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PhrasesAt the Bus StopI bambini viaggiano gratis?
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I bambini viaggiano gratis?

Do children travel for free?

Pronunciation

'Gratis' — 'GRA-tis'. Borrowed directly from Latin; stress on the first syllable.

When to use it

Ask when travelling with children to know whether you need to purchase tickets for them or whether they can ride free.

What it means

'Viaggiano' is the third-person plural present of 'viaggiare' (to travel). 'Gratis' is an indeclinable adjective/adverb meaning free of charge. Children's free travel policies vary by city, typically up to ages 6–10.

Variations

Fino a che età viaggiano gratis?

Up to what age do they travel for free?

Follow-up to determine the exact age cutoff.

Mia figlia ha sei anni. Paga?

My daughter is six. Does she pay?

States the child's age to get a direct answer.

C'è un biglietto famiglia?

Is there a family ticket?

Asks about a combined family fare.

Mini Dialogue

— I bambini viaggiano gratis? — Fino a dieci anni non pagano. — Il mio ne ha otto. — Allora va bene, nessun biglietto.

— Do children travel for free? — Up to ten years old they don't pay. — Mine is eight. — Then that's fine, no ticket needed.

Cultural Note

Most Italian cities grant free travel to children under 10 on urban public transport. Some extend this to 14 for certain passes. Always verify locally as rules change and differ between operators.