If you have come across this article, there is a high chance that you are looking for the best app to learn Italian. We get you (and we’ve got you as well)! Learning Italian is an exciting journey that goes beyond rewatching Julia Roberts order pasta for everyone in the movie “Eat, Pray, Love.” Italy is a wonderful country, full of opportunities for business, adventure, and connections.
To help you find the best app to learn Italian, our team conducted some in-depth research to create this compilation of the 20 best options on the market for studying Italian online. We understand that the prospect of mastering the Italian language can start out exciting, but that it takes courage to stay committed and keep the learning going. Does that sound familiar to you?
We’d like to help you overcome your doubts and insecurities when speaking Italian, as well as help you understand that you can succeed with the right system, regardless of age, prior language experience, or academic history. You can certainly use technology to your advantage to learn Italian online and embrace the beauty of fluency in the Italian language.
Recognized for its accessibility to English speakers, Italian has become a favorite when it comes to exploring a new language, with the United States’ Foreign Service Institute emphasizing the language’s learnability within a timeframe of 24 to 30 weeks, or 600 to 750 hours.
As a team of linguists, we have experienced the transformative power of language acquisition firsthand and understand the significance of finding the right tools to facilitate this journey. When learning Italian as a second language, the choice of a suitable language learning app can significantly shape your experience and outcomes.
Learn Italian smarter and faster
20 apps to practice and improve your Italian
1. Lingvist
Lingvist is a leading online language learning platform that offers an immersive language learning experience for a diverse range of languages, including Italian. Leveraging a scientific approach and advanced AI technology, Lingvist enables learners to accelerate their learning. By prioritizing the most commonly used words, contextual learning, and personalized progress tracking, Lingvist ensures a comprehensive and efficient language acquisition process.
Is Lingvist the best match for you?
This user-friendly app to learn Italian online is ideal for professionals seeking convenient language learning solutions within limited time frames. Lingvist caters to those with busy schedules and a preference for mobile learning. Whether you have just started your language learning journey or are looking to advance your proficiency, Lingvist’s adaptive learning system accommodates those at various skill levels, from complete beginners to more advanced Italian learners.
Lingvist is an app for users that want to learn Italian fast. It will help you learn Italian using big data and AI, and has developed exceptional language analysis methods that enable the program to swiftly customize course content to teach language for a particular context.
How does Lingvist work?
- Everyday vocabulary: Lingvist will first teach you the most frequent words used in the Italian language that cover 80% of everyday scenarios.
- Learn in context: Learn new words accompanied by real-life context sentences that will help you acquire the syntax and grammar of the Italian language.
- Spaced repetition approach: Benefit from Lingvist’s spaced repetition algorithm that optimizes learning by prioritizing the words you struggle with the most and ensuring efficient retention by repeating these words at the right time for you, just before you forget them.
Pros:
- Rapid vocabulary acquisition through optimized learning methods
- Real-life content and useful vocabulary that cover everyday scenarios
- Integration of spaced repetition and AI for effective learning retention and progression
- Learn on the go from a mobile device, or from the comfort of your desktop on their web platform
Cons:
- Requires initiative to find external conversational partners for practical language practice
- You need to pay to gain access to the content
Price:
The subscription plans include an annual plan at €79.99, a 14-day free trial followed by a monthly plan at €9.99, and a Lingvist for Business option tailored to corporate language learning needs. You can find detailed pricing comparisons on Lingvist's official website.
2. Speekoo
Speekoo is a new language learning app that helps you learn a language and travel at the same time. Each level is a city, and each lesson is a part of your trip. Speekoo is particularly well suited to individuals who are passionate about travel and who prefer to learn a new language within the context of being in a new city. It can be beneficial for beginners as well as intermediate learners who want to improve their language skills in a practical and immersive way.
How does Speekoo work?
- Travel-based learning: Each level is designed as a virtual tour through a specific city, enabling learners to grasp the language within a real-world context.
- Interactive lessons: The app offers interactive language lessons that correspond to different travel-related scenarios, helping users learn practical vocabulary and phrases.
- Gamified learning: The app incorporates gamification elements to make the learning experience engaging and enjoyable for users.
Pros:
- Unique integration of language learning and virtual travel experiences
- Practical and context-based approach to language acquisition
- Cultural insights enhance the overall learning experience
Cons:
- Limited language options may restrict the app’s appeal to a broader audience
- The simulated travel approach might not suit all learning preferences
- Lack of in-depth grammar explanations may be a drawback for those seeking comprehensive language knowledge
Price:
Free to download for Android and iOS.
3. Impariamo l’italiano
Impariamo l’italiano is a donation-based platform for learning Italian. It is made for advanced users that want to go deeper into the nuances of the Italian language. They have free exercises on their webpage. You can study idiomatic superlatives, an Italian-language video quiz, language exercises with recipes from Italian cuisine, an Italian civilization quiz, an Italian literature quiz, tests of linguistic competence, common sayings in Italian, and, of course, grammar.
Pros
- Free content for learning Italian
- Easy access
- Friendly learning
Cons:
- It’s hard to get around if you’re not already fluent in Italian, and you would need to use a browser extension to translate to English if you don’t have a basic understanding of Italian to navigate through the different options.
Price:
This is a donation-based model that provides free access to their users, and you can support the platform by making a donation via PayPal.
4. ItalianPod101
ItalianPod101 is a language learning platform that focuses on teaching Italian from English. It suits individuals at beginner and advanced levels of Italian.
This platform offers a free “Word of the Day” newsletter and a customizable learning plan, the ability to favorite lessons, and the option to download lessons for offline use.
Pros:
- Flexibility of learning pace
- Comprehensive mobile app support
- Customizable learning plan and a variety of topics available
Cons:
- Some users might find the initial signup process cumbersome and time-consuming, as it involves multiple prompts to consider the premium paid plan before giving proper access to the free content
- The constant visibility of the teacher chat and the abundance of on-screen options might overwhelm users, particularly for those new to the platform
- Multiple emails a day sent to your inbox
Price:
Offers a 30-day Premium Membership trial for 1 euro, with access to a vast lesson library, tools for mastering Italian, and additional products available for purchase. A 7-day free trial is also available, allowing access to the entire lesson library and premium tools before transitioning to a standard free account.
5. Coffee Break Italian
Coffee Break Italian stands as a comprehensive and engaging platform offered by the Radio Lingua Network. This program is designed to cater to language learners across different proficiency levels, offering a range of materials and resources to enhance the learning experience.
Coffee Break Italian is designed to serve a diverse audience, ranging from absolute beginners to lower intermediate learners. The program’s structured format, divided into three distinct levels or “seasons,” consisting of 40 lessons each, allows learners to progress at their own pace.
It provides free audio podcasts for each season, facilitating the development of Italian language comprehension and pronunciation skills. While the podcasts offer valuable audio content, learners can opt for the online course to access a more comprehensive learning experience. This online Italian course includes full versions of the audio lessons, video lessons with on-screen text, additional bonus audio content to reinforce learning, and comprehensive lesson notes featuring vocabulary and detailed explanations.
Coffee Break Italian is an excellent option to learn Italian for free, and you can find their audio lessons available on your preferred podcast platform.
Pros:
- Availability of free audio lessons, user-friendly webpage navigation, and a comprehensive curriculum structured within each season for learning Italian
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a dedicated application to study from your phone
- Lacks one-on-one lessons
Pricing:
While the audio podcasts are accessible free of charge, 40 lessons can be acquired for GBP £120.00 or USD $145.00 as a one-time payment.
6. Babbel
Babbel presents courses in multiple languages, with a dedicated program for Italian learners. Through its interactive exercises, comprehensive lessons, and personalized study plan, it’s tailored primarily for beginners and intermediate learners.
Babbel’s approach combines interactive exercises, speech recognition technology, and individualized review sessions, allowing users to grasp the nuances of Italian effectively. If you want to learn Italian, Babbel offers a diverse range of grammar lessons, writing exercises, and cultural insights to facilitate a comprehensive and immersive learning experience.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface and interactive learning techniques
- Personalized review sessions
Cons:
- Lacks in-depth advanced language instruction, and users may encounter limitations in accessing comprehensive content without a subscription
Price:
Pricing structures go from 9 euros a month to 300 euros on a lifetime subscription.
7. Makes You Fluent
Makes You Fluent is an immersive language learning app that aims to help users achieve fluency in Italian through a comprehensive curriculum and interactive lessons. This platform is ideal for intermediate and advanced learners who are dedicated to achieving a high level of proficiency in the Italian language.
Makes You Fluent employs immersive techniques, including real-life simulations, advanced grammar exercises, and interactive dialogues, to facilitate a deeper understanding of the Italian language.
Pros:
- Emphasis on advanced language skills and fluency
- Immersive learning approach with real-life simulations
- Comprehensive curriculum for in-depth language understanding
Cons:
- Not suitable for absolute beginners due to the advanced nature of the content
- Requires consistent dedication and time commitment to achieve fluency
Price:
- One-month subscription: $59.99
- Three-month subscription: $111.99
- Six-month subscription: $199.99
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8. Mango Languages
Mango Languages is a language learning platform that provides courses in numerous languages, including Italian. The lessons involve a rich mix of listening and reading activities, so you can make sense of written and spoken contexts.
Mango Languages caters to beginners and intermediate learners, and adapts your Italian course to your unique learning style, so you pick up on new vocabulary, intuit unfamiliar grammatical structures, and train your pronunciation, all while boosting your cultural IQ.
Pros:
- Practical focus on conversational language skills
- Cultural insights integrated into the curriculum
- Interactive exercises and engaging learning materials
- Simplified learning environment
Cons:
- May not provide in-depth specialized language instruction
- You would need to commit to finding an Italian-speaking person to practice with
Price:
The prices go from US $8 a month to $180 a year.
9. Busuu
Busuu is a language learning platform that provides courses in various languages, including Italian. It focuses on combining interactive lessons, language exchange with native speakers, and personalized study plans to help users learn a new language effectively.
Busuu caters to a wide range of learners, from beginners to advanced users, who are looking to improve their Italian language skills. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer interactive learning and want to practice their language skills with native speakers.
Busuu offers interactive lessons, vocabulary exercises, and grammar practice to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the Italian language. It also provides a language exchange feature that allows users to connect with native speakers for real-world practice.
Pros:
- Language exchange feature to practice with native speakers
- Personalized study plans for setting achievable learning goals
- Interactive lessons and grammar practice for effective language acquisition
Cons:
- Advanced content may be limited for users aiming for higher proficiency levels
- Some features may require a premium subscription for full access
Price:
You can select from 59 euros a year for the premium subscription or 11 euros monthly.
10. italki
italki is an online language learning platform that connects Italian learners with language teachers for one-on-one lessons.
italki is suitable for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced users, who are looking to practice Italian speaking and listening skills. The platform offers various types of lessons, including conversational practice, grammar instruction, and cultural insights, to help users develop a well-rounded understanding of the Italian language.
Pros:
- Personalized one-on-one instruction with experienced language tutors
- Flexibility in scheduling lessons according to the user’s availability
- Diverse lesson options catering to different learning needs
Cons:
- Lessons may require additional fees, depending on the chosen tutor and lesson type
- Scheduling may depend on the availability of preferred language tutors and where they are located globally
Price:
italki offers a flexible payment system where users pay for individual lessons based on the rates set by the language tutors. The platform may provide a trial lesson option for users to experience the teaching style of different tutors before committing to regular lessons.
11. Duolingo
Duolingo probably doesn’t need an introduction, because it is a popular language learning app that offers a gamified approach to learning Italian and various other languages and is probably the first option young learners think of when they want to visit a new country or try language learning as a new and fun hobby.
Duolingo offers interactive exercises and challenges and is best suited to beginners and casual learners who want to get started with the basics of the Italian language (learning how to say that you are eating an apple and that your dress is red, for example). It provides a user-friendly interface and simple exercises that make it suitable for individuals looking for a fun and interactive way to begin their language learning journey.
Pros:
- User-friendly and engaging interface for an enjoyable learning experience
- Bite-sized lessons that can be easily integrated into daily routines
- Gamified approach that encourages consistent learning through rewards and achievements
Cons:
- May not provide in-depth or advanced language instruction
- Limited speaking and listening practice compared to other language learning methods
Price:
Duolingo offers a free version of the app with access to basic language lessons and features. It may also offer a premium subscription option that provides additional features, such as ad-free learning, offline access, and progress tracking. Users can explore the app’s basic features and lessons without any initial payment. Premium features and pricing can vary depending on the subscription plan chosen.
12. LingQ
If you are into language learning, you probably know about Steve Kaufmann and LingQ. This is a language learning platform that offers courses in multiple languages, including Italian. It emphasizes immersive learning through authentic content, such as articles, podcasts, and videos, to help users improve their language skills.
LingQ is suitable for advanced learners who want to enhance their Italian language skills by engaging with authentic, real-world content. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer learning through exposure to a variety of written and spoken materials.
LingQ allows users to import and study Italian content from the web, providing tools for vocabulary building, reading, and listening comprehension.
Pros:
- Immersive learning through authentic materials in Italian
- Personalized learning experience based on individual interests and goals
- Comprehensive tracking system for monitoring learning progress
Cons:
- May not provide structured lessons for beginners
- Advanced requires a premium subscription
Price:
You can start for free, and their subscription prices go from €12.99 a month to €191.76 for two years.
13. Preply
Preply is an online platform that connects language learners with experienced tutors for personalized one-on-one lessons. It offers courses in various languages, including Italian, and caters to individuals seeking customized language instruction.
Like italki, Preply is suitable for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced users, and it is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to improve their Italian language skills through interactive and customized lessons with experienced tutors.
Pros:
- Personalized one-on-one instruction with experienced language tutors
- Flexibility in scheduling lessons according to the user’s availability
- Diverse tutor options catering to different learning needs and styles
Cons:
- Cost of lessons may vary depending on the chosen tutor’s rates
- Scheduling may depend on the availability of the preferred language tutors
Price:
Preply operates on a pay-per-lesson model.
14. Verbling
Verbling is an online language learning platform that connects users with professional language tutors for personalized Italian lessons and provides a platform for users to improve their language skills through interactive and customized instruction.
Verbling is suitable for learners of all levels who are looking for personalized Italian instruction and practice. Verbling allows users to browse a diverse selection of professional language tutors and schedule personalized one-on-one or group lessons.
Pros:
- Personalized one-on-one or group instruction with professional language tutors
- Flexibility in scheduling lessons according to the user’s availability
- Interactive and engaging lessons tailored to individual learning needs
Cons:
- Cost of lessons may vary depending on the chosen tutor and lesson type
- Scheduling may depend on the availability of the preferred language tutors
Price:
Verbling operates on a pay-per-lesson model and prices vary.
15. Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone offers an immersive Italian learning experience that focuses on developing speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Rosetta Stone is suitable for a wide range of learners, including beginners and intermediate users, who are looking to build a strong foundation in the Italian language. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer a structured and immersive learning approach.
Rosetta Stone utilizes a dynamic immersion method, where users learn Italian through context and visual cues without translation. It also emphasizes pronunciation and accent development through its speech analysis feature.
Pros:
- Emphasis on immersive learning without translation
- Comprehensive curriculum covering various language skills
- Speech recognition technology to improve pronunciation
Cons:
- May not provide extensive opportunities for real-life conversation practice
- Limited focus on grammar explanations and cultural insights
Price:
Rosetta Stone typically offers a 3-day free trial with programs for businesses and schools.
16. Rocket Languages
Rocket Languages is ideal for perfecting Italian pronunciation, thanks to their state-of-the-art voice recognition system and access to native speaker audio for thousands of words and phrases. Additionally, their interactive practice feature allows you to engage in stress-free, on-the-spot conversations, boosting your confidence for real-world interactions with native speakers.
Pros:
- Lifetime access
- Practical focus on conversational language skills
- Cultural insights integrated into the curriculum
- Interactive exercises and engaging learning materials
Cons:
- Lacks in-depth specialized language instruction for advanced users
- The best content has a paywall
Price:
You can choose from US $259.90 for levels 1, 2, and 3. They also offer a trial period and a 6-month payment plan.
17. Earworms Learning
This one is for the karaoke lovers! Earworms Learning focuses on teaching Italian and other languages through rhythmic music and mnemonic phrases. It suits beginners and advanced users, and it is particularly beneficial for individuals who enjoy learning through music and mnemonic devices.
Using music as the medium is not only fun and entertaining, it is also highly effective. Music primes the neural networks and puts the learner into the right state of consciousness for learning, the so-called alpha state: relaxed but at the same time receptive.
Pros:
- Unique and engaging auditory learning approach through music
- Emphasis on vocabulary and phrase retention through repetition
Cons:
- May not provide in-depth grammatical explanations or advanced language instruction
- Limited visual or written material for comprehensive language learning
Price:
Earworms Learning provides trial samples of the lessons and the prices vary.
18. Memrise
Memrise utilizes a combination of interactive exercises, mnemonic techniques, and spaced repetition to help users memorize Italian vocabulary and language concepts effectively.
Memrise is suitable for learners of all levels and offers a range of interactive exercises, quizzes, and mnemonic devices to aid users in memorizing and retaining vocabulary.
Pros:
- Native speaker videos
- Effective use of mnemonic techniques for vocabulary retention
- Spaced repetition system for optimized memory retention
- Community-created content for a diverse learning experience
- AI language partner
Cons:
- May not provide in-depth grammar instruction or advanced language concepts
- Limited focus on conversational practice and cultural insights
Price:
From €10.99 a month to €149.99 for a lifetime subscription.
19. Fluenz
Fluenz focuses on providing in-depth explanations of grammar, cultural insights, and practical language skills through its interactive lessons.
Fluenz offers a structured curriculum for learning Italian that combines interactive video lessons, grammar explanations, and practical exercises to facilitate a deep understanding of the Italian language.
Pros:
- In-depth explanations of grammar and language concepts
- Emphasis on practical communication skills and cultural understanding
- Interactive video lessons for an engaging learning experience
Cons:
- Might not be accessible pricewise to many users
- Limited opportunities for live conversation practice with native speakers
Price:
Fluenz costs anywhere from €179 to €765, depending on the package you choose. These are one-time payments.
20. Speexx
Speexx is a language learning platform tailored to the corporate context, providing language training for professional development. It offers courses in various languages, including Italian, focusing on enhancing language skills for business communication and workplace integration.
Speexx is best suited to professionals and employees in a corporate setting who require language skills for effective communication in an international work environment.
Pros:
- Tailored language training for specific industries and job roles
- Emphasis on business-related vocabulary and communication skills
- Integration of cultural insights for effective international communication
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide as many general language learning features as some other apps
- Limited focus on non-business-related language skills and cultural aspects
Price:
It varies depending on the corporate needs.
Bonus: 6 useful tips to help you along your Italian learning journey
Use a tactic that works for you
First of all, the system is important. Make an effort to tailor your Italian learning experience to your preferred style. If you are not completely sure of what your ideal style is, you can experiment with these apps, textbooks, flashcards, and hands-on activities. Finding the right approach can significantly enhance your language acquisition.
Set goals
Do you want to be conversational in a year or in five years? The magic of establishing clear objectives the moment you decide to learn Italian online at your own pace is that it keeps you focused and motivated. Apps like Lingvist are useful in this manner because they provide an easy way to track your progress.
Learn Italian with Lingvist
Learn through art and media
La Divina Commedia, Cinema Paradiso, La Vita e Bella, Andrea Bochelli, and Laura Pausini are only a few examples of works of art and artists that you can use to immerse yourself in Italian culture. Exposure to authentic cultural content can deepen your understanding of the language. Look for Italian representatives of the types of art you enjoy.
Partner up
Having someone to converse with can significantly improve your language proficiency and build your confidence. There’s a lot of research that says accountability is an important part of successfully reaching a goal. When you’re learning a language, this is especially true. You have to “show up and do the work,” either opening an app and practicing Italian with your partner, or going to a class or meetup. You need to make the effort.
Start with the greetings
If you tend to explore cities alone on business trips, understanding common greetings not only helps you initiate conversations and break the ice, it also provides valuable insights into Italian culture and social norms.
Slang is important
Learning Italian slang is crucial for grasping the full language and Italian culture, as it offers insights into the nuances of the language and everyday interactions. Understanding informal expressions helps you communicate more naturally and integrate smoothly into Italian-speaking communities.
“Non si parla così l’italiano. Si parla con i gesti. Si può parlare tutte le lingue muovendo le mani” – from the movie Eat, Pray, Love.
(That’s not how you speak Italian. You speak with gestures. You can speak the language by moving your hands.)
What’s the best app for learning Italian?
We hope this list of the best apps to learn Italian online helped you compare and find the options that best suit your needs. Each of these is designed to enhance your Italian learning and create a memorable experience.
Learning Italian is an exciting and enriching journey that requires dedication and a strategic approach. By setting personalized goals, exploring diverse language learning tactics, and embracing Italian culture through art and informal language, you can achieve fluency and confidently navigate real-life conversations with native speakers. Embrace the beauty of the language and enjoy the process of mastering Italian.
Would you like to start today and try Lingvist’s AI-powered approach to learning Italian fast? Try it now for free, and become fluent in Italian faster than you could have imagined.
