Why Speaking Italian Matters
This article was adapted from the original video published through Amanda Longhurst’s YouTube channel Discover EUROPE living and citizenship 50 +.
Looking back on my move to Italy, one of the biggest questions I wrestled with—and the one I hear most often—is this: “Do I really need to learn Italian before moving?” It’s a fair question, and it’s one that deserves an honest, no-nonsense answer.
Because while it’s technically possible to land here without a single word of Italian under your belt, your experience will be a very different story depending on how much of the language you actually know—and how much you’re willing to learn.
Why Language Matters More Than You Think
If you’re moving to a major city like Milan, Rome, or Florence, you’ll find pockets of English speakers, especially in tourist hotspots and among younger Italians. But stray beyond the glossy city centres—and you absolutely should—and you’ll quickly realise that English isn’t the fallback language. Daily life here unfolds in Italian, full stop.
Simple tasks like visiting the doctor, filling out paperwork, or even just having a chat with your local barista can suddenly feel like tackling a cryptic crossword blindfolded. Please do not be that one expat with a health scare made worse by a language mix-up—a reminder that knowing the basics isn’t just handy, it’s essential.
There’s a lot of romantic chatter online about moving to Italy with nothing but a suitcase and a dream. It’s a beautiful fantasy, but if you want to actually live here—and not just survive—you’ll need to make friends with the Italian language.
Do You Need to Be Fluent Before You Board the Plane?
Absolutely not. Plenty of people arrive with just a few phrases up their sleeve and build from there. Italians are, by and large, wonderfully patient and encouraging when you make an effort to speak their language—even if you mangle a few verbs along the way.
But trust me: even a basic grasp of greetings, directions, and how to order a coffee will make your first months a lot less overwhelming. It’s the difference between feeling like an outsider and feeling like you’re slowly becoming part of the beautiful chaos.
Simple Tips for Learning Before (and After) You Arrive
- Start small: Focus on the essentials—shopping, dining, directions.
- Take a class: Immersive online courses or local language schools can give you a real boost.
- Use it every day: Even if it feels awkward at first, practice a little daily.
- Immerse yourself: Watch Italian TV, listen to the radio, and label things around your house.
- Apps help—but don’t lean on them forever: They’re a crutch, not a replacement for real conversation.
Big Cities vs Small Towns: It Makes a Difference
In Milan or Rome, you might be able to skate by with English for a while—especially if you mostly hang out with other expats. But in smaller towns, English speakers are rare, and life is unapologetically Italian. If you dream of blending in, making local friends, and being more than just a tourist, learning the language is non-negotiable.
And if you’re a solo expat? Language skills become even more crucial. Friday nights, lazy Sundays, long holiday weekends—you’ll need a social life, and that starts with being able to say more than just “ciao”.
Practical Considerations: Visas, Healthcare, and Expectations
A little practical note: your ability to speak Italian can sometimes influence your visa application, especially if you’re aiming for long-term residency. And when it comes to healthcare? You’ll likely need private insurance when you first arrive—and while you can find English-speaking doctors in cities like Milan, it’s not a given, and it’s rarely cheap.
Daily life will be different here. Things will move slower. Shops will close when you least expect it. Bureaucracy will test your patience. And no, you shouldn’t expect Italians to accommodate you in English. You’re the guest. Embracing the language is part of embracing life in Italy.
Why Learning Italian Will Make Your Move So Much Better
Learning Italian isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s about opening doors. To new friendships, deeper experiences, and a richer, more rewarding version of life in Italy.
You don’t need to be fluent before you get here. But you do need a willingness to try, to learn, and to laugh at your mistakes. Because those little language wins—the first time you order a coffee without panic, the first time you chat to your neighbour—are what transform Italy from a holiday fantasy into a real, beautiful home.
If you’re serious about moving here, start your language journey today. Your future self—sipping an espresso in a sun-drenched piazza, chatting away with a local—will thank you.
