Do they speak English?
English in Italy: fine in the big three, less so in the south
English is widely spoken in Rome, Florence, Venice, the lakes and the Amalfi coast. In the south, Sicily and rural areas it's patchier, and hand gestures fill the gaps cheerfully.
- English is the main language
- Widely spoken
- Fine in tourist areas
- Limited
Italians appreciate any effort. 'Buongiorno' in the morning, 'buonasera' after lunch, and 'grazie' everywhere.
Where it differs
- Rome, Florence, Venice, MilanWidely spoken
English common in tourist areas.
- Lakes, Amalfi, TuscanyFine in tourist areas
Used to visitors. Fine in hotels and restaurants.
- South, Sicily, Sardinia inlandLimited
Less English, especially with older people.
Phrases worth learning
- Buongiornobwon-JOR-nohGood morning
- GrazieGRAHT-see-ehThank you
- Per favorepair fah-VOR-ehPlease
- Parla inglese?PAR-lah een-GLAY-zehDo you speak English?
- Il conto, per favoreeel KON-tohThe bill, please
Getting by in Italian
Italians often switch to English once they hear you struggling, but starting in Italian earns real warmth. Learn to greet people when you walk into a shop or café, and to say goodbye ('arrivederci') when you leave. Menus in tourist areas usually have English translations, and train ticket machines have an English option.
Useful words for eating out
- Un caffè: an espresso. Ask for 'un cappuccino' only in the morning, as Italians do.
- Acqua naturale / frizzante: still or sparkling water.
- Coperto: a cover charge per person, normal in many restaurants.
- Senza glutine: gluten-free. Italy is very good at it.
Before you go
- Learn 'ZTL' too, if you're driving. It's the sign that saves you a fine.
Stay and do
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