Italian · Emergency Phrases
Italian Emergency Phrases Every Traveller Must Know
Italy welcomes millions of visitors each year, and while emergencies are rare, being prepared with key Italian phrases can be invaluable. These emergency phrases cover medical situations, interactions with police, and reporting lost or stolen items.
Essential Phrases
| Italian | English |
|---|---|
| Aiuto! | Help! |
| Chiamate un'ambulanza | Call an ambulance |
| Ho bisogno di un medico | I need a doctor |
| Dov'e l'ospedale? | Where is the hospital? |
| Ho perso il mio passaporto | I've lost my passport |
| Chiamate la polizia | Call the police |
| Sono allergico/a a... | I'm allergic to... |
| Non mi sento bene | I don't feel well |
| Mi hanno rubato | I've been robbed |
| Puo aiutarmi? | Can you help me? |
Cultural Notes
Emergency Services in Italy
Italy uses 112 as its unified emergency number, or you can call 118 specifically for medical emergencies, 113 for state police (Polizia di Stato), or 112 for Carabinieri (military police). Both police forces handle civilian matters -- the Carabinieri are often found in smaller towns.
Italian pharmacies (farmacie) are marked with a green cross and staffed by knowledgeable pharmacists who can treat minor ailments. At night and on Sundays, look for the farmacia di turno -- the duty pharmacy posted on every closed pharmacy's door.
For theft or lost items, file a report (denuncia) at the nearest police station. This is essential for insurance claims and passport replacement. Tourist police offices in major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice often have multilingual staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the emergency number in Italy?
Dial 112 for all emergencies. You can also use 118 for medical emergencies specifically, 113 for state police, or 115 for fire services.
What is the difference between Polizia and Carabinieri?
Both are legitimate police forces. The Polizia di Stato is the civilian state police, while the Carabinieri is a military police force. For tourists, both handle the same matters -- go to whichever station is closest.
Can I get medical treatment as a tourist in Italy?
Italian emergency rooms (Pronto Soccorso) will treat everyone regardless of nationality or insurance. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card. Non-EU visitors should have travel insurance.