What is the cancellation policy?
'Cancellazione' — stress the fourth syllable: 'can-cel-la-ZIO-ne'. The -zione ending sounds like 'tsyone'.
Always ask this before confirming a booking, especially for non-refundable rates. Important for travel insurance purposes.
'Politica di cancellazione' = cancellation policy. 'Qual è' (what is) asks for the identity/content of something. Italian hotels typically offer free cancellation up to 24–72 hours before arrival, or stricter non-refundable rates at a discount.
Posso cancellare senza penale?
Can I cancel without a penalty?
'Penale' = penalty/charge
Entro quando posso disdire?
By when can I cancel?
'Disdire' is the common verb for cancelling a booking
La prenotazione è rimborsabile?
Is the booking refundable?
Direct question about refundability
Italian booking platforms (Booking.com, Expedia) often offer two rates: one flexible (cancellable) and one non-refundable (about 10–20% cheaper). When booking directly by phone, the hotel may offer better rates or more flexible terms than online platforms.