worth noting that Italians take pride in their fashion sense, so complimenting someone on their outfit with phrases such as “Mi piace il tuo abbigliamento” (I like your outfit) can lead to friendly interactions and potentially fruitful shopping experiences.

Additional Resources and Online Tools to Learn Italian

Learning Italian phrases for travel is essential for having a smooth and enjoyable trip to Italy. In addition to using a printable guide of essential phrases, there are also various online resources and tools available that can help you learn Italian more comprehensively. Here are some additional resources and online tools that can assist you in learning the language:

• Online Language Learning Platforms: Websites and apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone offer comprehensive Italian language courses that cater to different proficiency levels. These platforms provide interactive lessons, quizzes, and exercises to improve your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
• Language Exchange Websites: Joining language exchange websites such as HelloTalk or Tandem can connect you with native Italian speakers who are interested in learning your native language. Through these platforms, you can engage in conversations with Italians and practice speaking Italian in a supportive environment.
• YouTube Channels: There are several YouTube channels dedicated to teaching Italian for beginners as well as more advanced learners. Channels like LearnAmo, Italy Made Easy, or Lucrezia Oddone provide free video lessons covering grammar rules, vocabulary building exercises, cultural insights, and pronunciation tips.
• Podcasts: Listening to Italian podcasts is an effective way to improve your listening skills while learning about various aspects of Italian culture. Some popular podcasts include Coffee Break Italian, News in Slow Italian, or LearnItalianPod.
• Online Tutors: If you prefer one-on-one instruction tailored to your specific needs, hiring an online tutor can be a great option. Platforms like iTalki or Preply connect students with certified language tutors who can provide personalized lessons through video calls.

By utilizing these additional resources and online tools alongside the printable guide of essential phrases for travel, you will be well-equipped to learn Italian effectively and confidently navigate through Italy during your trip.

In conclusion, learning Italian phrases for travel is essential for anyone planning to explore the beauty of Italy and immerse themselves in the local culture. By mastering basic greetings and polite expressions, travelers can approach locals with confidence and build connections. Additionally, understanding key vocabulary related to transportation will enable them to navigate through the country easily.

Ordering food like a pro is another important aspect of traveling in Italy. With essential Italian phrases for dining, readers can indulge in delicious cuisine and experience the true flavors of Italy. Furthermore, being prepared for emergency situations by knowing relevant phrases will help ensure their safety and peace of mind during their trip.

Beyond these practical considerations, understanding cultural etiquette and conversational phrases allows travelers to engage more confidently with Italians, unlocking a deeper appreciation and understanding of the country’s way of life. Shopping and bargaining phrases are also crucial for enjoying the unique shopping experiences that Italy offers.

By providing a printable guide of essential Italian phrases for travel along with additional online resources and tools, readers will have all they need to communicate effectively and continue learning beyond their trip. Ultimately, conquering Italy with confidence means embracing the language and immersing oneself in the culture, creating unforgettable memories and experiences along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to learn italian phrases for travel.

Learning Italian phrases for travel can be an exciting and rewarding experience. To start, it’s important to immerse yourself in the language by listening to audio material or finding online tutorials that offer pronunciation guidance.

Additionally, investing in a good Italian phrasebook or language learning app can provide you with essential phrases that are commonly used during travel situations, such as greetings, asking for directions, ordering food, and making small talk. Practicing these phrases through repetition and speaking with native speakers whenever possible will help you become more comfortable with using them in real-life situations.

What do Italians say instead of Bon Voyage?

Instead of saying “Bon Voyage,” Italians usually use the phrase “Buon viaggio.” This expression literally translates to “good journey ” and is commonly used to wish someone a safe and pleasant trip ahead.

Whether you’re bidding farewell to a friend or expressing well-wishes to a traveler, using “Buon viaggio” is a thoughtful way of sending them off on their journey. Remembering this simple phrase can help you blend in better with the local culture when interacting with Italians.

What are the basic Italian phrases?

Learning some basic Italian phrases can greatly enhance your experience when visiting Italy or engaging with Italian speakers. Greetings such as “Ciao” (hello/hi) and “Grazie” (thank you) are essential starting points for any conversation. It’s also useful to know how to introduce oneself by saying “Mi chiamo [your name]” (My name is…) or ask others their name by saying “Come ti chiami?”

(What is your name?). Other fundamental phrases include common expressions like “Mi scusi” (Excuse me), which can be handy when seeking assistance or apologizing for any inconvenience caused. Being familiar with basic numbers, colors, days of the week, and common words related to transportation, dining out, shopping, and accommodation will further enhance your ability to communicate effectively while traveling in Italy.

I’m a passionate traveler, writer, and Italophile. My fascination with Italy’s history, art, and culture has led me on countless adventures across the Italian landscape. Through “I Live Italy,” I share my love for this extraordinary country and aims to inspire others to explore its boundless beauty.

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

Travelers Italian: 100+ of the most useful Italian phrases for travel

Travelers’ Italian. Over 100 easy and useful Italian phrases for travel and basic Italian words that will help you make the most of your time in Italy (by a teacher)

You do not need to speak Italian to enjoy your time in Italy.

However, knowing basic Italian words or being able to express simple sentences will go a long way to improve your stay.

We Italians love it when foreigners make an effort and while I know it is daunting to express yourself in a language you do not dominate, you will see most people will react with great appreciation!

I am a qualified teacher of Italian as a second language and most of my students came to class before a trip to Italy, to learn Italian phrases tourists could learn or carry with them while in Italy for quick reference.

Today, I want to share the travelers’ Italian phrases most commonly requested in my classes.

These, we found, were the most useful Italian phrases for tourists and were all reasonably easy to learn or read out when needed!

As you will see, it is a mix of basic Italian words and Italian phrases for tourists that cover situations you may encounter while traveling in Italy.

I hope you find them useful!

This article is part of our series ‘Learn Italian’. You can find here >>> all our free Italian lessons <<<

You can hear the pronunciation of these Italian phrases for tourists copying them into google translate and clicking on the little megaphone symbol – try here

Basic Italian words and Italian phrases for travel

Before you learn specific Italian phrases for travel, you want to learn your basics.

• Si – yes

2. No – No

3. Grazie – thank you

Grazie is the most common way to express gratitude in Italian but there are several others you may hear or want to use. Learn how to say thank you in Italian here.

4. Prego – you are welcome / please

5. Per favore – please

Please can be tricky to express in Italian. Learn how to properly say please in Italian here.

6. Mi scusi – Excuse me

7. Scusi – Sorry

8. Non capisco – I don’t understand

9. Non parlo italiano – I don’t speak Italian

10. Aiuto! – Help !

Simple Italian phrases to make yourself understood

Parla inglese? – Do you speak English?

Mi dispiace, non parlo Italiano – Sorry, I don’t speak Italian

Piu’ piano per favore – slower please

Puo’ ripetere , per favore? – Can you say that again, please?

Common Italian phrases to greet someone

Ciao – hello / goodbye, informal

Buon giorno – good morning

Buona sera – good evening

Buona notte – good night

Buon pomeriggio – good afternoon, mostly used when parting from someone, slightly formal

Arrivederci – goodbye / bye bye (formal)

A presto – see you soon

Good to know : in most interactions with tourism establishments such as your hotel owner, host, ticket officer etc, you want to use greetings that are formal and polite. The most useful to learn are: buongiono (formal hello) and arrivederci (formal goodbye, at the end of a stay or a meal).

You can learn how to say hello in Italian here

Asking for directions – basic Italian travel phrases if you are lost

Dov’e’ ? – where is?

Ex Dov’e’ il Colosseo? Where is the Colosseum?

Ore more politely: ITA: Mi scusi, mi sa dire dov’e’ il Colosseo? ENG: Excuse me, would you be able to tell me where the Colosseum is?

E’ lontano? Quanto dista? – It is far? how far is?

How far is the Colosseum? Quanto e’ lontano/ Quanto dista il Colosseo?

Dritto – sraight

Destra – right

Sinistra – left

Semaforo – traffic light

Incrocio – crossroads

Ponte – bridge

Strada – street

Strisce / strisce pedonali – zebra crossing

Senso unico – one way street

Piazza – square

ZTL – Zona Traffico Limitato, an area closed to car traffic. Learn what they are and how to deal with them in this guide about driving in Italy.

Parcheggio -parking

A sample conversation may look like:

You: Scusi, dov’e’ il colosseo? Excuse me, where is the Colosseum?

Answer: vada dritto, poi al semaforo gira a destra e lo vede . Go straight, then at the traffic light turn right and you see it.

Another example can be: You: scusi, dov’e’ il bagno? (Excuse me, where is the restroom?) Answer: in fondo a destra (at the end of the room, to the right)

Transport and tickets

At train stations, airports and transport hubs, you may encounter or need to use the following Italian travel phrases and words:

Biglietto – ticket

Biglietto di sola andata – one way ticket

Biglietto di andata e ritorno – return ticket

Riduzioni / tariffe speciali / sconti – disxounts and special tariffs, usually for children/elderly/teachers/specified categories

Posto a sedere – seat

Treno – train

Binario – platform

Porto – harbor / port

Cabina – cabin (on a boat)

Traghetto – ferry

Aliscafo – hydrofoil (you will hear it to go to Capri for instance)

Prenotazione – booking / reservation

When you book a train ticket, it may come with a warning ‘prenotazione obbligatoria’, which means booking for a specific date/time/seat is mandatory.

Taxi – taxi

Autista – driver

Basic Italian sentences when at the shop

Quanto costa – How much is this?

Prezzo – price

Saldi – sales

Ha il resto? – Do you have change (if you are paying with a big note)

Carta di credito – credit card

Bancomat – debit card / also ATM

Posso provare? Can I try this on?

Do’ un’occhiata – I am just browsing / having a look

Si puo’ spedire? Can you ship this?

Caro – expensive Ex. No, grazie, e’ troppo caro . No, thank you, it is too expensive. Ex. Ha qualcosa di meno caro? Do you have anythign less expensive?

Top tip! To avoid embarrassing situations, learn about the etiquette of negotiating in Italian markets and shops here (hint you don’t!)

Medical emergencies

A well equipped arsenal of travelers Italian needs Italian phrases for travel emergencies, just in case!

Sto male – I am sick / I am unwell

Ho bisogno di un dottore / chiamate un dottore – I need a doctor / call a doctor

Aiuto ! – help!

Farmacia – pharmacy / chemist

Ospedale – Hospital

Pronto soccorso – A&E

Medico di guardia – doctor on call

Medicina – medicine

Ricetta – prescription

Mascherina – face mask / Mascherina chirurgica : disposable face mask (medical)

Dottore – Doctor

Infermiere / infermiera – nurse (male/female)

In hotel – useful Italian phrases about your accommodation

Camera – room

Camera matrimoniale – double room (with double bed)

Camere comunicanti – connecting rooms

Culla – baby cot/ crib

Letti a castello – bunk beds

Camerata – hostel room (with multiple beds)

Bagno in camera – en suite bathroom

Piscina – pool

Doccia – shower

Bagno – restroom

At the beach – useful Italian words for a day on the beach

Spiaggia – beach

Stabilimento – beach club

Ombrellone – sun umbrella

Sdraio – deckchair

Lettino – beach lounger

Bagnino – lifeguard

Crema solare – sunscreen

Secchiello e paletta – bucket and spade

Sabbia – sand

Scogli – rocks

Ghiaia – pebbles

At the restaurant – Italian words and sentences for a meal out

Food is such a large part of an Italian trip, my list of Italian phrases for travel needed a section about eating out, and so here it is!

Tavolo – table Ex. Ha un tavolo per quattro? Do you have a table for four?

Vino della casa – house wine

Acqua liscia / gassata – flat / sparkly water

Primo, secondo, contorno, dolce – these are the names of Italian courses. You can learn all about Italian meal structure here.

Mancia – tip (yes, you will need this one! Learn why here >>> guide to tipping in Italy

Allergia – allergy

Allergeni – allergens

Noci – walnuts / also generic word for ‘nut’

Noccioline – peanuts

Lattosio – lactose | Senza Lattosio = lactose free

Latticini / prodotti caseari – dairy products

Glutine – gluten

Kids essentials in Italian

Passeggino – stroller

Biberon – baby bottle

Ciuccio – soother / pacifier

Pappa – baby meal

Seggiolone – high chair

Pannolino – nappy / diaper

Pediatra – pediatrician

Scaldare – to heat: useful if you want to ask a restaurant/ cafe to heat up you child meal you brought from home (Mi puo’ scaldare la pappa per favore? Can you heat the baby food please?)

If you are about to travel to Italy with a baby, read this !

Other useful Italian words for travel you may want to use

Bello / bella – beautiful (male/neutral and female)

Presto, tardi – early, late

In ritardo – late Ex. Il treno porta un’ora di ritardo . The train is one hour late

Come stai? Come sta? – How are you? (informal / formal)

Piacere – when introduced to someone, how do you do

Gratis – for free

Salute! – Cheers! You can find the many ways to say cheers in Italian here.

Stagione – season, you may find it on price lists as Alta stagione ‘high season’; bassa stagione= ‘low season’. Learn here >>> how the seasons are called in Italy

If you are in Italy for the festive seasons, you may also want to learn how to say Merry Christmas in Italian or the Italian for Happy New Year .

I hope you found these Italian phrases for travel useful and you have a wonderful time in my beautiful country. Safe travel planning!

Travelers’ Italian – pin these Italian phrases for travel so you can carry them with you!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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50+ Useful Italian Phrases for Your Travels

UPDATED: November 20, 2023

Everyone visiting Italy should have a basic understanding of the Italian language. Whether you are holidaying in South Tyrol or some other gorgeous corner of the country, below you’ll find a detailed overview of useful Italian phrases for travelers like yourself.

Part of the beauty of South Tyrol is its delicious blend of Austrian and Italian cultural influences. While the majority of locals speak German as their first language, most South Tyroleans are bilingual . This is immediately evident as you encounter signs in German and Italian upon entering the region. 

You certainly do not need to know either language to visit South Tyrol; however, your trip will be more rewarding by becoming a little familiar with either one. If you are tying in your South Tyrol trip with a visit to other hot spots in Italy such as the Renaissance city of Florence or the rolling countryside of Tuscany , this article is for you. We cover the basics, as well as give you useful Italian travel phrases. 

If you are only visiting South Tyrol and you are not sure whether to learn German or Italian, here’s a quick word test using a traditional South Tyrolean delight — Fresh goat cheese in bacon crust. Do your best to s peak each of the following:

• Ziegenfrischkäse im Speckmantel
• Caprino in crosta di Speck

Which one rolled off the tongue easier? If it was the first, you might prefer bratwurst over pizza and may want to head over to our helpful German phrases  article before reading further.

By the way, if you are interested in learning Italian ( or practically any language for that matter ), we highly recommend Babbel. We purchased lifetime access at 50% Off and love learning with it. The app is both fun and addicting!

Time-Saving Tip 🡆 Download our Travel Guide to obtain a printable PDF of Useful Italian Phrases & Words. It’s a great resource to access quickly as a printout or on your phone while traveling in Italy.

CONTENTS OVERVIEW

Don’t Be Brad Pitt – The Basics of Italian Pronunciation

Saying hello & goodbye in italian, basic italian travel phrases for conversations, additional useful italian travel phrases, useful italian words for travel: getting from point a to point b, telling time in italian, know your numbers in italian, ordering food & drink in italian, additional italian language & travel tips, make sure to keep learning italian fun.

Before diving into basic Italian phrases it’s helpful to have a grasp on proper pronunciation. This will come in handy when running into specialties listed on a menu or when meeting someone, for example. After all, you don’t want to come off like Brad Pitt when saying goodbye to your new Italian friends.

Here are some basic Italian pronunciation guidelines:

• “A” is pronounced like the a in water
• “I” like the “ee” in feet
• “U” like the “oo” in boot
• “C” before “i” or “e” is pronounced like a “ch”
• “G” before an “i” or “e” like the “g” in “giraffe”
• “H” is silent
• “R” is almost always rolled…and almost always fun to say!
• “Z” like the “ds” in “ads” at the beginning of the sentence, and like the “ts” in tents everywhere else
• “Gli” sounds like the “lli” in billion, which sounds like “yee”

In general, the emphasis is on the second-to-last syllable (i.e. “Arrivederci” is “ah-ree-vah-DAIR-chee”). This stress helps give the Italian language its poetic cadence. If the last letter of the word has an accent symbol, the emphasis is likely on the last syllable (i.e. perché is pear-kEH)

Now that you know basic Italian pronunciation, here are a handful of greetings you may hear or can use when interacting with the locals or travelers from Italy:

• Benvenuto (Ben ven uto) – Welcome
• Buongiorno (Bwohn journo) – Good morning or good day. Typically used until late afternoon
• Buona sera (Bwohn ah say rah) – Good evening. 
• Buona notte (Bwohn ah nau-tay) – Good night. Use when saying goodbye at night
• Ciao (chow) – A common way to informally say hello or goodbye at any time of day
• Salve (sahl vey) – The polite, formal way to say hello. Can be used any time of day 
• Arrivederci (ah-ree-vah-DAIR-chee) – The formal way to say goodbye

After starting a dialogue, you may want to inform the person that you speak a little Italian.

• I understand a little Italian: “Io capisco un po l’Italiano” (EE-oh kah-PEES-koh oon poh lee-TAH-lyah-noh)

If you do not want to attempt any conversation in Italian, let the person know you do not speak any Italian.

• I don’t speak Italian: “Non parlo Italiano” (non PAR-lo Italiano)

Then, you would want to follow this by asking them if they speak English.

• Do you speak English?: “Parla Inglese?”(PAR-la ee-GLAY-zay)

If the person responds “No”, they do in fact mean “No”. “Yes” in Italian, on the other hand, is “Si” (see).

While in Italy you should know how to ask where something is located. Nothing is more important when nature calls and you are in the middle of a castle tour that is entirely in Italian. True story. Best told over vino (wine).

• Where is?: “Dove’?” (doe VEH)
• Where is the bathroom?: “Dove’ il bagno?” (doe VEH eel BHAN-yo). Note: If you’re in a panic situation and these words evade you, try yelling “Aiuto!” (I u-toh), which means “Help!”. Once help arrives, of course, the right thing to do is offer a “thank you”: “Grazie” (GRAT-zee-yay)
• Where is a restaurant?”: “Dove’ un ristorante?”(doe VEH oon rees toh-RAHN-tay)
• Where is the main train station?”: Dove’ la stazione centrale?” (doe VEH lah stah-zee-oh-neh sen-trah-lay)
• Where is the cable car?: “Dove’ la funivia?” (doe VEH lah foo-nih-vee-a)
• Quanto costa?: How much does it cost?
• Quanto costa il biglietto: How much is the ticket?
• Per favore: Please
• Prego: You’re welcome
• Mi chiamo…: My name is…
• Come ti chiami: What is your name?
• Quando: When?
• Cosa: What?
• Perché: Why?
• Destra (right), sinistra (left), dritto (straight)
• Vicino (close), lontano (far)

When you’re traveling around South Tyrol or if arriving in other cities like Bolzano (Bozen) , Milan, Verona or Venice first, you’ll likely need to look for specific places or forms of transportation. Here are some of the most common Italian travel words you may need or encounter while on your adventure:

• Arrivo: Arrival
• Partenza: Departure
• Programma: Schedule
• Stazione ferroviari: Train station
• Biglietto: Ticket
• Treno: Train
• Macchina: Car. Also known as auto
• Noleggio auto: Car rental
• Funivia: Cable car
• Autobus: Bus
• Aeroporto: Airport
• Parcheggio: Parking
• Cantina: Winery
• Banca: Bank. Be sure to ask for a bancomat if you’re looking for an ATM
• Mercato del contadino: Farmer’s market
• Farmacia: Pharmacy
• Ospedale: Hospital
• Panetteria: Bakery
• Polizia: Police
• Museo: Museum
• Castello: Castle
• Chiesa: Church
• Uffico del Turismo: Office of Tourism
• Supermercato: Grocery
• Piazza: Town Square

Hopefully, you’re able to avoid getting sick while traveling , but if not keep an eye out for signs indicating “Farmacia” and “Ospedale”. By the way, if you are renting a car while in Italy, see our post on driving in Italy It will help you enjoy a stress-free time on the road.

Knowing how to tell the time in Italy will really only be useful if you forget your watch or if your smartphone dies. In that case, this highly instructional video shows you how to accurately ascertain the time when roaming the Italian countryside.

• Che ore sono?: “What time is it?”

Once you’ve made your way to the supermercato, panetteria or cantina, knowing numbers in Italian helps understand prices, order quantities, etc.

• quattro (4)
• undici (11)
• dodici (12)
• tredici (13)
• quattordici (14)
• quindici (15)
• seidici (16)
• diciassette (17)
• diciotto (18)
• diciannove (19)
• venticinque (25)
• cinquanta (50)
• settanta cinque (75)
• cento (100)

When visiting Italian-speaking places like South Tyrol, the last thing you want to struggle with is ordering food and drink. An Italian adventure without being able to fully savor its culinary treasures is what nightmares are made of. Here are some drinks you may wish to order:

• vino bianco: white wine
• vino rosso: red wine
• birra: beer
• acqua: water
• caffè: coffee
• latte: milk

Here are some basic Italian phrases that will help you while dining in Italy:

• [Un] vino bianco per favore: One white wine please
• {Due] Hugo spruzzo per favore: Two Hugo Spritz please
• [Tre] vini rossi per favore: Three red wines please

Note: Replace vini rossi with vino rosso for a single glass of red wine.

• [Quattro] birra per favore: Four beers please

Note: Replace uno with una for a single glass of beer.

• [Un] caffe con latte per favore: One coffee with milk please
• Tavolo per [due] per favore: Table for two please
• A che ora chiudete?: What time do you close?
• A che ora apri?: What time do you open?
• Hai un menu?: Do you have a menu?
• Posso vedere la lista dei vini per favore?: Can I see the wine list please?
• Quanto le devo?: How much do I owe?
• Puoi scriverlo per favore?: Can you please write that down?
• Posso avere il conto per favore?: Can I have the bill please?
• Posso pagare in contanti?: May I pay with cash?
• Posso pagare con la carta di credito?: May I pay with credit card?

South Tyrol is famous for its unique culinary culture. If you visiting the region take time to discover the must-try South Tyrol cuisine before your trip.

Regardless of whether your journey takes you to South Tyrol or any other region in Italy, you’ll find that dining here offers a unique experience that’s likely different from what you’re accustomed to back home. To fully savor this culinary adventure, check out these helpful tips for eating in Italy. It’s a great companion to our list of useful Italian phrases.

One dish that’s likely on your must-try list is an authentic Italian pizza. For insights into what to expect when ordering this iconic dish , ITALY magazine provides an informative piece that’s worth a read.

Coffee Break Italian Podcast : This podcast has free and members-only versions. While there are additional bonus materials available to members, the free podcast is exceptional. Out of the three resources we mention here, this is the most beneficial for travel in Italian-speaking regions. Another advantage to this podcast is that the hosts provide details on grammar and cultural nuggets, review past lessons and break down the language. If you do not have any Italian language experience, we recommend starting with episode 1.

Untold Italy : Untold Italy is our favorite podcast about visiting the country. Every episode is packed with practical advice and stories that inspire our wanderlust. Katy, the host, excels at providing travel insights and insider tips you cannot find elsewhere. She covers every gorgeous region from the Italian Alps to Sicily.

We’ve learned that the most important part of learning a new language is not to judge yourself too harshly or to take yourself too seriously. Sure you may get frustrated, but just remind yourself that you’re on vacation after all.

You’re going to make mistakes and sound silly. Everyone does. Learning a new language is very challenging, so be patient with yourself. Keep in mind that most Italians are just as self-conscious and apologetic for their English as you are for your Italian.

About KATE & vin

Kate and Vin are South Tyrol + Dolomites travel specialists and the founders of Throne & Vine. They're dedicated to helping travelers discover and visit the most beautiful region in the Italian Alps.

2 thoughts on “50+ Useful Italian Phrases for Your Travels”

This is such a helpful guide for those heading to Italy. I’m so curious now about the Brad Pitt comment, did he totally mangle the Italian language at some point?

Hi Kavita – Glad you find this Italian language guide helpful! Mr. Pitt mangled Italian the second he opened his mouth! Too much Southern drawl!

Comments are closed.

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170+ Key Italian Travel Phrases

About to go on that Italian trip of a lifetime? Don’t forget to take some key Italian travel phrases with you before you set off on your adventure!

Even if you haven’t planned a trip to Italy, these travel phrases will be useful for any Italian learner looking to add more words and phrases to their vocabulary!

This post will show you more than 170 of the most common Italian travel phrases, words and questions to help you prepare for any situation you might find yourself in while traveling.

1. Essential Italian Phrases

2. italian greetings and goodbyes , 3. making small talk in italian, 4. asking for directions in italian, 5. italian question words, 6. italian words for shopping, 7. italian phrases for eating out, 8. italian words for emergency situations, 9. numbers, time and days of the week in italian, 10. transport words and phrases in italian, tips for learning italian phrases, and one more thing....

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

There are some basic words every Italian learner should learn as soon as possible. Here are some Italian essentials to remember!

It’s always polite to say hello and goodbye, no matter where in the world you are!

Remember these useful ways to say everything from “hi there” to “see you later!”

With these phrases you’ll be able to greet and converse with any Italian you may meet!

Check out this video to see 10 essential phrases used by Italians everyday.

It’s always good to have some small talk phrases under your belt. Here are some phrases that’ll help you carry on a simple, casual conversation when you meet someone new.

No matter how long you prepare for your trip— sooner or later, you’ll find yourself asking for directions.

Asking for directions starts with you approaching the other person with a “ Mi scusi ,” asking your question, then hearing the directions to your destination.

Here are some phrases that could help you navigate this conversation:

Some of the most important sentences you will hear are those that ask a question. Here are Italian question words that prefix Italian queries:

Chances are that if you visit Italy, you’ll probably be doing some shopping. Here are some terms to know so you can get by:

Italy is a land of good food and wine, so here are some words and phrases to help you have the best dining experience possible.

To learn more essential restaurant phrases and see them used in context by a native Italian speaker with Italian and English subtitles, check out this video.

By seeing these phrases used in context, you’ll quickly pick up on when and how to use them in your own conversations. 

Vacations can be unpredictable, so it’s good to know how to ask for help and communicate that there’s an emergency:

If you’re learning Italian or planning on visiting Italy, then these words will be essential!

*The only time in Italian that uses the singular “è…”  is one o’clock. For example: “È l’una” (It’s one o’clock) but all the other times use the plural form “Sono le…” in Italian. Check out this post for a more in-depth guide to telling the time in Italian.

As you can see, knowing how to count and say numbers in Italian is useful for many different situations. To learn more numbers in Italian, you can read about them in this post . 

If you’re traveling in Italy, it’s likely you’ll have to travel in  il taxi or  il treno at least once! 

Take a look at these phrases below to learn different ways of traveling and how to buy and book a ticket in Italian.

Now that you know these phrases for transport in Italian, you’re ready to travel!

But before you go, make sure you watch this video for travel tips for your trip to Italy.

1. Read them out loud.

The best way to master basic Italian phrases is by practicing them in actual conversation with others; however, you may not have access to an Italian speaking partner. 

If this is the case, you can still get a bit of practice in saying these phrases by simply reading them out loud. Hearing yourself say these phrases is an essential step to learning them.

2. Role-play them in different contexts.

In addition to saying the same words or phrases in different ways, you can role-play them in different contexts.

Try to write out a sample dialogue of a situation that would actually use some of these phrases. Then, you can read them aloud and practice being on both sides of the conversation.

Going through this process helps you remember them more and playing both sides doubles your practice time. 

3.  Immerse yourself in Italian media

The more exposure to Italian you get, the quicker you’ll pick up on the language.

Try watching Italian movies, listening to Italian music or reading Italian books. All of these are sure to contain the phrases from these posts and much more. 

You can also try using FluentU to learn Italian phrases and vocabulary in context.

FluentU takes authentic videos—like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks—and turns them into personalized language learning lessons.

You can try FluentU for free for 2 weeks. Check out the website or download the iOS app or Android app.

P.S. Click here to take advantage of our current sale! (Expires at the end of this month.)

Try FluentU for FREE!

4. Practice with a native speaker.

Having a language exchange partner will give you the opportunity to practice the basic Italian phrases that you know and receive feedback on how you’re doing from a native speaker.

If you don’t know any native speakers personally, you can quickly find a conversation partner online on a site like Easy Language Exchange , HelloTalk or Tandem .

5. Use them in your everyday conversations.

Try to find as many opportunities as possible to use basic Italian phrases in your daily routines.

A great way to practice without having to find a language partner is by thinking or narrating what you’re doing in Italian. 

6. Use flashcards.

If you’re having difficulty memorizing Italian words, phrases and expressions, invest the time in making flashcards. 

This classic method really does work and you can choose to do it the old-fashioned way by making your cards by hand or there are several apps available to make them with your phone such as those listed in this post .

Now you have everything you need to navigate basic situations in Italian! 

Buon viaggio!  (Safe journey!)

If you're as busy as most of us, you don't always have time for lengthy language lessons. The solution? FluentU !

Learn Italian with funny commericals, documentary excerpts and web series, as you can see here:

FluentU helps you get comfortable with everyday Italian by combining all the benefits of complete immersion and native-level conversations with interactive subtitles . Tap on any word to instantly see an image, in-context definition, example sentences and other videos in which the word is used.

Access a complete interactive transcript of every video under the Dialogue tab, and review words and phrases with convenient audio clips under Vocab .

Once you've watched a video, you can use FluentU's quizzes to actively practice all the vocabulary in that video. Swipe left or right to see more examples of the word you’re on.

FluentU will even keep track of all the Italian words you’re learning, and give you extra practice with difficult words. Plus, it'll tell you exactly when it's time for review. Now that's a 100% personalized experience !

The best part? You can try FluentU for free with a trial.

Start using the FluentU website on your computer or tablet or, better yet, download the FluentU app from the iTunes or Google Play store. Click here to take advantage of our current sale! (Expires at the end of this month.)

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A handy dandy Italian phrase sheet

A traveler's cheat sheet on how to say the basics and ask important questions in italian.

The following phrase sheets are all on one page (so you can print this out), but are broken down into these useful categories.

• Basic phrases (below)
• Italian dishes, cooking terms, & menu vocab

Note that English is the de facto language in most airports and for most aspects of air travel. It still helps to know the Italian, though.

* You can use this formula for all Italian ten-place numbers—so 31 is trent'uno, 32 is trenta due, 33 is trenta tre, etc. Note that—like uno (one) , otto (eight) also starts with a vowel—all "-8" numbers are also abbreviated ( vent'otto, trent'otto, etc.)

Tips & links

Related pages.

• Speaking Italian
• Phrase books and dictionaries
• Language lessons and language schools in Italy
• Italian gestures
• On the polite use of English

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Inspire Your Trip

100+ Essential Italian Words & Phrases for Travel in Italy

Planning a trip to Italy? Or just keen to learn the basics of the Italian language? Make a start with our guide to the most useful and commonly used Italian words and phrases.

Italian is one of the most beautiful and passionate languages in the world and stems directly from Latin and knowing even the most basic phrases can really help make your experience in Italy more enjoyable.

Our list of the best Italian phrases that you’ll need for travel in Italy are perfect to use for travel, accommodation, shopping, restaurants, getting directions and for general sightseeing.

You can even download our Italian phrases for travel as a printable pdf to use on your trip.

Do I Need to Speak Italian to Go to Italy?

You don’t need to speak Italian to visit Italy and you’ll find many Italians do speak English, especially at hotels, airports and tourist hotspots. But there are so many reasons to learn at least the basics. You’ll be able to impress the locals, come across as polite and also have fun. It will also make everything easier especially if you know how to ask important questions.

Is it Easy to Speak Italian?

It can be daunting to speak a different language especially when you can’t be sure of pronunciations but the basics of Italian are fairly easy to pick up. Practise is the best way to develop you skills, and what better way than actually in Italy. You might also want to download a language app which can really enhance your progress.

Why Visit Italy?

Do we really need to answer this question? Italy is without doubt one of the best places to visit in Europe with history, culture, tasty food and amazing destinations like Rome, Venice, Milan and Sardinia. There are so many amazing destinations in Italy and this country is very is easy to fall in love with.

Most Common Italian Phrases

We’ll start with some common questions and then get started with the most important Italian words and phrases to learn.

Hi – Ciao Hello – Salve Good day – Buon giorno Good evening – Buona sera Good night – Buona note Goodbye – Arrivederci

Common Italian Words & Phrases

Yes – Sì No – No Excuse me – Mi scusi Pardon me – Permesso I’m sorry – Mi dispiace Thank you – Grazie You’re Welcome – Prego Please – Per favor Excuse me – Scusi Yes – Sì No – No Who? – Chi? What? – Che? Where? – Dove? When? – Quando? Why? – Perché? Which? – Quale? (kwal-e?)

Conversational

Do you speak English? – Parla Inglese? I don’t understand – Non capisco How are you? – Come sta? How’s it going? – Come va? Good – Bene So-so – Così così Not bad – Non c’è male What’s your name? – Come si chiama? My name is … – Mi Chiamo… I am from … – Vengo dagli… …the United States – Stati Uniti …England – dall’Inghilterra

Sightseeing / Tourism

Some information, please – Un informazione, per favore Do you have a city map? – Ha una cartina della città? Where can I exchange my money? – Dove posso cambiare i miei soldi? Museum – Museo Where is the museum? : Dov’è il museo? Where? – Dove? Where are…? – Dove sono? How much does this cost? – Quanto costa questo? How much? – Quanto? When does it open? – Quando si apre? When does it close? – Quando si chiude? Ticket/s – Biglietto/i Two adults – due adulti One child – un bambino One student – uno studente Toilet – Bagno Where is the toilet? – Dov’è il bagno?

Restaurant – i ristoranti Do you have a table – Hai un tavolo …for 2/4/6 people? per due/quatro/sei persone? The menu, please – Il menu, per favore eel men-oo payr fa-vo-ray Can I have…? – Posso avere…? I would like… – Vorrei… What do you recommend? – Che cosa mi consiglia? Where is the bathroom? – Dov’è la toilette? The check, please – Il conto, per favore Is the tip included? – Il servizio è incluso?

Food I’m allergic to… – Sono allergico a… I am vegetarian – Sono vegetariano Enjoy your food! – Buon appetito! It was delicious! – Era buonissimo!

Drinks Beer – Birre Two beers, please – Due birre, per favore A bottle of house wine, please – Una bottiglia di vino della casa, per favore Red wine – Vino rosso White wine – Vino bianco A bottle of still water – Una bottiglia di acqua naturale A bottle of sparking water – Una bottiglia di acqua gassata A bottle of the house white/red wine please – Una bottiglia del vino rosso/bianco della casa per favore

Shops – I negozi How much is it? – Quanto costa? What are you looking for? – Cosa sta cercando? May I just look? – Posso guardare? That’s too expensive! – È troppo caro! Can you give me a discount? – Mi fa uno sconto? I’ll take it! – Lo compro! Nothing else, thank you – Nient’altro, grazie Can I pay with credit card? – Posso pagare con carta di credito? Can I pay with cash? – Posso pagare in contanti?

Accommodation

I have booked a room in the name of… – Ho prenotato una stanza a nome di… What time is breakfast? – A che ora è la colazione? Is there WiFi in the hotel? What is the password? – C’è il WiFi nell’hotel? Qual è la password? The air-conditioning is not working – L’aria condizionata non funziona My room is too noisy – La mia stanza è troppo rumorosa Can I change it? – Posso cambiarla? Do you have a left-luggage service? – Avete un deposito bagagli? Where is the nearest bus stop to the hotel? – Dov’è la fermata degli autobus più vicina all’hotel? Can you recommend me a good restaurant? – Mi può consigliare un buon ristorante?

Transport & Directions

Where is… – Dov’è… Where are… – Dove sono… Taxi – un taxi Bus stop – La fermata dell’autobus Airport – L’aeroporto Train station – la Stazione Entrance – Entrata Exit – Uscita Where is the subway? – Dov’è la metro? Where is the train station? – Dov’è la stazione? Can you call me a taxi? – Puoi chiamarmi un taxi? Where is the taxi rank? – Dov’è la stazione dei taxi? Where can I hire a car? – Dove posso affittare una macchina?

Emergencies

Help! – Aiuto! Can you help me? – Mi può aiutare? Accident – Incidente Injury – Danno I’ve been mugged – Sono stato assalito I lost my passport – Ho perso il mio passaporto Where is the embassy? – Dov’è l’ambasciata Watch out! – Attento! Stop – Al Thief! – Ladro! Go away! – Vai via! I need a doctor – Ho bisogno di un dottore I feel ill – Mi sento male Pain – Dolore I have pain here – Mi fa male qui Call… – Chiami… Police – la polizia Police station – La stazione di polizia Ambulance – un’ambulanza Please call an ambulance! – Per favore, chiami un’ambulanza! Please call the police! – Per favore chiama la polizia! Please call a doctor – Per favore, chiami un dottore

I like you – Mi piaci I like you a lot – Mi piaci molto You mean a lot to me – Significhi molto per me I love you a lot – Ti voglio un mondo di bene I want you – Ti voglio/desidero I am crazy for you – Sono pazzo di te

1 – Uno 2 – Due 3 – Tree 4 – Quattro 5 – Cinque 6 – Sei 7 – Sette 8 – Otto 9 – Nove 10 – Dieci

Monday – Lunedí Tuesday – Martedí Wednesday – Mercoledí Thursday – Giovedí Friday – Venerdí Saturday – Sabato Sunday – Domenica Today – Oggi Yesterday – Ieri Tomorrow – Domani Day after tomorrow – Dopo domani

What’s the weather like today? – Che tempo fa oggi? What’s the weather forecast for tomorrow? – Che tempo farà domani? It’s cold – Fa freddo It’s hot – Fa caldo It’s raining – Piove It’s snowing – Nevica It’s sunny – C’è il sole It’s cloudy – È nuvoloso It’s foggy – C’è la nebbia It’s muggy – C’è l’afa

Hopefully our list of useful basic Italian phrases to know for your trip to Italy are helpful. Italy really is a beautiful country and by learning even just the basics it will make a huge difference to your experience in the country.

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149 Must Have Italian Phrases for Travelers

We’re always here to help anyone coming to italy, so hopefully this list of italian phrases for travelers can help you in your travels.  and if you do come to italy, please stop by for a cup of espresso or a glass of our homemade wine., pronunciation.

Having even just a basic just a basic understanding can go a long way to helping you when traveling in Italy. Whether you’re using this post and it’s handy PDF download, or your own guidebook, even just knowing how to correctly pronounce a town or tourist site can help you in your travels.

When talking about this, I’m always reminded of a friend who was traveling to Italy. When they landed in Rome, the sweet older couple nearby asked her how to use the word see-o-a. She finally realized they were saying “Ciao” which is pronounced “Chow.” I have a feeling those people were in for a long, confusing trip.

First, as a general rule pronounce every letter.

Second, the stress falls on the second-to-last syllable.

“a” is pronounced like the “a” in “father”

“i” like a hard “e” like in “pizza”

“e” is usually a short “e” as in “pen”

“o” is usually like the “o” in “Rome” (or Roma in Italy)

“u” is like the “u” in “rude”

They sound like their English equivalent with minor exceptions.

The letter “c” before “i” or “e” is pronounced like a “ch,”

“g” before an “i” or “e” is pronounced like a j sound like the “g” in “general”

“h” is always silent

“z” is like the “ts” in sets   in all other cases

“ch” sounds like a hard “c” like in “car”

“gli” sounds like the “ll” in million

“sc” before i and e sounds like the “sh” in “shark” and like “sk” in “skip” in all other cases

If you’d like even more info on this, there is a YouTube video at the bottom of this post.

Do NOT let this seem overwhelming or scary, like you have to suddenly memorize all of this. Honestly, 90% of the time if you are CLOSE to getting it correct, Italians will understand you as they’ll know generally what tourist are looking for.

Note, there is also a handy PDF download at the bottom of this post.

So how’d we do?  Did we miss something?  Did this list help you?  Let us know in the comments.  And to get your free PDF of the 149 Phrases for Italian Travelers, just click below.

A video on pronounciation

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Vacation cheat sheet: 22 italian phrases to know.

Vacation season calls! But hold your horses: you’ll want to make sure you master the basics of the local language wherever you’re headed to get the most out of your excursion. If you’ll be traveling to Italy or an Italian-speaking country soon, here are some important words and phrases to practice using on a regular basis. Pro tip: all of these topics are covered in Babbel’s Italian lessons, so you might want to download the app before you depart.

Meeting New People

You’re bound to make some new friends when you’re traveling, perhaps the nice lady who helped you lift your bag at the airport, or the gentleman with the same Caffè Macchiato order as you at the corner coffee shop. Make sure you’re prepared for the conversation that’s sure to follow.

Ciao! Sono _____ [Davide]. E tu? Hello! I’m _____ [Davide]. What’s your name?

Piacere! Nice to meet you!

Sono di ____. I’m from ______.

Di dove sei? Where are you from?

Ordering Food and Drinks

If you went to Italy and didn’t indulge in all the food, did you even go to Italy? No, the answer is no. Don’t miss out on one of the best cuisines the world has to offer — make sure you know how to order and your taste buds will thank you.

Potremmo ordinare, per favore? Can we order, please?

Qual è la specialità della casa? What is the house specialty?

Avete dei piatti vegetariani? Do you have vegetarian meals?

Come dessert prendo del gelato. For dessert, I’ll have ice cream.

Asking For Directions

Getting lost happens to the best of us. When you’re maneuvering a new territory, it can be tough to remember if you made a left or a right two streets before. Luckily, with these phrases, you should be on your way to the right path regardless.

Dove è il bagno? Where is the toilet?

Scusi, per andare a ____? Excuse me, how do I get to ____?

Dove trovo un bancomat? Where can I find an ATM?

Giri a sinistra. Turn left

Giri a destra. Turn right

Scheduling Activities

Planning a tour of The Colosseum? Want to get selfies in front the Piazza San Marco? Need some relaxation on the beaches of Capri? You’ll need some Italian to get there.

Vorrei andare a vedere questo museo. I would like to visit this museum.

Il negozio.  The shop.

La piazza. The square.

L’opera. The opera house.

Dove posso comprare un biglietto? Where can I buy a ticket?

Buying An Italian Home

There are many tales of people falling so in love with Rome that they decide to stay. Whether you’re staking out your next long-term living situation or looking for a vacation home, odds are you’ll need to know how to discuss such matters.

Questa è la casa dei miei sogni. That is my dream house.

Quanto paghi d’affitto? How much rent do you pay?

Quest’appartamento ha un giardino privato. This apartment has its own garden.

Domani vado a firmare il contratto d’affitto.  I am going to sign the rental agreement tomorrow.