You don’t have to be fluent in Italian to connect with the locals.  Knowing a few simple words and phrases before visiting Italy goes a long way to starting a conversation. In fact, Italians are known for their gracious response to travellers attempting their language. They helpfully fill in the blanks when words escape you, will join in a fun game of miming actions, and will praise you for your courage to communicate in another language.

The most important words in any language are “please”, “thank you”, and a simple greeting based on the time of day. Here are 15 basic Italian words phrases, with pronunciation, to know before your trip to Italy.

15 Italian Phrases you must know before travelling to italy

Pro Traveller Tip: If you found this post helpful, save the image above to your phone, computer, or to Pinterest! Click right on the image and then “save”. That way, if you’d like a refresher on the plane or before you order a meal, you won’t need the internet to load the page. Simply save it to your Favourites in your phone photo album, and voila!

15 Italian Phrases and a Few More Language Tips

Keen to learn more prior to departure? Try using one of these language learning apps or finding a tutor in your area. Another way to learn a language is through books, movies, tv shows, podcasts, or radio shows. Follow this link to discover 10 Italian movies on Netflix you can watch before your trip with MP Tours.

Are there any other key Italian phrases you use when travelling? We’d love to hear them! Write us and we’ll feature your best tips in our upcoming newsletters. In the meantime, enjoy practising these 15 Italian phrases and you’ll be speaking Italian sooner than you can say “gelato”!