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PhrasesAt the CinemaDov'è il bagno?
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Dov'è il bagno?

Where is the toilet?

Pronunciation

BA-gno — the 'gn' sounds like the 'ny' in 'canyon'. One of Italian's distinctive sounds.

When to use it

Ask any cinema staff member or look for signs. Best to go before the film starts. During the film, whisper to a neighbour or find an usher outside the hall.

What it means

'Bagno' is the standard word for toilet in everyday Italian. 'Toilette' (from French) is also understood. In formal written signs, you may see 'servizi igienici'. Men's is 'uomini' or 'signori'; women's is 'donne' or 'signore'. The symbols are standard internationally.

Variations

Dove sono i servizi?

Where are the facilities?

Slightly more formal alternative to 'bagno'.

C'è un bagno vicino alla sala?

Is there a toilet near the screen?

Asks for proximity — useful during long films.

Scusa, vado un attimo al bagno.

Excuse me, I'm just popping to the toilet.

Said to a companion when leaving your seat during the film.

Mini Dialogue

— Scusi, dov'è il bagno? — In fondo al corridoio, a sinistra dopo il bar. — Grazie. C'è la fila di solito? — No, durante il film è sempre libero. — Perfetto.

— Excuse me, where is the toilet? — At the end of the corridor, on the left past the bar. — Thank you. Is there usually a queue? — No, during the film it's always free. — Perfect.

Cultural Note

Italian cinema toilets are typically found in the lobby area, not inside the screening room corridor. Going during the film requires leaving the hall — Italian cinemas do not offer pause services or 'RunPik' style apps.