Learning how to tell time in Italian is one of the most practical and important skills for everyday conversation, travel, appointments, transportation, and daily routines.

In this beginner-friendly Italian lesson, you’ll learn how to ask for the time, tell the time naturally in Italian, and understand common Italian time expressions used in everyday life.

How to Ask for the Time in Italian

Che ora è? — What time is it?
Che ore sono? — What time is it?

Both expressions are commonly used in Italian conversation.

Basic Italian Time Expressions

È l’una. — It’s 1 o’clock.
È mezzogiorno. — It’s noon.
Sono le due. — It’s 2 o’clock.
Sono le quattro. — It’s 4 o’clock.
Sono le tre meno un quarto. — It’s a quarter to three.

Examples of Time in Italian

Le sette e trenta di mattina / Le sette e mezza
— 7:30 in the morning
Le quindici e quarantacinque del pomeriggio / Le quattro meno un quarto
— 3:45 PM
Le nove di sera
— 9:00 PM
Sono le tre e mezza del pomeriggio.
— It’s 3:30 PM

Knowing how to tell time in Italian helps you:

ask about schedules
understand train and bus times
make appointments
organize meetings
communicate naturally in daily situations
improve listening comprehension

These are essential Italian phrases for travel and real-world communication.