Where do you buy the bus ticket?
'Compra' — 'COM-pra'. Two syllables; stress on first.
Ask when you are in a new Italian city and do not know the local ticket-buying system — essential for any first-time visitor.
'Si compra' uses the impersonal 'si' construction: 'one buys'. This is the standard Italian way to ask about purchase locations. The answer will direct you to a tabaccheria, edicola, or vending machine.
Si può comprare a bordo?
Can you buy it on board?
Checks the (usually impossible) on-board option.
C'è una biglietteria automatica?
Is there a ticket machine?
Asks about self-service vending machines.
Accettate carte di credito?
Do you accept credit cards?
Checks payment method at the point of sale.
The 'tabaccheria' (tobacconist, identified by a black 'T' sign) is the central hub for urban transport tickets in Italy. They sell bus/tram tickets, top-up transport cards, lottery tickets, and stamps. Almost every Italian street has one within 200 metres.