Speak like an Italian

Colosseum, Italy

Italian phrases & slang

Get a few Italian words under your belt before you head off on holiday – don’t worry if you get it wrong… just speak with gusto, flair, use plenty of gestures and you’ll fit right in. Ciao bella!


  1. Hello (ciao)
    Pronounced ‘chow’, the greeting is used for both hello and goodbye.

  2. Yes (si)
    Pizza?  Si!  Pasta?  Si!  Italian wine?  Si, si!

  3. Thank you (grazie)
    Now you can thank your waiter for the scrummy Italian meal.

  4. Beautiful (bellisima)
    Great for describing some of the stunning Italian architecture.

  5. Oh my goodness (mamma mia)!
    An expression of surprise or wonder.

  6. How much is this (quanto costa)?
    Ideal when shopping.  A pair of Gucci sunglasses, perhaps?

  7. Excuse me, where’s…. (mi scusi, dov'è ...)? 
    You won’t want to miss any of the amazing sites found throughout Italy.  If in doubt, ask for directions from a local.

  8. Ice cream (gelato)
    Italy is the ice-cream lovers heaven – you can’t avoid it (why would you want to)!

  9. The wine menu, please (la carta dei vini, per favore)
    Tantalise your palate with some Italian wine.

  10. Delicious (delizioso)
    Give your compliments to the chef.



*The small print
We’ve tried to make this destination guide as accurate as possible but please double check the essentials like visas, health and safety, airport information etc with the relevant authorities before you travel.  STA Travel takes no responsibility for loss, injury or inconvenience caused as a result of this guide.  All prices listed are in the currency of the destination, unless otherwise stated.

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