What time does it usually start?
'Comincia' = co-MIN-cia, stress on second syllable. 'Solito' = SO-li-to.
Use this to calibrate your arrival time or to understand Italian party timing culture. The answer will help you navigate the Italian tendency to invite people for 8pm but not actually expect them until 9 or 9:30.
'Si comincia' uses the impersonal 'si' — 'things start / it starts'. 'Di solito' (usually) asks about the habitual pattern. This is especially useful if you are new to a social group and do not know the unwritten timing rules.
A che ora devo essere lì?
What time should I be there?
Asking for the expected arrival time
Arrivo verso le nove, va bene?
I'll arrive around nine, is that OK?
Confirming a slightly late arrival — often preferred
L'orario è un po' elastico, vero?
The time is a bit flexible, right?
Acknowledging Italian 'elastic time' culture with a smile
The Italian relationship with time is notoriously flexible — 'orario italiano' (Italian timing) is an acknowledged cultural reality. Arriving exactly on time for a dinner party is sometimes considered slightly awkward, as the host may not be ready. 15-30 minutes late is generally considered acceptable and even polite in casual social settings.