C'è una farmacia aperta vicino all'hotel?

Is there an open pharmacy near the hotel?

Pronunciation

far-ma-CI-a — four syllables, stress on the third.

When to use it

A last-minute question at check-out when you need medicine or supplies before a long journey.

What it means

'Farmacia' (pharmacy) is recognisable by its green cross sign throughout Italy. 'Aperta' (open, feminine) agrees with 'farmacia'. 'Vicino all'hotel' = near the hotel. Italian pharmacies are far more clinically equipped than British or American equivalents.

Variations

A che ora apre la farmacia?

What time does the pharmacy open?

Italian pharmacies often open at 8:30am — earlier than many other shops

C'è una farmacia di turno?

Is there a duty pharmacy?

In Italy, one pharmacy per area stays open 24/7 on a rotating basis — the 'farmacia di turno'

Dove posso trovare un supermercato?

Where can I find a supermarket?

For non-prescription items, a supermarket is often quicker and cheaper

Mini Dialogue

— C'è una farmacia aperta vicino all'hotel? — Sì, la Farmacia Centrale è aperta dalle otto e trenta. È in piazza, a quattro minuti a piedi. — Grazie. Non so se è ancora aperta alle sei? — No, ma la farmacia di turno è in via Garibaldi. È aperta tutta la notte.

— Is there an open pharmacy near the hotel? — Yes, the Central Pharmacy is open from eight thirty. It is on the square, four minutes on foot. — Thank you. I wonder if it is still open at six? — No, but the duty pharmacy is on Via Garibaldi. It is open all night.

Cultural Note

Italian pharmacists ('farmacisti') are highly trained healthcare professionals who can provide advice and dispense many medications without a prescription. The rotating duty pharmacy ('farmacia di turno') is indicated by a list posted on every pharmacy door and online.

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Posso ordinare qualcosa da mangiare prima di partire?

Ha un caricabatterie che potrei usare?

← All phrases: Checking Out of Hotel