# Navigating Italian Towns and Schedules

**Language:** Italian  
**CEFR Level:** A1  

> Master practical Italian directions and time expressions by listening to Francesco and Valentina's conversation about getting around the city and checking opening hours. It may feel challenging at first, but by the end of this course you will be able to fully understand and participate.

**Setting:** At Valentina’s fish stall in Palermo’s Ballarò market, visiting book restorer Francesco asks for directions, local recommendations, and shop schedules around the historic district. Over several days, Francesco stops by to ask about finding specific artisan workshops, navigating city streets, and checking opening hours.

## Lessons

### 1. Starting a conversation politely

Francesco greets Valentina, checks if she is busy, and explains that he is looking for an old bookstore.

### 2. Asking about local places

Valentina confirms there is an old bookstore nearby and describes its small size and age to Francesco.

### 3. Expressing interest in visiting somewhere

Valentina tells Francesco about the antique maps inside the shop, inspiring him to go visit it.

### 4. Asking for basic directions

Francesco asks when and where to go, and Valentina starts giving him initial walking directions.

### 5. Following directions using landmarks

Valentina guides Francesco past a large church and tells him to turn right immediately after it.

### 6. Locating places near landmarks

Valentina describes the café located next to the bookstore, though she admits she cannot remember the bookstore's name.

### 7. Asking who someone is

Valentina points out Pino the baker, explaining that he knows the name of the bookstore.

### 8. Talking about routine habits

Valentina mentions that Pino goes to the bookstore every Saturday, so Francesco decides to ask him directly.

### 9. Asking about opening hours

Francesco asks Valentina when the bookstore opens and closes during its morning hours.

### 10. Asking the current time

Francesco asks for the current time and learns that the bookstore is currently closed for lunch until four o'clock.

### 11. Checking afternoon shop hours

Francesco asks about the evening closing time, and Valentina advises him to go after four in the afternoon.

### 12. Planning visits around schedule

Francesco asks if he can go tomorrow, but Valentina explains that the store is always closed on Sundays.

### 13. Asking for food recommendations

Francesco mentions he wants to eat, and Valentina recommends a good place located behind Pino's bread counter.

### 14. Saying goodbye and planning meetings

Francesco thanks Valentina, and they confirm her Sunday business schedule before saying goodbye until tomorrow.