Best Apps to Learn Italian in 2025 (Free & Paid Options)
Thinking about a trip to Rome, diving into a new hobby, or reconnecting with your roots? Learning Italian can be a rewarding and enjoyable journey. And the best part? You don’t need to sit in a classroom to get started. With so many great apps out there, picking up the basics or even becoming fluent can happen right from your phone. Finding the best apps to learn italian has never been easier.
In 2025, learning Italian is more accessible than ever. Whether you prefer fun, game-like apps or more structured lessons designed by real language experts, there’s something out there for everyone.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top Italian learning apps and highlighted what each one does best, so you can find the perfect match for your learning style and goals. Let’s get started.
8 Best Apps to Learn Italian (Globally Recommended)
1) Duolingo – Best for Gamified Learning (Free)
Duolingo has become one of the most popular language apps out there and it’s easy to see why. The app makes learning feel more like a game, with streaks, levels, and rewards that keep you motivated to come back every day. It’s especially great for beginners, offering quick, simple lessons that help you pick up basic vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure without feeling overwhelmed.
Key Features:
- Completely free to use, with an optional paid plan for extra features
- Fun daily challenges that build good habits
- Practice speaking, listening, and reading in each lesson
- Works on iPhone, Android, and even your browser
2) Babbel – Best for Structured Grammar-Based Lessons (Paid)
If you’re someone who likes structure and wants to really understand how the language works, Babbel might be the perfect fit. It takes a more traditional approach, focusing on grammar, sentence building, and useful everyday conversations. The lessons are created by real language experts and are designed to help you speak confidently in real-life situations.
Key Features:
- Paid subscription, but you can try the first lesson for free
- Covers practical dialogues and grammar clearly
- Smart review tool helps you remember what you’ve learned
- Lessons can be downloaded and used offline
3) Rosetta Stone – Best for Immersive Learning (Paid)
Rosetta Stone takes a unique approach by teaching you Italian the way you learned your first language through full immersion. Instead of translating everything, the app helps you connect words and images directly in Italian, which builds natural comprehension over time. It’s a great option if you want to truly think in Italian, not just memorize translations.
Key Features:
- Learn without relying on your native language
- Built-in speech recognition helps improve pronunciation
- Lessons adapt to how you learn
- Offline access available; lifetime plan also offered
4) Busuu – Best for Interactive Community Learning (Freemium)
Busuu stands out because of its community. It offers organized lessons, but what makes it special is the chance to connect with native Italian speakers. They can help correct your writing and make your speaking sound more natural. This platform is great if you want to study on your own while also getting real feedback from people.
Key Features:
- Free version available; premium unlocks more features
- Native speakers review and correct your work
- Lessons are quick and easy to fit into your day
- Personalized study plans help you stay on track
5) Mondly – Best for Speech Recognition Practice (Freemium)
Mondly helps users practice their speaking skills by using voice recognition technology. It focuses on common phrases and real-life situations that people encounter every day.
Key Features:
- Speech recognition technology
- Daily lessons and chatbot conversations
- AR and VR learning modes
- Available on mobile and web
6) Pimsleur – Best for Audio Learners (Paid)
Pimsleur is great for people who like to learn by listening. It provides 30-minute audio lessons that focus on understanding and speaking the language.
Key Features:
- Hands-free audio lessons
- Graduated interval recall
- Great for learning on the go
- Includes cultural insights
5) Mondly – Best for Speech Recognition Practice (Freemium)
Drops has a cool and quick design that helps users learn vocabulary in short bursts. Its focus on visual learning makes it great for beginners.
Key Features:
- 5-minute daily learning sessions
- Visual and interactive word games
- Topics grouped by category
- Beautiful interface with illustrations
8) LingQ – Best for Advanced Learners Using Real-World Content (Freemium)
LingQ is a useful tool for learning Italian through real content, such as podcasts and articles. It’s especially good for those who already have some experience with the language, like intermediate and advanced learners.
Key Features:
- Thousands of hours of real-world content
- Build vocabulary while reading or listening
- Personalized word review system
- Community interaction and tutors
Best Apps to Practice Speaking Italian with Native Speakers
1) HelloTalk
HelloTalk helps people learn languages by connecting them with native speakers. You can chat through text, voice, or calls to get better at speaking and to understand different cultures.
Key Features:
- Text, voice, and video chat
- Grammar correction tools
- Translation and pronunciation features
2) Tandem
Tandem connects people looking to practice languages based on their interests and goals. You can talk, ask questions, and make friends with Italian speakers.
Key Features:
- Language exchange via voice or text
- Professional tutor option
- Personalized match suggestions
3) Italki
Italki is a platform where you can find language tutors. You can schedule live lessons just for you, based on your skill level and goals.
Key Features:
- Pay-per-lesson pricing
- Wide range of certified teachers
- Personalized learning plans
4) Preply
Preply provides flexible tutoring with certified Italian teachers. It’s great for learners who want to make steady progress and practice speaking regularly.
Key Features:
- Custom lesson plans
- Schedule flexibility
- Large tutor pool by availability and price
Comparison Table of Best Italian Learning Apps
| App | Best For | Price | Offline Access | Speaking Practice | Grammar Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duolingo | Gamified learning | Free | Limited | Basic | Light |
| Babbel | Structured grammar lessons | Paid | Yes | Moderate | Strong |
| Rosetta Stone | Immersive learning | Paid | Yes | Strong | Moderate |
| Busuu | Community interaction | Freemium | Yes (Premium) | Strong | Moderate |
| Mondly | Pronunciation improvement | Freemium | Yes (Premium) | Strong | Light |
| Pimsleur | Audio-based learning | Paid | Yes | Strong | Light |
| Drops | Vocabulary building | Freemium | Yes (Premium) | Minimal | None |
| LingQ | Real-world content immersion | Freemium | Yes | Moderate | Moderate |
| HelloTalk | Chat with natives | Free | No | Strong | Minimal |
| Tandem | Speaking with real people | Freemium | No | Strong | Minimal |
| Italki | Professional tutors | Paid | No | Strong | Strong |
| Preply | Personalized tutoring | Paid | No | Strong | Strong |
Final Verdict – Which App is Best for You?
Beginners
Begin with Duolingo or Babbel to learn the basics in a fun and organized way. Use Drops to build your vocabulary.
Frequent Travelers
Mondly and Pimsleur are great tools for learning travel phrases and basic conversation skills quickly.
Budget-Conscious Learners
Try using Duolingo, HelloTalk, and Tandem together for a great, free way to learn a new language.
Students
Babbel, Rosetta Stone, or Busuu offer structured courses that support academic progress.
Casual Hobbyists
Check out Duolingo, Drops, and Mondly for a fun way to learn Italian without too much pressure.
Whether you’re a beginner or trying to improve, the right app can really help you. Try different options, find what fits your lifestyle, and have fun learning. Good luck!
FAQ About Best Italian Learning Apps
What are the best apps to learn Italian in the USA?
In the USA, some popular apps for learning Italian are Duolingo, Babbel, Pimsleur, and Rosetta Stone. These apps teach in U.S. English and their prices are listed in dollars, which makes them easy to use for American learners.
Which apps are most effective for learning Italian in the United Kingdom?
In the UK, learners can use apps like Busuu, Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise. These apps focus on British English and are popular for making language learning easy and enjoyable.
What are the top Italian learning apps used across Europe?
If you’re in Europe and looking to learn a new language, consider Babbel, Busuu, Mondly, and Duolingo. These apps are great because they support many European languages and fit well with how people in the region prefer to learn.
Which Italian language apps are best for learners in Asia?
In Asia, some well-liked apps for learning languages include Duolingo, Drops, HelloTalk, Ling App, and LingoDeer. These apps are designed to be easy to use in Asian languages and work well on mobile phones while using little data.
What is the fastest way to learn Italian with an app?
The quickest way to learn is by using a mix of apps every day. Start with Pimsleur or Mondly for speaking practice, use Babbel for grammar, and try Duolingo or Drops for building your vocabulary. Be consistent—spending 30 to 60 minutes a day will help you improve faster.
Can you become fluent in Italian using just an app?
Using apps can help you get better at speaking a language, especially if you use them often. But to really become fluent, it’s important to talk with native speakers and surround yourself with the language, whether through movies, music, or even traveling.
Are free Italian learning apps worth it?
Absolutely! Free apps like Duolingo, HelloTalk, and Tandem are great options. They might not have everything, but they are perfect for beginners and casual learners. If you find that you want more features later on, you can always upgrade.
Can I learn Italian in 30 days?
You can learn basic Italian such as greetings, common phrases, and essential words in just 30 days if you practice regularly. Apps like Drops, Mondly, and Pimsleur are great tools to help you get started quickly, but becoming fluent will take more time.
