This is a good question! Do Italians speak English? As for the majority, the answer is no! Despite studies at school, most Italians know only a few English words. This is especially true for the older ones.
I don’t speak Italian: Should I be worried? Not at all!
Do Italians speak English? Touristic areas
It’s true that most Italians don’t speak English but they use it for business and in tourist areas. In the hotels, restaurants, and museums you wouldn’t have any problem because speaking English is part of their job.
If you go to the Amalfi Coast then you won’t have problems. Sometimes it seems an American colony! Waiters speak English to you even if you are Italian.
You may have more problems if you need directions on the streets. Italians who don’t work with foreigners usually don’t speak English. What can help you is the natural Italian attitude of gestures. So simply show them where you want to go and then with a lot of gestures they’ll surely find a way to let you understand. If you don’t understand, you’ll see a free show 😉 and you may try with the next Italian. It’s better if you ask young ones. It’s easier because some speak English.
Do you speak english in italian —-> Parla inglese?
An American Word that Italians don’t understand
If you are in Italy and you aren’t in an “American Italian Colony!” such as the Amalfi Coast, Florence, or Venice you should never use the word “Restroom”! Most Italians may think you’re asking for a room where you want to sleep and it’s very funny if you are in a bar or restaurant!
Italian phrases travel: Essential Italian words
Does your Italian itinerary include small cities and suburbs? It’s better you learn a few Italian words!
At the restaurant
Excuse me, where is the restroom? | Mi scusi, dov’è il bagno? |
Can we order? | Possiamo ordinare? |
I am allergic to … | Sono allergico a … |
The bill, please! | Il conto per favore! |
How to say in Italian Are you hungry?
How to say in Italian: What are you going to order?
How to say wine in Italian?
How to say in Italian do you like your pizza?
On the street
Excuse me, where is… | Mi scusi, dov’è |
Turn on the right | Gira a destra |
Turn on the left | Gira a sinistra |
Go straight | Vai dritto |
Do you speak english? | Parla inglese? |
I speak a little italian | Parlo poco italiano |
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