Feel like an Italian before you even arrive
Back-Roads' small-group tours of Italy have all been carefully crafted to help you delve deeper into the local culture – no matter if you’re visiting Enchanting Southern Italy or traversing wonderful Tuscany...
But why not go one step further by learning a few Italian phrases ahead of your escape?
Familiarising yourself with some lingo is not only useful, but it’ll also go a long way to impress the locals – even if it’s just earning you an extra smile! It’s not just about words, though. Italian is highly expressive, with changes in rhythm and accompanying hand gestures used to show emotion. It truly is a fabulous – and fun! – language to learn.
Ready to add a few magnifico phrases to your vocabulary for your next carefully crafted Italian jaunt? Let’s look at six sayings to have under your belt to aid with your local immersion...
1. Buongiorno
How to say it: bwon-gior-no
What better place to start with learning Italian than a simple ‘hello’? Being able to say this to someone in their own language is not only a pleasant feeling but also just good manners. You'll be able to greet everyone you meet with a wide smile and a friendly buongiorno!
And if you’re interacting with any locals after dark, whether that’s a restaurant waiter or your accommodation host, you can say buona sera (good evening) instead!
2. Grazie mille
How to say it: graz-ee-eh mill-eh
Whether you’re showing gratitude for a delicious local meal or thanking your cookery teacher for showing you how to whip up tasty fresh pasta from scratch, grazie mille is a must!
This polite phrase means ‘thank you very much’ and goes beyond a simple grazie (thanks). Say it with a little energy to really showcase how grateful you are for the wonderful service and welcome you’ve received.
3. Prego
How to say it: pray-go
For an easy but impressive phrase to say when someone thanks you for something, prego is perfect. This short saying simply means ‘you’re welcome’ and you’ll often hear locals say it back to you in response to grazie or grazie mille.
4. Cin Cin!
How to say it: sin-sin
Fancy clinking glasses with new friends at a rooftop bar in Bologna during aperitivo hour? Or perhaps you’d like a fun toast to say to your group during a wine tasting in Chianti? Raise your glass and exclaim cin cin! It’s a fun alternative to salute – another common Italian word for ‘cheers’.
5. Che cosa mi consigli?
How to say it: keh co-sa me con-see
Picture this: you’re in a cosy, atmospheric trattoria in one of Sicily’s glorious coastal towns and you simply can’t decide which delicious local dish you’d like to try next. This handy phrase allows you to ask your waiter for the restaurant’s specialties – or even their own personal recommendations!
6. Buon appetito!
How to say it: bwon appa-tee-toe
Toasting a meal before you tuck in is never a bad idea – and you’ll be devouring plenty of mouth-watering meals throughout your Italian journey. So, before you pick up your knife and fork, hold up your wine glass and say ‘Buon appetito!’ to your fellow travellers to wish them a healthy appetite.
Book your next escape – for less!
Ready to test out your newfound language skills? Discover your 2026 Italian small group tour – and book before 19 November to save $250pp on selected departures. T&Cs apply.