Useful Italian phrases for travelling in Italy

The essential phrases

To ask for something: Scusi… (to get someone's attention), Vorrei un caffè (politer than voglio, which sounds blunt), Un caffè, per favore.

To understand: Non ho capito, Può ripetere, per favore?, Parla inglese?, Come si dice… in italiano?

To find your way: Dov'è la stazione?, È lontano?, A che ora…?

To pay: Quanto costa?, Il conto, per favore, Posso pagare con la carta?

Three Italian habits that catch people out

In bars you often pay first. In many bars you go to the till, pay, take the receipt (scontrino) and only then approach the counter. Turn up at the counter without one and in some places you won't be served — it isn't rudeness, it's the system.

Standing at the counter costs less than sitting. The same coffee can cost double at a table. It's legal, posted on the price list, and applies to everyone, not just tourists.

The coperto is real. In restaurants you'll find a fixed per-person charge on the bill, usually 1–3 euros. It isn't a tip and it's entirely normal. Tipping in Italy isn't obligatory and isn't 15–20% as elsewhere: you leave some change if you enjoyed yourself.

Two words that change everything

*Scusi (formal) and scusa (informal) open any interaction. An Italian approached with scusi* responds warmly almost every time.

*Prego does four different jobs: it answers grazie, invites you in, invites you to speak, and accompanies handing something over. If you don't know what to say, prego* is nearly always appropriate.