I would like to cancel the booking.
'Disdire' — stress the second syllable: 'dis-DI-re'. It is the Italian verb specifically used for cancelling a reservation.
Use when calling to cancel a reservation. Always cancel by phone and follow up with an email to have a written record.
'Disdire' is the standard Italian verb for cancelling a booking (prenotazione). 'Cancellare' is also used. 'Vorrei' (I would like) softens the communication. You will need your booking reference number.
Devo cancellare la mia prenotazione per problemi di salute.
I need to cancel my booking due to health problems.
States a reason — may help with getting a refund
C'è una penale per la cancellazione?
Is there a cancellation penalty?
Asks about the charge before confirming the cancellation
Posso spostare la prenotazione invece di cancellarla?
Can I move the booking instead of cancelling it?
Asks about rescheduling as an alternative
Italian hotels are generally understanding about cancellations, especially when given a valid reason. Force majeure cancellations (illness, natural disasters) are legally treated differently from ordinary cancellations — a medical certificate (certificato medico) may waive penalties. Always get a cancellation confirmation number.